Part 2: Char Dham Yatra: Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Sacred Stopovers
Our spiritual journey continued through some of the most significant sites in the Char Dham Yatra: From Kedarnath to Badrinath, each day bringing us closer to the divine while testing our endurance. Here’s how each day unfolded:
Day 8: Sitapur to Kedarnath After leaving Sitapur, a few people prepared for the challenging 19 km trek to Kedarnath and we prepared for the Helicopter ride.
Travelers had the choice of making the trek on foot, which took approximately 7-9 hours, or hiring a horse or doli (carried by four people) at their own expense.
This route, though long and difficult, was filled with breathtaking views of the Himalayas and an undeniable sense of spirituality.
We reached Kedarnath and settled in with hot meals and simple accommodations provided by Kartiki Tours, right near the temple. We reached there by Helicopter: 6-7 mins journey. (booked well in advance)
Day 9: Kedarnath - Triyuginarayan - Sitapur Waking up early, we had breakfast and visited the Kedarnath Temple, a site as spiritually uplifting as it is awe-inspiring. After offering prayers, we prepared for the 19 km journey back to Gaurikund, again with options for trekking on foot, by helicopter, taking a horse, or using a doli.
From Gaurikund, we traveled back to Sitapur for a well-deserved rest.
Many travelers visited the nearby Triyuginarayan Temple, where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are believed to have married, a peaceful and scenic spot amidst the rugged terrain.
Day 10: Sitapur - Joshimath - Badrinath After a hearty breakfast, we set off for Badrinath. On the way, we stopped at Joshimath, an ancient town rich in history and spirituality. Known as the winter seat of Lord Badrinath, Joshimath offered a peaceful pause in our journey. We reached Badrinath by nightfall and settled in, eagerly anticipating our visit to the Badrinath Temple the following day.
The views along the route were breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks and lush valleys, adding a layer of beauty to the spiritual experience.
Day 11: Badrinath - Mana Village - Pipalkoti Starting our day at 4 a.m., we took a rejuvenating dip in the Tapta Kund hot springs near the Badrinath Temple, which prepared us for the freezing cold.
After prayers, we headed to Mana Village, famously known as “India’s First Village” due to its proximity to the Tibetan border. Mana is not only known for its unique culture and heritage but also for sites like Vyas Gufa (where Ved Vyasa is said to have written the Mahabharata) and Ganesh Gufa. The "India’s First Tea Shop" added a memorable stop where we warmed up with some chai.
Mana Village takes about 2-2.5 hours to explore fully; for those needing assistance, pitthus are available. By afternoon, we departed for Pipalkoti, where we enjoyed a relaxed evening and stayed overnight.
Day 12: Pipalkoti - Rishikesh - Haridwar In the morning, we left for Haridwar, stopping in Rishikesh along the way. We attended the famous Ganga Aarti on the banks of the Ganges. This experience, although quite crowded, was filled with devotion and energy. For those attending, it’s essential to stick with your group, listen to instructions, and if possible, hire a local guide to navigate the chaos. Staying calm amidst the crowds added to the experience, and witnessing the aarti was truly unforgettable.
Day 13: Haridwar - Delhi - Pune After a final breakfast, we departed for Delhi and boarded the evening train back to Pune. With a sense of fulfillment and memories that would last a lifetime, we reflected on the experiences and connections made throughout the journey. The last leg of our journey was smooth and allowed everyone to unwind after the intense travel.
Day 14: Arrival in Pune By 4:30 p.m., we arrived back at Pune Railway Station, bringing our pilgrimage to a close. Although physically challenging, every step had been a meaningful part of the Char Dham experience, and we returned with our spirits renewed and memories enriched.
Important Notes:
Climate Considerations: Both Kedarnath and Badrinath experience extreme cold, often reaching as low as -3 to -4°C. We highly recommend layered clothing, frequent hot water intake, and a personal assessment of your tolerance for cold climates.
Weather in Kedarnath Accommodation: Kartiki Tours arranged simple accommodations near the temples, allowing us to stay close to the sacred sites while enjoying warm, timely meals.
Inclusions and Exclusions: The tour included vegetarian meals, shared hotel rooms, and permits, with exclusions like helicopter rides, upgraded train seats, and optional excursions.
Waiting in a queue at Kedarnath
This journey: Char Dham Yatra: From Kedarnath to Badrinath, organized by Kartiki Tours, was thoughtfully planned, covering major sites like Kedarnath and Badrinath, as well as lesser-known yet equally significant places like Mana Village and Triyuginarayan. This holistic approach enriched our experience, adding depth and variety to our Char Dham Yatra.
Very well done!!