7-Day Chardham Itinerary

Saturday, September 30: Haridwar

Start your trip by arriving in Haridwar, one of the holiest cities in India. In the morning, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri ghat. Afternoon visit to Mansa Devi Temple for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, explore the bustling streets of Haridwar and indulge in local street food.

• Har Ki Pauri Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Mansa Devi Temple: Estimated cost - INR 200, Time spent - 2 hours
• Local Street Food: Estimated cost - INR 200, Time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, October 1: Yamunotri

Embark on a scenic drive to Janki Chatti, the base camp for Yamunotri. In the morning, start your trek to Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. Afternoon, take a dip in the natural hot springs of Yamunotri. In the evening, relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

• Trek to Yamunotri Temple: Estimated cost - INR 500 for pony, Time spent - 5-6 hours
• Natural Hot Springs: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, October 2: Gangotri

Travel to Gangotri, the source of the holy river Ganga. In the morning, visit Gangotri Temple and seek blessings. Afternoon, explore the picturesque surroundings and enjoy a peaceful picnic by the river. In the evening, witness the magnificent Ganga Aarti at Gangotri Temple.

• Gangotri Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Picnic by the River: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 2 hours
• Ganga Aarti: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, October 3: Kedarnath

Take a helicopter ride to Kedarnath, one of the sacred Char Dhams. In the morning, visit the ancient Kedarnath Temple and immerse yourself in spirituality. Afternoon, explore the surrounding natural beauty and enjoy the breathtaking views. In the evening, attend the evening aarti at Kedarnath Temple.

• Kedarnath Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Exploring Natural Beauty: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Evening Aarti: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Wednesday, October 4: Badrinath

Travel to Badrinath, the final destination of the Chardham Yatra. In the morning, visit the famous Badrinath Temple and seek blessings. Afternoon, explore the nearby attractions like Tapt Kund and Mana Village. In the evening, witness the evening aarti at Badrinath Temple.

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

Thursday, October 5: Rishikesh

Head to Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." In the morning, visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, suspension bridges over the Ganges. Afternoon, indulge in adventure activities like river rafting or bungee jumping. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan.

• Laxman Jhula: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Ram Jhula: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Adventure Activities: Estimated cost - INR 1500-3000, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Friday, October 6: Haridwar

Return to Haridwar for a final day of exploration. In the morning, visit the famous Daksha Mahadev Temple. Afternoon, take a cable car ride to the hilltop temple of Chandi Devi. In the evening, experience the tranquility of Haridwar by taking a boat ride on the Ganges during sunset.

• Daksha Mahadev Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Chandi Devi Temple: Estimated cost - INR 300 for cable car, Time spent - 2 hours
• Boat Ride on the Ganges: Estimated cost - INR 200, Time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring the Chardham circuit, make sure to visit the serene Tapovan in Gangotri, known for its meditation caves and breathtaking views. Another hidden gem is Kempty Falls near Yamunotri, a beautiful waterfall where you can enjoy a refreshing dip. Locals also recommend visiting the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple near Rishikesh, nestled amidst the lush Himalayas.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices here.