Itinerary of this Package - North Indian & Himalayan Pilgrim Tour Package 02
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Morning: Arrival in Delhi. Check-in to your hotel and rest.
Afternoon: Visit the Akshardham Temple, known for its breathtaking architecture and spiritual serenity.
Akshardham Temple in Delhi is not just a temple; it's an embodiment of Indian culture, spirituality, and architecture, completed in 2005. Spanning over 100 acres, this temple complex is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and showcases millennia of traditional Hindu and Indian culture. The central monument, intricately carved with flora, fauna, dancers, musicians, and deities, is constructed entirely from Rajasthani pink sandstone and Italian Carrara marble, standing without support from steel or concrete. The temple complex includes the Yagnapurush Kund, the world's largest stepwell, and the Sahaj Anand Water Show, which narrates stories from the Kena Upanishad. The garden of Bharat Upavan, with its lush greenery and bronze statues of Indian heroes, adds to the spiritual ambiance. The complex also houses the Hall of Values (Sahajanand Darshan), which features robotics and dioramas to present the teachings of Swaminarayan, promoting values like non-violence, honesty, and family harmony. Akshardham's architecture is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of ancient India, making it a must-visit for those seeking spiritual insight and peace
Evening: Attend the mesmerizing water show at Akshardham.
Day 2: Delhi to Haridwar
Early Morning: Depart for Haridwar by train or bus (approx. 5-6 hours).
Afternoon: Check-in to your hotel in Haridwar. Rest and then visit Har Ki Pauri for the famous Ganga Aarti in the evening.
Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar is one of the most revered ghats in India, believed to be the precise spot where the Ganges leaves the mountains and enters the plains. The ghat has a footprint of Lord Vishnu on a stone wall, which is said to be the exact spot where he dropped the nectar of immortality. Every evening, Har Ki Pauri transforms into a spiritual spectacle during the Ganga Aarti, an offering of fire to the Ganges, accompanied by ringing temple bells and chanting of prayers. The sight of hundreds of lit lamps floating on the river adds a magical glow to the waters. This ghat also plays a significant role during the Kumbh Mela, attracting millions of devotees for a holy dip, believed to cleanse sins and lead to salvation. The aura, energy, and devotion at Har Ki Pauri make it a pivotal destination for any spiritual seeker.
Day 3: Haridwar to Rishikesh
Morning: Visit Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple in Haridwar via cable car, offering panoramic views of the city.
Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi Temples
Mansa Devi Temple, located atop the Bilwa Parvat, offers panoramic views of Haridwar. It is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi, a form of Shakti, believed to fulfill the wishes of devotees. The temple is accessible by a scenic cable car ride, adding to the experience. The deity is depicted with three mouths and five arms, and the temple is a sidh peeth, a place of worship where desires get fulfilled.
Chandi Devi Temple, situated on the Neel Parvat, is another significant temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi. Like Mansa Devi, this temple is reached by a cable car and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Ganges. The temple's mythology is linked to the legend of Chandi Devi killing the demons Chanda-Munda and Shumbha-Nishumbha, making it a potent symbol of the victory of good over evil. The tranquil yet powerful atmosphere of the temple provides a profound spiritual experience.
Afternoon: Proceed to Rishikesh (approx. 1 hour). Check-in and visit the Beatles Ashram.
Evening: Attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
Day 4: Rishikesh to Joshimath
Early Morning: Depart for Joshimath (approx. 9-10 hours), a significant pilgrimage town. The journey offers scenic views of the Himalayas.
Evening: Check-in at Joshimath. Rest for the night.
Day 5: Joshimath to Badrinath
Morning: Depart for
(approx. 2-3 hours), dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Badrinath Temple, nestled between Nar and Narayan mountain ranges, is a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple, part of the Char Dham and Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuits, sits at an altitude of 3,133 meters. The deity, Lord Vishnu, is depicted sitting in a meditative pose and is believed to meditate here for the welfare of humanity. The temple's architecture is striking, with a colorful façade that stands out against the stark mountain backdrop. The hot springs nearby, particularly Tapt Kund, are considered medicinal and are a must-visit for pilgrims. The temple has a rich history that intertwines with legends and mythology, including references in the Vedic texts. Pilgrims also visit the nearby Mata Murti Temple, dedicating offerings to the mother of Badrinath. The spiritual journey to Badrinath is as transformative as the darshan itself, offering moments of reflection and devotion amidst the Himalayas' serene beauty.
Afternoon: Attend the puja and explore the temple's majestic architecture.
Evening: Return to Joshimath for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Joshimath to Kedarnath
Morning: Head towards Gaurikund (starting point for Kedarnath trek) by road (approx. 5-6 hours).
Afternoon/Evening: Start the 16 km trek to Kedarnath (stay at Gaurikund or proceed a bit and stay en route).
Day 7: Kedarnath
Morning: Continue your trek to Kedarnath, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Afternoon: Arrive at Kedarnath. Visit the temple and surrounding areas.
Kedarnath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest Hindu shrines of Shiva.Nestled at an altitude of 3,583 meters amidst the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, the temple is accessible only by foot or pony over a 16 km trek from Gaurikund. According to legends, the Pandavas sought the blessings of Lord Shiva here to absolve themselves of the sins of fratricide and Brāhmanahatya committed during the Kurukshetra war. The temple, believed to be more than 1,000 years old, is built of massive stone slabs over a large rectangular platform. Astoundingly, it withstands harsh winters when it is covered by snow for about six months. The architecture is a marvel, with the main shrine housing the conical rock formation, the symbolic representation of Lord Shiva. The evening Aarti at Kedarnath against the backdrop of the Himalayas is a spiritual spectacle, drawing devotees into a deep meditative state. Pilgrims also visit the Bhairavnath temple dedicated to the guardian deity of the region, believed to protect the temple during its winter closure
Evening: Participate in the evening aarti. Stay in Kedarnath.
Day 8: Kedarnath to Rudraprayag
Morning: Trek down to Gaurikund.
Afternoon: Drive to Rudraprayag (approx. 4-5 hours). Check-in and rest.
Rudraprayag is not just a town but a confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, holding immense spiritual significance. Though not a temple visit day, the significance of Rudraprayag in Hindu mythology and its serene beauty make it a perfect resting point, providing a moment of reflection on the pilgrimage journey.
Day 9: Rudraprayag to Uttarkashi
Morning: Depart for Uttarkashi (approx. 4-5 hours), home to the Vishwanath Temple.
Afternoon: Visit the Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Vishwanath Temple in Uttarkashi is dedicated to Lord Shiva, mirroring the more famous temple in Varanasi. Uttarkashi, often referred to as 'Varanasi of the North,' holds a special place in Hinduism with its ancient temples and spiritual heritage. The temple houses a sacred Shivling, and the atmosphere inside is charged with devotion and the chants of prayers. The temple, rebuilt in 1857 by Maharani Khaneti, wife of Sudarshan Shah, reflects the typical Nagara style architecture. Devotees throng this temple to offer prayers and seek blessings, making it a focal point of spirituality in Uttarkashi. The town, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas and bordered by the Bhagirathi River, adds to the temple's serene and uplifting ambiance.
Evening: Explore the town or rest.
Day 10: Uttarkashi to Gangotri
Morning: Drive to Gangotri (approx. 3-4 hours), the origin of the River Ganga.
Afternoon: Perform puja and take a dip in the holy river.
Gangotri Temple, situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, marks the origin of the holy Ganges River. According to mythology, Goddess Ganga took the form of a river to wash away the sins of King Bhagirath's predecessors, following his severe penance. The temple, constructed in the 18th century by a Gorkha General, Amar Singh Thapa, is simple yet striking, made of white marble. Pilgrims visit this sacred site to pay homage to the river and perform rituals in honor of their ancestors. The pure and tranquil environment of Gangotri, combined with the spiritual aura of the temple, offers a profound sense of peace and enlightenment to visitors. The surrounding landscapes of rugged mountains and dense forests enhance the spiritual journey, making Gangotri a must-visit for those seeking spiritual solace and the blessings of Mother Ganga
Evening: Return to Uttarkashi for the night.
Day 11: Uttarkashi to Rishikesh
Morning: Head back to Rishikesh (approx. 6-7 hours).
Evening: Free time for relaxation or exploring Rishikesh's vibrant markets.
Day 12: Rishikesh to Amritsar
Early Morning: Take an early morning train or flight to Amritsar (though not a Hindu temple, the Golden Temple is a significant spiritual site worth visiting).
While this segment focuses on travel back to Rishikesh and then to Amritsar, incorporating the visit to the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) adds a unique dimension to this pilgrimage. Although it's a Sikh Gurudwara, its inclusion symbolizes India's rich religious diversity and the universal quest for spiritual connection. The Golden Temple stands in the middle of the sacred Amrit Sarovar lake, signifying purity and spiritual essence. Its architecture, with four entrances from all four directions, promotes the idea of inclusivity and openness. Visitors are struck by the temple's serene atmosphere and the complex's meticulous maintenance, symbolizing devotion and community service through the Langar, a free community kitchen serving meals to all visitors without distinction.
Afternoon: Visit the Golden Temple.
Evening: Attend the Palki Sahib ceremony.
Day 13: Amritsar to Delhi
Morning: Explore local attractions in Amritsar like Jallianwala Bagh.
Afternoon: Depart for Delhi by train or flight.
Evening: Arrive in Delhi and rest.
Day 14: Departure from Delhi
Morning/Afternoon: Free time for shopping or visiting local sites in Delhi.
Evening: Departure from Delhi.
