Char Dham Yatra 7-Day Itinerary

Monday, October 9:

Begin your Char Dham Yatra with a visit to Yamunotri, the source of the Yamuna River. In the morning, embark on a picturesque trek through the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas to the sacred Yamunotri temple. Afternoon can be spent exploring the nearby hot water springs for a relaxing experience. In the evening, witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti at the riverbank.

• Yamunotri Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 6-8 hours
• Hot Water Springs: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, October 10:

On this day, head to Gangotri, the origin of the Ganges River. Morning can be spent exploring the Gangotri temple, a significant pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, take a dip in the holy Bhagirathi River for a purifying experience. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbank, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.

• Gangotri Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 4-6 hours
• Bhagirathi River: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, October 11:

Travel to Kedarnath, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Morning can be dedicated to a challenging trek to reach the Kedarnath temple, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas. Afternoon can be spent exploring the surrounding natural beauty or attending the spiritual ceremonies. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing sound and light show.

• Kedarnath Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 6-8 hours
• Nature Exploration: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Sound and Light Show: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Thursday, October 12:

Proceed to Badrinath, the abode of Lord Vishnu. Start the day by visiting the Badrinath Temple, a sacred destination for Hindus. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Mana Village, known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. End the day with a dip in the Tapt Kund, believed to have healing properties.

• Badrinath Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 4-6 hours
• Mana Village: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Tapt Kund: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Friday, October 13:

Take a day trip to nearby Auli, a popular skiing destination. Morning can be spent enjoying thrilling skiing activities in the snow-covered slopes. Afternoon can be dedicated to exploring the scenic beauty of Auli, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset from the Auli viewpoint.

• Skiing in Auli: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 4-6 hours
• Exploring Auli: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Auli Viewpoint: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Saturday, October 14:

Head to Hemkund Sahib, a sacred site for Sikhs located near the Valley of Flowers National Park. Morning can be dedicated to a scenic trek to reach the Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara. Afternoon can be spent exploring the enchanting Valley of Flowers, known for its colorful blooms. In the evening, participate in the evening prayers at the gurudwara.

• Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 6-8 hours
• Valley of Flowers: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Evening Prayers: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Sunday, October 15:

Conclude your Char Dham Yatra by visiting Rishikesh, the Yoga capital of the world. Morning can be spent exploring the iconic Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge. In the afternoon, attend a yoga and meditation session to rejuvenate your mind and body. End the day by witnessing the enchanting Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan.

• Lakshman Jhula: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Yoga and Meditation: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While visiting Rishikesh, don't miss out on exploring the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band stayed in the 1960s and wrote many of their songs. Experience the thrill of white water rafting in the Ganges River, a popular activity for adventure enthusiasts. For a peaceful getaway, visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, surrounded by lush greenery and offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas.