A Family-Friendly 2-Day Itinerary in Kedarnath

Thursday, August 3, 2023: Arrival in Kedarnath

Start your trip by arriving in Kedarnath, a serene town nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. In the morning, visit the sacred Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Embark on a 16-kilometer trek from Gaurikund to reach the temple, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush green landscapes along the way. Spend the afternoon exploring the temple complex and witnessing the evening Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual.

• Kedarnath Temple: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Chardham Bhojanalaya, located near the Kedarnath Temple. This restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian breakfast options, including traditional Indian dishes like poha, upma, and aloo paratha. The average cost for a breakfast meal here is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Himalayan Trekkers Cafe, a cozy restaurant situated in Gaurikund. This eatery serves a range of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Enjoy their mouthwatering thali meals or try their popular momos. The average cost for a lunch meal here is around 400 INR per person.
• In the evening, relish a delectable dinner at Cafe Rudra, a charming cafe known for its tranquil ambiance and delicious food. This restaurant offers a variety of Indian and international dishes, as well as flavorsome herbal teas. The average cost for a dinner meal here is approximately 600 INR per person.

Friday, August 4, 2023: Nature's Abode

On your second day, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Kedarnath. Start your morning by visiting Vasuki Tal, a stunning high-altitude lake nestled amidst snow-capped mountains. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, take in the pristine surroundings, and if weather permits, you can even indulge in a refreshing dip. In the afternoon, head to Chorabari Tal, also known as Gandhi Sarovar, a picturesque lake named after Mahatma Gandhi. Take a serene walk around the lake and enjoy a picnic amidst nature.

• Vasuki Tal: Estimated cost: Trek guide charges around INR 1,500 ($20), estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
• Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar): Free entry, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Exploring off the beaten path in Kedarnath, you can visit the Gaurikund Temple, a small temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, located at the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath Temple. This serene temple offers a peaceful ambiance and is frequented by locals and devotees alike. Another hidden gem is the Shankaracharya Samadhi, a memorial dedicated to the revered Hindu sage Adi Shankaracharya. Located near the Kedarnath Temple, this place holds great spiritual significance.

For a unique local experience, you can also interact with the Garhwali people, the indigenous inhabitants of the region. Learn about their rich culture, traditions, and try local cuisine. The locals are friendly and welcoming, making it a memorable experience for families.

To check hotel and flight prices in Kedarnath, you can visit this link.