Finding Myself in the Himalayas: 8 Days of Solo Thrill and Spirituality

By Om Deshpande | Solo Traveller | Budget Explorer | Mountain Lover

Introduction

Hi, I’m Om Deshpande — a passionate solo traveller on a budget. This 8-day journey to Rishikesh and Kedarnath was packed with adventure, spiritual energy, and self-growth. From river rafting to Himalayan trekking, it was a transformative experience.

Part 1: Rishikesh – Adventure Capital of India (Day 1–4)

Reaching Rishikesh on a Budget

Train to Haridwar (₹400), then a local bus to Rishikesh (₹60). I stayed in a riverside hostel in Tapovan for ₹350 per night.

• Total travel cost: ₹500
• Stay (4 nights): ₹1,400

Day 1: Exploring Tapovan and Laxman Jhula

Walked around vibrant Tapovan and Laxman Jhula, attended Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat, and soaked in the peaceful vibes by the river.

Day 2: River Rafting in the Ganges

Tackled a 16 km rafting route from Shivpuri, filled with adrenaline-pumping rapids and splashes. Unforgettable!

• Cost: ₹600
• Duration: ~2.5 hours

Day 3: Bungee Jumping – My Boldest Leap

Jumped 83 meters off India’s highest fixed platform by Jumpin Heights. Heart-stopping yet liberating!

• Cost: ₹3,700 (incl. video + certificate)
• Tip: Book online in advance

Day 4: Yoga and Chill

Relaxed with drop-in yoga sessions and riverside journaling. Perfect balance before my Himalayan trek.

Part 2: Kedarnath – Spiritual Strength & Mountain Might (Day 5–8)

Getting to Kedarnath

Took a shared jeep from Rishikesh to Sonprayag, with scenic stops at Rudraprayag and Guptkashi.

• Travel: ₹800
• Stay at Guptkashi: ₹300

Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath

Walked the 16–18 km trek starting early morning from Gaurikund. Surreal chants, snowy peaks, and devotion filled the air.

• Duration: 7–8 hours
• Stay at dharamshala: ₹300
• Meals: ₹80–₹100 per thali

Kedarnath Darshan

Visited the temple at sunrise. The peace, the aura, the spirituality — indescribable.

• Darshan: Free
• Pro Tip: Attend 4 AM aarti

Total Trip Budget (8 Days)

• Travel (Train + Jeep): ₹2,000
• Stay (8 nights): ₹2,400
• Food & Water: ₹1,200
• Rafting: ₹600
• Bungee Jump: ₹3,700
• Miscellaneous: ₹500
• Total: ₹10,400

Final Words

This solo trip was a mix of fear and faith, thrill and thought. Rishikesh taught me courage. Kedarnath gave me calm. You don’t need luxury — just a backpack, belief, and the guts to go.