8 day itinerary for Rishikesh, Kedarnath

Itinerary

Sure, here's an ideal itinerary for 8 days in Rishikesh and Kedarnath that includes parks and green spaces, is budget-friendly, and perfect for friends:

Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh

• Check into your hotel or hostel
• Visit the Triveni Ghat for a dip in the holy river Ganges
• Explore the local markets and try some street food

Day 2: Yoga and Meditation

• Start your day with a yoga session at one of the many ashrams in Rishikesh
• After breakfast, visit the Beatles Ashram and meditate in the serene surroundings
• In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan

Day 3: Adventure Sports

• Head to Shivpuri for a day of adventure sports like white water rafting, bungee jumping, and zip-lining
• Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river
• Return to Rishikesh in the evening and relax by the river

Day 4: Nature Walks

• Take a morning walk through the Rajaji National Park and spot some wildlife
• Visit the Neer Garh Waterfall and take a refreshing dip
• In the evening, attend a classical music concert at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre

Day 5: Road Trip to Kedarnath

• Hire a taxi or take a bus to Kedarnath
• Enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains and valleys
• Check into your hotel or guesthouse in Kedarnath

Day 6: Trek to Kedarnath Temple

• Start early and trek to the Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest shrines in Hinduism
• Spend the day exploring the temple complex and learning about its history and significance
• Return to your hotel in the evening and enjoy a hot meal

Day 7: Local Sightseeing

• Visit the Shankaracharya Samadhi and learn about the life of the great saint
• Explore the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and spot some rare species of birds and animals
• In the evening, attend a cultural program organized by the locals

Day 8: Departure

• Check out of your hotel and head back to Rishikesh
• Spend some time shopping for souvenirs and gifts
• Depart for your next destination

This itinerary includes a mix of adventure, nature, culture, and spirituality, making it perfect for friends traveling together. It is also budget-friendly as most of the activities are either free or have nominal charges.