12 Jyotirling and Char Dham: A 14-Day Spiritual Road Trip in India

Day 1: Arrive in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Start your day with a delicious local specialty of kachoris and aloo sabzi at Kashi Chat Bhandar.
N/A
INR 200, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Driving about 5 minutes to the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Varuna Restaurant

Savor vegetarian North Indian meals at Varuna Restaurant, known for its quick service and authentic taste.
About 10 minutes from the temple.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Evening Ganga Aarti

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, an unforgettable spiritual experience.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at BrijRama Palace

Enjoy a fine dining experience by the river with a luxurious view at BrijRama Palace.
Around 10 minutes from the ghat.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Varanasi Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at South India Restaurant

Indulge in delicious idlis and dosa for breakfast at this popular spot in Varanasi.
About 15 minutes from the hotel.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sarnath

Explore Sarnath, the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment.
Drive about 30 minutes from Varanasi.
INR 20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Great Indian thali

Try the famous North Indian thali, rich in flavors and variety at this popular eatery.
Head back to Varanasi and it's a 20-minute drive.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping on Vishwanath Gali

Spend time shopping and picking up traditional Varanasi silks and handicrafts along Vishwanath Gali.
Walking distance from the lunch place.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Aum Cafe

Enjoy a casual meal at Aum Cafe, offering a mix of local and Western cuisine.
A short 5-minute walk from the shopping area.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Travel to Rishikesh

Rishikesh, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Station Grill

Start your journey with a hearty breakfast at Station Grill before departing for Rishikesh.
10-minute walk from the hotel.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Rishikesh

Embark on a scenic drive to Rishikesh, known as the Yoga capital of the world, and enjoy the beautiful Ganges River views along the way.
About 6 hours drive.
N/A, 6 hours

4:00PM

Check-In at Mukunda Hotel

Relax and freshen up at Mukunda Hotel, your comfortable base in Rishikesh.
15-minute drive from the main town.
INR 3000, 1 hour

5:30PM

Evening Riverside Stroll

Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Ganges and enjoy the serene ambiance.
Directly accessible from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Sitting Elephant

Dine at The Sitting Elephant, offering stunning views of the river and delicious Indian cuisine.
A short 10-minute drive from the hotel.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Badrinath Pilgrimage

Badrinath, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Mukunda

Enjoy a quick breakfast at the hotel before heading out for Badrinath.
At the hotel.
INR 200, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Travel to Badrinath

Embark on a drive to Badrinath, taking in the breathtaking mountain views along the highway.
Approx. 8 hours drive.
N/A, 8 hours

4:00PM

Check-In at Badrinath Hotel

Settle into your accommodation and prepare for the spiritual visit ahead.
Short walk from the main temple area.
INR 2500, 1 hour

5:30PM

Visit Badrinath Temple

Participate in the evening rituals at the ancient Badrinath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
Walking distance from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Badrinath

Enjoy a simple yet satisfying dinner at the hotel after a long day of traveling.
N/A
INR 600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Kedarnath Pilgrimage

Kedarnath, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Badrinath

Fuel up with breakfast at the hotel before heading out to Kedarnath.
At the hotel.
INR 200, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Travel to Kedarnath

Drive to Gaurikund, then start a trek to Kedarnath, a divine site set against the majestic Himalayas.
Drive for around 2.5 hours, then trek for 2 hours.
N/A, 4.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Kedarnath Temple

Offer your prayers at the Kedarnath Temple, another of the revered 12 Jyotirlingas.
At the temple.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Trek Back to Gaurikund

Complete your day by trekking back to Gaurikund, enjoying the stunning scenery.
Return trek.
N/A, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gaurikund

Enjoy a well-deserved meal at a local eatery in Gaurikund after your pilgrimage.
Available eateries near Gaurikund.
INR 400, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Yamunotri Pilgrimage

Yamunotri, India

6:00AM

Early Breakfast at Gaurikund

Have an early breakfast at Gaurikund to prepare for an adventurous day ahead.
Local breakfast available.
INR 200, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Travel to Yamunotri

Begin your journey to Yamunotri via Janki Chatti, where you'll start a short trek to the temple.
Approx. 4 hours drive to Janki Chatti.
N/A, 4 hours

12:00PM

Trek to Yamunotri Temple

Enjoy a picturesque trek to the Yamunotri Temple, a crucial pilgrimage site.
Trek for about 2 hours.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Yamunotri

Savor a simple meal at a small local eatery near the temple.
Eating options available at Yamunotri.
INR 300, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return Trek to Janki Chatti

Make your way back from Yamunotri via the same trekking route.
2-hour trek back.
N/A, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy dinner at your hotel after a day of pilgrimage and exploration.
At the hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Gangotri Pilgrimage

Gangotri, India

6:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast provided by the hotel.
At the hotel.
INR 200, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Travel to Gangotri

Drive to Gangotri, taking in the majestic Himalayan landscapes.
Around 5-6 hours drive.
N/A, 6 hours

1:30PM

Visit Gangotri Temple

Offer your prayers at the sacred Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga.
At the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Gangotri

Dine at modest eateries offering local cuisine in Gangotri.
Local eateries available.
INR 400, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Gangotri

Spend time exploring the beautiful surroundings and the Bhagirathi River that flows through the valley.
Invite contemplation and relaxation nearby.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel

Return to your accommodation for dinner and unwind after the day’s adventures.
At the hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Travel to Haridwar

Haridwar, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing towards Haridwar.
At the hotel.
INR 200, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Travel to Haridwar

Drive to Haridwar, famed for its ghats and the Kumbh Mela.
Around 5-6 hours drive.
N/A, 6 hours

2:00PM

Check-In at Haridwar Hotel

Arrive and check into your hotel in Haridwar.
5-minute drive from Har Ki Pauri.
INR 2500, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Har Ki Pauri

Experience the sacred ambiance of Har Ki Pauri, particularly vibrant during dusk.
Short walk from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Evening Ganga Aarti

Witness the captivating Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a powerful expression of faith.
At the ghat.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant

Savor delicious vegetarian food at the famous Chotiwala Restaurant.
About 10 minutes from the ghat.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Travel to Somnath

Somnath, India

6:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast at the hotel in Haridwar.
At the hotel.
INR 200, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Travel to Somnath

Begin the journey to Somnath, taking connecting trains or flights to reach your destination.
Estimated travel time 12 hours including transfers.
Approx. INR 3000, 12 hours

7:00PM

Check-In at Somnath Hotel

Arrive and check in at your hotel in Somnath for a good rest after travel.
Close to Somnath Temple.
INR 2500, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Delight in a simple meal at the hotel’s restaurant to recharge after the long journey.
At the hotel.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Somnath Pilgrimage

Somnath, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
At the hotel.
INR 200, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Visit Somnath Temple

Visit the revered Somnath Temple, home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, and partake in morning rituals.
Walking distance from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore the Beach

Spend some time at Somnath Beach, soaking in the sun and tranquility.
Short distance from the temple.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Restaurant

Return to the hotel for a flavorful lunch at the hotel restaurant.
At the hotel.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Bhalka Tirtha

Pay a visit to Bhalka Tirtha, where Lord Krishna is said to have been accidentally shot by an arrow.
10-minute drive from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping in Somnath Market

Explore the local market and buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and more.
Nearby the hotel.
Varies, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Indulge in Gujarati cuisine at a local restaurant for your dinner.
Around the market area.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Travel to Dwarka

Dwarka, India

6:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel in Somnath.
At the hotel.
INR 200, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Travel to Dwarka

Leave for Dwarka, an important pilgrimage site associated with Lord Krishna.
Estimated travel time of around 5 hours by road.
N/A, 5 hours

1:00PM

Check-In at Dwarka Hotel

Check into your hotel upon arrival and unwind.
Close to Dwarka Temple.
INR 2500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local flavors at a restaurant near your hotel.
Short drive away.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Dwarkadhish Temple

Pay homage at the magnificent Dwarkadhish Temple, a remarkable piece of architecture.
5-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Evening at Dwarka Beach

Stroll along the beach to relax after a day of devotion and exploration.
Close to the temple.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at your hotel, reflecting on the day’s spiritual experiences.
At the hotel.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Nageshwar Temple Visit

Dwarka, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a fresh breakfast at the hotel.
At the hotel.
INR 200, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Visit Nageshwar Temple

Travel to Nageshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
Drive for about 30 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Return to Dwarka

Head back to Dwarka and relax for a bit at the hotel.
Drive back for 30 minutes.
N/A, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Savor fresh seafood or vegetarian cuisine for lunch at a local restaurant in Dwarka.
About 10-minute drive.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Dwarka Market

Browse through Dwarka’s local market for souvenirs and handmade crafts.
Nearby your hotel.
Varies, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Beach

Relax and enjoy the sunset on Dwarka's beaches after a full day of exploration.
Close to the market.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Relax with dinner at your hotel’s restaurant, recounting the day’s experiences.
At the hotel.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Travel to Ellora Caves

Aurangabad, India

6:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at the hotel before your travel to Aurangabad.
At the hotel.
INR 200, 30 minutes

7:00AM

Travel to Aurangabad

Depart for Aurangabad, known for its rock-cut cave architecture.
Around 12 hours drive.
N/A, 12 hours

7:00PM

Check-In at Hotel

Arrive at your hotel in Aurangabad and refresh after the long journey.
Close to Ellora Caves.
INR 2500, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a local restaurant in Aurangabad.
Nearby the hotel.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Ellora Caves Exploration & Departure

Aurangabad, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your last day with breakfast at your hotel in Aurangabad.
At the hotel.
INR 200, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Visit Ellora Caves

Explore the magnificent rock-cut temples of Ellora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
15-minute drive from the hotel to the caves.
INR 40, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Savor authentic Maharashtrian dishes at a local restaurant near Ellora.
Near the caves.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Return to Hotel & Check-Out

Return to your hotel, check-out, and prepare for your journey home.
15-minute drive back.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Departure from Aurangabad

Depart from Aurangabad, concluding your spiritual journey exploring the Jyotirlingas and Char Dham.
Drive to Aurangabad Airport or Railway Station.
N/A, 1 hour
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