Chardham Yatra - 7-Day Itinerary

Tuesday, October 17: Haridwar

Start your spiritual journey by visiting Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges. Witness the evening Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ritual of worship. In the afternoon, explore the ancient temples of Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi. Enjoy a serene boat ride in the evening.

• Har Ki Pauri: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, October 18: Yamunotri

Embark on a scenic drive to Yamunotri, the source of the Yamuna River. Trek to the temple dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. Take a dip in the natural hot water springs and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

• Yamunotri Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 4-6 hours
• Natural Hot Water Springs: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Thursday, October 19: Gangotri

Visit Gangotri, the origin of the sacred river Ganges. Explore the Gangotri Temple, surrounded by picturesque snow-capped mountains. Take a holy dip in the freezing waters of the Bhagirathi River. In the afternoon, trek to Gaumukh, the glacier from where the Ganges flows.

• Gangotri Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Holy Dip in Bhagirathi River: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Trek to Gaumukh: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 6-8 hours

Friday, October 20: Kedarnath

Travel to Kedarnath, one of the holiest sites in Hinduism. Trek or take a helicopter ride to reach the Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Seek blessings at this serene location surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas.

• Kedarnath Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Trek or Helicopter Ride: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 4-6 hours

Saturday, October 21: Badrinath

Visit Badrinath, the most important site of the Chardham Yatra. Seek blessings at the Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Take a dip in the Tapt Kund hot springs. Explore nearby attractions like the Mana Village and Vasudhara Falls.

• Badrinath Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Tapt Kund Hot Springs: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Mana Village: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Vasudhara Falls: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours

Sunday, October 22: Joshimath

Drive to Joshimath, a scenic hill town. Take a cable car ride to Auli, a popular skiing destination. Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas. Visit the Narsimha Temple and Kalpavriksha, an ancient tree considered sacred.

• Cable Car Ride to Auli: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 4-6 hours
• Narsimha Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Kalpavriksha: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Monday, October 23: Rishikesh

End your Chardham Yatra in Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World. Attend a yoga or meditation session in the morning. Visit the iconic Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula suspension bridges. Explore the ashrams and witness the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan.

• Yoga or Meditation Session: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Ashrams: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While on your Chardham Yatra, don't miss the opportunity to visit Rishikesh's Neer Garh Waterfall, a hidden gem known for its beauty and tranquility. Locals also recommend exploring the quaint village of Kharsali near Yamunotri, where you can experience the local culture and interact with friendly villagers.

To check hotel and flight prices for your Chardham Yatra, you can visit this link.