Chardham (Haridwar to Haridwar)

Early in the morning, drive to Jankichatti or Phoolchatti, the starting point for the 6 km trek to Yamunotri. The trek, which can be completed on foot, by horse, or by Doli (at your own expense), winds through lush greenery, towering conifers, rhododendrons, and Himalayan shrubs. Upon reaching Yamunotri, pilgrims have the unique opportunity to cook rice by dipping it in the natural hot springs, taking it home as "Prasad." A holy dip in the warm waters of Jamunabai Kund is customary before offering prayers at the Yamunotri temple and the sacred Divya Shila. After darshan, return to Jankichatti and drive back to Barkot for an overnight stay. Yamunotri, the westernmost of the Char Dham shrines, is set against the backdrop of the majestic Banderpunch peak (6,361 m). The Yamuna River, considered the twin sister of Yama, the god of death, originates from the Champasar Glacier, located 1 km beyond the temple at 4,321 meters. The temple, originally built by Maharani Gularia of Jaipur in the 19th century, has been reconstructed multiple times. Nearby, the Surya Kund hot springs and the revered Divya Shila rock pillar hold spiritual significance. During summer, temperatures range from 10°C to 18°C, with cool days and chilly nights.

Drive to Uttarkashi and visit the sacred Vishwanath Temple along with other local temples. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure before an overnight stay. Uttarkashi, known for its spiritual significance, is home to various ashrams and the renowned Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. The town’s name reflects its resemblance to Varanasi (Kashi), as it lies on the banks of the Ganges, near the confluence of the Varuna and Asi rivers, and features a Manikarnika Ghat and the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The Vishwanath Temple, one of the oldest Shiva temples in North India, was reconstructed in 1857 by Maharani Khaneti Devi of Tehri in a traditional architectural style. The temple complex houses a massive iron trident, along with shrines dedicated to Ganeshji, Sakshi Gopal, and Markandeya Rishi. The temple is known for its continuous Abhishek rituals and daily morning and evening aartis. According to the Skanda Purana, Uttarkashi is regarded as ‘Saumya Varanasi,’ a sacred abode of Lord Shiva in Kaliyug, and is considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Opposite Vishwanath Temple is the Shakti Temple, which houses a 6-meter-high Trishul with a copper base and an iron upper section. Legends say this divine weapon was hurled by Goddess Durga at demons, giving it its name. Summers in Uttarkashi are warm, with temperatures ranging from 30-35°C, while the nights remain pleasant. Winters, however, are cold.

Begin the day with an early morning drive to Gangotri, stopping at Gangnani for a holy dip in the Garam Kund. Continue the journey through the picturesque Harsil Valley, known for its breathtaking landscapes, dense deodar forests, and stunning mountain views. Upon reaching Gangotri, take a sacred dip in the river Bhagirathi, the source of the Ganges, before offering prayers at the revered temple. Spend some time soaking in the serene surroundings before returning to Uttarkashi for an overnight stay. The Gangotri Temple, built in the 18th century by Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa, stands on the right bank of the Bhagirathi River. A natural rock Shivling, submerged in the river, is believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva held the Ganga in his matted locks and is visible during the winter months when water levels drop. Just 100 yards from the temple, the Kedar Ganga River, originating from the Kedar Valley, merges with the Bhagirathi, adding to the spiritual significance of the place.

Drive to Guptkashi via Moolgarh and Lambgaon, enjoying the scenic route. En route, stop at Tilwara to witness the mesmerizing Mandakini River, which originates from Kedarnath. Follow the river’s path as you continue towards Guptkashi. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and later visit the sacred ArdhNarishwar Temple in the evening. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel. Guptkashi, meaning "Hidden Kashi," holds great mythological significance. It is believed that Lord Shiva first concealed himself here when the Pandavas were searching for him before eventually revealing himself at Kedarnath. The town also serves as a winter residence for the priests of Kedarnath, and after the Kedarnath temple closes for the season, the deity's image is ceremoniously taken through Guptkashi on its way to Ukhimath, where it remains for the winter.

After a mandatory medical check-up, proceed to Sonprayag and begin the trek to Kedarnath (3,584 meters), which can be undertaken on foot, by pony, or via Doli. Travelers should carry essential personal medicines, warm clothing, toiletries, and other necessities for an overnight stay at Kedarnath. Upon arrival, visit the sacred Kedarnath Temple and spend the night in the serene surroundings. Kedarnath, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, is nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Kedarnath mountain range. According to legend, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings for absolution. Shiva, avoiding them, disguised himself as a bull and disappeared into the ground at Kedarnath, leaving his hump visible. Other parts of his divine form emerged at Tungnath (arms), Rudranath (face), Madhmaheshwar (belly), and Kalpeshwar (locks and head), collectively known as the Panch Kedar pilgrimage sites.

Wake up before dawn and take a bath before heading to the Kedarnath Temple by 4:45 AM for the sacred 'Abhishek' ceremony. Devotees have the opportunity to enter the Garbha Griha, touch the idol, and offer prayers. After seeking blessings, begin the trek back to Sonprayag and continue the journey to Guptkashi. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and relax for the night.

Drive to Badrinath via Joshimath and check into the hotel upon arrival. In the evening, visit the revered Badrinath Temple for the Aarti ceremony before resting for the night. Situated at an altitude of 3,133 meters, Badrinath is one of the four sacred Dhams, nestled between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges, with the Neelkanth Peak creating a stunning backdrop. The region was once covered with wild berries, giving it the name "Badri Van," meaning "forest of berries." Pilgrims take a holy dip in Tapt Kund, a natural hot spring, before entering the temple. Nearby, Narad Kund is the site where the idol of Lord Badrinath was discovered. Brahma Kapal, a flat platform along the Alaknanda River, is where Hindus perform rituals for their ancestors. Other sacred sites include Sheshnetra, a boulder with an impression of the mythical serpent Sheshnag’s eye, and Charanpaduka, a meadow with a rock said to bear Lord Vishnu’s footprints. The Mata Murti Temple is dedicated to the mother of Lord Badrinath. Mana Village, the last Indian settlement before Tibet, is home to an Indo-Mongolian tribe. Nearby, Vasundhara Waterfall offers a breathtaking sight, while Bhim Pul, a massive rock bridge over the Saraswati River, is believed to have been placed by Bhim from the Mahabharata. Close by, Vyas Gufa is a cave where Sage Ved Vyas is said to have composed the Mahabharata.

Early in the morning, pilgrims take a holy dip in Tapt Kund before seeking the blessings of Lord Badrivishal. Brahma Kapal is an important site for performing rituals in honor of ancestors. Nearby attractions within three kilometers include Mana Village, Vyas Gufa, Mata Murti Temple, Charanpaduka, Bhimkund, and the origin of the Saraswati River. Later, drive back to Rudraprayag or Kirtinagar via Joshimath and check into the hotel for an overnight stay. Joshimath, perched above the confluence of the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers, serves as the winter abode of Lord Badrinath. The idol of Badrinath is relocated here during winter for devotees to worship. Among the many temples in Joshimath, the most significant is the Narsingh Temple, which houses an idol of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that as the deity’s left arm continues to decay, the Badrinath Valley will eventually become uninhabitable, and the gods will shift to Bhavishya Badri in the Niti Valley.

Drive to Rishikesh, a renowned spiritual town nestled along the banks of the Ganges and surrounded by the Shivalik hills. According to legend, the place was named after Lord Hrishikesh, who appeared before Raibhya Rishi after his intense penance. Explore prominent attractions such as Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Bharat Mandir, and Shivananda Ashram. Later, proceed for departure to Haridwar Railway Station or Dehradun Airport, marking the end of the journey.