Nature Lover's 7-Day Itinerary for Kedarnath

1. Day 1: Kedarnath Temple
   Located in the heart of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.
   Estimated time from nearest airport or railway station: 12 hours, 250 kilometers.
   Estimated hiking time from Gaurikund (last motorable location): 6-8 hours, 16 kilometers.

   Pilgrimage to the holy site of Lord Shiva, amidst snow-capped mountains, with stunning views of Mandakini valley.

2. Day 2: Vasuki Tal
   Located 7 kilometers from Kedarnath Temple.
   Estimated hiking time: 4-5 hours.

   Trek to a high altitude lake surrounded by snow-covered peaks, with opportunities for bird-watching and nature photography.

3. Day 3: Gandhi Sarovar
   Located 6 kilometers from Kedarnath Temple.
   Estimated hiking time: 3-4 hours.

   A glacial lake associated with the tragedy of 2013 Kedarnath flash floods, surrounded by Himalayan scenery, and accessible only by foot.

4. Day 4: Sonprayag
   Located 20 kilometers from Kedarnath Temple.
   Estimated travel time: 1 hour by shared jeep or taxi.

   A scenic hamlet on the banks of the Mandakini river, known for hot springs, trekking, and mountaineering.

5. Day 5: Triyuginarayan Temple
   Located 23 kilometers from Kedarnath Temple.
   Estimated travel time from Sonprayag: 1.5 hours by shared jeep or taxi.

   A sacred pilgrimage site and wedding venue of Lord Shiva and Parvati, with panoramic views of the valley and trekking opportunities.

6. Day 6: Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi
   Located in Joshimath, 65 kilometers from Kedarnath Temple.
   Estimated travel time from Sonprayag: 3.5 hours by shared jeep or taxi.

   The final resting place of the philosopher-saint Adi Shankaracharya, surrounded by natural beauty and spiritual history.

7. Day 7: Nanda Devi National Park
   Located in Chamoli district, 153 kilometers from Kedarnath Temple.
   Estimated travel time from Joshimath: 3 hours by shared jeep or taxi.

   A UNESCO World Heritage Site and biosphere reserve, home to rare species of flora and fauna, and the majestic Nanda Devi mountain peak.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kedarnath Temple (6-8 hours hiking, free)
• Vasuki Tal (4-5 hours hiking, free)
• Gandhi Sarovar (3-4 hours hiking, free)
• Sonprayag (1 hour, INR 50-100)
• Triyuginarayan Temple (1.5 hours, free)
• Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi (3.5 hours, free)
• Nanda Devi National Park (3 hours, INR 150-600)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 200-700

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add visits to nearby places like Badrinath, Rudraprayag, or Auli. If you have less time, you can skip Gandhi Sarovar or Nanda Devi National Park depending on your preferences. Be prepared for possible altitude sickness, low temperatures, and unpredictable weather conditions. Respect the local culture and environment, and follow the rules and regulations of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and the authorities. Hire experienced guides or join group tours for safety and knowledge. Carry enough food, water, and warm clothing during your trekking.