char dham yatra - Karnali Excursions

II Aum Namah Shivaya II
CHAR
DHAM YATRA
2016
experience the journey of a lifetime
Karnali Excursions Nepal
www.karnaliexcursions.com
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Karnali Excursions
Yatra overview:
India is a big subject, with a diversity of culture of unfathomable depth, and a long
continuum of history. India offers endless opportunities to accumulate experiences and
memories for a lifetime. Since very ancient times, participating in the Char-Dham Yatra
has been held in the highest regard throughout the length and breadth of India.
The Indian Garhwal Himalayas are known as Dev-Bhumi, the ‘Abode of the Gods’. Here is
the source of India’s Holy River Ganges. The Ganges, starting as a small glacial stream in
Gangotri and eventually traveling the length and breadth of India, nourishing her people
and sustaining a continuum of the world’s most ancient Hindu Culture. In the Indian
Garhwal Himalayas lies the Char-Dham, 4 of Hinduism’s most holy places of pilgrimage,
nestled in the high valleys of the Himalayan Mountains.
Wearing the Himalayas like a crown, India is a land of amazing diversity. Home to more
than a billion people, you will find in India an endless storehouse of culture and tradition
amidst all the development of the 21st century!
Yatra highlights:
— A complete darshan of Rishikesh, Haridwar, Yamunotri and Gangotri
— Darshan of Kedarnath and Uttar Kashi
— Visit Surya Kund, Divya Shila, Mata Murti Temple, Tap Kund, Narad Kund & Vyash Gupha
Yatra facts :
Total duration
:
Max. Elevation
:
Trip grading
:
Best months
:
Journey starts/ends:
Accommodation :
Yatra destinations :
15 days
3,585m/11,760ft
Moderate
May to October
New Delhi
Hotels
Delhi - Rishikesh - Barkot - Yamunotri - Uttar Kanshi - Gangotri Rudra Prayag - Gupta Kanshi - Phata Pipalkoti - Badrinath Dev Prayag - Haridwar
Karnali Excursions
DAY
01
28 Sep, 2016
DAY
02
29 Sep, 2016
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Arrive at the Delhi Airport and transfer to hotel
One of representatives of Karnali Excursions will receive at the airport and arrange
immediate transfer to hotel.
Karnali team leader will deliver a detailed briefing on Char Dham Yatra. Overnight in a
tourist standard hotel on full board basis.
New Delhi - Dehradun - Haridwar
Fly to Dehradun for afternoon arrival and drive to Haridwar. On arrival, check into the
hotel, dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. We will attend the evening Ganga Arati in
Haridwar.
Rishikesh
24 kilometers from Haridwar. Located in the lap of the lower Himalayas, Rishikesh is
surrounded by scenic beauty with the Holy Ganges flowing through it. The whole place
is considered to be a sacred tirtha, as it is believed that meditation at this place leads to
the attainment of salvation. There are many temples, some ancient, some new, along the
river Ganges. Rishikesh is important not only as a pilgrimage center closely associated
with the Ramayana, but also as a home for many important centers of Hindu religious
thought and spirituality, and as a very great center for learning yoga. There are a great
many ashrams and yoga institutes in Rishikesh.
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Karnali Excursions
Haridwar
Haridwar, lying at the feet of Shiva’s hills, i.e., Shivaliks, in the Haridwar district of
Uttarkhand is the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. Prince Bhagiratha of the Surya
Dynasty performed penance here to salvage the souls of his ancestors, who had perished
due to the curse of sage Kapila. The penance was successful and the river Ganges trickled
forth from Lord Shiva’s matted hair, and its bountiful water revived the 60,000 sons of
King Sagara. In the tradition of Bhagiratha, devout Hindus stand in the sacred waters,
praying for salvation of their departed ancestors. It is the doorway to the sources of the
Ganges and the Yamuna, Kedarnath and Badrinath, 3,000 to 4,500 meters up into the
snowy ranges of the central Himalayas. The ‘Arati’ worship of the Ganges after sunset and
the floating ‘diya’ (lamp) is a moving ritual.
Karnali Excursions
DAY
03
30 Sep, 2016
DAY
04
1 Oct, 2016
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Rishikesh - Barkot (170 kms drive / 06 hrs)
Morning, after breakfast, enjoy local sightseeing in Rishikesh, visit Laxman-Jhula, later
drive to Barkot via Dehradun, Mussoorie, and en-route visit Kempty Falls, then drive to
Barkot. On arrival at Barkot check into the hotel for an overnight stay.
Yamunotri - Barkot (42 kms drive / 7 kms trekking)
Leave for Janaki Chatti via Hanuman Chatti & Phool Chatti. On arrival at Janaki Chatti, start
trekking of 07 kms to Yamunotri. On arrival at Yamunotri, take a holy dip in Garam Kund,
then Puja and Darshan of Shree Yamuna Jee. After Darshan and Puja, afternoon trek back
to Janaki Chatti. On arrival at Janaki Chatti meet with driver and drive back to Barkot for
an overnight stay.
Hanuman Chatti
The confluence of Hanuman Ganga & Yamuna River.
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Karnali Excursions
Divya Shila
A rock pillar, worshipped before entering the Yamunotri Temple.
Surya Kund
There are a number of thermal springs in the vicinity of the temple, which flow into
numerous pools. The most important of these is the Surya Kund.
Yamunotri Temple
Maharani Gularia of Jaipur built the Yamunotri Temple in the 19th Century. It was
destroyed twice in the present century and rebuilt again.
DAY
05
2 Oct, 2016
Barkot-Uttarkashi (Harshil) (82 kms drive / 04 hrs)
Morning, leave for Uttar Kashi, a drive of 82 kms. Enroute, we visit Prakateshwar Cave,
on arrival in Uttar Kashi check in at the hotel & in the evening visit Vishwanath Temple.
Overnight stay at the hotel. Uttar Kashi is situated on the bank of the Bhagirathi Ganga.
The temple of Lord Vishwanath is located here where a massive iron trident is erected.
Karnali Excursions
DAY
06
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Harshil - Gomukh (back to Bhoj-Basa for night stay)
3 Oct, 2016
DAY
07
08
Bhoj-Basa - Gangotri Darshan, Harshil/Uttar Kashi Night Stay
4 Oct, 2016
DAY
5 Oct, 2016
Uttar Kashi-Rudra-Prayag/Gupta-Kashi (165 kms drive)
Morning drive to Rudra-Prayag, en route visit Tehri Dam and continue journey towards
Rudra-Prayag. Check into the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.
Char Dham Yatra 2016
DAY
Karnali Excursions
09
Rudra-Prayag–Gupta-Kashi (Helicopter ride to Kedarnath)
Morning, drive to the heli-pad and take a helicopter journey to Kedarnath and then back
to Gupta Kashi.
6 Oct, 2016
Kedarnath
The Kedarnath shrine, one of the 12 Jyotir Lingas of Lord Shiva, is a scenic spot, situated
against the backdrop of the majestic Kedarnath Mountain Range. Kedar is another name
of Lord Shiva, the protector and the destroyer.
According to legend, the Pandavas after having won over the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra
war, felt guilty for having killed their own brothers and for redemption, sought the
blessings of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva eluded them repeatedly and while hiding from the
Pandavas took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull. On being followed, he dove into
the ground, leaving his hump on the surface.
Karnali Excursions
Char Dham Yatra 2016
The remaining portions of Lord Shiva appeared at four other places and are worshipped
there as his manifestations. The arms appeared at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, the
belly at Madhmaheshwar and his locks (hair) with head at Kapaleshwar. Kedarnath and
the four above-mentioned shrines are known as the Panch-Kedars.
DAY
10
7 Oct, 2016
Gupta-Kashi–Rudra-Pryag/Pipalkoti (157 km drive/6 hr)
After morning Puja and Darshan at the temple, we leave for trekking to Gorikund and
drive back to Rudra-Prayag/Pipalkoti. On arrival, check in to the hotel, dinner and
overnight stay.
Char Dham Yatra 2016
DAY
Karnali Excursions
11
8 Oct, 2016
Day-to-day detailed itinerary
Rudra-Prayag/Pipalkoti – Badrinath (72 kms)
Morning departure for Shri Badrinath, enroute visit Narasimha Temple and then drive
to Badrinath. On arrival, we take the Holy Darshan and spend time visiting Mana. Mana
Village is the last village before the Tibetan border. Have darshan of the Vyas Gupha, Bhim
Pul, and Saraswati River. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Tapt Kund
Natural thermal springs on the bank of the river Alakananda, where it is customary to
bathe before entering the Badrinath temple.
Karnali Excursions
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Narad Kund
A recess in the river, near Tapt Kund, forming a pool from where the Badrinath Murti was
recovered.
Mata Murti Temple
Devoted to the mother of Sri Badrinath-ji. Other important temples include Sesh Netra
Temple.
Mana Village
Inhabited by an Indo-Mongolian tribe, it is the last Indian village before Tibet.
Bhīma Phul
On the other side of Mana Village, a massive rock forming a natural bridge lies over the
roaring Saraswati River. It presents a spectacular view of water thundering down through
the narrow passage under the rock and is believed to have been placed there by Bhima,
the second eldest amongst the five Pandava brothers.
Vyasa Gupha (cave)
Near Mana Village, this is a rock-cave where Veda Vyasa is believed to have composed the
Mahabharata and the Puranic commentaries.
DAY
12
9 Oct, 2016
Badrinath-Srinagar/Dev-Prayag (270 kms drive/9 hrs)
Morning drive to Srinagar/Dev-Prayag. On arrival, check in at the hotel, and overnight
stay. Dev-Prayag is a town and a ‘Nagar Panchayat’ in Tehri Garhwal district, in the state of
Uttar khand. Dev- Prayag is one of the Panch-Prayags (five confluences) of the Alakananda
River where the Alakananda and Bhagirathi Ganga rivers meet and from here takes the
name Ganga or the Holy River Ganges.
Char Dham Yatra 2016
DAY
Karnali Excursions
13
10 Oct, 2016
Srinagar/Dev-Prayag/Rishikesh (73 kms drive/3 hrs)
Morning after breakfast, drive back to Rishikesh. Check into the hotel and enjoy the
evening Arati in Rishikesh.
Karnali Excursions
DAY
14
Flight To Delhi (Over night stay in New Delhi)
Fly to New Delhi. After breakfast we transfer to the hotel, and visit the Akshardham
Temple.
11 Oct, 2016
DAY
15
12 Oct, 2016
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Departure for home
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Karnali Excursions
st
Yatra C,7o99
USD 1
or
99
GBP 1,1
son
per per
The cost does not include
The cost includes
P All ground transfers including airport pickup and
drops
P Twin sharing accommodations on bed and breakfast
basis as per the itinerary
P Delhi-Dehradun-Delhi flight fare
P Helicopter ride to Kedarnath
P All guided sightseeing with applicable entry fees
P All meals
P Highly experienced and knowledgeable team leader
and support crew from Nepal
P All applicable taxes and royalties
O India visa fee
O International flights to/from Delhi
O Travel and medical insurance, which includes
emergency air/land evacuation cost and expenses
of medical treatment
O Medical checkup charges if required
O Pure personal gears and equipment, clothes etc
O Personal porter, pony or Doli charges
O Pure personal nature expenses, e. g. drinks,
telephone calls, laundry, tips to guide, driver and
support crew.
O Expenses caused by factors that are beyond our
control such as: train and flight delays and
cancellations, road blockades, vehicle mal-function
and political disturbances etc
Karnali Excursions
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Important Notes:
— The infrastructure of these areas is not well developed. You should not expect or
compare it to other more developed destinations. There are occasional shortages
of water and power in this region. You may come across situations where water is
supplied on a timed basis – Morning to Evening.
— In this region the hotels may not have generator facilities. In case of any power failure,
hotels will provide candles for light.
General Information
1. Flight Details
Please send us your flight details as soon as you book your flights. If there are any last
minute changes, please notify us immediately by e-mail. This is very important, as we
need to arrange for your airport pickup in Delhi. Please look for the Karnali Excursions
sign board as you come out from the Airport.
2. Passport, India Visa Related:
• USA and UK passport holders require a Visa for India. Get this at home by contacting
the nearest Indian embassy or consulate. Indian Passport holders or OCI cardholder do
not require a Visa in India.
• You must be in possession of a current passport with at least 6 months of validity
remaining beyond your arrival date in India.
3. Remaining Balance
The remaining balance is to be paid in USD (US Dollars) or GBP (Sterling Pounds) cash
in New Delhi upon arrival. Unfortunately, Karnali Excursions cannot accept any personal
cheque.
• Additional Funds: Please plan to bring approximately USD 600 OR GBP 400 per person
for your personal use during the Yatra (to hire a horse, Doli and porter during the
Yatra, phone calls, mineral water, souvenirs, etc.)
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Karnali Excursions
4. Suggested items to bring for Char Dham Yatra:
The below given list is intended to provide guidelines only, please adjust and bring as per
your personal needs.
Footwear
1.
2.
3.
4.
One pair proper hiking boots
One pair trainer type (Sports shoes)
Sandals/Flip-flops
3-4 pair warm shocks
Clothes
1.Cap/Sunhat-1
2. Woolen/fleece Monkey cap/
Balaclava-1
3. Down/fiber-filled jacket-1
4. Wind/waterproof jacket-1
5. Wind/waterproof trousers-1 pair
6. Loose pants/hiking trousers-3 pairs
7. Thermal wear-2 sets (legging and
vests)
8. Long-sleeved hiking shirts-2
9. Light sweater-1
10. Warm sweater-1
11. Fleece wear-1
12. Woolen/fleece high-neck-2
13.Undergarments-6
14. Thin gloves-1 pair
15. Wind/waterproof gloves-1 pair
16. Small face towel-2
17. Bath towel-1
18.Shawl-1
19. Muffler-1
20. Nose mask for dust free
breathing
21. Buff to protect your throat and neck
22. Lungi or dhoti for Havan
Karnali Excursions
Not-to-miss miscellaneous items
1. Bottles to collect holy water
2. Large plastic garbage bags to
protect your clothes from rain/dust-6
3. Hand and foot warmer
4. Favourite snacks, nuts and dried fruits
5. Energy bars/chocolates
6. Sweet candies
7. Money belt
Very important items
1. Rucksack/daypack (35-40 litre)-1
2. Water bottle-1
3. Thermo flask-1
4. Sunglasses with 100% UV protection
5. Personal medicines if you are under any medication
6.Sunscreens
7. Antibacterial hand gel
8. Wet wipes
9. Moisturizer creams
10. Lip guard
11. Headlamp with spare batteries
Optional items
1.Whistle
2. Pocket knife
3. Reading books
4. Daily diary
5.Music
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Karnali Excursions
First Aid Medical Kit
1. Personal medicines if you are taking any
2. Handy plast
3.Bandages
4. Small & big cotton balls
5. Antiseptic ointment
6. Common cold, fever and cough remedies
7. Anti diarrhea medicines
8. Allergy care
9. Anti vomiting medicines
10. Regular personal medicines if you are under any medications
5. Travel Insurance –Mandatory:
Everyone must carry a travel insurance which covers emergency rescue (both by Air and
ground), repatriation and medical expenses. Please bring two hard copies of insurance.
When you come to New Delhi, please handover one copy to our representative and keep
the 2nd copy with you.
6. Preparation, Health and Medical Related:
Although most of the trip will be done by vehicles, it is important that everyone has
relatively good health. If you have any chronic health conditions please consult your
doctor prior to leaving for India. Medical facilities are available throughout the journey.
Karnali Excursions (P) Ltd. will provide a first aid medical kit and equipment for treating
high altitude sickness. Remember to exercise and or hike/walk regularly. Form a habit of
drinking at least three liters of water every day. This habit will be extremely helpful to
keep you in good shape during the Yatra.
Karnali Excursions
Char Dham Yatra 2016
7. Karnali Staffs:
Karnali Excursions (P) Ltd. employs only well-trained, responsible, and capable staffs
who have successfully led several trips over many years throughout all over India, Tibet
and Nepal. Each trip is staffed with an experienced guide who speaks English and Hindi,
ensuring a pleasant and smooth journey for the group. Karnali Excursions (P) Ltd. is
committed to providing the best and most reliable service for each group for the Journey
of a Lifetime.
8. Risk and Liabilities:
Karnali Excursions (P) Ltd will make every effort to ensure that your journey is smooth
and as pleasant as possible. However, please be reminded that all programs in India
are strictly conducted under the rules and regulations of the Indian government.
Therefore, neither Karnali Excursions (P) Ltd. nor its Indian Agent shall be responsible for
any changes in the itinerary due to unavoidable circumstances, including: government
restrictions, landslides, road blockades, flooding, snowfall, political disturbances, flight
cancellations, illnesses or accidents. Any additional costs that may incur as a result of
such circumstances shall be taken care of by the yatris.
7. Yatra logistics:
• You will be picked up and dropped off at the airport, so please provide your flight
details in advance
• Every yatri will be provided a reasonable sized duffle bag for the entire duration of
Yatra. This bag will be provided in the evening of the arrival day. Hence, each yatri
should have a personal backpack/rucksack to carry personal valuable belongings and
handy items
• Transfer your Yatra baggage into this duffle bag and remember the duffle bag number
by noting it down
Char Dham Yatra 2016
Karnali Excursions
• Your normal baggage will be stored at the hotel in New Delhi until you return from the
Yatra
• Ensure that you have some snacks and minimal supplies along with you in your
backpack for personal use as your duffle bag will travel separately with the support
truck
• Please bear in mind to bring the adaptor for 220-240 volts for charging any electronic
devices
• WIFI and Internet connection is available in New Delhi. Local Sim card can be bought
in the New Delhi airport. You are welcome to use a home-based cell phone. Please
make sure that India is in your roaming coverage area.
8. Important preparation tips for successful and memorable yatra:
• Get some hiking and breathing practices
• Develop habit of drinking plenty of water (at least 3 litre a day)
• Stay mentally focused and physically healthy for a memorable Journey of a lifetime
Look forward seeing you soon in the Himalayas!
With warm regards and best wishes,
Karnali Excursion Team
CHAR
DHAM YATRA
2016
For further information and assistance
Savita Meghani (UK)
+4420 8866 7984
(Mon-Fri, Call after 4 PM)
+4420 7435 217216
[email protected]
Vanita Hirani (UK)
+4420 8991 0692
(Mon-Fri, Call after 4:30 PM)
+4420 7941 992907
[email protected]
Sarla Dave (USA)
1940 E 170th PLACE,
SOUTH HOLLAND, IL, 60473, USA
+170 8895 6439
+170 8689 7848
[email protected]
Hira Dhamala
5778, Durbar Marg, Ktm, Nepal
+977 1 4233192/4233087
+977 9851035496
[email protected]
www.karnaliexcursions.com, www.kailashtrekking.com