7-Day Itinerary to Kedarnath

Thursday, August 3: Arrive in Kedarnath

Start your trip to Kedarnath by arriving at the nearest airport, Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Sonprayag, the base for the trek to Kedarnath. Enjoy the scenic drive through the beautiful Garhwal Himalayas. In the evening, explore the local market in Sonprayag and get a taste of the local cuisine.

• Arrival at Jolly Grant Airport: Flight and taxi fares can be checked here.
• Transfer to Sonprayag: Estimated cost - taxi fare, Estimated time spent - 5 hours
• Explore Sonprayag: Cost of meals and shopping, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Friday, August 4: Trek to Kedarnath

Embark on a thrilling trek from Sonprayag to Kedarnath. This 16-kilometer trek takes you through picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and charming villages. Marvel at the natural beauty of the region and keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. Reach Kedarnath by late afternoon and visit the famous Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

• Trek from Sonprayag to Kedarnath: Estimated cost - trekking permit, Estimated time spent - 8-10 hours
• Kedarnath Temple: Entrance fee - free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, August 5: Explore Kedarnath

Spend the day exploring the mythical town of Kedarnath. Visit the Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi, a shrine dedicated to the great philosopher and saint. Take a walk around the town and soak in the spiritual ambiance. In the evening, attend the mesmerizing evening aarti at the Kedarnath Temple, a sacred ritual accompanied by chanting and lighting of lamps.

• Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi: Entrance fee - free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Exploring Kedarnath: Cost of meals and shopping, Estimated time spent - 5-6 hours
• Kedarnath Temple Evening Aarti: Entrance fee - free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, August 6: Return to Sonprayag

Begin your descent from Kedarnath to Sonprayag. Take your time to enjoy the scenic beauty of the trek and capture some memorable photographs. Arrive in Sonprayag by late afternoon and relax after the trek. Take a dip in the holy waters of the Mandakini River, believed to cleanse one's sins.

• Trek from Kedarnath to Sonprayag: Estimated time spent - 7-8 hours
• Relaxation in Sonprayag: Cost of meals and accommodation, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours

Monday, August 7: Visit Triyuginarayan Temple

On this day, take a day trip to the Triyuginarayan Temple, located around 25 kilometers from Sonprayag. This temple is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married. Explore the temple complex and enjoy the serene surroundings. Return to Sonprayag in the evening.

• Visit to Triyuginarayan Temple: Estimated cost - taxi fare, Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Return to Sonprayag: Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, August 8: Journey to Dehradun

Leave Sonprayag and travel back to Dehradun. Bid farewell to the beautiful Himalayan region as you make your way to the airport. If time permits, visit the Robber's Cave, a fascinating natural formation known for its unique watercourse.

• Transfer from Sonprayag to Dehradun: Estimated cost - taxi fare, Estimated time spent - 7-8 hours
• Optional visit to Robber's Cave: Entrance fee - nominal, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, August 9: Departure

Depart from Dehradun and head back home, carrying wonderful memories of your Kedarnath trip.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

A hidden gem near Kedarnath is Chopta, also known as the "Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand." It offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks and serves as the base for trekking to the famous Chandrashila summit. Locals also recommend visiting Guptkashi, a small town known for its ancient Vishwanath Temple and scenic beauty.