7-Day Adventure Itinerary to Char Dham

Saturday, July 22: Haridwar

Start your adventure in Haridwar, known as the gateway to the Char Dham. In the morning, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri ghat. Afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Haridwar and savor local street food. In the evening, take a cable car ride to the hilltop Mansa Devi Temple for breathtaking views of the city.

• Har Ki Pauri: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
• Local Markets: Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Cost: Cable Car: INR 110, Time: 1-2 hours

Sunday, July 23: Yamunotri

Embark on a thrilling drive to Jankichatti in the morning. From there, start your trek to Yamunotri, the source of the Yamuna River. Enjoy the scenic trail passing through dense forests and picturesque landscapes. On arrival, take a dip in the natural hot springs and seek blessings at the Yamunotri Temple. Return to Jankichatti by evening.

• Trek to Yamunotri: Cost: Trekking Permit: INR 150, Time: 6-7 hours
• Yamunotri Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
• Natural Hot Springs: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours

Monday, July 24: Gangotri

Travel to Gangotri, the birthplace of the Ganges River. Start your day with a visit to the ancient Gangotri Temple, surrounded by majestic mountains. Explore the scenic beauty of the region and witness the enchanting Ganges Aarti in the evening. Take a stroll along the riverbank and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere.

• Gangotri Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
• Ganges Aarti: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
• Exploring Gangotri: Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours

Tuesday, July 25: Kedarnath

Embark on a helicopter ride to Kedarnath, one of the holiest places in Hinduism. Visit the Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and situated amidst majestic snow-capped peaks. Take a dip in the holy Mandakini River and witness the evening Aarti at the temple.

• Helicopter Ride: Cost: INR 7,000-9,000 per person, Time: 1-2 hours
• Kedarnath Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
• Mandakini River: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour

Wednesday, July 26: Badrinath

Travel to Badrinath, the final destination of the Char Dham Yatra. Discover the sacred Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Take a dip in the Tapt Kund hot springs and explore the nearby Mana Village, the last inhabited village before the Indo-China border.

• Badrinath Temple: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
• Tapt Kund: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour
• Mana Village: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours

Thursday, July 27: Rishikesh

Head to Rishikesh, the "Yoga Capital of the World". Start your day with a yoga session overlooking the Ganges River. Indulge in thrilling river rafting or bungee jumping for an adrenaline rush. In the evening, witness the famous Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan.

• Yoga Session: Cost: Varies, Time: 1-2 hours
• River Rafting/Bungee Jumping: Cost: INR 1,000-2,000, Time: 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan: Cost: Free, Time: 1 hour

Friday, July 28: Haridwar

Return to Haridwar for your departure. Explore more of the city, visit the famous Chandi Devi Temple by cable car, or indulge in Ayurvedic treatments and yoga sessions. Bid farewell to the Char Dham with beautiful memories.

• Chandi Devi Temple: Cost: Cable Car: INR 110, Time: 1-2 hours
• Ayurvedic Treatments/Yoga Sessions: Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
• Departure from Haridwar

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers, don't miss the opportunity to go trekking in the nearby Himalayan ranges. Explore the lesser-known trails and enjoy the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys. Additionally, visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, perched on a hilltop, for a serene and spiritual experience.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices on Kayak.