Char Dham 7-Day Itinerary - October 15 to October 21, 2023

1. Sunday October 15: Yamunotri
   8 hours (141 miles) from Haridwar

   Start the day early to reach Yamunotri, the source of river Yamuna. Explore the temple and take a dip in the hot water springs. In the afternoon, enjoy a serene walk along the river. In the evening, witness the Aarti ceremony.

   • Yamunotri Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
2. Monday October 16: Gangotri
   6 hours (89 miles) from Yamunotri

   Travel to Gangotri, the birthplace of the holy river Ganga. Visit the Gangotri Temple, surrounded by beautiful Himalayan peaks. Take a dip in the sacred river and witness the evening Aarti ceremony.

   • Gangotri Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
3. Tuesday October 17: Kedarnath
   6 hours (119 miles) from Gangotri

   Embark on a trek to Kedarnath, one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India. Visit the Kedarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas and the tranquility of the surrounding nature.

   • Kedarnath Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
4. Wednesday October 18: Badrinath
   8 hours (160 miles) from Kedarnath

   Explore Badrinath, the final destination of Char Dham. Visit the Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Take a dip in the Tapt Kund hot water springs and witness the evening Aarti ceremony.

   • Badrinath Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
5. Thursday October 19: Rishikesh
   9 hours (198 miles) from Badrinath

   Head to Rishikesh, a spiritual and yoga hub. Visit the famous Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges. Attend a Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the holy river. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take part in yoga or meditation.

   • Lakshman Jhula: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
   • Ganga Aarti: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time: 1 hour
6. Friday October 20: Haridwar
   1 hour 30 minutes (40 miles) from Rishikesh

   Visit Haridwar, a holy city on the banks of the Ganges. Take a dip in the sacred river at Har Ki Pauri ghat. Explore the temples and attend the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. Explore the local markets for religious souvenirs.

   • Har Ki Pauri: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
   • Ganga Aarti: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time: 1 hour
7. Saturday October 21: Devprayag
   2 hours 30 minutes (80 miles) from Haridwar

   Visit Devprayag, the confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, where the Ganges is formed. Explore the Raghunath Temple and take a dip in the holy river. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas and the tranquil surroundings.

   • Raghunath Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Estimated time: 1-2 hours

Recommendations

Are there any other local attractions, events, or experiences I should also consider? How about day trips? Any good ideas on how to get the most for my money and have a lot of fun?

During your journey, you can also consider visiting Hemkund Sahib, a Sikh pilgrimage site near Badrinath, or take a day trip to Valley of Flowers National Park for its breathtaking floral beauty. To make the most of your trip, interact with local priests and seek their blessings. Don't forget to try the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural experiences offered along the Char Dham route.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability here.