Day 7
Gupt Kashi – Sonprayag - Kedarnath – Guptkashi (4 hr)
Early in the morning, you will be taken to Kedarnath Dham . Kedarnath Dham, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, is situated at an altitude of 3584 meters above sea level and on the banks of the Mandakini River. Sonprayag or Gaurikund is the last point that can be reached by car / bus. From Sonprayag, the arduous journey starts. The last leg of the route to reach Kedarnath is a 14 km long trek, to be reached on foot or by ‘doli’ or by helicopter. The trek is a steady ascent along a stone paved path in large parts through a thick forest of Himalayan oak, rhodo¬dendrons and a profusion of ferns. Gaurikund is famous for its hot water. Many pilgrims take bath in Gaurikund, said to be the place where Goddess Parvati was born.
After taking bath in the Mandakini river, have ‘darshan’ and do ‘puja’ in Kedarnath Temple. Kedarnath Temple is said to be the place where the Pandavas worshipped Lord Kedar (Shiva). As per the legend, the Kedarnath Temple was built by Janmejaya. In 8th century, Adi Guru Shankaracharya had rebuilt it. The temple is 85 feet high and 187 feet wide. It is constructed of large pieces of rocks. These stones are inter-locked. In addition to the shivalingam, the temple houses the idols of Draupadi and the Pandavas.
After paying homage and doing ‘puja’, return to Sonprayag to be driven back to Guptkashi hotel for overnight stay.
Optional:
Helicopter Service Charges - INR 8500/- Per Person (approx / rates can change)
Pony Charges – INR 3000/- INR 4000/- Per Person (approx)
Doli / Palanquin Charges- INR 6000/- INR 8000/- Per Person (approx)