Overview ~
Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra kapat will be opening on 12 May so Hello Hikers extends a heartfelt invitation to all pilgrims embarking on the sacred journey to Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand for the spiritually enriching Do Dham Yatra to Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra Uttarakhand. Throughout your pilgrimage, immerse yourself in the divine ambiance that saturates every aspect of this land, where devout worshippers, myriad temples, ceremonial rituals, and soul-stirring Aarti ceremonies await at every turn. This yatra encompasses the exploration of two significant Dhams: Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra , along with a visit to the quaint Mana Village. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayan peaks, both these sacred sites undergo a seasonal closure lasting six months, owing to the harsh winter conditions that blanket the region in pristine snow, rendering the terrain impassable. Nevertheless, the portals of both Dhams open to pilgrims during the summer months, starting from April or May, and bid farewell with the advent of winter in October or November.
Kedarnath stands as a preeminent holy site devoted to Lord Shiva, epitomizing the pinnacle of spiritual veneration. Its present-day structure, the Kedarnath Mandir, dates back to the 8th century AD, meticulously crafted under the guidance of Adi Shankaracharya. This hallowed sanctuary, blessed by the divine presence of Lord Shiva, embodies unwavering devotion and serves as a testament to the enduring power of faith. Adi Shankaracharya’s visionary leadership not only revived the temple’s sanctity but also elevated its status to that of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, radiant manifestations of Lord Shiva’s universal energy. With roots deeply entrenched in antiquity, the revered Kedarnath.Temple has been a beacon of spiritual resonance for over 1200 years, silently bearing witness to the steadfast faith of devotees across the ages.
Badrinath : Nestled in the heart of nature’s splendor, Badrinath sits atop a majestic throne, its celestial beauty reaching towards the heavens. The gentle Alaknanda River cradles the town, while the formidable Nar and Narayan mountain ranges form a protective embrace around it. This heavenly abode has been a bastion of spirituality since the 8th century when the venerable sage Adi Shankaracharya established the temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The town exudes an aura of divine reverence, beckoning pilgrims to embark on a journey that transcends the mortal realm and delves into the realm of the eternal. As they tread the sacred grounds, devotees are enveloped in an atmosphere of devotion and transcendence, forging a connection with the infinite.
The Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra is suitable for people of all age groups, including beginners, as it is moderately difficult. The trail offers a mix of steep ascents and descents, making it a challenging yet thrilling experience.
Itinerary ~
Day 1
Haridwar / Rishikesh – Guptkashi (4330 Ft) via Surface, covering approximately 200 Kms in about 7 Hours.
This morning, we gather to meet our Hello Hikers representative/trip driver. After a warm welcome, we board the designated vehicle, commencing our journey towards Guptkashi. En route, we are treated to the mesmerizing sights of the mountainous terrain. Our drive takes us through significant landmarks such as Devprayag, where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers converge to form the sacred Ganges. Continuing our journey, we pass through the bustling town of Srinagar, renowned for the Kamleshwar Temple, where Lord Ram is said to have crafted a Shivling out of a lotus flower.
As we proceed, we also visit the Ma Dhari Devi Temple and traverse through the Rudraprayag District, known for the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. Eventually, we arrive at Guptkashi, a vibrant town nestled at an elevation of 1,319m in the Garhwal Himalayas of Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand, India. Guptkashi is famed for its revered Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, reminiscent of the one in Varanasi.
Upon reaching Guptkashi, we check into our pre-booked accommodation and gather for a hearty dinner.
Day 2
Guptkashi (4330 Ft) – Sonprayag – Gaurikund by surface 30Kms – Kedarnath (11750 Ft) by Trek 14 Kms.
Today, we aim to kick-start our day early to avoid the bustling crowds, sometimes even embarking as early as 2-3 am. Departing from Guptkashi, the Trekup India vehicle will transport you to the Sonprayag parking area. From here, you’ll need to arrange your own local taxi to Gaurikund, available in the form of Union jeeps at a cost of Rs. 60-80 per person (payment directly to the service provider).
Upon reaching Gaurikund, the real adventure begins with a challenging trek spanning 14-16 kilometers to reach the revered Kedarnath Temple. For those not inclined to trekking, alternative options such as Doli, Palki, and Horses are available at an additional cost, payable directly.
Upon arrival at Kedarnath, you’ll be greeted by a Trekup India representative who will assist you in settling into your pre-booked accommodation. If time permits, seize the opportunity to witness the enchanting evening Aarti Ceremony at the Temple.
The Kedarnath Temple stands as the paramount shrine dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva. Constructed in the eighth century A.D. by Adi Shankaracharya, it occupies the site of an earlier temple built during the time of the Pandavas. Adi Shankaracharya’s efforts revitalized and embellished the magnificence of the Kedarnath Temple, cementing its status as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. With a history spanning over 1200 years, the temple remains a timeless symbol of devotion.
Day 3
Kedarnath – Gaurikund by Trek approximately 14 kms – Sari Village by surface 40 Kms approximately 2.5 Hrs.
This morning, immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the Aarti ceremony at Kedarnath Temple before embarking on your journey back to Gaurikund. Upon reaching Gaurikund, ensure that you catch a local taxi to Sonprayag, aiming to arrive no later than 1300 hours. From Sonprayag, our vehicles await, ready to transport you to the picturesque Sari Village.
Sari Village, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayan peaks, exudes the charm of Garhwali tradition and culture. The village captivates with its lush Rhododendron Trees and tranquil surroundings. Here, farming and tourism serve as the primary sources of livelihood for the locals.
Upon arrival, settle into your cozy homestay and savor the flavors of homely cooked meals prepared by your gracious host.
Day 4
Sari Village – Garudganga/Joshimath by surface 130 Kms approximately 5-6 Hrs.
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your homestay in Sari Village. Afterward, we embark on a scenic journey via our vehicle, traversing through what can be described as a mini-Switzerland – Chopta. Along the way, relish the breathtaking meadows and roads adorned with Rhododendron blooms against the backdrop of majestic snow-capped mountains.
Our route takes us through the captivating landscapes of the Gopeshwar and Chamoli districts, offering ample opportunities for picturesque photography stops and enjoying meals amidst the stunning scenery. This drive is renowned for its unparalleled beauty and is considered one of the finest mountain drives in the region.
By evening, we arrive at our destination, where a cozy guest house awaits. Check-in and unwind before enjoying a sumptuous dinner.
Day 5
Garudganga/Joshimath – Mana Village – Badrinath by surface 80 Kms approximately 2-3 Hours.
After enjoying breakfast at your stay, we embark on our journey towards Badrinath. However, our first stop is the enchanting Mana Village, situated at the India-Tibet Border. This quaint village holds the distinction of being the last Indian village on this border and is a major tourist attraction drawing visitors from around the globe.
The inhabitants of Mana Village, known as Bhotias (Mongol Tribes), reside in charming cottages adorned with grace. The village is also renowned for its exquisite woolen items, which are available for purchase. Prepare to be captivated by the ethereal beauty of this village as we take in its sights and sounds.
Continuing our drive, we head towards Badrinath. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and then set out to explore the revered Badrinath Dham. You’ll have the opportunity to take a holy bath at the Tapt Kund and later, pay homage to Badrivishal. In the evening, witness the soul-stirring Aarti ceremony, a sacred ritual that adds to the sanctity of the place.
Badrinath holds significant importance for Pinddan Shraddh, the ancestral homage rituals (Pitrus).
Day 6
Badrinath – Rishikesh by surface 290 Kms approximately 7-8 Hours.
After indulging in a hearty breakfast at our accommodation, we partake in the sacred morning Aarti ceremony at Badrinath Temple, immersing ourselves in the divine atmosphere.
Following this spiritual experience, we embark on a direct journey to Rishikesh. The road trip spans approximately 290 kilometers and is expected to take around 7-8 hours. As we traverse through the scenic landscapes, take in the natural beauty and reflect on the spiritual journey we’ve undertaken.
We anticipate reaching Rishikesh by evening, so it’s advisable to make onward reservations accordingly.
Note : The above itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions, group size, and other factors. It’s always best to check with your trekking company for the most up-to-date itinerary and any changes. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that you are physically fit and acclimatized before attempting the Do Dham Yatra, as it involves high altitudes and strenuous trekking.
Sights
Map
Info
Things To Carry ~
If you are planning to go on the Har ki Dun trek, here are some essential items that you should carry with you:
- Backpack: A sturdy backpack with a capacity of at least 40-50 litres to carry all your essentials.
- Trekking Shoes: Good quality trekking shoes with a good grip and ankle support.
- Warm Clothes: It is essential to carry warm clothes as the temperatures can drop significantly at night. Carry thermals, fleece jackets, down jackets, gloves, and woollen socks.
- Rain Gear: Carry a raincoat or poncho to protect yourself from rain and wind.
- Sun Protection: Carry sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, and a hat to protect yourself from the harsh sun.
- Headlamp or Torch: A headlamp or torch with extra batteries is necessary as there will be no electricity on the trek.
- Water Bottles: Carry at least two water bottles with a capacity of 1 litre each to stay hydrated throughout the trek.
- First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with medicines for headaches, stomach upsets, and other common ailments.
- Trekking Poles: Trekking poles provide stability and support and reduce the strain on your knees while descending.
- Miscellaneous: Carry a camera, power bank, and pocket knife for emergencies.
Make sure to pack light and carry only the essentials to avoid unnecessary weight on the trek.
