Start your journey to Kedarnath from Katihar, a city situated in the state of Bihar, India. Board a train or hire a private car for a comfortable trip. The approximate cost of a train ticket is INR 500 ($7) per person, and the journey takes around 12 hours.
Arrive at Haridwar, a holy city in Uttarakhand, located on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. Check into a hotel for an overnight stay. You can find hotel and flight prices available from Kayak.
Wake up early to witness the mesmerizing morning Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the Ganges River. Experience the spiritual atmosphere as priests perform rituals accompanied by chanting and the lighting of lamps. Spend around 1 hour for this soul-stirring experience.
Head to Chotiwala Restaurant, a popular eatery in Haridwar known for its delicious vegetarian food. Enjoy a hearty breakfast comprising of Indian specialties like puri bhaji, masala dosa, and chai. The cost per person is around INR 300 ($4).
Make your way to Mansa Devi Temple, a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi. Take a scenic cable car ride to reach the hilltop temple and seek blessings. The cost of the cable car ride is INR 100 ($1.5) per person. Spend around 2 hours exploring the temple and enjoying the panoramic views of Haridwar.
Indulge in a delicious vegetarian lunch at Hoshiyar Puri, a well-known restaurant in Haridwar. Savor traditional North Indian dishes like chole bhature, rajma chawal, and lassi. Expect to spend around INR 400 ($5) per person for a filling meal.
Embark on a wildlife adventure at Rajaji National Park, located on the outskirts of Haridwar. Take a safari through the dense forests and spot diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and deer. The entry fee for Indian nationals is INR 150 ($2) per person, and the safari cost varies based on the duration and type of vehicle.
Leave Haridwar and drive towards Sonprayag, a small town located on the way to Kedarnath. Enjoy scenic views of the Himalayan landscapes as you travel through winding roads. The approximate travel time is 6-8 hours, and it is advisable to make prior hotel arrangements in Sonprayag for an overnight stay.
Treat yourself to a wholesome dinner at a local restaurant in Sonprayag. Enjoy the flavors of regional cuisine, such as dal makhani, palak paneer, and roti. The cost per person is around INR 300 ($4).
Take a well-deserved rest and prepare for the trek to Kedarnath the next day. Ensure you have the necessary supplies, including warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and a valid ID proof for registration at the base camp.
If you have some extra time in Haridwar, explore the hidden gem of Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, a bird sanctuary on the banks of the Ganges River. It is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of avian species to observe. Another local favorite is Maya Devi Temple, one of the oldest temples in Haridwar, known for its historical and religious significance.