7-Day Chaardhaam Itinerary

Sunday, October 22: Haridwar

Start your trip by visiting the holy city of Haridwar. In the morning, attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Har Ki Pauri ghat. Afternoon can be spent exploring the famous Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the banks of River Ganges.

• Har Ki Pauri: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - INR 200 for cable car, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Chandi Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - INR 200 for cable car, Time Spent - 2 hours

Monday, October 23: Yamunotri

Embark on a journey to Yamunotri, the source of the Yamuna River. In the morning, start your trek from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. After offering prayers, take a dip in the hot springs of Surya Kund. In the evening, relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings.

• Trek to Yamunotri: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 6-8 hours
• Yamunotri Temple: Estimated Cost - INR 50 for entrance, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Surya Kund: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, October 24: Gangotri

Continue your pilgrimage to Gangotri, the origin of the River Ganga. In the morning, visit the Gangotri Temple and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti. Afterward, explore the picturesque surroundings and visit the nearby Bhagirathi Shila. In the evening, relax by the riverside and take in the serene atmosphere.

• Gangotri Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Bhagirathi Shila: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Wednesday, October 25: Kedarnath

Journey to Kedarnath, one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India. In the morning, start your trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple. Explore the magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and seek blessings. Afterward, take a dip in the Mandakini River. Spend the evening in the peaceful surroundings of Kedarnath.

• Trek to Kedarnath: Estimated Cost - INR 3000-4000 for pony/doli/pitthu, Time Spent - 8-10 hours
• Kedarnath Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Thursday, October 26: Badrinath

Visit the sacred town of Badrinath, home to the famous Badrinath Temple. In the morning, seek blessings at the temple and take a dip in the Tapt Kund. Explore the nearby Mana Village, the last Indian village on the China border. In the evening, witness the Badrinath Aarti and experience the divine atmosphere.

• Badrinath Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Mana Village: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Friday, October 27: 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 River Ganges. Explore the ashrams and participate in a yoga or meditation session. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Laxman Jhula: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Ram Jhula: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Yoga/Meditation session: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per class, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, October 28: Haridwar

Wrap up your Chaardhaam journey by returning to Haridwar. In the morning, visit the famous Daksha Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the bustling markets of Haridwar and indulge in some local street food. In the evening, witness the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony at Har Ki Pauri ghat one last time.

• Daksha Mahadev Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Shopping and street food: Estimated Cost – Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring the Chaardhaam, don't miss the opportunity to visit some off the beaten path attractions. Take a detour to visit Dodital, a serene lake known for its tranquil beauty. Another hidden gem is Hemkund Sahib, a Sikh pilgrimage site nestled amidst the stunning Himalayan mountains. Locals also recommend visiting Valley of Flowers National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its vibrant alpine meadows and diverse flora.

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