The most awaited day! We start early by taking a shuttle from Sonprayag to Gaurikund, but please note—during peak season, there can be a queue for the shuttle that may take approximately 1–2 hours. So, patience and an early start are key. Before heading out, we leave our extra luggage safely at the Sonprayag hotel, carrying only what’s needed for the Kedarnath night stay.

From Gaurikund, we begin our 16 km spiritual trek to Kedarnath. The trail is alive with chants of “Har Har Mahadev”, the sound of river Mandakini, and the devotion of fellow yatris. For those who need assistance, horses and palkis are available. By late afternoon or evening, we reach Kedarnath and check into our simple yet cozy guesthouse located close to the temple. After darshan, we sit together for a quiet moment—soaking in the divinity, mountain silence, and the deep satisfaction of having reached Baba Kedar’s doorstep.

We wake up early and gather near the temple for the beautiful morning aarti at Kedarnath—a truly divine and unforgettable moment. After darshan, we take some time to click a few group photos to cherish this incredible experience. Then, we visit the nearby Bhairavnath Temple, perched on a small ridge with panoramic views of the Kedarnath valley. We'll also take a short walk to see the grand statue of Adi Shankaracharya and the famous Bheem Shila, the giant boulder said to have saved the temple during the 2013 floods.

By around 11:00 AM, we begin our descent back down the 16 km trail to Gaurikund, surrounded by chants, wind, and the quiet rhythm of the Himalayas. After reaching Gaurikund, we take the shuttle back to Sonprayag. The evening is for rest, reflection, and some well-earned relaxation after the spiritual and physical challenge of Kedarnath.

After breakfast, we begin our return journey to Haridwar. The drive is long but scenic, with optional stops for photos, tea breaks, and the confluence of rivers. As we reach Haridwar by evening, the spirit of Kedarnath travels with us—etched in memory and soul.