Kedarnath with Badrinath Yatra 5 Days from Haridwar

Transportation
Bus, Bikes, Car, Tempo Traveller
Accomodation
3 Stars Hotels
Departure from
Haridwar
Best season
Feb, Mar, Apr & May
Tour type
Eco-Tour, Hiking
Meals
All meals during the trek
Language
Hindi , English
Fitness level
Easy to Moderate
Group Size
1-200
Minimum Age
12
Maximum Age
65

Overview

Kedarnath and Badrinath are two prominent pilgrimage destinations in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, visited by millions of devotees each year, particularly by Hindus. These two sacred sites are part of the Char Dham Yatra, which also includes Gangotri and Yamunotri.

Here’s an overview of the Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra:

Kedarnath Yatra

Location: Kedarnath Temple is situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. It is nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, at an elevation of about 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level.

Significance: Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (divine manifestations of Lord Shiva) and holds immense religious importance for Hindus.

Route: The traditional route to Kedarnath involves a trek of approximately 16 kilometers from Gaurikund, which is the base camp. However, there are also helicopter services available for those who prefer a quicker journey.

Attractions: Apart from the main temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, devotees also visit the Bhairavnath Temple and Shankaracharya Samadhi located nearby.

Best Time to Visit: The Kedarnath Temple remains open only for a few months from April/May to October/November due to heavy snowfall during the winter months.

Badrinath Yatra

Location: Badrinath Temple is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It lies along the banks of the Alaknanda River, at an elevation of about 3,133 meters (10,279 feet) above sea level.

Significance: Badrinath is one of the Char Dhams and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is also one of the 108 Divya Desams, revered by Vaishnavites.

Route: Badrinath is accessible by road, and the nearest major town is Joshimath. It is well-connected by motorable roads from various cities and towns in Uttarakhand.

Attractions: The main attraction is the Badrinath Temple itself, along with other significant sites like Tapt Kund (hot spring), Brahma Kapal, and Mana Village (the last inhabited village before the Indo-China border).

Best Time to Visit: Similar to Kedarnath, the Badrinath Temple opens its doors to devotees from April/May to October/November, depending on weather conditions.

Combined Yatra

Duration: A typical Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra can take around 4 to 5 days, including travel time and darshan at both temples.

Itinerary: The itinerary usually involves reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh by train or road, then proceeding towards Kedarnath and Badrinath via road, either by private vehicle or through Tirupati Travels Dehradun with top notch services.

Accommodation: There are various accommodation options available ranging from budget to luxury hotels, guesthouses, and dharamshalas in both Kedarnath and Badrinath. You can talk to our yatra experts for the same before booking your yatra with Tirupati Travels Dehradun

Precautions: Due to the high altitude and unpredictable weather conditions, travelers are advised to carry suitable clothing, medications for altitude sickness, and stay hydrated throughout the journey.

Spiritual Experience: Both Kedarnath and Badrinath offer not only a religious pilgrimage but also a serene and spiritually uplifting experience amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Many pilgrims find solace and peace during their visit to these sacred sites.

Important Expert Travel Tips for Chardham

– While visiting Hindu mythological sites, shrines and temples, one should remove shoes and cover head with a piece of cloth before entering the Holy Place.

– Do carry your personal daily use products toiletries, creams, moisturizers, sunscreen etc. Pack a medical kit with painkillers, antibiotics, cough lozenges, Antiseptic cream, Iodine, tube-squeeze cream and medicines for cold and fever. Carry your routine medicines, as you might find only limited and general medicine at such remote locations.

– Carry dark chocolates, dry fruits, Glucose (Glucon D), toffees. They will provide your instant energy during the trekking and during long jams.

– It can rain anytime here, so it is mandatory to carry an umbrella and raincoat along with your rain shoes.

– To protect yourself from the cold winds here, carry a windcheater, woolen socks, monkey caps and a muffler. These will enable you to withstand the chill that comes with wind on the upper Himalayan region.

– When asking for directions, speak to shopkeepers, not pedestrians. Check with at least two persons or more.

– Do not take pictures if cameras are not allowed in any particular area. Do not play with the sentiments of any particular religion.

– At least a month before the Yatra, it is advisable to start preparatory exercises for the trip 4 months in advance.

– Though self-managed tours happen to be economical, it is advisable for your Chardham yatra to go for a guided tour arranged by an expert local travel agent.

– Carry extra batteries and films for your camera, as electricity is not regular in such remote places.

– Avoid traveling in the rainy season as there are a lot of landslides during that time.

– Book your trip well in advance if you are travelling close to the temple opening dates, there is a heavy rush of pilgrims.

– Alcohol or non-vegetarian food is not permitted during Char Dham Yatra Tour.

– Drink packaged water or boiled water only.

– Accommodation Expectation: The provided hotels are of a standard Category unless you have booked Deluxe / Luxury package. Expect Basic Home stay / Guest houses in Kedarnath.

– Meals Exceptions: We provided Breakfast and Dinner to our guests it will be basic Indian vegetarian meals (We do not offer any meals in Kedarnath).

– From Sonprayag to Gaurikund our vehicles are not allowed and hence one has to go with Union Taxi by paying 40-50 Rupee Person one way.

– Be prepared for changes in itinerary.

– Do not fall victim of fraud travel agents.

– Do not negotiate hard with your travel agents as it may hamper your service quality, as the offered prices are prepared keeping in mind quality of services.

Clothing during Char Dham Yatra

Summers (May, June, July, August)- Moderate Woolens.

Winters (April, September, October, November)- Heavy Woolens.

Medical Emergency Number

In case of any serious medical emergency, call 108 (The Mobile emergency service from Government of Uttarakhand). Don’t make fake calls, as it is punishable offence.

Travelling Tips

Train Connectivity: Rishikesh, Haridwar and Dehradun are well connected to major cities of India by Railway Network.

Air Connectivity: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. Helicopter service to Kedarnath and Badrinath is available from Delhi, Dehradun, Phata, Augustmuni and Gauchar near Rudraprayag and Jollygrant Airport Dehradun.

If self-driving in Uttarakhand during Chardham

– Always keep your vehicle on left side of the Road.

– Use Horn at curves on hills, never overtake the overtaking vehicle.

– One should not drive more than 8 hours a day in hilly region.

– Avoid driving after sunset, as it is not allowed in hilly area of Uttarakhand.

– Use shoes instead of slippers while driving.

– Check your Brakes and Hand Brakes before starting journey.

– Check the Headlights, Break light and Parking lights of your vehicle.

– Always give way to uphill vehicles.

– Keep your vehicle’s valid documents with you to avoid inconvenience.

– Before journey, make sure that fuel tank of your vehicle is full; in case of landslides you might have to take alternate long routes.

– Ensure to refuel, where ever easily you get chance, during season there might be long queues in Petrol Pumps at main stations.

– Carry first aid box with you.

– Do not drink and drive.

– In case of traffic jam, park your vehicle at the end of the queue. If you initiate a parallel queue, the traffic from other side might force you to drive in reverse gear, till you reach again at end of the original queue. And you may find it very difficult to drive long in reverse gear on a hilly road.

– Do not compete with local vehicles/drivers. They know the terrain very well.

Day 01 :

Haridwar to Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi.

Pick-up Point: Haridwar

Time Taken: 8-9 Hrs.

Meals: Dinner Only.

Room Type: Triple Bed Standard.

- During the journey, you'll encounter the Mandakini River at Tilwara, originating from Kedarnath. Our route also includes a visit to the Ardh Narishwar Temple.

- Upon evening arrival in Guptkashi, known as "Hidden Benares," we delve into mythology. Legend has it that when the Pandava brothers sought a glimpse of Shiva, he initially concealed himself in Guptkashi. However, Shiva later retreated further up the valley to Kedarnath, where the Pandavas ultimately achieved their desired audience.

Day 02 :

Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi to Sonprayag and Trek to Kedarnath Ji.

Pick-up Point: Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi

Time Taken: 12-14 Hrs.

Meals: Breakfast Only.

Room Type: Multi Sharing Room Standard.

- From Sonprayag, you can avail yourself of a local taxi to Gauri Kund, operated by the local taxi association, typically costing between INR 30-50 per person (payment made directly).

- If you arrive early in Kedarnath, you'll have the chance to witness the evening Aarti Ceremony at the temple. Situated against the majestic backdrop of the Kedarnath range, the Kedarnath shrine holds significant reverence as one of the 12 jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. "Kedar" is an alternate name for Lord Shiva.

Note: Meals in Kedarnath will require direct payment.

Day 03 :

Day 3: Kedarnath Ji to Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi.

Pick-up Point: Sonprayag

Time Taken: 3-4 Hrs.

Meals: Dinner Only.

Room Type: Triple Bed Standard.

- Begin the day by participating in the sacred Aarti Ceremony at Kedarnath Temple in the morning.

- Following this spiritual experience, embark on a descent towards Gaurikund, covering a trek of approximately 16-18 kilometers.

- From Gaurikund, proceed to the Sonprayag Taxi stand via local taxi service, at your own expense.

Day 04 :

Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi to Badrinath.

Pick-up Point: Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi

Time Taken: 7-8 Hrs.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.

Room Type: Triple Bed Standard.

- Tapt Kund: Situated along the banks of the river Alaknanda, Tapt Kund is a collection of natural thermal springs. It is customary for pilgrims to take a bath in these rejuvenating waters before entering the sacred premises of the Badrinath Temple.

- Mana Village: Home to an Indo-Mongolian tribe, Mana Village holds the distinction of being the final Indian settlement before the borders of Tibet. Its cultural richness and unique heritage make it a fascinating stop for travelers.

- Vasundhara: Aptly named, Vasundhara is a breathtaking waterfall located approximately 5 kilometers from Badrinath. While the final 2 kilometers can be covered by motorable road up to Mana, the entire journey unveils the splendor of this natural wonder.

- Bhim Pul: Found on the opposite side of Mana Village, Bhim Pul is a colossal rock formation that spans over the tumultuous Saraswati River. Legend has it that Bhim, one of the Pandava brothers, placed this natural bridge, offering a mesmerizing sight of water cascading through the narrow passage beneath.

- Vyas Gufa (cave): Close to Mana Village lies Vyas Gufa, a rock-cave believed to be the site where Ved Vyas, the sage, composed the epic Mahabharata and various puranic texts. It holds immense historical and spiritual significance for devotees and scholars alike.

Day 05 :

Badrinath to Haridwar.

Pick-up Point: Badrinath

Time Taken: 8-9 Hrs.

Meals: Breakfast Only.

Room Type: No Bed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Expand all

How fit do I need to be to do this trek?

Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will too, you can.

How long do we walk every day when doing Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.

What is the highest altitude reached in this trek?

The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.

What about battery charging and hot shower facilities?

Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay a certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, a hot water facility could be free at a lower elevation.

Are there ATMs on the way to Annapurna Base Camp?

No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.

What about internet access?

Yes. The Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. The Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.

Is it necessary to hire Guides/trekking agency for Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during the offseason.

It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.

How much do guides and porters cost?

For the Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.