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CHAR DHAM YATRA

2016

experience the journey of a lifetimeKarnali Excursions Nepal www.karnaliexcursions.com

II Aum Namah Shivaya II

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!

� 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 highlights:

Yatra facts : Total duration : 15 daysMax. Elevation : 3,585m/11,760ftTrip grading : ModerateBest months : May to October Journey starts/ends : New DelhiAccommodation : HotelsYatra destinations : Delhi - Rishikesh - Barkot - Yamunotri - Uttar Kanshi - Gangotri - Rudra Prayag - Gupta Kanshi - Phata Pipalkoti - Badrinath - Dev Prayag - Haridwar

Char Dham Yatra 2016Karnali Excursions

Rishikesh24 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.

02DAYNew Delhi - Dehradun - HaridwarFly 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.

01DAYArrive at the Delhi Airport and transfer to hotelOne 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.

28 Sep, 2016

29 Sep, 2016


HaridwarHaridwar, 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.


03DAYRishikesh - 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.

04DAYYamunotri - 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 ChattiThe confluence of Hanuman Ganga & Yamuna River.

30 Sep, 2016

1 Oct, 2016


05DAYBarkot-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.

Divya ShilaA rock pillar, worshipped before entering the Yamunotri Temple.

Surya KundThere 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 TempleMaharani Gularia of Jaipur built the Yamunotri Temple in the 19th Century. It was destroyed twice in the present century and rebuilt again.

2 Oct, 2016


06DAYHarshil - Gomukh (back to Bhoj-Basa for night stay)

Bhoj-Basa - Gangotri Darshan, Harshil/Uttar Kashi Night Stay07DAY

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.08DAY

3 Oct, 2016

4 Oct, 2016

5 Oct, 2016


09DAYRudra-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.

KedarnathThe 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.

6 Oct, 2016


10DAYGupta-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.

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.

7 Oct, 2016


11DAYRudra-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 KundNatural thermal springs on the bank of the river Alakananda, where it is customary to bathe before entering the Badrinath temple.

Day-to-day detailed itinerary

8 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.

12DAY

Narad KundA recess in the river, near Tapt Kund, forming a pool from where the Badrinath Murti was recovered.

Mata Murti TempleDevoted to the mother of Sri Badrinath-ji. Other important temples include Sesh Netra Temple.

Mana VillageInhabited by an Indo-Mongolian tribe, it is the last Indian village before Tibet.

Bhīma PhulOn 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.

9 Oct, 2016


13DAYSrinagar/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.

10 Oct, 2016


14DAY

15DAY

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.

Departure for home

11 Oct, 2016

12 Oct, 2016


Yatra Cost

USD 1,799

or

GBP 1,199

per person

The cost includesP All ground transfers including airport pickup and

dropsP Twin sharing accommodations on bed and breakfast

basis as per the itineraryP Delhi-Dehradun-DelhiflightfareP Helicopter ride to KedarnathP All guided sightseeing with applicable entry feesP All mealsP Highly experienced and knowledgeable team leader

and support crew from NepalP All applicable taxes and royalties

The cost does not includeO India visa feeO Internationalflightsto/fromDelhiO Travel and medical insurance, which includes

emergencyair/landevacuationcostandexpenses of medical treatment

O Medical checkup charges if requiredO 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 controlsuchas:trainandflightdelaysand cancellations, road blockades, vehicle mal-function and political disturbances etc


� 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 DetailsPlease 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 BalanceThe 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.)

Important Notes:


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. One pair proper hiking boots2. One pair trainer type (Sports shoes)3. Sandals/Flip-flops 4. 3-4 pair warm shocks

Clothes

1. Cap/Sunhat-12. Woolen/fleece Monkey cap/

Balaclava-13. Down/fiber-filled jacket-14. Wind/waterproof jacket-15. Wind/waterproof trousers-1 pair6. Loose pants/hiking trousers-3 pairs7. Thermal wear-2 sets (legging and

vests)8. Long-sleeved hiking shirts-29. Light sweater-110. Warm sweater-111. Fleece wear-112. Woolen/fleece high-neck-213. Undergarments-614. Thin gloves-1 pair

15. Wind/waterproof gloves-1 pair16. Small face towel-217. Bath towel-118. Shawl-119. Muffler-120. Nose mask for dust free

breathing21. Buff to protect your throat and neck 22. Lungi or dhoti for Havan


Not-to-miss miscellaneous items

1. Bottles to collect holy water 2. Large plastic garbage bags to

protect your clothes from rain/dust-63. Hand and foot warmer4. Favourite snacks, nuts and dried fruits 5. Energy bars/chocolates6. Sweet candies 7. Money belt

Optional items

1. Whistle2. Pocket knife

3. Reading books 4. Daily diary 5. Music

Very important items

1. Rucksack/daypack (35-40 litre)-12. Water bottle-13. Thermo flask-14. Sunglasses with 100% UV protection5. Personal medicines if you are under any medication 6. Sunscreens 7. Antibacterial hand gel 8. Wet wipes 9. Moisturizer creams 10. Lip guard11. Headlamp with spare batteries


First Aid Medical Kit

1. Personal medicines if you are taking any2. Handy plast3. Bandages 4. Small & big cotton balls5. Antiseptic ointment6. 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.


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


• 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

2016For 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]

Hira Dhamala 5778, Durbar Marg, Ktm, Nepal +977 1 4233192/4233087 +977 9851035496 [email protected] www.karnaliexcursions.com, www.kailashtrekking.com

Sarla Dave (USA) 1940 E 170th PLACE, SOUTH HOLLAND, IL, 60473, USA +170 8895 6439 +170 8689 7848 [email protected]

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