The Ek Dham Yatra from Haridwar focuses on visiting one of the four sacred shrines in Uttarakhand: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, or Badrinath. This pilgrimage is ideal if you want to experience one of the dhams in a shorter duration, typically spanning 4 to 6 days.
### **Sample Itinerary for Ek Dham Yatra**
#### **Option 1: Kedarnath**
**Day 1: Haridwar to Guptkashi**
- **Travel:** Drive from Haridwar to Guptkashi (around 200 km, 7-8 hours).
- **Overnight:** Stay in Guptkashi.
**Day 2: Guptkashi to Kedarnath**
- **Travel:** Drive to Sonprayag (30 km), then trek or take a helicopter to Kedarnath (16 km trek or helicopter ride).
- **Overnight:** Stay in Kedarnath.
**Day 3: Kedarnath Darshan**
- **Activity:** Visit Kedarnath Temple for darshan.
- **Return:** Trek or take a helicopter back to Guptkashi.
- **Overnight:** Stay in Guptkashi.
**Day 4: Guptkashi to Haridwar**
- **Travel:** Drive back to Haridwar (around 200 km, 7-8 hours).
- **Overnight:** Stay in Haridwar or complete your journey.
#### **Option 2: Badrinath**
**Day 1: Haridwar to Badrinath**
- **Travel:** Drive from Haridwar to Badrinath (around 320 km, 10-12 hours).
- **Overnight:** Stay in Badrinath.
**Day 2: Badrinath Darshan**
- **Activity:** Visit Badrinath Temple for darshan, explore Mana Village, and other nearby attractions.
- **Overnight:** Stay in Badrinath.
**Day 3: Badrinath to Haridwar**
- **Travel:** Drive back to Haridwar (around 320 km, 10-12 hours).
#### **Option 3: Yamunotri**
**Day 1: Haridwar to Barkot**
- **Travel:** Drive from Haridwar to Barkot (around 180 km, 6-8 hours).
- **Overnight:** Stay in Barkot.
**Day 2: Barkot to Yamunotri**
- **Activity:** Drive to Janki Chatti, then trek or use a pony/palki to Yamunotri (around 5 km trek).
- **Return:** Trek or drive back to Barkot.
- **Overnight:** Stay in Barkot.
**Day 3: Barkot to Haridwar**
- **Travel:** Drive back to Haridwar (around 180 km, 6-8 hours).
#### **Option 4: Gangotri**
**Day 1: Haridwar to Uttarkashi**
- **Travel:** Drive from Haridwar to Uttarkashi (around 90 km, 3-4 hours).
- **Overnight:** Stay in Uttarkashi.
**Day 2: Uttarkashi to Gangotri**
- **Travel:** Drive to Gangotri (around 100 km, 4-5 hours).
- **Overnight:** Return to Uttarkashi.
**Day 3: Uttarkashi to Haridwar**
- **Travel:** Drive back to Haridwar (around 90 km, 3-4 hours).
### **Package Inclusions**
1. **Transportation:**
- Comfortable AC/non-AC vehicles for the journey.
- Optional helicopter services (for Kedarnath).
2. **Accommodation:**
- Hotels, guest houses, or dharamshalas at each location.
3. **Meals:**
- Pure vegetarian meals, including breakfast and dinner.
4. **Guided Services:**
- Assistance with darshan and rituals.
5. **Additional Services:**
- VIP darshan arrangements (where available).
- Porter or mule services for the trek (if applicable).
- Medical assistance if needed.
### **Cost Estimate**
- **Standard Package:** ₹15,000 - ₹25,000 per person.
- **Deluxe Package:** ₹30,000 - ₹45,000 per person.
- **Luxury Package:** ₹50,000 and above per person (includes premium accommodations and extra services).
### **Booking and Considerations**
- **Advance Booking:** Essential due to high demand during the peak season (May to October).
- **Health and Fitness:** Ensure all participants are fit for high altitudes and any trekking involved.
- **Weather:** Prepare for cold weather and possible rain; pack accordingly.
- **Customization:** If needed, you can customize the itinerary or extend your stay.
### **Booking Tips**
- **Travel Agencies:** Contact travel agencies that specialize in Chardham or Ek Dham Yatra packages for personalized services.
- **Helicopter Services:** Book helicopter rides in advance if you prefer a quicker and less strenuous option.
If you need help with specific details or booking, let me know.