Morning: Start your day early to beat the crowds and drive to Govindghat. From there, trek to Hemkund Sahib, a serene Sikh temple situated at an altitude of 15,200ft. Witness the breathtaking view of the Hemkund Lake surrounded by seven snow-clad mountains.
Afternoon: Descend back to Govindghat and drive to the Valley of Flowers. The valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its meadows of endemic alpine flowers and diverse fauna. Spend the afternoon exploring the valley and its stunning scenery.
Evening: Return to Joshimath and relax at one of the local bars or restaurants to enjoy the local cuisine and drinks.
Morning: Drive to Shivpuri and enjoy a thrilling river rafting experience in the Ganges river. The rafting trail is filled with exciting rapids and offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and hills.
Afternoon: After rafting, head to Rishikesh, located on the banks of the Ganges, and spend the afternoon exploring the city. Visit the famous Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula bridges, shop for souvenirs and enjoy the local street food.
Evening: Drive to a nearby campsite and spend the evening camping under the stars. Enjoy a bonfire, music, and BBQ dinner with your friends.
Apart from the above itinerary, you can also consider visiting Auli, a beautiful ski resort with stunning views of the Himalayas. You can also try paragliding and skiing here.
Another side trip option is to visit the Badrinath temple, one of the four sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites. It is about an hour's drive from Joshimath.
To maximize your fun, make sure to carry comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Also, make sure to follow all the safety guidelines during river rafting and trekking.
Lastly, don't forget to try the local Garhwali cuisine, which includes dishes like Kafuli, Phaanu, and Bal Mithai.