Unforgettable Kedarnath and Badrinath Do Dham Yatra in 5 Days

The Kedarnath and Badrinath Do Dham Yatra in 5 Days, is a spiritual journey that draws thousands of pilgrims each year. While the full trek can span several days, many pilgrims seek a more convenient, yet enriching experience by completing the journey in five days. This 5-day itinerary ensures that you can fully absorb the spiritual ambiance of both places while still enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the detailed 5-day itinerary for the Kedarnath and Badrinath Do Dham Yatra, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and devotion.

Kedarnath and Badrinath Do Dham Yatra in 5 Days

Day 1: Arrival at Haridwar or Dehradun

Morning: Arrival at Haridwar or Dehradun

Your 5-day Do Dham Yatra begins with your arrival at either Haridwar or Dehradun, the primary gateways to the Do Dham circuit. Both cities are well-connected by train, bus, and flights.

• Haridwar is about 40 kilometers from Rishikesh and around 200 km from Kedarnath.
• Dehradun, on the other hand, is about 220 km from Kedarnath and is a more direct base for the journey.

After arriving, you can check into your hotel or guesthouse for a comfortable stay.

Afternoon: Drive to Phata or Guptkashi

• After checking in, enjoy a brief rest before embarking on a drive to Phata or Guptkashi, where the Kedarnath Helicopter service begins, or where your road trip to Kedarnath will start.
• The drive from Haridwar/Dehradun to Guptkashi/Phata takes about 6-8 hours, depending on the traffic conditions and road quality.

Evening: Overnight Stay in Phata/Guptkashi

Upon arrival in Phata/Guptkashi, check into your accommodation and rest for the night. This will ensure you’re well-prepared for the next day’s early journey to Kedarnath.

Day 2: Kedarnath Darshan

Early Morning: Helicopter Ride or Trek to Kedarnath

You can choose to either take the helicopter ride or trek to Kedarnath.

• Helicopter Ride: The helicopter journey from Phata to Kedarnath takes approximately 8-10 minutes. This option is more convenient, especially if you have time constraints or want to avoid the tiring trek.
• Trekking: If you’re up for the challenge, you can begin your 14 km trek to Kedarnath from Gaurikund, which takes approximately 6-8 hours depending on your pace.

Both options offer spectacular views of the Himalayan range and are an essential part of the journey.

Morning to Afternoon: Kedarnath Darshan

Once you reach Kedarnath, make your way to the Kedarnath Temple for darshan. Spend a few hours soaking in the spiritual energy and serenity of this sacred place. You’ll also have time to explore the surrounding areas, including Adi Shankaracharya’s Samadhi and other nearby shrines.

Evening: Overnight Stay at Kedarnath

After completing the darshan, take some time to relax and enjoy the cool mountain air. You can stay in one of the temple guesthouses or nearby accommodations for the night.

Day 3: Return to Guptkashi/Phata and Travel to Badrinath

Morning: Return to Guptkashi/Phata

Start your day early with the return journey to Guptkashi/Phata either by helicopter or by trekking back.

• Helicopter Ride: If you took the helicopter to Kedarnath, you can return the same way and reach Guptkashi/Phata within minutes.
• Trekking: For trekkers, the return trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund will take about 6-8 hours, so plan accordingly.

Once you return to Guptkashi/Phata, have lunch and prepare for the next leg of your journey.

Afternoon: Travel to Badrinath

After a short break, you’ll embark on a drive to Badrinath. The distance from Guptkashi/Phata to Badrinath is approximately 190 km and will take around 7-8 hours by road, passing through Joshimath.

Evening: Arrival and Overnight Stay at Badrinath

Arrive in Badrinath by evening and check into your accommodation. Spend the evening resting, as you’ll need to recharge for the next day’s darshan.

Day 4: Badrinath Darshan

Morning: Visit Badrinath Temple

On the morning of Day 4, head to the Badrinath Temple, one of the most revered Char Dham shrines. Spend ample time performing your darshan, offering prayers, and soaking in the divine ambiance. You can also visit Tapt Kund, the hot spring located near the temple, where devotees take a holy dip before entering the shrine.

Afternoon: Explore Badrinath and Nearby Areas

After your darshan, explore nearby sites like Mana Village, Vyas Gufa, and Bhimpul. These locations are not only spiritually significant but also offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Evening: Overnight Stay at Badrinath

After your exploration, enjoy a peaceful night in Badrinath, reflecting on your spiritual journey.

Day 5: Return Journey to Haridwar/Dehradun

Morning: Begin the Return Journey

On the final day of your 5-day Do Dham Yatra, it’s time to head back to Haridwar or Dehradun.

• Drive from Badrinath: The drive from Badrinath to Haridwar or Dehradun takes around 10-12 hours, so plan for an early departure.

You can also choose to break up the journey with stops for meals or short rests along the way.

Evening: Arrive Back at Haridwar/Dehradun

By evening, you should arrive at Haridwar or Dehradun, marking the completion of your Do Dham Yatra. Take the evening to rest or explore the local attractions before heading back to your home.

Tips for a Smooth 5-Day Do Dham Yatra

• Book in advance: Helicopter rides and accommodations can be in high demand, so it’s best to book your 5-day itinerary well in advance.
• Prepare physically: The altitude and terrain can be challenging, so prepare yourself physically for the trek or long road journeys.
• Weather awareness: The Do Dham circuit is subject to unpredictable weather, so always check the weather forecast before setting out.
• Essential packing: Pack light, but include warm clothing, comfortable shoes, medicines, and personal items.

Conclusion

The Kedarnath and Badrinath Do Dham Yatra in 5 days is an excellent option for those seeking a shorter pilgrimage that still offers plenty of time for darshan, exploration, and spiritual reflection. Whether you choose the comfort of a helicopter ride or the challenge of trekking, the experience is sure to leave you spiritually enriched and deeply connected with the divine.

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