7-Day Budget Itinerary for Yamunotri, Gangotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath

Sunday, October 29: Guntur to Yamunotri

Start your journey by taking a train from Guntur to Haridwar. From there, hire a shared cab or take a public bus to Barkot, the base camp for Yamunotri. Enjoy the scenic drive through the hills of Uttarakhand. In the evening, visit the Yamunotri temple and take a dip in the holy Yamuna River.

• Train from Guntur to Haridwar: Cost varies, approximately 20 hours
• Haridwar to Barkot: Cost varies, approximately 6-7 hours
• Yamunotri temple visit: No entry fee, time spent varies

Monday, October 30: Barkot to Gangotri

After breakfast, drive from Barkot to Gangotri, the origin of the holy River Ganga. Visit the Gangotri temple and take a holy dip in the river. Enjoy the serene surroundings and panoramic views of the snow-clad mountains. In the evening, explore the local markets in Gangotri.

• Barkot to Gangotri: Cost varies, approximately 6-7 hours
• Gangotri temple visit: No entry fee, time spent varies

Tuesday, October 31: Gangotri to Badrinath

Depart from Gangotri and travel to Badrinath, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Visit the Badrinath temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and take part in the evening prayer ceremony. Explore the mana village, believed to be the last inhabited village before the Mana Pass. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Neelkanth peak.

• Gangotri to Badrinath: Cost varies, approximately 7-8 hours
• Badrinath temple visit: No entry fee, time spent varies
• Mana village exploration: No entry fee, time spent varies

Wednesday, November 1: Badrinath to Kedarnath

From Badrinath, head to Kedarnath, another important pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Trek or hire a pony/doli to reach Kedarnath, located at an altitude of 3,583 meters. Visit the Kedarnath temple, surrounded by scenic beauty. Attend the evening aarti (prayer ceremony) and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

• Badrinath to Kedarnath: Cost varies, approximately 8-9 hours
• Kedarnath trek/pony/doli: Cost varies, approximately 4-5 hours
• Kedarnath temple visit: No entry fee, time spent varies

Thursday, November 2: Kedarnath to Gaurikund

Start your journey back from Kedarnath to Gaurikund. Visit the Gaurikund temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, and take a dip in the hot water spring. Enjoy the picturesque views and relax in the peaceful surroundings. Spend the evening exploring the local market and dining on delicious local cuisine.

• Kedarnath to Gaurikund: Cost varies, approximately 4-5 hours
• Gaurikund temple visit: No entry fee, time spent varies

Friday, November 3: Gaurikund to Haridwar

Leave Gaurikund and travel back to Haridwar. Take some time to visit the famous Har Ki Pauri ghat and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti in the evening. Explore the bustling streets of Haridwar, shop for souvenirs, and indulge in delicious street food.

• Gaurikund to Haridwar: Cost varies, approximately 7-8 hours
• Har Ki Pauri visit: No entry fee, time spent varies

Saturday, November 4: Haridwar to Guntur

Board the train from Haridwar to Guntur and reminisce about the spiritual journey you've just experienced. Reflect on the memories made and the tranquility found in the Himalayas.

• Train from Haridwar to Guntur: Cost varies, approximately 20 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While traveling to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath, don't forget to explore the lesser-known areas and hidden gems along the way. Visit the ancient village of Harsil, known for its natural beauty and apple orchards. Explore the serene hot water springs of Tapt Kund near Yamunotri. Take a detour to the Vashisht temple near Mana village for its architectural beauty and tranquility.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability on Kayak.