Season (Best Time to Go!)
- Summer (May-Jun)
- Autumn (Sept-Oct)
OVERVIEW
The Chardham Yatra is a revered pilgrimage in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, encompassing four sacred Hindu shrines located amidst the majestic Garhwal Himalayas. This spiritual journey is believed to cleanse the soul and bestow divine blessings upon pilgrims who embark on this sacred odyssey.
- Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar/Rishikesh
Arrive in Haridwar or Rishikesh, the starting points of the Chardham Yatra. These ancient cities situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges welcome pilgrims with their spiritual aura and serene ambiance. Check into your hotel or guesthouse and attend the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening. Overnight stay in Haridwar or Rishikesh. - Day 2: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Barkot
After breakfast, embark on a picturesque drive to Barkot, a scenic town located at the foothills of the Himalayas (approximately 6-7 hours). En route, stop at the magnificent Kempty Falls for a refreshing break. Upon arrival in Barkot, check into your accommodation and relax amidst the natural beauty of this serene destination. Overnight stay in Barkot. - Day 3: Barkot to Yamunotri and back to Barkot
Early morning, drive to Janki Chatti and start your trek or pony ride to Yamunotri, the source of the Yamuna River (approximately 5-6 km trek). Visit the sacred Yamunotri Temple and take a dip in the rejuvenating hot water spring, Surya Kund. After darshan, trek back to Janki Chatti and drive back to Barkot. Overnight stay in Barkot. - Day 4: Barkot to Uttarkashi
Depart from Barkot and drive to Uttarkashi, a quaint town situated on the banks of river Bhagirathi (approximately 5-6 hours). Visit the ancient Vishwanath Temple and other local attractions in Uttarkashi. Check into your hotel and unwind amidst the serene surroundings. Overnight stay in Uttarkashi. - Day 5: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and back to Uttarkashi
Early morning, drive to Gangotri, the origin of the sacred river Ganges (approximately 4-5 hours). Pay homage at the Gangotri Temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga and take a holy dip in the icy waters of the Bhagirathi River. Return to Uttarkashi in the evening. Overnight stay in Uttarkashi. - Day 6: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi
Depart from Uttarkashi and drive to Guptkashi, a significant stopover en route to Kedarnath (approximately 7-8 hours). En route, admire the breathtaking views of the Tehri Dam and surrounding landscapes. Check into your accommodation upon arrival in Guptkashi and relax amidst the tranquil environment. Overnight stay in Guptkashi. - Day 7: Guptkashi to Kedarnath
Early morning, drive to Gaurikund and start your trek or helicopter ride to Kedarnath, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva (approximately 16 km trek). Visit the revered Kedarnath Temple and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. Experience the divine aura of this sacred place surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Overnight stay in Kedarnath. - Day 8: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
After morning darshan and puja at Kedarnath Temple, trek down to Gaurikund and drive back to Guptkashi. Relax and rejuvenate amidst the tranquil surroundings of Guptkashi. Overnight stay in Guptkashi. - Day 9: Guptkashi to Badrinath
Depart from Guptkashi and drive to Badrinath, the abode of Lord Vishnu (approximately 7-8 hours). En route, visit the picturesque Mana Village, the last village before the India-China border. Visit the iconic Badrinath Temple and take a holy dip in the Tapt Kund. Explore nearby attractions like Mana Village and Bheem Pul. Overnight stay in Badrinath. - Day 10: Badrinath to Rudraprayag
Attend the morning puja at Badrinath Temple and explore the spiritual ambiance of this revered shrine. Drive back to Rudraprayag (approximately 3-4 hours) and visit the confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. Check into your hotel in Rudraprayag and relax amidst the serene surroundings. Overnight stay in Rudraprayag. - Day 11: Rudraprayag to Rishikesh
Depart from Rudraprayag and drive back to Rishikesh (approximately 5-6 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of Uttarakhand. Check into your hotel in Rishikesh and explore the vibrant town known for its spiritual vibes. Overnight stay in Rishikesh. - Day 12: Departure from Rishikesh
After breakfast, depart from Rishikesh for your onward journey, carrying divine blessings and cherished memories of the sacred Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand.
Embark on the Chardham Yatra to seek spiritual enlightenment and experience the divine essence of the Himalayas amidst these sacred pilgrimage sites. This itinerary offers a comprehensive journey covering the four revered shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, providing a transformative experience in the lap of nature and spirituality. Note that this itinerary can be customized based on your preferences and travel arrangements.
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FAQ's
The Char Dham Yatra refers to the pilgrimage to four sacred Hindu shrines located in Uttarakhand, India: Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. These sites are considered highly revered among Hindu devotees.
The Char Dham pilgrimage is believed to cleanse devotees of their sins and bring spiritual liberation (moksha). It is considered a sacred journey that every devout Hindu aspires to undertake at least once in their lifetime.
The best time for the Char Dham Yatra is typically from April/May to October/November when the weather is favorable and the pilgrimage sites are accessible. The yatra is usually closed during winter due to heavy snowfall.
Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (divine light manifestations). It is situated amidst majestic snow-capped peaks and is accessible via a trek from Gaurikund.
Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the Char Dham sites. It is located on the banks of the Alaknanda River and is believed to be one of the 108 Divya Desams (sacred Vishnu temples).
Gangotri is the source of the River Ganges (Bhagirathi) and is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. It is situated amidst stunning Himalayan landscapes and is visited by devotees seeking the blessings of the sacred river.
Yamunotri is the source of the River Yamuna and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. It is located in the Garhwal Himalayas and is accessible via a trek from Hanuman Chatti.
Preparation involves physical fitness training, obtaining necessary permits and registrations, packing essential clothing and gear, and familiarizing oneself with the routes and accommodation options.
The yatra can be undertaken by road, with vehicles plying up to the base camps of each shrine. Helicopter services are also available for those seeking a faster and more comfortable journey.
Accommodation options range from budget lodges and guesthouses to more comfortable hotels and dharamshalas (pilgrims' rest houses) near each pilgrimage site. Pre-booking is advisable during peak season.
Safety considerations include acclimatization to high altitudes, carrying necessary medications, staying hydrated, respecting local customs and traditions, and following instructions from tour guides.
Medical facilities are available at base camps and nearby towns. However, it's advisable to carry a basic first aid kit and any prescribed medications.
The yatra offers rich cultural experiences, including attending evening aarti ceremonies, interacting with local priests and devotees, and participating in religious rituals at the temples.
Documents To Carry
- 4 x Passport size photographs.
- Driving License Original.
- If bringing your own bike, all documents related to your bike should be brought.
- Photo & address identity proofs that are issued by the Government of India like Driving License, Passport, Voter ID (PAN card will not be considered as a valid address proof).
