Kedarnath and Shimla Itinerary for June 2023

1. Day 1: Kedarnath Temple
   20 minutes (9.5 km) from Kedarnath Helipad

   Morning: Start your spiritual journey by visiting one of the most sacred Hindu temples, Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Witness the magnificent architecture and serene beauty of this temple situated amidst the Himalayas.

   Afternoon: Visit Vasuki Tal, a stunning high altitude lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake or trek around the vicinity.

   Evening: Visit the Shankaracharya Samadhi, a memorial of Adi Shankaracharya, located nearby Kedarnath Temple. Seek blessings and meditate in the peaceful surroundings.

2. Day 2: Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 20 minutes (29.7 km) from Kedarnath Temple

   Morning: Explore the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna, including Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and snow leopards. Enjoy a jeep safari or trek to the picturesque Madhyamaheswar trek.

   Afternoon: Visit Gandhi Sarovar, a glacial lake surrounded by snowy peaks. Take a dip in the ice-cold water or trek to Vasuki Tal.

   Evening: Attend the Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ceremony held at the banks of the holy river Ganga in Guptkashi, about an hour's drive from the sanctuary.

3. Day 3: Shimla Ridge
   9 hours 20 minutes (383 km) from Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

   Morning: Travel to Shimla, a charming hill station, and start your day by visiting the Shimla Ridge, a large open space surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayas and the city.

   Afternoon: Visit the Jakhu Temple, a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located atop the Jakhu Hill. Trek to the temple or take a pony ride.

   Evening: Explore the Mall Road, a bustling street lined with shops, restaurants, and colonial buildings. Indulge in street food, shopping, and local culture.

4. Day 4: The Shimla State Museum
   10 minutes (2 km) from Shimla Ridge

   Morning: Visit the Shimla State Museum, a colonial-era building showcasing Himachal Pradesh's culture, history, and art. Admire the Pahari and Rajasthani miniature paintings, sculptures, and textiles.

   Afternoon: Visit the Viceregal Lodge, a magnificent Gothic-style building, once the residence of the British Viceroy. Explore the expansive gardens and learn about the history of the Indian Independence movement.

   Evening: Take a leisurely stroll in Annandale, an expanse of lush greenery, and enjoy the stunning sunset over the valley.

5. Day 5: Kufri Fun World
   1 hour (16.4 km) from Shimla State Museum

   Morning: Visit Kufri Fun World, an amusement park situated at over 2800 meters above sea level. Enjoy thrilling rides, slides, and activities with your family and friends.

   Afternoon: Visit the Himalayan Nature Park, a wildlife sanctuary situated amidst the Himalayas. Observe the diverse flora and fauna, including snow leopards, barking deer, and Himalayan monals.

   Evening: Return to Shimla and indulge in some local shopping and dining in the Mall Road.

Recommendations:

Consider visiting the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 60 km from Shimla. You can also take a toy train ride from Shimla to Kalka and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. Try local delicacies like Channa Madra, Sepu Vadi, and Pahadi Chicken.

Time and Cost Estimates:

• Kedarnath Temple (2-3 hours, no entry fees)
• Vasuki Tal (4-5 hours, INR 1,500 for guide and porter)
• Shankaracharya Samadhi (1-2 hours, no entry fees)
• Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary (6-7 hours, INR 2,000 for jeep safari)
• Gandhi Sarovar (4-5 hours, INR 1,500 for guide and pony ride)
• Ganga Aarti (1-2 hours, no entry fees)
• Shimla Ridge (2-3 hours, no entry fees)
• Jakhu Temple (3-4 hours, no entry fees)
• Mall Road (2-3 hours, no entry fees)
• Shimla State Museum (4-5 hours, INR 100 for Indians and INR 250 for foreigners)
• Viceregal Lodge (2-3 hours, INR 40 for Indians and INR 85 for foreigners)
• Annandale (1-2 hours, no entry fees)
• Kufri Fun World (4-5 hours, INR 800 for rides and activities)
• Himalayan Nature Park (3-4 hours, INR 250 for Indians and INR 400 for foreigners)
• Total Estimated Costs (excluding transportation and accommodation): INR 6,340 for Indians and INR 9,335 for foreigners