An Epic 7-Day Journey: Kedarnath, Badrinath, Vaishnavi Devi Temple, Agra (August 2023)

1. Day 1: Kedarnath
   4 hours (108 km) from Dehradun Airport

   In the morning, visit the revered Kedarnath temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Take a dip in the holy Mandakini river. In the afternoon, trek to the picturesque Vasuki Tal Lake. In the evening, relax and take in the serene surroundings of the mountainous region.

2. Day 2: Badrinath
   7 hours (223 km) from Kedarnath

   Begin the day by exploring the charming town of Badrinath and visit the Badrinath temple, one of the Chota Char Dham shrines. Take a dip in the Tapt Kund hot spring. In the afternoon, witness the breathtaking views from Neelkanth Peak. In the evening, attend the evening aarti at the temple.

3. Day 3: Vaishnavi Devi Temple
   13 hours (670 km) from Badrinath

   Spend the day at the Vaishnavi Devi temple, one of the most revered Hindu shrines in India. Trek through the scenic forest to the temple. In the afternoon, savor the local cuisine of Jammu. In the evening, take a stroll in the beautiful gardens of the temple complex.

4. Day 4: Agra
   12 hours (652 km) from Vaishnavi Devi Temple

   Start the day by visiting the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In the afternoon, explore the Mughal-era Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the evening, shop for souvenirs at Sadar Bazar and enjoy the street food.

5. Day 5: Agra
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   In the morning, visit the lesser-known gems of Agra such as the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah and Mehtab Bagh. In the afternoon, take a heritage walk around the city to experience the local culture. In the evening, attend a cultural show featuring classical dance and music.

6. Day 6: Agra
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   Start the day by visiting the majestic Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the Mughal architecture. In the afternoon, take a cooking class and learn to cook the authentic Mughlai cuisine. In the evening, relax and enjoy a rooftop dinner with a view of the Taj Mahal.

7. Day 7: Agra
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   End the journey by taking a hot air balloon ride over the Taj Mahal at sunrise. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Yamuna river and enjoy the scenic views. In the evening, indulge in a spa treatment and take a rejuvenating dip in the pool.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, or to Jaipur, the Pink City. To maximize your fun, plan your itinerary well in advance, carry comfortable shoes and clothing, and keep yourself hydrated.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kedarnath Temple (3 hours, 500 INR)
• Vasuki Tal Lake Trek (6 hours, 1000 INR)
• Badrinath Temple (2 hours, 300 INR)
• Neelkanth Peak (4 hours, 800 INR)
• Vaishnavi Devi Temple (8 hours, 1000 INR)
• Taj Mahal (2 hours, 1300 INR)
• Agra Fort (2 hours, 500 INR)
• Sadar Bazar (2 hours, 500 INR)
• Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah (2 hours, 200 INR)
• Mehtab Bagh (2 hours, 300 INR)
• Fatehpur Sikri (4 hours, 600 INR)
• Cooking Class (2 hours, 1500 INR)
• Hot Air Balloon Ride (1 hour, 7500 INR)
• Spa Treatment (2 hours, 2000 INR)
• Total Estimated Costs: 20,250 INR