Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is one of the most revered spiritual journeys in India. Covering four sacred shrines—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—this pilgrimage attracts thousands of devotees every year. Whether you’re a religious traveler or a nature enthusiast, this guide will provide you with all the essential details to plan your Char Dham Yatra effectively
Why Undertake the Char Dham Yatra?
- Spiritual Significance: These four dhams are believed to be the gateway to salvation (Moksha).
- Scenic Beauty: The journey takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas.
- Mythological Importance: Each site is linked to Hindu mythology and holds deep religious relevance.
Best Time to Visit Char Dham Yatra
The Char Dham Yatra typically starts in April-May and continues until October-November. The best months to undertake the journey are May-June and September-October, as the weather is pleasant and roads remain accessible.
Avoid: Monsoon season (July-August) due to landslides and road blockages.
Route Map and How to Reach
The Char Dham Yatra can be covered in the following order:
- Yamunotri → 2. Gangotri → 3. Kedarnath → 4. Badrinath
Nearest Transport Hubs:
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (nearest airport)
- By Train: Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun (nearest railway stations)
- By Road: Well-connected road network from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun
Route Breakdown:
- Haridwar/Rishikesh to Yamunotri: 220 km drive + 6 km trek
- Yamunotri to Gangotri: 228 km drive
- Gangotri to Kedarnath: 260 km drive + 18 km trek
- Kedarnath to Badrinath: 230 km drive
Complete Itinerary for Char Dham Yatra
Day 1: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Barkot
- Travel Distance: 180 km (approx. 6-7 hours)
- Stay overnight at Barkot
Day 2: Barkot to Yamunotri and Return
- Drive to Janki Chatti (36 km) and trek 6 km to Yamunotri
- Visit Yamunotri Temple, Surya Kund, and Divya Shila
- Return to Barkot for an overnight stay
Day 3: Barkot to Uttarkashi
- Travel Distance: 80 km (approx. 4 hours)
- Visit Vishwanath Temple in Uttarkashi
Day 4: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and Return
- Travel Distance: 100 km (each way)
- Visit Gangotri Temple and take a holy dip in the Bhagirathi River
- Return to Uttarkashi for an overnight stay
Day 5: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi
- Travel Distance: 220 km (approx. 8-9 hours)
- Stay overnight at Guptkashi
- Drive to Gaurikund (30 km) and trek 18 km to Kedarnath
- Visit Kedarnath Temple and stay overnight at Kedarnath
Day 7: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
- Return trek and drive back to Guptkashi
Day 8: Guptkashi to Badrinath
- Travel Distance: 230 km (approx. 9-10 hours)
- Visit Badrinath Temple, Tapt Kund, and Mana Village
Day 9: Badrinath to Rishikesh/Haridwar
- Travel Distance: 320 km (approx. 10-12 hours)
- End of Yatra
Accommodation and Food
- Hotels & Guest Houses: Available in all major stops (Barkot, Uttarkashi, Guptkashi, etc.)
- Dharamshalas: Budget-friendly stays near temples
- Food: Mostly vegetarian; local Garhwali cuisine is available
Essential Tips for Char Dham Yatra
- Physical Fitness: The trek to Kedarnath and Yamunotri requires endurance.
- Clothing: Carry warm clothes as temperatures drop in the mountains.
- Medical Kit: Carry essential medicines for altitude sickness, fever, and stomach ailments.
- Booking: Pre-book hotels and helicopter services (for Kedarnath) in advance.
Permits: Register for the yatra on the official Uttarakhand tourism website
Conclusion
The Char Dham Yatra is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience. Whether you’re seeking divine blessings or mesmerizing Himalayan views, this guide provides all the necessary details to make your journey smooth and memorable. Start planning today and embark on this sacred pilgrimage in the lap of nature!