7-Day Relaxing Itinerary for Kedarnath in May 2024

1. Day 1: Kedarnath Temple
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Kedarnath Bus Stand

   In the morning, visit Kedarnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Take a holy dip in the Mandakini River and explore the surrounding natural beauty in the afternoon. In the evening, attend the evening aarti at the temple.

2. Day 2: Gaurikund and Vasuki Tal
   33 minutes (10.6 miles) from Kedarnath Temple

   Start the day with a visit to Gaurikund, the starting point of the Kedarnath trek. Afterward, head to Vasuki Tal, a high altitude lake surrounded by scenic views of the Himalayas. End the day with a relaxing dip in Gaurikund's hot springs.

3. Day 3: Gandhi Sarovar and Chorabari Tal
   25 minutes (6.0 miles) from Vasuki Tal

   Visit Gandhi Sarovar, a pristine lake that offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. In the afternoon, head to Chorabari Tal, a beautiful lake surrounded by lush green meadows. Relax and soak in the picturesque surroundings.

4. Day 4: Sonprayag and Triyuginarayan Temple
   45 minutes (16.4 miles) from Chorabari Tal

   Take a day trip to Sonprayag, where the rivers Mandakini and Basuki meet. Visit Triyuginarayan Temple, a holy shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of the place. Return to Kedarnath in the evening.

5. Day 5: Kedar Valley and Shankaracharya Samadhi
   25 minutes (1.9 miles) from Kedarnath Temple

   In the morning, explore the beauty of the Kedar Valley and enjoy a leisurely walk in the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit Shankaracharya Samadhi, the samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya, and learn about his contributions to Hinduism. End the day with a visit to the nearby Bhairavnath Temple.

6. Day 6: Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
   50 minutes (22.3 miles) from Shankaracharya Samadhi

   Embark on a wildlife safari in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including musk deer, snow leopards, and Himalayan black bears. Enjoy the tranquillity of the forest and the pristine surroundings.

7. Day 7: Chopta and Tungnath Trek
   2 hours (29.3 miles) from Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

   Take a day trip to Chopta, popularly known as the "Mini Switzerland" of India. Trek to Tungnath Temple, one of the highest Shiva temples in the world, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas. End the day with a visit to Deoria Tal, a serene lake known for its clear, reflective waters.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the nearby town of Guptkashi and the ancient temple of Kashi Vishwanath. You could also go on a helicopter tour of Kedarnath for a bird's eye view of the region. Don't forget to try the local delicacy, Kachori Sabzi, and shop for souvenirs such as woolen garments and handicrafts.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kedarnath Temple (2 hours, free)
• Gaurikund and Vasuki Tal (6 hours, transportation fee)
• Gandhi Sarovar and Chorabari Tal (8 hours, guide fee)
• Sonprayag and Triyuginarayan Temple (8 hours, transportation fee)
• Kedar Valley and Shankaracharya Samadhi (4 hours, guide fee)
• Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary (6 hours, safari fee)
• Chopta and Tungnath Trek (10 hours, guide fee)
• Total Estimated Costs: transportation fee + safari fee + guide fee

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