5-Day Itinerary: Bangalore to Kedarnath, Badrinath, Haridwar, Rishikesh

1. Day 1: Friday, September 29 - Bangalore to Kedarnath
   Estimated travel time: 10 hours (306 miles)

   In the morning, start your journey from Bangalore to Kedarnath. Kedarnath is a holy town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is famous for the ancient Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Spend the afternoon exploring the temple complex and taking in the breathtaking mountain views. In the evening, attend the evening aarti ceremony at the temple, which is a mesmerizing spiritual experience.

   • Visit Kedarnath Temple: Opening hours: 4:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Free entry
2. Day 2: Saturday, September 30 - Kedarnath to Badrinath
   Estimated travel time: 7 hours (127 miles)

   Begin your day with a scenic drive from Kedarnath to Badrinath. Badrinath is another important pilgrimage site in Uttarakhand, known for the Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Explore the temple complex and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, you can take a dip in the Tapt Kund, a natural hot spring believed to have medicinal properties. End the day by witnessing the evening aarti ceremony at the temple.

   • Visit Badrinath Temple: Opening hours: 4:30 AM - 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Free entry
   • Dip in Tapt Kund: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time: 1 hour
3. Day 3: Sunday, October 1 - Badrinath to Haridwar
   Estimated travel time: 8 hours (215 miles)

   Today, travel from Badrinath to Haridwar, a holy city located on the banks of the Ganges River. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, a famous bathing ghat where devotees take a holy dip in the river. Explore the narrow lanes of Haridwar, filled with temples and ashrams. In the afternoon, you can take a cable car ride to the hilltop Mansa Devi Temple for panoramic views. End the day by attending the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Har Ki Pauri.

   • Visit Har Ki Pauri: Opening hours: Open 24 hours, Free entry
   • Visit Mansa Devi Temple: Opening hours: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Estimated cost: INR 120, Estimated time: 1 hour
4. Day 4: Monday, October 2 - Haridwar to Rishikesh
   Estimated travel time: 30 minutes (13 miles)

   Head from Haridwar to Rishikesh, a spiritual town nestled amidst the foothills of the Himalayas. Start your day by visiting the renowned Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges River. Explore the ashrams and temples in the area, and don't miss the chance to attend a yoga or meditation session. In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

   • Visit Lakshman Jhula: Opening hours: Open 24 hours, Free entry
   • Attend yoga/meditation session: Estimated cost: Varies, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
   • Visit Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Opening hours: Open 24 hours, Free entry
5. Day 5: Tuesday, October 3 - Rishikesh Exploration
   Estimated travel time: N/A

   Spend your last day in Rishikesh exploring more of its spiritual offerings. Visit the famous Beatles Ashram, where the Beatles spent time in meditation. Take a dip in the holy Ganges River and experience the tranquility of Triveni Ghat. In the evening, you can enjoy a peaceful riverside stroll along the Ganges and soak in the serene atmosphere of Rishikesh.

   • Visit Beatles Ashram: Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Estimated cost: INR 150, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
   • Visit Triveni Ghat: Opening hours: Open 24 hours, Free entry

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the nearby town of Dehradun, known for its beautiful landscapes and colonial architecture. You can also plan a day trip to the scenic hill station of Mussoorie, located just a few hours away from Rishikesh. To make the most of your trip, try to participate in various spiritual and cultural activities, such as attending a satsang or exploring the local markets for unique souvenirs.

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