7-Day Adventure Pilgrimage to Char Dham: Dehradun Airport to Jamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath

Tuesday, September 12: Arrival in Dehradun

Begin your adventure by arriving at Dehradun Airport. From here, you can make your way to the holy town of Barkot, a gateway to the Char Dham Yatra. In the morning, visit the Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, and take a dip in the sacred Yamuna River. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Surya Kund hot springs and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. In the evening, attend the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony at the Yamunotri Temple.

• Yamunotri Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Surya Kund: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Aarti ceremony at Yamunotri Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Wednesday, September 13: Journey to Gangotri

Embark on a scenic drive to Gangotri, the origin of the holy River Ganges. In the morning, visit the Gangotri Temple and seek blessings from Goddess Ganga. Take a dip in the chilling waters of the Ganges and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque town of Gangotri and indulge in some local cuisine. In the evening, enjoy the tranquility of the riverside and witness the evening Aarti ceremony.

• Gangotri Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Exploring Gangotri town: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Evening Aarti ceremony: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Thursday, September 14: Trek to Kedarnath

Today, embark on a thrilling trek to the sacred town of Kedarnath. In the morning, start your journey from Sonprayag and hike along the picturesque route to Kedarnath. Witness the beauty of the Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and immerse yourself in the divine atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the surrounding natural beauty and enjoy the peaceful ambience. Spend the evening attending the evening Aarti ceremony at the Kedarnath Temple.

• Trek to Kedarnath: Estimated cost - Varies (guide recommended), Time spent - Full day
• Kedarnath Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Exploring natural surroundings: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Evening Aarti ceremony: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Kedarnath is "Café Bliss", which offers delicious vegetarian breakfast options such as stuffed parathas and fresh fruit platters. The average cost for a breakfast meal here is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, head to "Gangotri Restaurant", a cozy eatery known for its authentic Indian thali meals. Enjoy a variety of flavorsome dishes like rajma, pulao, and kadhi. The average cost for a lunch meal here is around ₹300 per person.
• When it comes to dinner, "Badrinath Bhojanalaya" is the go-to place. They serve a delectable spread of North Indian cuisine, including paneer tikka, butter chicken, and freshly baked naan. The average cost for a dinner meal here is approximately ₹400 per person.

Friday, September 15: Arrival in Badrinath

After an adventurous trek, head to the sacred town of Badrinath. In the morning, visit the Badrinath Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Seek blessings from Lord Vishnu and take a dip in the Tapt Kund hot springs. In the afternoon, explore Mana Village, the last Indian village before the Tibetan border. Marvel at the natural wonders like Vasudhara Falls and enjoy the serene surroundings. Attend the evening Aarti ceremony at the Badrinath Temple.

• Badrinath Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mana Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Vasudhara Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Evening Aarti ceremony: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Saturday, September 16: Explore Badrinath

Spend the day exploring the spiritual and natural treasures of Badrinath. In the morning, visit the Tapt Kund hot springs again for a rejuvenating experience. Explore the beautiful Alaknanda River and enjoy the scenic views. In the afternoon, trek to the stunning Valley of Flowers, known for its vibrant blooms. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the valley. In the evening, attend the evening Aarti ceremony at the Badrinath Temple.

• Tapt Kund: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Alaknanda River: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Trek to Valley of Flowers: Estimated cost - Varies (guide recommended), Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Evening Aarti ceremony: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, September 17: Return to Dehradun

It's time to bid farewell to the Char Dham and begin your journey back to Dehradun. In the morning, drive back to Dehradun with beautiful memories of your pilgrimage. In the afternoon, you can explore the city and visit attractions such as Robber's Cave or Tapkeshwar Temple. In the evening, indulge in some local cuisine and relax before your departure.

• Return drive to Dehradun: Estimated cost - Varies (taxi recommended), Time spent - 6-7 hours
• Exploring Dehradun: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Local cuisine: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, September 18: Departure from Dehradun

On your last day, say goodbye to Dehradun as you depart from the city. Take with you the memories of your adventurous pilgrimage to Char Dham.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure enthusiasts, consider adding a thrilling white water rafting experience on the Ganges near Rishikesh. You can also explore the nearby Rajaji National Park for wildlife encounters, or indulge in activities like hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding in the beautiful Garhwal region. These off the beaten path attractions and activities are loved by locals and provide an adrenaline-pumping adventure in the serene Himalayan surroundings.

Click here to check hotel and flight prices for your pilgrimage to Char Dham.