Day by Day itineraryDay 1: Arrive at GaurikundKedarnath Vasuki Tal trek begins with your arrival at Gaurikund, the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath. Gaurikund, at the height of 1,982 m., is the place where Gauri (Parvati) performed tough penance to please Lord Shiva for the purpose of marrying him. Surrounded by lush green forests and eye-pleasing natural grandeur, it has Vasuki Ganga flowing in the close vicinity and a sulphurous hot water spring as well.
You can access Gaurikund by road from the nearest railway stations Rishikesh (about 211 km.) and Haridwar (about 234 km.) or from the closest airport Dehradun (about 226 km.). On arrival, check in at the hotel and stay overnight. (You may also visit a temple dedicated to Gauri).
Day 2: Gaurikund – Kedarnath (16 km. trek)Begin the trek to Kedarnath at the earliest. It is auspicious to take holy bath in the hot water spring before commencing the trek. As you begin to trek, your eyes would be subjected to visually appealing landscapes washed by a series of waterfalls that keep you engrossed. It is worth mentioning that the earlier 14 km. the route was completely washed off in the 2013 flash floods and the new one extends by 2 km. However, the new route is more scenic and keeps the trekkers’ spirit high.
You may stop to rest at two places – Rambara (about 7 km.) and Linchuli (about 12 km.). It is a pleasure to trek along River Mandakini which keeps the trekkers entertained with its beauty and melodic sounds. Reach Kedarnath and check in at the booked accommodation. Later, visit the holy Kedarnath Temple which houses a triangle-shaped Shiva Lingam. According to the popular belief, Shiva’s hump (as the lord disguised as a bull) reappeared from the ground over here when he was hiding from the Pandava brothers. Pandavas built a temple over here and Shiva promised to wash the sins and sorrows of anyone who visits the place.
At the height of 3,853 m., Kedarnath is among the twelve Jyotirlingas, four Chota Char Dham destinations and 275 Paadal Petra Sthlams. The stunning backdrop formed by the lofty snow-capped peaks of Kedarnath and Kedar Dome lend exquisite charm to the entire region.
Please Note: The temple opens only for six months from April-end to November-start and closes down for the remaining year due to heavy rainfall. Those who don’t wish to trek may choose among options like ponies, porters (who actually carry pilgrims on their back), palanquins and helicopter.
Do You Know? While the entire area around the temple was severely damaged due to flash floods in 2013, the temple was miraculously saved by a huge boulder which is believed to be the act of divine power.
Stay overnight at Kedarnath.
Day 3: Kedarnath – Vasuki Tal (8 km. trek) – KedarnathStart early in the morning as we ascend towards Vasuki Tak, a high altitude lake fed by Vasuki Glacier and at the foot of Vasuki Peak. It is believed that Lord Vishnu bathed in the lake and this is the reason behind its religious significance. In addition, it is a picturesque emerald beauty with crystal clear water and tranquil environments.
On the way, you may come across the sacred Brahmakamal which is also the state flower and many other flowers in a variety of colors. While the first 3-4 km. is easy to trek, the remaining part is relatively difficult to traverse owing to increase in steepness. The incredible views of Chaukhamba Peaks and other Himalayan summits add great worth to every frame. Spend some great moments near the lake at the height of 4,135 m. and begin trekking back to Kedarnath. Stay overnight at Kedarnath.
Day 4: Kedarnath – Chorabari Glacier (3 km. trek) – KedarnathGet up early and begin the trek to Chorabari Glacier which is located at a height of 3,800 m. The glacier has two snouts – one acting as the source of River Mandakini and the other feeding Chorabari Tal. The trek route uninterruptedly subjects the trekkers to the sky-touching peaks like Kedarnath. Located nearby is Chorabari Tal which is also known as Gandhi Sarovar. It is believed that it was at the bank of this lake that Shiva preached yoga to the Seven Sages. Ashes of Mahatma Gandhi were immersed in the lake in 1948.
On arrival, enjoy the pristine environments that seem like hailing from a fairy-tale world. You are advised to carry adequate water and food. Descend back and visit Bhairav Temple which is another site of great religious significance. Located just one km. from Kedarnath, it is perched on a hill and offers spectacular views of the entire valley. Bhairav (the fierce form of Shiva) is believed as the protector of the region. Pray and get back to the hotel for night stay.
Day 5: Kedarnath – Gaurikund – Guptkashi (30 km. drive)Descend back to Gaurikund from where you would travel by road to the town of Guptkashi. At a height of 1,319 m., the town is home to Vishwanath Temple which imitates the temple by the same name at Varanasi. It is believed that Shiva while hiding from Pandavas, disguised as a bull and hit into the ground at Guptkashi. On arrival, check in at the hotel and visit the temples and other sites at your own will. Stay overnight.
Day 6: DepartureLeave Guptkashi in the morning and start the onward journey to home