Bengaluru to Kedarnath and Badrinath: 7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary

Monday, August 21: Bengaluru to Haridwar

Start your journey by flying from Bengaluru to Haridwar. In the morning, explore Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges, known for its religious significance. Witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening, a mesmerizing ritual where lamps are floated on the river.

• Har Ki Pauri: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, August 22: Haridwar to Guptkashi

After breakfast, drive from Haridwar to Guptkashi. In the morning, visit the ancient temple of Vishwanath in Guptkashi. Enjoy a scenic walk in the Chopta valley in the afternoon, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

• Temple of Vishwanath: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Chopta Valley: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, August 23: Guptkashi to Kedarnath

Embark on a trek from Guptkashi to Kedarnath. In the morning, start your trek to Kedarnath, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Explore the ancient Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, in the afternoon. Witness the evening prayer ceremony at the temple.

• Kedarnath Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Thursday, August 24: Kedarnath to Guptkashi

After breakfast, trek back from Kedarnath to Guptkashi. In the morning, enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas during your descent. Visit the ancient Triyuginarayan Temple in the afternoon, known for its connection to Lord Shiva's marriage.

• Triyuginarayan Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, August 25: Guptkashi to Joshimath (Badrinath)

Drive from Guptkashi to Joshimath, the gateway to Badrinath. In the morning, visit the famous Narsingh Temple in Joshimath. Afterward, take a cable car ride to Auli and indulge in various adventure activities like skiing (subject to availability).

• Narsingh Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Cable car ride to Auli: Estimated cost - INR 750 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, August 26: Badrinath

Explore the sacred town of Badrinath. In the morning, visit the Badrinath Temple, one of the holiest shrines of Hinduism. Take a dip in the Tapt Kund, a natural hot water spring, believed to have medicinal properties. In the afternoon, visit Mana Village, the last inhabited village before the Indo-Tibetan border.

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

Sunday, August 27: Badrinath to Rishikesh

Drive from Badrinath to Rishikesh. In the morning, visit the iconic Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges. Explore the famous Beatles Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in the 1960s and meditated. Enjoy the evening at the Triveni Ghat, witnessing the Ganga Aarti ceremony.

• Laxman Jhula: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Beatles Ashram: Estimated cost - INR 150 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Triveni Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit Neer Garh Waterfall near Rishikesh. This hidden gem offers a refreshing dip in the natural pools amidst lush green surroundings. Another local favorite is the Rajaji National Park, where you can spot various wildlife species on a safari.

Check hotel and flight prices here.