Swaminarayan Trail Tour

Tour Overview

This meticulously crafted itinerary is for everyone who would like to integrate oneself to those places where Pujya Neelkantha Varni Swam Narayan had been and sanctified. The spiritual journey begins in Kathmandu, the city of gods and goddesses, medieval history and culture, and takes to Pulah Ashram, Bharat Ashram and Chhapaiya and eventually concludes in Delhi after visiting Akshardham Temple.

Tour Highlights

Following some of important same pathways of Pujya Swamynarayan

Pilgrimage to sacred Pulah Ashran (Muktinath) and Bharat Ashram (Galeshwordham)

Explore Kathmandu, the city of Gods, history and culture and Pokhara, the city of serenity

Visit Chhapaiya, the birthplace of Neelkantha Varni

Pilgrimage to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha

Visit Varanasi, the epicenter of Vedic education and ancient Sanatan culture

Day-to-day Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,300m) and transfer to hotel (Distance 8km/45 minutes drive)
You will be received at the International section of the Kathmandu airport and transferred to hotel immediately. After check-in, ease at leisure.

Day 02: Guided sightseeing
Guided sightseeing to Patan, the city of fine arts, Budhanilkantha (Jal Narayan) and Doleshwor temples. There will be a detailed briefing about the trip and its preparations in the evening.

Day 03: Fly to Pokhara (800m) and explore around 500m Descent and 25 minutes flight
Fly to Pokhara Airport and check-in to the hotel. After lunch, explore Barahi temple, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave and Gaighat where Neelkantha Varni Swamy Narayan had stayed for 4 days when he was on his way to Muktinath.

Day 04: Fly to Jomsom (2,680m) and drive to Muktinath (2,180m Ascent, 25 minutes flight, driving return journey distance (to go and come back) 44 Km, driving duration 1.5 hours each way)
We will fly to Jomsom by the morning flight and drive to Muktinath for holy bath, Puja and meditation. Visit the site where Neelakanthav Varni had done meditation for 4 months. We will drive back to Jomsom after having lunch at Muktinath. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 05: Drive to Kalopani (80m Descent, distance 35 Km, drive 2 hours)
After breakfast and visiting Swami Narayan Ashram near Jomsom, we will drive to Kalopani. This is one of the places from where one can see Annapurna I, the tenth highest mountain in the world. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 06: Drive to Pokhara via Bharat Ashram (Descent 1600m, distance 120Km, drive 6 hours)
After breakfast drive to Pokhara following the holy Kaligandaki River. On the way visit Bharat Ashram. Overnight stay in a hotel.

Day 07: Drive to Lumbini (Descent 550m, distance 165 km, duration 7 hour)
After early breakfast, drive to Lumbini, the birth place of Lord Buddha. Visit the birth place of Lord Buddha, Maya Devi temple, Peace Stupa and The sacred garden. Overnight stay in a hotel.

Day 08: Drive to Chhapaiya (Distance 206km, duration 7 hour)
Today we will enter from Nepal to India via Sunauli border. After driving 26 Km from Lumbini to Sunauli and completing border formalities on Nepal and India sides, we will continue driving to Chhapaiya, the birthplace of Neelkanth Varni.

Day 09: Drive to Varanasi (Distance 238km, duration 7 hour)
Early morning visit Chhapaiya and afternoon drive to Varanasi, the ancient city of Vedic culture and civilization.

Day 10: Sightseeing at Varanasi
We will visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Vishalakshi Temple; attend Ganga Aarati and we will do boating. There will also be sometime to stroll around.

Day 11: Fly to Delhi, visit Akshardham Temple
Today, we will fly to Delhi and check-in to hotel. After taking rest for sometime; we will visit Akshardham Temple and participate in various activities performed inside the temple.

Day 12: Trip concludes and final departure
Karnali Excursions will provide airport transfer.

Narmada Parikrama-Arunachal Sacred Hill-Pancha Mahabhoot Yatra

Yatra Tour Overview:

This is a well crafted itinerary of Pilgrimage Tour in India. This tour itinerary covers a complete circumambulation of holy Narmada parikrama and Pancha Mahabhoota temple tour. The profound spiritual journey begins and concludes in Ahmedabada. It is believed that this journey helps to transform and elevate oneself.

Yatra Highlights:

Complete Narmada Parikrama.

Visit all temples related to Pancha Mahabhoot.

Prayers and ritual dips in the sacred Ghats and holy temples.

Sacred Arunachal Hill Parikrama.

Day-to-day Yatra Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) and transfer to hotel.
You will arrive at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) as per your flight schedule. You will arrange your immediate transfer to hotel by yourself. Karnali representatives will deliver a detailed briefing about the immediate and further arrangements at the hotel lobby. You will stay overnight in a hotel on your own.

Day 02: Fly to Indore and drive to Omkareshwar (Flight 1 hour, Drive 80Km/2-3 hours)
After arrival at the Indore Airport, we will proceed towards Omkareshwar. After reaching and finishing check-in formalities, we will take rest at the hotel for a while. Later on, we will visit the Omkareshwar Ghat to have a holy bath in the Narmada River. We will visit the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple to offer your prayers. This is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The temple lures devotees of Lord Shiva from various parts of the world.

This will be followed by a visit to the Mamleshwar temple where we will fill Kalash/Pot with the holy water from River Narmada. Once done with basking the spiritual aura, we will return to the hotel. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Omkareshwar.

Day 03: Drive to Barwani-Shahada (250 Km/5-6 hours)
Today we will enjoy a road trip to Shahada. There will be a short halt en-route to Barwani where we will explore the holy temples in close proximity. Our journey resumes soon after we offer our prayers at the holy shrines. We will reach Shahada by evening.

After reaching and completing the check-in formalities, we will ease at leisure for a while. Later on, we will go for a sightseeing tour. We will explore the excavation site of Prakash Village. Another attraction of the town is a religious village, which is also known as Dakshin Kashi. It houses innumerable temples of Lord Shiva. We will take a tour of the Narmada Ghat in the evening and then we will proceed towards the hotel in Shahada.

Day 04: Drive to Ankleshwar (170 Km/4Hrs)
Today, we will head towards another pious destination, Ankleshwar after having our breakfast. After reaching Ankleshwar in Gujarat and checking-in at the hotel, we will go out for an excursion trip.

Flaunting the Jain Temples, the city holds very high religious significance. The next destination on the itinerary is Vamleshwar Katpur. The place is an important part of the Narmada Parikrama tour. Nestled on the confluence of the River Narmada and Arabian Sea, the destination is one of the must visit places during your trip. Marvel at the scenic views of the surroundings. From there, we will reach the Ankleshwar Ghat to attend the Puja Archana. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Ankleshwar.

Day 05: Drive to Baruch–Kukshi (255 Km/5 Hrs)
The day is reserved for a guided tour of Ankleshwar by boat. The destination is a pious city located in the Bharuch district. We will spend some time at leisure along the bank of Narmada River. Subsequently, delight in a boat ride to Vamleshwar and reach the conflux to offer some water that we collected and carried from Omkareshwar. We will fill the half empty Pot/Kalash from here. After paying homage, we will proceed towards Baruch to get escorted to Kukshi. We will enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel in Kukshi.

Day 06: Drive to Maheshwar (100 Km/2 Hrs)
After having a scrumptious breakfast and checking out, we will drive to Maheshwar. After completing check-in formalities and taking a rest, we will start exploring Maheshwar Fort and temples in the city. The rich historical legacy of the place grabs the attention of many. We will take a tour of the Ek Mukhi Datta Temple, Sahastrarjun Temple, Baneshwar Temple, and Rajrajeshwar Temple. We can also spend some time at the Ghats or enjoy a boat ride on Narmada River. We can also take a ritual dip in the river if we want to. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Maheshwar.

Day 07: Drive to Barwaha – Khategaon (210 Km/4 Hrs)
A daytrip to Khategaon via Nemawar is scheduled today for the Narmada Parikrama. After reaching to hotel, we will spend some time relaxing. Later on, we will be visiting famous attractions, starting with the Renuka Mata temple where we can offer our prayers. Then, we will be exploring the Balmukund Seva Aashram which lies in close proximity to the Nemawar Ghat. People going for the Panchkosi Yatra (Narmada Parikrama) can find the food and a place to stay here. From there, we can head towards the Narmada Ghat to attend the evening Aarti. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Khategaon.

Day 08: Drive to Nemawar – Bareli (180 Km/4 Hrs)
Today, after checking out from the hotel, well will proceed to Bareli. Bareli is a quite popular town in a Madhya Pradesh. After checking-in we will take a rest for some time and thereafter enjoy a trip to the nearby temple and the local market of Bareli. It is a one of the best places to buy souvenirs from the market and delight ourselves. We will spend ample time at the Narmada Ghat after seeking the blessings of the holy river by offering our prayers. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Bareli.

Day 09: Drive to Udaipura – Jabalpur (230 Km/6 Hrs)
After having breakfast, we will set out for a trip to Jabalpur. Today we will explore famous places like the Gwari Ghat, which holds a strong connection with Guru Nanak Dev ji, Bhedaghat and Madan Mahal Fort. We will also enjoy boating on the placid waters of River Narmada in Bhedaghat. We will visit Tripur Sundari Temple, home to a beautiful idol of Tripur Sundari Devi, which thought to be emerged right from the ground. The holy shrine presents a sight to behold. We will also observe amazing views of the surroundings from the Madan Mahal Fort. We will spend overnight stay in a hotel at Jabalpur.

Day 10: Drive to Shahdol – Amarkantak (230 Km/5Hrs)
The sacred Narmada Parikrama sojourn continues to Amarkantak today. En-route, there will be a quick stop over at Virateshwar Temple which falls in Sohagpur, Shahdol. Resume our journey to Amarkantak also known as the Tirthraj or the ‘King of Pilgrimages’. We will reach our desired destination by evening. Upon arrival, we will be comfortably transferred to the pre-decided hotel. Unwind ourselves and get ready to explore the Kapildhara Waterfall, Narmada Kund and nearby temples. Bask-in the tranquility that prevails in the surroundings. Spend some time in seclusion. After the tour, head back to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay at Amarkantak.

Day 11: Drive to Mandla (150 Km /4 Hrs)
Today we will be heading to Maa ki Bagiya Temple after our breakfast. Maa ki Bagiya is the place where devotees worship the Garden Goddess. The place is home to temple cum garden which was made in the honor of Goddess Narmada. This is followed by a visit to the Narmada Kund, a pious site in Amarkantak and one of the 51 Shakti Peethas of Maa Druga. We will offer some of the holy water we took in the beginning here and fill the partially empty pot from Amarkantak, origin point of the river. Later on, we will explore the places that lie in vicinity in Amarkantak. After lunch we will hit the road to Mandla. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Mandla.

Day 12: Drive to Narsinghpur (160 Km/4 Hrs)
After breakfast, we will proceed towards Narsinghpur. After having lunch, we will go to the nearby temple and also explore the sacred Ghats along the River Narmada. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Narsinghpur.

Day 13: Drive to Hoshangabad (175 / 4 Hrs)
After breakfast, we will make a road trip to Hoshangabad. Upon arrival, choose to spend some time close to the sacred Ghats on Narmada River or else, we will go to offer our prayers at the nearby temples. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Hoshangabad.

Day 14: Drive to Omkareshwar (245/6 Hrs)
We will attend the Aarti at the Narmada Ghat early in the morning and then return to the hotel for the breakfast. We will set out for our next destination, Omkareshwar, where we will be spending rest of the day. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Omkareshwar.

Day 15: Drive to Ujjain (140 Km/3 Hrs)
The holy Narmada Parikrama ends today. We will start the day with a holy bath at River Narmada. Afterwards, we will proceed with a visit to Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple. One of the holy 12 Jyotirlingas in India, the divine lingam, will be offered the holy water of the river that we have been carrying all through our journey. W will perform Puja-Archana to pay reverence to the divine powers for having successful completing our pilgrimage.

Later in the day, we will drive to Ujjain. On arrival, check-in at hotel. After freshening up, we will get ready to visit the Kaal Bhairav Baba Temple. The holy temple is dedicated to Bhairo Baba. This temple was erected by King Bhadrasen along the Kshipra River. While on darshan, we will perform the Puja-Archana. Next, we will continue towards the Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the 12 most popular Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also among the top 10 tantric temples of India, revered by Hindus. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Ujjain.

Day 16: Drive to Indore and fly to Chenai (Drive 64 Km/2 Hours and Flight 2 Hours, 25 Minutes)
Today is the final day of our Narmada Parikrama. After divine Bhasma Aarati (optional) at the Mahakaleshwar Temple and having breakfast, we will drive to Indore. After early dinner, we will fly to Chenai by 19:40 flight. It will be 22:05 Hours by the time when we reach Chenai. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Chenai.

Day 17: Drive to KANCHIPURAM (80Km/3Hrs)
After breakfast, we will drive to Kanchipuram and explore around. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Kanchipuram.

Day 18: Drive to Chidambaram (200Km/4.5Hrs)

In the early morning, we will visit to Ekambareshwar Temple.

Legend has it that once Parvati was doing tapas under the temple’s ancient Mango Tree. In order to test her devotion Lord Shiva sent fire on her. Goddess Parvati prayed to her brother, Lord Vishnu, for help. In order to save her, he took the Moon from Lord Shiva’s head and showed the rays which then cooled down the tree as well as Parvati. After that, Lord Shiva again sent the river Ganga to disrupt Parvati’s tapas. Parvati Devi prayed to Ganga and convinced her that both of them were sisters and so should not harm her. And so Ganga did not disturb her penance after that. Then Parvati made a Shiva Lingam out of sand and got united with Lord Shiva. Here we will have darshan of Prithivi Lingam.

After breakfast, we will proceed to Chidambaram. In the afternoon, we will visit to Pichavaram the second largest Mangrove forest in the world, near the temple town of Chidambaram. It is one of the unique Eco-tourism spots in South India. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Chidambaram.

Day 19: Drive to THANJAVUR – TRICHY (130 Km/ 4 Hrs)
In the early morning, we will visit to Thillai Nataraja Temple. The story of Chidambaram begins with the legend of Lord Shiva strolling into the Thillai Vanam (Vanam meaning forest and thillai trees, a species of mangrove trees which currently grows in the Pichavaram wetlands near Chidambaram. The temple sculptures depicting the Thillai trees date back to the 2nd century CE). Here, we will have darshan Aagaya Lingam (Akasha Lingam)

Late, we will drive to Thanjavur. Later in the afternoon we will visit the Thanjavur Palace most of which is in ruins housing the Tamil University Museum, the Art Gallery, and the Saraswati Mahal Library which houses palm leaf & paper manuscripts. Then, we will visit to Brihadeeshwara Temple, built in the 10th century by Raja Chola. It is considered to be artistically the most perfect of Dravida temples. Continue your drive to Trichy. In the evening optional visit Srirangam Temple. Srirangam is the foremost of the eight selfmanifested shrines (Swayam Vyakta Kshetras) of Lord Vishnu. It is also considered the first, foremost and the most important of the 108 main Vishnu temples (Divyadesams). This temple is also known as Thiruvaranga Tirupati, Periyakoil, Bhoologa Vaikundam, and sand Bhogamandabam. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Trichy.

Day 20: Drive to TIRUVANNAMALAI (185 Km/4 Hrs)
After breakfast, we will visit to The Jambukeshwar temple which is in Tiruvanaikava. The Shiva Lingam here signifies the element water. This ancient temple is dedicated to Shiva and Parvati. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Jambukeshwar and goddess Parvati is worshipped here as Akhilandeshwari. Here we will have darshan of Appulinga.

After the visit, we will drive to Thiruvannamalai. Later in the afternoon, we will visit to Sathanur Dam, Thiruvannamalai. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Tiruvanamalai.

Day 21: Arunachal Hill Parikrama
Today, we will walk around the sacred Arunachal Hill and perform a complete Parikrama (Circumambulation). We will spend whole day circumambulating the sacred Arunachal Hill and offering our prayers in the temple associated to this place. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Trivunnamalai.

Day 22: Drive to Srikalahasti (225 Km/5 Hrs)
In the early morning, we will visit to The Annamalaiyar temple which is in the town of Tiruvannamalai in the state of Tamil Nadu. The Shiva Linga here resents the element fire. It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared here in his Ardhanarishwar form to bless his devotees. Here we will have darshan of Agni Linga.

Shiva is known by devotees as Annamalayar or Arunachaleswarar. And this is believed to be the largest temple in the world dedicated to Shiva. The history of this Annamalayar temple dates back to thousand years. Mention has been made in the Thevaram and Thiruvasagam, both great works in Tamil.

After having breakfast at the hotel, we will continue driving to Srikalahasti. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Srikalahasti.

Day 23: Drive to CHENNAI (116Km/3 Hrs) and fly to Ahmedabad
In the early morning, we will visit to Srikalahasti Temple. The fourth temple is Srikalahasti temple which is situated in Chitoor district of the state of Andhra Pradesh. The Shivalinga here represents the element air. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Srikalahastishwar and goddess Parvati is worshipped here as Gnanaprasunambika. The temple is also regarded as Rahu-Ketu kshetra and Dakshina Kasi. The inner temple was constructed around 5th century and the outer temple was constructed in the 12th century by the Chola kings and the Vijayanagara kings. Lord Shiva in his aspect as Vayu is worshiped as Kalahasteeswara. Here you darshan Vayu Lingam.

After visiting temple, we will drive to Chenai for our flight to Ahmedabad. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Ahmedabad.

Day 24: Trip concludes and proceed for your onward journey.
Karnali Excursions will provide airport transfer.

Muktinath Darshan Tour

Tour Overview:

Muktinath is considered as one of the holiest Divya Dhams in the world for Sanatan Dharmis. It is located in the trans-Himalayan region and on the lap of towering Annapurna peaks. Muktinath is combination of two Sanskrit words: Mukti (salvation) and Nath (lord). So, literally, Muktinath means the lord of salvation. Muktinath is the place where lord Vishnu himself was liberated from the curse given by Vrinda, Jalandhar’s wife. Thus, devout Hindu followers make a pilgrimage to Muktinath believing their sin of a lifetime is cleansed after worship. Neelkantha varni Swaminarayan and Padmasambhav have also visited and sanctified the site.

Tour Highlights

Darshan of Muktinath, Pashupatinath, Manakamana Maata and other holy places.

Enjoy serenity of Pokhara and boating on Fewa Lake.

Capture mesmerizing views of towering Himalayan peaks.

Day-to-day detailed itinerary:

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel (1,350m/4,428ft)
One of Karnali representatives will receive at the Kathmandu Airport and arrange immediate transfer to hotel. A detailed about immediate arrangements and Muktinath Darshan will be delivered before dinner. You will spend overnight in a hotel on full board basis.

Day 02: Drive to Pokhara, en-route visit Makamana Temple
After having breakfast, you will commence your journey to Pokhara on a private vehicle. It takes 2.5-3 hours to reach Makamana Maata Temple. It is believed that wishes of visiting pilgrims are fulfilled. After worshipping at the temple and having lunch at the Manakamana Cafe, you will continue driving to Pokhara, the city of serenity and beauty. You will spend overnight in a hotel in Pokhara on full board basis.

Day 03: Fly to Jomsom and drive to Muktinath (3,800m/12,464ft)
You will to Jomsom by the earliest flight and then drive to Muktinath. As the name Muktinath suggests, it is the place of salvation. It is believed that those who make pilgrimage to Muktinath are liberated from all sins of a lifetime. Jwala Mai and Paduka of Neelkantha Varni Swaminarayan are other sacred sites in the vicinity. After visiting sacred sites and worshipping at Muktinath, you will drive to Kagbeni where it is possible to find real Saligrama by yourself. After offering tarpana, you will drive to Jomsom where you will spend overnight in a local lodge on full board basis.

Day 04: Fly to Pokhara and explore around
You will return to Pokhara by the earliest flight. After settling in the hotel, you will be taken out to explore some of major highlights of the Pokhara, notably Fewa Lake, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, Davi’s Fall and Bindavashini Temple. You will spend overnight in a hotel in Pokhara on full board basis.

Day 05: Fly to Kathmadu and visit Pashupatinath Temple for evening Aarati
You will fly to Kathmandu as per your flight schedule and settle in the hotel. You will have Darshan of Pashupatinath and attend evening Aarati. You will spend overnight in a hotel on full board basis.

Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra with Everest Basecamp 2023

(The Ultimate Destination for the Realization of Satyam, Shivam & Sundaram)

“As the dew is dried up by the morning sun, so are the sins of human beings by the sight of Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar” – Skanda Purana”

Yatra Overview:

Holy Mount Kailash is believed as an important pilgrimage destination as well as a power point, where it is possible to gain inspiration and energy to transform oneself from this physical to higher spiritual level. The custom of circumambulating Mount Kailash is believed to purify the soul and cultivate in each visiting pilgrim the ability to experience the divinity. The experience is elevating and inspiring, and many pilgrims return to their homes with feeling of exaltation and spiritual inspiration.

Karnali Excursions is one of the first tour agencies in Nepal to offer pilgrimage to Holy Mount Kailash in 1993, when China opened its doors to tourism. Ever the since, it has been organizing a well-organized and spiritually fulfilling experience for those who join with us for this pilgrimage of a lifetime.

Here are some of the little things we offer that make our pilgrimage special, meaningful and different than other tour companies.

We teach yoga and pranayam, which help to acclimatize in high altitude.
We perform morning and evening prayers followed by Bhajans and Kirtans.
We demonstrate walking, trekking, eating and sleeping techniques during the entire journey.
We provide personal escort to senior citizens, and those who need extra support.
Medically trained Karnali senior leaders join as facilitators and team leaders.
We serve North Indian, Chinese, Gujrati and South Indian pure vegetarian meals.

Yatra Highlights

Darshan of highly revered Pashupatinath and perform Rudravishek.

Darshan of Doleshwor Mahadev (head part of Kedarnath).

A journey from holy city to the holiest mountain (explore the best of Lhasa).

Pilgrimage to sacred Lake Mansarovar, holy Mt. Kailash and Tirthapuri.

Nandi and Asthapada Darshan.

Lake Mansarovar Parikrama by tourist coach.

Magnificent view of the North Face of the Mt. Everest.

Day-to-day brief itinerary:

Day 01: Arrive at the Kathmandu airport and transfer to hotel.
Day 02: Guided sightseeing to explore some major attractions of Kathmandu and briefing on Kailash-Mansarovar trip.
Day 03: Rudravishek, Puja, Pashupatinath Darshan and trip preparation.
Day 04: Fly to Lhasa Gonggar Airport (75 minute flight) and drive (1.5 hour) to Lhasa (3,550m).
Day 05: A day in Lhasa for sightseeing and acclimatization.
Day 06: Drive (5-6 hours) to Shigatse (3,900m).
Day 07: Drive (8-9 hours) to Saga (4,450m).
Day 08: Drive (8-9 hours) to Mansarovar Lake (4,588m).
Day 09: Havan, Holy bath in the Mansarovar Lake and rest day (4,588m).
Day 10: Drive (3-4 hours) to Tirthapuri, explore around and return to Darchen (4,700m).
Day 11: Kailash circumambulation starting day: Drive to Yamadwara and commence trekking (4-5 hours) to Driraphuk (4,920m).
Day 12: Cross over the Dolma La Pass (5650m) and trek (7-8 hours) to Zutulphuk after having darshan of Gaurikunda (4,800m).
Day 13: Trek (2.5-3 hours) to Tangsar (Shree Kailash circumambulation concludes here) and drive to Saga (4,450m) after having lunch at Darchen.
Day 14: Drive (6-7 hours) to Rongbuk Monastery (4,980m) and explore Everest Basecamp North.
Day 15: Drive to Kerung Border and fly to Kathmandu by helicopter.
Day 16: Trip concludes and depart for onward journey.

Karnali Excursions Brochure 2023

Download : Karnali Excursions Brochure 2023

Char Dham Yatra 2024

Fixed Departure Dates for 2023

October	Arrival in Delhi	Return Home
	04 October 2024	18 October 2024

YATRA OVERVIEW:

India is a big subject, with a diversity of cultures 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, nourished her people and sustained 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, we will find in India an endless storehouse of culture and tradition amidst all the development of the 21st century!

Trip Highlights

A complete darshan of Char Dham: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedharnath and Badrinath.

Visit the holy places of Rishikesh, Haridwar, Uttar Kashi, Gupta Kashi and Gaumukha.

Pancha Prayag, the five holy confluences (Dev, Rudra, Karna, Narad and Vishnu Prayag).

Garhwal parts of the Himalaya & Mana Gaun, the last village of India.

Visit Surya Kund, Divya Shila, Tap Kund, Narad Kund and Vyash Gupha etc.

DAY-TO-DAY DETAILED ITINERARY:

Day 01: Arrive at the Delhi Airport and transfer to the hotel
One of the Karnali representatives will meet/greet at the Delhi Airport. He will arrange an immediate transfer to the hotel. Karnali’s team leader will deliver a detailed briefing on immediate and further arrangements. We will spend overnight in a tourist standard hotel on full board basis.

Day 02: Drive to Haridwar
After breakfast, we will commence our scenic vehicular journey to Haridwar, the gateway to heaven. The driving distance is 206 km and it takes 5-6 hours to reach Haridwar. After settling in the hotel and being freshened up, we will visit some of the important temples of Haridwar and attend Evening Ganga Aarti. We will spend overnight in a tourist standard hotel in Haridwar on full board basis.

Day 03: Drive to Barkot
After early breakfast and exploring major not-to-miss places of Haridwar, we will drive to Barkot. The driving distance is 170km, but it takes 8 hours to reach Barkot. We will spend overnight in a tourist standard hotel or Tent House on full board basis.

Day 04: A side trip to Yamunotri (Barkot-Yamunotri-Barkot)
After breakfast, we will drive to Janaki Chatti (84km) via Hanuman Chatti and Phool Chatti. And then, we will start trekking 6 km to Yamunotri, where we will take a holy dip in the Garam Kund. We will also perform Puja and Darshan of Shree Yamuna jee. After performing Puja and having Darshan of Shree Yamuna jee, we will retrace our journey back to Janaki Chatti and then drive back to Barkot. We will spend overnight in the same hotel on full board basis.

Day 05: Drive to Harshil
Today, we will drive to Harshil (172km) via Utter Kashi, which takes approximately 9 hours. En route, we will also visit Prakateshwar Cave. We will spend overnight in a hotel on full board basis.

Day 06: Drive to Gangotri and trek to Gaumukh
After having early breakfast, we will drive to Gangotri. It takes an hour to reach Gangotri where we will have Darshan of Gangotri Temple. After Darshan, we will commence trekking to Gaumukh and return to Bhoj- Basa (22 km in total). We will spend overnight in a guesthouse at Bhoj-Basa.

Day 07: Trek back to Gangotri and drive to Uttar Kashi
We will trek back to Gangotri (14km), and then, we will drive to Uttar Kashi. Utter Kashi is situated on the bank of Holy Bhagirathi Ganga, and the temple of Lord Vishwanath is located here. The massive iron trident is the special attraction of Lord Vishwanath Temple. We will spend overnight in a hotel at Uttar Kashi.

Day 08: Drive to Gupta Kashi
After breakfast, we will drive to Tehri Dam, and from there on, we will continue driving to Gupta Kashi (225km). We will spend overnight in a tourist standard hotel at Gupta Kashi on full board basis.

Day 09: Helicopter Ride to Kedarnath
Today is one of the important days of our Char Dham Yatra as we will fly to Kedarnath by helicopter and visit the major holy shrines of Kedarnath. We will attend the evening Aarti of Kedarnath. We will spend overnight in a guesthouse at Kedarnath on full board basis.

Day 10: Fly back to Gupta Kashi and trek to Rudra Prayag/Pipalkoti
After performing morning Pujas, and rituals and having Darshan at the temples, we will fly to Gupta Kashi. We will drive to Rudra Prayag/Pipalkoti (157km). We will spend overnight in a hotel on full board basis.

Day 11: Drive to Badrinath
After breakfast, we will commence our vehicular journey to Badrinath (72km) from Rudra Prayag/Pipalkoti. En route, we will also visit Narsimha Temple. After settling in the hotel and having lunch, we will visit Badrinath Temple and have Holy Darshan. After darshan, we will spend our time exploring the Mana Village, the last village before the Tibetan border. We will also have Darshan of Vyas Gupha, Bhim Pul, and Saraswati River. We will spend overnight in a hotel on full board basis.

Day 12: Drive to Srinagar/Dev Prayag
Today, after breakfast, we will drive to Dev Prayag (222km/9 hours), which is a town and a “Nagar Panchayat” in Tehri Garhwal district, in the state of Uttarakhand. Dev Prayag is one of the Pancha Prayags (Five confluences) of the Alakananda River, where the Alakananda and Bhagirathi Ganga rivers meet, and from here take the name Ganga or Holy River Ganges. We will spend overnight in a tourist standard hotel on full board basis.

Day 13: Drive to Rishikesh
After breakfast, we will drive back to Rishikesh. Once again, we will attend the evening Aarti in Rishikesh.
For those who are wishing to experience rafting on the Ganga River, can be arranged (optional). We will spend overnight in the hotel on full board basis.

Day 14: Explore Rishikesh

We will spend time in Rishikesh to explore the spiritual zones and holy places of Rishikesh then rest.

Day 15: Drive to Delhi
We will drive back to Delhi after breakfast. If time permits, we will explore Akshardham Temple as well. We will spend overnight in a hotel on full board basis.

Day 16: Depart for onward journey
Karnali Excursions will provide a vehicle for airport transfer.

For further information and assistance, please contact us.

Nepal Pilgrimage Tour

Nepal abounds in Holy sites and many of them are little known outside of Nepal. If one references the Vedic literature, especially the Puranas, we find uncountable places associated with the stories of the Rishis and Devattas. Because Nepal is largely composed of the Himalayas, many places require a bit of effort to visit and are just tremendously inspirational by both Vedic association and by the beauty of the Himalayas.

Nepal is divided into two spiritual zones (mandalas). The western zone of the Nepali Himalayas is known as Mukti-Kshetra and the eastern zone (mandala) is known as Pashupat-Kshetra. The origin of the Kali Gandakhi River is in the Mukhti-Kshetra at Damodhara Kunda… The origin of the Trishuli River is at Gosain Kunda in the Pashupat-Kshetra.

These two Holy rivers abound with Holy sites and merge in a confluence at Dev Ghat in the Nepali Terai. Dev Ghat is the ‘Adi-Prayag’. The place where the Devattas go for their Holy Bathing and is also called Hari-Har Kshetra… the place where lord Shiva and Mother Parvati and all their attendant Devotes like to stay and where Lord Vishnu and Mother Laxmi also like to reside. Dev Ghat is the place the Devattas come to take their Holy Bath in relation to Allahabad where the mortals go to take their Holy Bath at the Sangam of the Ganges and the Yamuna Rivers. It should be noted that ALL the holy Rivers of Nepal eventually join merger into the Holy Ganges and are part of the origination of the Ganges.

This is also according to legend the actual place where Mother Sita entered the earth and just across the Kali Gandaki River is the place legend has it that Veda Vyasa composed and organized the Vedas and Puranas. It is in the Kali Gandaki River that the Holy Shaligram Stones are found that are worshiped in every devout Hindu home.

The Himavat Khanda of Skanda Purana lists 64 JyotirLingas as being found in Nepal. In addition there are Vedic references to 8 places of Kumbha Mela found in Nepal in addition to the 4 well known locations in India.

So, if one wishes to explore Nepal, the Holy places are virtually uncountable and as they are not much exposed, they retain their original and unexploited nature.

Depending on the interest, there are so many wonderful T.V. shows and documentaries that could be made about these places.

Trip Highlights

Visit to Pashupatinath Temple, Janakpur Dham, Valmiki Ashram, Lumbini, Muktinath Temple, Damodar Kund/Kagbhusundi Lake and Manakamana Temple

Scenic overland journey

Wildlife safari in Chitwan

Download – Nepal Pilgrimage Tour Brochure

Kailash Pilgrimage

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