Welcome to Kedarnath, a sacred town nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. Known for its ancient Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, this destination is a spiritual haven for pilgrims and travelers alike. The town is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and the Mandakini River, offering a serene and picturesque setting for reflection and adventure.

Kedarnath's history is steeped in mythology and spirituality, with the temple believed to have been built by the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. The region is also known for its challenging treks, including the famous Kedarnath Trek, which offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature. Visitors can explore the local culture, savor traditional Garhwali cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

Before embarking on this journey, it's important to note that Kedarnath is accessible primarily by foot or helicopter, with the nearest road head being Gaurikund. The best time to visit is from May to October, as the temple remains closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall. Travelers should be prepared for high-altitude conditions and pack accordingly.

Kedarnath at a Glance

• Main Attractions: Kedarnath Temple, Vasuki Tal, Bhairavnath Temple
• Best Places to Eat: Try local favorites like aloo ke gutke and chainsoo at small eateries in Gaurikund
• Fun Fact: Kedarnath Temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas and later revived by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century
• Best Area to Stay: Gaurikund offers basic accommodations and is the starting point for the trek to Kedarnath

For accommodations, consider booking through VRBO or Hotels.com for the best options.

For travel arrangements, use Trip.com for flights and Trip.com for train options to reach the nearest railway station, Haridwar or Rishikesh.

Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar

Afternoon: Arrive in Haridwar, a city known for its ghats and temples. Check into your hotel and relax after your journey.

Evening: Witness the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a mesmerizing ritual that attracts thousands of devotees. Enjoy a traditional dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its authentic North Indian cuisine.

Day 2: Haridwar to Gaurikund

Morning: Depart for Gaurikund, the base for the Kedarnath trek. The drive takes approximately 8-9 hours, so start early.

Afternoon: Arrive in Gaurikund and check into your accommodation. Explore the local area and visit the Gauri Temple.

Evening: Enjoy a simple yet hearty meal at a local dhaba, preparing for the trek ahead.

Day 3: Trek to Kedarnath

Morning: Begin your trek to Kedarnath, a 16 km journey through scenic landscapes. Ensure you have adequate supplies and take breaks as needed.

Afternoon: Arrive in Kedarnath and check into your accommodation. Visit the Kedarnath Temple for darshan and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

Evening: Attend the evening aarti at the temple and enjoy a simple meal at a local eatery.

Day 4: Explore Kedarnath

Morning: Visit Bhairavnath Temple, located on a hilltop with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Afternoon: Trek to Vasuki Tal, a high-altitude lake offering stunning views of the Chaukhamba peaks.

Evening: Return to Kedarnath and enjoy a quiet evening reflecting on the day's experiences.

Day 5: Kedarnath to Gaurikund

Morning: Begin your descent back to Gaurikund, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way.

Afternoon: Arrive in Gaurikund and relax after the trek. Visit the hot springs to soothe your muscles.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Garhwali dishes.

Day 6: Gaurikund to Rishikesh

Morning: Depart for Rishikesh, a journey of approximately 6-7 hours. Check into your hotel upon arrival.

Afternoon: Explore the ashrams and ghats of Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World.

Evening: Attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat and enjoy dinner at The Sitting Elephant, offering a rooftop view of the Ganges.

Day 7: Rishikesh Adventures

Morning: Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Ganges, a popular activity in Rishikesh.

Afternoon: Visit the Beatles Ashram, where the famous band stayed in the 1960s, and explore its graffiti-filled walls.

Evening: Enjoy a peaceful evening at the Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge with stunning views of the river.

Day 8: Rishikesh to Dehradun

Morning: Depart for Dehradun, a short drive from Rishikesh. Check into your hotel and relax.

Afternoon: Visit the Forest Research Institute, known for its colonial architecture and beautiful grounds.

Evening: Explore the local markets and enjoy dinner at Kalsang Friends Corner, famous for its Tibetan cuisine.

Day 9: Dehradun Exploration

Morning: Visit Robber's Cave, a natural cave formation with a river running through it, perfect for a morning adventure.

Afternoon: Head to Sahastradhara, a popular spot known for its therapeutic sulfur springs and scenic beauty.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Town Table, offering a mix of Indian and continental dishes.

Day 10: Departure

Morning: Spend your last morning in Dehradun at leisure, perhaps visiting the local markets for souvenirs.

Afternoon: Depart for your onward journey, taking with you memories of a spiritual and scenic adventure in Kedarnath.

This 10-day journey to Kedarnath offers a perfect blend of spirituality, adventure, and cultural experiences. From the sacred temples to the breathtaking landscapes, each day is filled with opportunities to connect with the divine and the natural beauty of the Himalayas. Safe travels!