Relaxation Retreat in Haridwar, Kedarnath, Tungnath, Badrinath
Wednesday September 13: Haridwar
Start your journey in the holy city of Haridwar, known for its spiritual significance. In the morning, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, where priests perform a ritualistic prayer ceremony on the banks of the Ganges River. Afternoon can be spent exploring the bustling streets of Haridwar and indulging in some local delicacies. In the evening, take a peaceful walk along the ghats of the Ganges, enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2 hours
Local street food: ₹500 ($7) approximate cost, 1-2 hours
Evening walk along the Ganges: Free, 1-2 hours
Thursday September 14: Kedarnath
Embark on a spiritual journey to Kedarnath, home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. In the morning, trek to Kedarnath Temple, located at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet). Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas along the way. Afternoon can be spent exploring the serene surroundings and seeking tranquility. In the evening, witness the evening aarti at Kedarnath Temple, a soul-stirring experience.
Kedarnath Trek: ₹5,000 ($67) approximate cost for guide and permits, 6-8 hours
Exploring the surroundings: Free, 2-3 hours
Evening aarti at Kedarnath Temple: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Kedarnath is Café Nirvana, known for their delicious pancakes and fresh fruit smoothies. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Bamboo Retreat, a cozy restaurant with a beautiful garden. They serve a variety of vegetarian dishes, including thali meals and local specialties. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a sumptuous dinner at Bhojan Griha, a traditional restaurant serving authentic Indian cuisine. Enjoy their flavorful curries and aromatic biryanis. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Friday September 15: Tungnath
Experience the divine beauty of Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world. In the morning, embark on a trek to Tungnath from Chopta, surrounded by lush green meadows. Admire the panoramic views of the Himalayas from the temple premises. Afternoon can be spent meditating amidst the serene surroundings. In the evening, witness the golden hues of sunset over the snow-capped peaks.
Trek from Chopta to Tungnath: ₹2,000 ($27) approximate cost for guide and permits, 4-6 hours
Meditation in Tungnath: Free, 2-3 hours
Sunset views: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Bliss. Indulge in a variety of healthy options such as fresh fruit bowls, avocado toast, and smoothie bowls. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Garden View Restaurant. Enjoy mouthwatering Indian and Chinese cuisine while admiring the beautiful garden surroundings. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at The Spice Box. Delight in the flavors of authentic Indian dishes like butter chicken, biryani, and naan bread. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Saturday September 16: Badrinath
Continue your spiritual journey to Badrinath, one of the Char Dhams (four sacred pilgrimage sites) in Hinduism. In the morning, visit Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and seek blessings. Afternoon can be spent exploring the picturesque Mana Village, the last village before the Indo-Tibetan border. In the evening, relax in the hot springs of Tapt Kund, known for their therapeutic properties.
Badrinath Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Exploring Mana Village: Free, 1-2 hours
Tapt Kund (Hot Springs): Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Murali Krishna Restaurant, known for its South Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Spice Village Restaurant and indulge in a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant, famous for its traditional Indian thali meals. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly relaxing experience in the region, consider visiting Rishikesh, just a short distance from Haridwar. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh offers a serene environment for practicing yoga and meditation. Take a dip in the holy Ganges River, try Ayurvedic treatments, or attend a yoga retreat to rejuvenate your mind and body.
Another off the beaten path attraction is the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located amidst the lush forests of Rishikesh. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers stunning views of the surrounding nature.