Pune to Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, Gangotri, Rishikesh, and Varanasi: 7-Day Itinerary

Saturday, April 27: Pune to Kedarnath

Embark on your spiritual journey by traveling from Pune to Kedarnath. Spend the morning exploring the ancient Kedarnath Temple, nestled amidst scenic Himalayan peaks. Afternoon can be dedicated to trekking to Vasuki Tal Lake, known for its breathtaking beauty. In the evening, participate in the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony.

• Kedarnath Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Vasuki Tal Lake: Estimated cost (trekking guide) - INR 1500, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Ganga Aarti: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, April 28: Kedarnath to Badrinath

Continue your spiritual odyssey by traveling from Kedarnath to Badrinath. Begin your day with a visit to the holy Badrinath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Afternoon can be spent exploring Mana Village, the last Indian village before the Mana Pass. In the evening, soak in the soothing waters of Tapt Kund.

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

Monday, April 29: Badrinath to Yamunotri

Continue your pilgrimage journey by traveling from Badrinath to Yamunotri. Begin your day with an enchanting visit to the Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Afternoon can be spent exploring the natural hot springs in Janki Chatti. In the evening, experience the serene beauty of Barkot amidst the Himalayas.

• Yamunotri Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Janki Chatti hot springs: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Barkot: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, April 30: Yamunotri to Gangotri

Continue your spiritual quest by traveling from Yamunotri to Gangotri. Begin your day with a visit to the revered Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Afternoon can be devoted to exploring the picturesque town of Harsil. In the evening, witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony at Gangotri Ghat.

• Gangotri Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Harsil: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Gangotri Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Wednesday, May 1: Gangotri to Rishikesh

Head towards the spiritual town of Rishikesh on this day. Morning can be spent doing yoga and meditation on the banks of the holy Ganges. Afternoon can be dedicated to exploring the iconic Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges. In the evening, attend the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Yoga and meditation by the Ganges: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Thursday, May 2: Rishikesh

Stay an additional day in Rishikesh to delve deeper into its spiritual and adventurous offerings. Morning can be spent visiting the peaceful Beatles Ashram. Afternoon can be dedicated to thrilling activities like river rafting on the Ganges. In the evening, attend a soulful Satsang session at an ashram.

• Beatles Ashram: Estimated cost - INR 150, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• River rafting: Estimated cost - INR 1000, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Satsang session at an ashram: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, May 3: Rishikesh to Varanasi

Conclude your spiritual journey with a flight from Dehradun to Varanasi. Morning can be devoted to a serene boat ride along the sacred River Ganges, experiencing the Ghats' ethereal beauty. Afternoon can be spent exploring the mystical alleys of Varanasi, particularly the vibrant Dashashwamedh Ghat. In the evening, witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony.

• Boat ride on the Ganges: Estimated cost - INR 200, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Explore Dashashwamedh Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While on your spiritual journey, take some time to explore the off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals. In Rishikesh, visit the Neer Garh Waterfall for a refreshing dip amidst nature. In Varanasi, discover the hidden gem of Assi Ghat, known for its peaceful ambiance and evening performances of classical music.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.