5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary from Dharwad to Kedarnath

1. Day 1: Dandeli National Park
   1 hour 57 minutes (53.8 miles) from Dharwad

   Start your day with a jungle safari at the Dandeli National Park. See rare species of birds, Indian Bison, and if you're lucky, spot a black panther. In the afternoon, head to the Kavala Caves, a natural limestone formation that is believed to be over 3000 years old. In the evening, take a stroll along the banks of the Kali River.

2. Day 2: Belgaum Fort
   1 hour 30 minutes (47.5 miles) from Dandeli National Park

   Start your morning by exploring the Belgaum Fort, a 13th-century structure built by the Rattas. Walk around the fort and admire the architecture and the view of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Kamal Basadi temple, a Jain temple built in the 12th century. In the evening, head to the Gokak Falls, a stunning waterfall that drops from a height of over 170 feet.

3. Day 3: Mahabaleshwar Temple
   3 hours 24 minutes (155.7 miles) from Belgaum Fort

   Start your day by visiting the Mahabaleshwar Temple, a 4th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has intricate carvings and is a popular pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, visit the Kempty Falls, a picturesque waterfall that is surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, take a walk along the Mall Road and enjoy some local street food.

4. Day 4: Auli Ski Resort
   8 hours 5 minutes (239.8 miles) from Mahabaleshwar Temple

   Head to the Auli Ski Resort, one of the best places for skiing in India. If you're not visiting during the ski season, take a cable car ride and enjoy the panoramic view of the Himalayas. In the afternoon, visit the Nanda Devi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to endangered species like the snow leopard and the Himalayan musk deer. In the evening, explore the local markets and buy some souvenirs.

5. Day 5: Kedarnath Temple
   2 hours 43 minutes (44.5 miles) from Auli Ski Resort

   Start your day early and trek to the Kedarnath Temple, one of the four sacred shrines in Hinduism. The trek is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of the Himalayas. Spend some time at the temple and take in the spiritual atmosphere. In the afternoon, head back to Auli and take a relaxing walk in the apple orchards. In the evening, enjoy a local meal before heading back to your hotel.

Recommendations

If you have some extra time, you can visit the Chikmagalur coffee plantations or the Jog Falls. For day trips, you can visit Rishikesh or Haridwar. To maximise your fun, try some adventure sports like river rafting or bungee jumping in Rishikesh.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Dandeli National Park (4 hours, ₹400)
• Kavala Caves (1 hour, ₹50)
• Belgaum Fort (2 hours, free)
• Kamal Basadi Temple (1 hour, free)
• Gokak Falls (2 hours, free)
• Mahabaleshwar Temple (1 hour, free)
• Kempty Falls (2 hours, ₹50)
• Auli Ski Resort (4 hours, ₹700)
• Nanda Devi National Park (3 hours, ₹100)
• Kedarnath Temple Trek (7 hours, ₹200)
• Total Estimated Costs (₹) = ₹1550

To check hotel and flight prices, visit https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo