Kedarnath + Badrinath Combined Yatra
Planning 5 days in Badrinath? This 5-day itinerary combines the sacred yatra of Kedarnath and Badrinath, covering the classic Do Dham circuit. It focuses on the road-accessible Badrinath, with detailed daily plans, local food, transport, and budget insights for a seamless pilgrimage. It includes a detailed day-wise schedule, activities, meal suggestions, transportation tips and an estimated budget to help you plan your trip with less guesswork.
Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh and Drive to Rudraprayag
Day 1
Begin your yatra by arriving at Jolly Grant Airport or Rishikesh railway station. After a short rest, embark on a scenic drive along the Alaknanda River, passing Devprayag where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi meet. Overnight stay in Rudraprayag to break the long journey.
Activities
- Arrive at Jolly Grant Airport or Rishikesh railway station
- Drive to Rudraprayag (approximately 140 km, 5-6 hours)
- Visit the Rudranath temple and Sangam point in Rudraprayag
- Evening aarti at the local temple
Meals
- •Breakfast at hotel in Rishikesh
- •Lunch en route at a highway restaurant
- •Dinner at hotel in Rudraprayag
Day 2: Rudraprayag to Badrinath via Joshimath
Day 2
Drive from Rudraprayag to Badrinath, a journey of about 160 km that takes 7-8 hours. Pass through Karnaprayag, Nandaprayag, and Joshimath, the winter seat of Badrinath. Arrive in Badrinath by late afternoon, check in, and take a preliminary walk to the temple area.
Activities
- Drive from Rudraprayag to Badrinath
- Stop at Joshimath to see the Narasimha Temple (winter abode of Badrinath)
- Check into hotel/guesthouse in Badrinath
- Evening walk to the Alaknanda riverbank and Brahma Kapal
Meals
- •Breakfast at hotel in Rudraprayag
- •Lunch en route at a local dhaba
- •Dinner at hotel in Badrinath
Day 3: Badrinath Darshan and Tapt Kund
Day 3
Rise early for a pre-dawn bath in Tapt Kund, the natural hot sulphur spring, before the temple opens. Participate in the morning aarti and have darshan of Badrinarayan. Spend the afternoon exploring the temple complex and nearby sites like Brahma Kapal and the Narad Shila.
Activities
- Early morning bath in Tapt Kund
- Attend the morning aarti and darshan at Badrinath Temple
- Visit Brahma Kapal for pind daan rituals
- Explore the temple museum and surrounding ashrams
Meals
- •Breakfast at hotel
- •Lunch at a local restaurant (thali)
- •Dinner at hotel
Day 4: Mana Village and Vasudhara Falls
Day 4
After morning darshan, walk or drive the 3 km to Mana village, the last Indian village before the Tibet border. Visit Vyas Gufa and Ganesh Gufa, associated with the Mahabharata. For the adventurous, trek 9 km to Vasudhara Falls (subject to weather and physical fitness). Return to Badrinath by evening.
Activities
- Visit Mana village and Bheem Pul
- Explore Vyas Gufa and Ganesh Gufa
- Trek to Vasudhara Falls (9 km one way, optional)
- See Charan Paduka (Vishnu's footprint) en route
Meals
- •Breakfast at hotel
- •Lunch at a local eatery in Mana village
- •Dinner at hotel in Badrinath
Day 5: Departure via Joshimath and Rishikesh
Day 5
After an early breakfast, begin the return journey. Drive back to Rishikesh, stopping at Joshimath for the Narasimha Temple and at Devprayag for the Sangam. Depending on your schedule, you can catch an evening flight or train from Rishikesh, or stay overnight for a morning departure.
Activities
- Drive from Badrinath to Rishikesh (approx. 300 km, 10-11 hours)
- Stop at Joshimath for a quick visit to the Narasimha Temple
- Photostop at Devprayag Sangam
- Drop at Rishikesh railway station or Jolly Grant Airport
Meals
- •Breakfast at hotel in Badrinath
- •Lunch en route at a highway restaurant
- •Dinner (if staying overnight in Rishikesh) at a local restaurant
Detailed Timeline
Day 1
8 activities
Morning
Arrive at Jolly Grant Airport or Rishikesh railway station
Upon arrival, meet your driver and proceed to a pre-booked hotel in Rishikesh (about 30-45 minutes from the airport, 20 minutes from the railway station). Keep your ID and yatra documents handy. If arriving by train, consider an early morning train to maximize daylight.
Breakfast at hotel in Rishikesh
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Many hotels offer a buffet with Indian and continental options. If you have time, take a short walk along the Ganges ghats nearby, but keep it brief to stay on schedule.
Drive to Rudraprayag (approximately 140 km, 5-6 hours)
Depart for Rudraprayag via NH-7, following the Alaknanda River. The road is scenic but winding; expect occasional traffic and roadworks. Carry water and light snacks. The drive passes through small towns like Shivpuri and Devprayag (where you'll stop later).
Afternoon
Lunch en route at a highway restaurant
Stop at a reputable highway dhaba or restaurant around Devprayag or Srinagar (Garhwal). A typical thali costs ₹150-250. Choose freshly cooked vegetarian food to avoid stomach issues. Use the restroom and stretch your legs.
Arrive in Rudraprayag and check into hotel
Reach Rudraprayag by late afternoon. Check into a pre-booked hotel or guesthouse. Rest for an hour to recover from the journey. Keep your luggage light; you'll be on the move again the next morning.
Visit the Rudranath temple and Sangam point
Walk to the Rudranath temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. The Sangam point is a short walk away, offering a serene view. Photography is allowed, but be respectful of local customs.
Evening
Evening aarti at the local temple
Attend the evening aarti at Rudranath temple or a nearby riverside ghat. The aarti usually starts around sunset (check local time). Arrive 15 minutes early for a good spot. Offerings like flowers and diyas are available for a small donation.
Dinner at hotel in Rudraprayag
Return to the hotel for dinner. Most hotels serve simple North Indian vegetarian meals (thali) at ₹200-300. Try local dishes like Kafuli or Mandua ki Roti if available. Retire early to prepare for the long drive to Badrinath the next day.
Day 2
8 activities
Morning
Breakfast at hotel in Rudraprayag
Have an early breakfast, as the drive to Badrinath is long. Opt for a light but filling meal (parathas, poha, or upma). Pack some dry fruits and water for the journey. Check out and load luggage by 7 AM.
Drive from Rudraprayag to Badrinath (160 km, 7-8 hours)
Depart for Badrinath on NH-7. The road climbs steadily, passing through Karnaprayag (confluence of Alaknanda and Pindar) and Nandaprayag. The scenery is stunning, with pine forests and river valleys. Be prepared for hairpin bends and occasional landslides; drive cautiously.
Stop at Karnaprayag and Nandaprayag for short photo breaks
Briefly stop at Karnaprayag to view the Sangam of Alaknanda and Pindar rivers, and at Nandaprayag for the confluence with Nandakini. These are holy sites with small temples. Spend 10-15 minutes each; avoid long delays.
Afternoon
Lunch en route at a local dhaba
Stop at a local dhaba around Joshimath or before. A simple meal of dal-chawal or aloo paratha costs ₹100-150. Ensure the food is hot and freshly cooked. Use the opportunity to rest and use clean restrooms if available.
Stop at Joshimath to see the Narasimha Temple (winter abode of Badrinath)
Visit the Narasimha Temple in Joshimath, where the idol of Badrinath is brought during winters. The temple is small but significant. Offer prayers and take a quick look at the surrounding bazaar. The visit takes about 30 minutes.
Continue drive to Badrinath and check into hotel
Resume the drive from Joshimath to Badrinath (about 45 km, 2-3 hours). The road passes through Govindghat and Hanuman Chatti. Check into your hotel or guesthouse in Badrinath by late afternoon. Rest and hydrate to acclimatize to the altitude (about 3,300 m).
Evening
Evening walk to the Alaknanda riverbank and Brahma Kapal
Take a gentle stroll to the Alaknanda riverbank and Brahma Kapal, the platform where pind daan rituals are performed. The atmosphere is spiritual, especially in the evening. Wear warm clothing as temperatures drop significantly.
Dinner at hotel in Badrinath
Have dinner at your hotel. Most places serve simple vegetarian thalis (₹250-350). Try local Garhwali dishes if available. Drink plenty of warm fluids to avoid altitude sickness. Sleep early to wake up for the pre-dawn darshan.
Day 3
9 activities
Morning
Early morning bath in Tapt Kund
Wake up early and head to Tapt Kund, the natural hot sulphur spring beside the Badrinath temple. The water is believed to have medicinal properties. Bathe in the designated area (separate for men and women). The water is warm, but the air is cold—keep a towel and warm clothes ready.
Attend the morning aarti and darshan at Badrinath Temple
Join the queue for the morning aarti (around 6 AM, but arrive early). The temple opens at 5 AM, and the aarti is a soul-stirring experience. Darshan can take 30-60 minutes depending on crowd. Dress warmly and keep your footwear in the designated area.
Breakfast at hotel
Return to the hotel for a warm breakfast. Many hotels serve aloo paratha, porridge, or upma. Replenish your energy after the early darshan. If you have time, rest for a bit.
Visit Brahma Kapal for pind daan rituals
Go to Brahma Kapal on the Alaknanda riverbank to perform pind daan or shraddha for ancestors. Local priests can guide you; fees vary (₹100-500). It is a peaceful spot to sit and reflect. Be respectful of ongoing rituals.
Explore the temple museum and surrounding ashrams
Visit the small museum near the temple (open 10 AM-1 PM) to see artifacts and photographs of the region. You can also walk to nearby ashrams like the Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi. The area is compact; a guided walk is possible.
Afternoon
Lunch at a local restaurant (thali)
Have lunch at a local eatery in the main market. A typical thali costs ₹200-300. Choose a place that looks clean and busy. Try local dishes like Bhatt ki Churkani or Mandua ki Roti if available.
Leisure time for rest or short walk to Charan Paduka
After lunch, rest at the hotel. If you feel energetic, take a short walk towards Charan Paduka (about 3 km uphill), the footprint of Lord Vishnu. The path is steep; only attempt if you are comfortable. Otherwise, relax and enjoy the mountain views.
Evening
Evening aarti at Badrinath Temple
Attend the evening aarti (around 6-7 PM). The temple is beautifully lit, and the chanting creates a divine atmosphere. Arrive early to secure a good spot. After the aarti, return to the hotel for dinner.
Dinner at hotel
Enjoy a warm dinner at your hotel. Keep the meal light and avoid overeating. Drink warm water or herbal tea. Prepare for the next day's excursion to Mana village.
Day 4
8 activities
Morning
Morning darshan at Badrinath Temple (optional)
If you wish, attend the early morning darshan again (temple opens at 5 AM). This is a quieter time to soak in the atmosphere. Otherwise, have breakfast at the hotel and prepare for the day.
Breakfast at hotel
Have a hearty breakfast. Carry a small backpack with water, snacks, and rain gear. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be walking or driving to Mana village (3 km).
Visit Mana village and Bheem Pul
Drive or walk to Mana village, the last Indian village before the Tibet border. Visit Bheem Pul, a natural rock bridge over the Saraswati river. The village is small and charming, with stone houses and prayer flags. Respect local privacy.
Explore Vyas Gufa and Ganesh Gufa
Visit Vyas Gufa (cave) where Sage Vyasa is said to have composed the Mahabharata, and Ganesh Gufa nearby. The caves are small and may require a flashlight. Entry is free, but a small donation is appreciated. The path is uneven; walk carefully.
Afternoon
Lunch at a local eatery in Mana village
Have a simple lunch at a local eatery in Mana village. Options are limited—try maggi noodles, aloo paratha, or local buckwheat rotis. Costs are modest (₹100-150). Enjoy the rustic ambiance and interact with locals.
Trek to Vasudhara Falls (9 km one way, optional)
For the adventurous, begin the trek to Vasudhara Falls. The trail is steep and rocky, taking 3-4 hours one way. Check weather before starting; the falls may be closed during heavy rain or snow. Hire a local guide (₹500-1000) for safety. Carry water and energy bars.
Return to Badrinath and rest
If you trekked, return to Badrinath by late afternoon. If you didn't trek, spend the afternoon exploring more of Mana village or visiting the nearby Charan Paduka (if not done earlier). Rest at the hotel to recover.
Evening
Evening leisure and dinner at hotel
After a tiring day, have a relaxed dinner at your hotel. Reflect on the spiritual experiences. Pack your bags for the return journey the next day. Ensure you have all belongings and confirm departure time with your driver.
Day 5
7 activities
Morning
Breakfast at hotel in Badrinath
Have an early breakfast (packed breakfast is also possible). Check out and load luggage by 7 AM. Keep water and snacks for the long drive. Confirm that the vehicle is in good condition.
Drive from Badrinath to Rishikesh (approx. 300 km, 10-11 hours)
Begin the long return journey. The drive is scenic but tiring. Take breaks every 2-3 hours. The road is mostly downhill, so use low gears and avoid over-speeding. Be prepared for traffic near Joshimath and Devprayag.
Stop at Joshimath for a quick visit to the Narasimha Temple
Pause at Joshimath for 20-30 minutes to visit the Narasimha Temple (if you missed it on Day 2). The temple is important as the winter abode of Badrinath. You can also buy local apples or handicrafts from the market.
Afternoon
Lunch en route at a highway restaurant
Stop for lunch around Karnaprayag or Srinagar. Choose a clean restaurant with good turnover. A thali costs ₹200-300. Avoid heavy, oily food to prevent drowsiness. Use the restroom and stretch.
Photostop at Devprayag Sangam
At Devprayag, stop to view the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, where the Ganges begins. The sight is breathtaking. Spend 15-20 minutes taking photos and offering a small prayer. Be careful near the water edge.
Evening
Arrive in Rishikesh and drop at railway station or airport
Reach Rishikesh by early evening. If you have an evening flight (from Jolly Grant) or train, proceed directly. Allow buffer time for traffic. If departing the next morning, check into a hotel in Rishikesh or near the airport.
Dinner (if staying overnight in Rishikesh) at a local restaurant
If you are staying overnight, enjoy a farewell dinner at a riverside café or restaurant in Rishikesh. Try local dishes like Aloo Puri or Kachori. Many places offer live music. If you are departing, skip this step and head to the station/airport.
Food Recommendations
Hotel Sarovar (Badrinath)
Vegetarian North IndianMust Try: Aloo puri, kheer, and hot chapatis with dal
₹200-₹400 per thali
Mana Village Local Dhaba
Simple Garhwali vegetarianMust Try: Kachmauli (local leafy vegetable) with rice and dal
₹100-₹200 per meal
Rudraprayag Highway Restaurant
North Indian vegetarianMust Try: Paneer butter masala with naan
₹150-₹300 per meal
Transportation Tips
- Use private taxis or shared jeeps from Rishikesh or Haridwar for the most flexible schedule; book in advance for the full circuit.
- State-run buses (Uttarakhand Roadways) operate from Rishikesh to Badrinath, but they are slower and less comfortable; reserve tickets early.
- For the return, consider a one-way taxi from Badrinath to Rishikesh (around ₹6,000-₹8,000) to avoid long waits.
- Always carry motion sickness medication; the mountain roads are winding and can cause nausea.
Budget Breakdown
Total Estimated Per Person
₹15,500-₹31,000
Accommodation
₹6,000-₹12,000 (for 4 nights in budget to mid-range hotels/guesthouses)
Food
₹2,500-₹5,000 (per person for 5 days)
Transport
₹5,000-₹10,000 (shared taxi or bus from Rishikesh and back, including local travel)
Miscellaneous
₹2,000-₹4,000 (pony/trek to Vasudhara, pind daan offerings, tips, etc.)
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