Welcome to Joshimath, a charming town located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. As you arrive, take in the breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains surrounding the town. In the morning, visit the Narsingh Temple, a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Afternoon calls for a cable car ride to Auli, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Kalpavriksha Garden, known for its ancient trees.
For breakfast, head to Cafe Buransh where you can indulge in delicious pancakes and a variety of breakfast options. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try the famous Chauhan Restaurant known for its authentic North Indian cuisine. You can feast on mouth-watering curries and biryanis here. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit the charming Little Chef Restaurant, famous for its cozy ambiance and delectable Chinese and Continental dishes. Enjoy a candlelit dinner with amazing views of the mountains. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Friday, December 29, 2023: Excursion to Valley of Flowers
Embark on a mesmerizing excursion to the Valley of Flowers National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the colorful meadows adorned with a variety of alpine flowers. Begin your trek to the valley early in the morning to capture its beauty in the best light. Spend the afternoon exploring the park, spotting rare plants and enjoying the tranquility of nature. In the evening, head back to Joshimath and relax in your hotel.
Valley of Flowers National Park: Estimated cost - INR 1,500 (entry fee), Time spent - 8-10 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Paradise: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at XYZ Cafe, known for their delicious and freshly prepared breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
A Taste of Tradition: Indulge in the local cuisine at ABC Restaurant for lunch, where you can savor authentic dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Sunset Delights: Experience an unforgettable dinner at PQR Rooftop Restaurant, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains while enjoying a diverse menu of international and fusion cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Saturday, December 30, 2023: Badrinath Pilgrimage
Today, embark on a spiritual journey to the holy town of Badrinath. Visit the famous Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the Char Dhams (four sacred sites) in Hinduism. Explore the nearby Tapt Kund, a natural hot water spring believed to have medicinal properties. Spend the afternoon in peaceful contemplation and take a dip in the holy waters. Return to Joshimath in the evening and enjoy a romantic dinner at a local restaurant.
A cozy breakfast spot near Joshimath is Cafe Snow Peaks, known for their freshly baked pastries and mountain views. Expect to spend around 200 INR per person for a meal.
For lunch, head to Garden Cafe, a charming garden restaurant offering a variety of Indian and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Dhaba Express, a local favorite known for its authentic North Indian cuisine. Enjoy delicious curries and tandoori specialties, with an average cost of 400 INR per person for a flavorful dinner.
Sunday, December 31, 2023: Adrenaline-Fueled Skiing Experience
Get ready for an adventure-filled day as you try your hand at skiing in Auli, one of India's prime ski destinations. Indulge in the thrill of gliding down the snow-covered slopes while enjoying the panoramic vistas of the Himalayas. Take skiing lessons from experienced instructors and spend the entire day skiing to your heart's content. Capture some memorable moments together amid the snowy wonderland. In the evening, return to Joshimath and celebrate New Year's Eve with dinner and drinks.
Auli Ski Resort: Estimated cost - INR 2,000 (skiing equipment and lessons), Time spent - Full day
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe de La Paix, a quaint cafe known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Mountain View Restaurant and enjoy a wide variety of local dishes along with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Roof Top Restaurant where you can savor delectable Indian and international cuisines while enjoying breathtaking views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Monday, January 1, 2024: Relaxation Day in Joshimath
After the exhilarating skiing experience, take a well-deserved break to relax and rejuvenate. Start your day with a visit to the Vridh Badri Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque town, relishing local cuisine, and indulging in some shopping for souvenirs. In the evening, visit the Shankaracharya Temple, perched atop a hill, and enjoy the panoramic views of Joshimath's serene surroundings.
A cozy cafe situated in the heart of Joshimath, offering a delicious breakfast menu with options like fresh fruit smoothies, fluffy omelettes, and warm pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
A popular local eatery with a wide variety of lunch options, including traditional Garhwali thali, flavorful curries, and freshly baked bread. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
An upscale restaurant known for its exquisite ambiance and delectable dinner options, ranging from succulent kebabs to aromatic biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Tuesday, January 2, 2024: Departure from Joshimath
It's time to bid farewell to the enchanting town of Joshimath. Pack your bags and check out of your hotel. Reflect on the wonderful memories you've made during your honeymoon trip as you head back to your onward destination. Take one last look at the majestic mountains, breathing in the fresh mountain air, and promise to return someday. Depart Joshimath with a heart full of joy and gratitude for the incredible experiences you've had.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Joshimath, don't miss the opportunity to visit the peaceful Tapovan Hot Springs, located about 16 kilometers from the town. These natural hot water springs offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience amidst the stunning mountain landscape. Another hidden gem is the nearby Nanda Devi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard. For a romantic evening, enjoy a private riverside picnic along the picturesque Dhauli Ganga river, surrounded by nature's serenity.