Adventure in Tungnath Temple - 7-Day Itinerary

Saturday, October 28, 2023: Arrival in Rishikesh

Morning: Begin your adventure in Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." Start your day with a peaceful yoga session on the banks of the holy Ganges River. Afternoon: Explore the iconic Laxman Jhula suspension bridge and witness the vibrant local market. Evening: Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance as you attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• Rishikesh Yoga Session: Cost estimate varies, 2 hours
• Laxman Jhula and Local Market: Cost estimate varies, 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1 hour

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant. This local favorite offers a delicious selection of Indian and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, try out Little Buddha Cafe. This hidden gem is known for its mouthwatering Tibetan and European cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• For dinner, visit The Sitting Elephant. This cozy restaurant serves delectable Indian and International dishes with a unique twist. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Sunday, October 29, 2023: Drive to Chopta

Morning: Embark on a scenic drive from Rishikesh to Chopta, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. Afternoon: Reach Chopta and start your trek to Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks along the way. Evening: Spend the night at a campsite in Chopta and enjoy stargazing.

• Scenic Drive to Chopta: Cost estimate varies, 8-9 hours
• Trek to Tungnath Temple: Cost estimate varies, 6-7 hours
• Camping in Chopta: Cost estimate varies, overnight

Restaurants

• A cozy café offering a variety of freshly baked goods and organic coffee for breakfast. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• A traditional dhaba serving delicious North Indian thali for lunch. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
• A rooftop restaurant with panoramic views, offering a fusion of Indian and international cuisines for dinner. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Monday, October 30, 2023: Tungnath Temple Exploration

Morning: Wake up early to witness the sunrise at Tungnath Temple, surrounded by picturesque mountain vistas. Explore the serene temple complex and soak in the divine atmosphere. Afternoon: Trek back to Chopta and relax in the tranquil surroundings. Evening: Enjoy a bonfire and local cultural performances at the campsite.

• Sunrise at Tungnath Temple: Free, 2 hours
• Trek to Chopta: Cost estimate varies, 4-5 hours
• Evening Bonfire and Cultural Performances: Cost estimate varies, 2-3 hours

Tuesday, October 31, 2023: Adventure Activities in Chopta

Morning: Engage in thrilling adventure activities such as rock climbing, rappelling, or zip-lining in Chopta. Afternoon: Visit the nearby Deoria Tal, a sparkling lake surrounded by dense forests. Enjoy a peaceful picnic by the lakeside. Evening: Return to the campsite and relish a delicious traditional dinner.

• Adventure Activities: Cost estimate varies, 3-4 hours
• Visit Deoria Tal: Cost estimate varies, 2-3 hours
• Traditional Dinner at the Campsite: Cost estimate varies, 1 hour

Wednesday, November 1, 2023: Auli Ski Resort Excursion

Morning: Depart from Chopta and head towards Auli, a popular ski resort in the Himalayas. Indulge in the thrill of skiing or take a cable car ride for panoramic views. Afternoon: Enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant amidst the stunning snowy landscapes. Evening: Relax and rejuvenate at your Auli accommodation with breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

• Skiing/Cable Car Ride: Cost estimate varies, 4-5 hours
• Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Cost estimate varies, 1 hour
• Relaxation in Auli: Cost estimate varies, overnight

Thursday, November 2, 2023: Rishikesh Return

Morning: Bid farewell to Auli and start your journey back to Rishikesh. Afternoon: Arrive in Rishikesh and delve into the adventurous world of white-water rafting on the Ganges River. Evening: Revisit the serene Laxman Jhula area for souvenir shopping and savor a delightful dinner at a riverside cafe.

• Journey to Rishikesh: Cost estimate varies, 8-9 hours
• White-water Rafting: Cost estimate varies, 3-4 hours
• Shopping and Dinner at Laxman Jhula: Cost estimate varies, 2-3 hours

Friday, November 3, 2023: Rishikesh Exploration

Morning: Explore the ancient temples of Rishikesh, including the famous Neelkanth Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afternoon: Visit the Beatles Ashram, where the band once meditated and composed music. Enjoy a serene walk in the nearby Rajaji National Park. Evening: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage in one of Rishikesh's renowned wellness centers.

• Temple Visits: Cost estimate varies, 2-3 hours
• Beatles Ashram and National Park: Cost estimate varies, 3-4 hours
• Ayurvedic Massage: Cost estimate varies, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure enthusiasts seeking off the beaten path experiences, consider exploring the lesser-known Garhwal Himalayan region. Within the region, you can embark on thrilling treks to destinations such as Gaumukh, the source of the holy Ganges River, or Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vibrant alpine flora. These unique adventures offer a chance to witness the raw beauty of nature and experience the true essence of adventure.