5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Kedarnath

  1. Day 1: Kedarnath Temple
    Located in the Kedarnath town, 200m from the main market

    A holy shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga's. Spend time absorbing the spiritual energy and marveling at the beautiful Himalayan landscape.

  2. Day 2: Gandhi Sarovar Trek
    18.2km from Kedarnath, 7 hours drive/trek time from Kedarnath

    If you're fit and up for a challenge, head to Gandhi Sarovar - a serene lake located at a height of 14,000 feet. The trek offers breathtaking views of nature's beauty, terraced meadows and glaciers.

  3. Day 3: Vasuki Tal Trek
    22.5km from Kedarnath, 9 hours drive/trek time from Kedarnath

    Embark on a trek to the beautiful Vasuki Tal - a high altitude lake that is considered as one of the most scenic natural spectacles in the region. Enjoy cool, fresh mountain air, the sound of birds and the beautiful sight of Himalayan peaks.

  4. Day 4: Shankaracharya Samadhi and Swami Vivekananda Meditation Rock
    12km from Kedarnath, 45 minutes drive from Kedarnath

    Visit Shankaracharya Samadhi which is a memorial that marks the sacred remains of Sri Shankaracharya - the great saint and philosopher who visited the shrine in the early 8th Century. Further, head to Swami Vivekananda Meditation Rock - a serene place to meditate and enjoy the mesmerising views of the snow-capped mountains.

  5. Day 5: Sonprayag and Gaurikund
    20km from Kedarnath, 1.5 hours drive from Kedarnath

    Take a day trip to Sonprayag, a picturesque town situated on the confluence of the Mandakani and Basuki streams. Spend time exploring local markets, take a dip in holy waters or play by the rocks. Next, visit Gaurikund - another holy spot where Lord Shiva and Parvati are believed to have met.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kedarnath Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Gandhi Sarovar Trek (7-8 hours, INR 3000-4000 per person)
  • Vasuki Tal Trek (9-10 hours, INR 4000-5000 per person)
  • Shankaracharya Samadhi (30-45 minutes, free)
  • Swami Vivekananda Meditation Rock (30-45 minutes, free)
  • Sonprayag (2-3 hours, free)
  • Gaurikund (1-2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 7000-9000 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Triyuginarayan Temple - a temple believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva and Parvati got married. For less time, skip Gandhi Sarovar or Vasuki Tal trek. Always carry a first aid kit and consult locals/authorities before heading out on a trek.

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