Spiritual and Scenic Journey to Kedarnath: A 3-Day Himalayan Pilgrimage

Day 1: Arrival and Trek Start

Rishikesh, India on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant

Enjoy a wholesome North Indian breakfast including parathas and chai to energize you for the trek ahead. The restaurant opens from 7:00am.
INR200, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Gaurikund

Embark on the approximately 6-7 hour drive from Rishikesh to Gaurikund, the starting point of the Kedarnath trek. Enjoy beautiful views of the Garhwal Himalayas en route.
INR1500 (taxi fare approx.), 6h30m

3:00pm

Check-in at Gaurikund Guesthouse

Rest and acclimatize at a comfortable guesthouse in Gaurikund to prepare for the trek to Kedarnath the next day.
INR1500, overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Local Dhabas

Savor a simple but hearty meal of dal, rice, and vegetable curry to refuel after your journey. Most eateries close by 9pm.
INR300, 1h0m

Day 2: Kedarnath Temple Visit

Kedarnath, India on May 10, 2025

5:00am

Early Trek to Kedarnath

Start the 16 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath early in the morning to avoid crowds and appreciate the serene mountain landscape. The trek takes approx. 6-7 hours.
Free, 6h0m

11:30am

Visit Kedarnath Temple

Offer prayers at the sacred Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, set against the stunning Himalayan backdrop. Temple hours are from 5:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Guesthouse or Local Eatery

Enjoy a hearty vegetarian lunch featuring local cuisine to regain energy after the trek.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Surrounding Areas

Take a gentle walk around the sacred town, visiting nearby natural hot springs and the Bhairavnath Temple. This offers tranquility and beautiful vistas.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Kedarnath Stay

Relax with an early dinner at your accommodation, preparing for the descent the next day. Expect simple but filling meals.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 3: Return and Departure

Kedarnath to Rishikesh, India on May 11, 2025

6:00am

Start Trek Down to Gaurikund

Begin the descent early to return to Gaurikund comfortably with daylight. The trek down takes about 5-6 hours.
Free, 5h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Gaurikund

Eat a nutritious lunch at a local eatery to refresh after the descent.
INR300, 1h0m

1:00pm

Drive Back to Rishikesh

Travel by car for approximately 6-7 hours back to Rishikesh. Enjoy the scenic views along the way and rest after the spiritual journey.
INR1500 (taxi fare approx.), 6h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Pure Soul Café & Organic Kitchen, Rishikesh

End your trip with a relaxing dinner at Pure Soul offering organic, healthy, and delicious meals with views of the Ganges. Open till 10pm.
INR800, 1h30m