5-Day Itinerary to Khedarnath or Badrinath on a Shoestring Budget

Thursday, September 21: Haridwar

Start your trip by exploring the spiritual city of Haridwar. In the morning, visit Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat on the banks of the Ganges River, where you can witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at one of the local restaurants. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to the Mansa Devi Temple for panoramic views. As the evening sets in, wander through the bustling streets of Haridwar and indulge in some local street food.

  • Har Ki Pauri: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Mansa Devi Temple: INR 50 (cable car ticket), 2-3 hours
  • Local Street Food: INR 100-200, 1-2 hours
Friday, September 22: Guptkashi

Embark on a scenic drive to Guptkashi, a small town nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas. In the morning, visit the ancient Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the picturesque surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Chopta Valley, known as the "Mini Switzerland of India," and take a short hike to the Tungnath Temple. As the evening approaches, relax and enjoy the tranquility of Guptkashi.

  • Vishwanath Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Packed Lunch: INR 200-300
  • Tungnath Temple Hike: Free, 3-4 hours
Saturday, September 23: Kedarnath

Embark on an early morning trek to the sacred town of Kedarnath. Start the day by trekking to Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath trek. Enjoy a packed breakfast en route. In the afternoon, reach Kedarnath and visit the famous Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Spend the evening exploring the tranquil surroundings and witnessing the evening aarti at the temple.

  • Trek to Gaurikund: Free, 4-6 hours
  • Packed Breakfast: INR 100-200
  • Kedarnath Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Sunday, September 24: Badrinath

Embark on a scenic drive to Badrinath, the abode of Lord Vishnu. In the morning, visit the Badrinath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the Mana Village, the last village before the Indo-Tibetan border, and witness the breathtaking Vasudhara Falls. As the evening sets in, attend the evening aarti at the Badrinath Temple.

  • Badrinath Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Local Restaurant Lunch: INR 300-500
  • Mana Village and Vasudhara Falls: Free, 3-4 hours
Monday, September 25: Rishikesh

Conclude your journey with a visit to the spiritual town of Rishikesh. In the morning, attend a yoga or meditation session by the banks of the Ganges. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at one of the riverside cafes. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and explore the ashrams and temples in the surrounding area. As the evening approaches, witness the magical Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan.

  • Yoga/Meditation Session: INR 200-500
  • Riverside Cafe Lunch: INR 300-500
  • Laxman Jhula and Ashrams: Free, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have extra time, consider exploring the off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals. Visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, situated amidst dense forests and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Explore the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band stayed and practiced meditation. Take a dip in the natural hot springs at Tapovan for a rejuvenating experience.

For more information on hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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