Char Dham Yatra is one of the most important pilgrimages in India. It includes four holy sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These temples are located in Uttarakhand, in the Himalayas. Every year, thousands of devotees visit these shrines to seek blessings.
Best Time to Visit
The Char Dham temples open in summer (April or May) and close in winter (October or November). The best time to visit is from May to June and September to October. Avoid monsoon season (July and August) due to heavy rainfall and landslides.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
- By Train: The closest railway stations are in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun.
- By Road: Well-connected by road, you can take buses, taxis, or hire private vehicles from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun.
Destinations in Char Dham Yatra
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Yamunotri (Temple of Goddess Yamuna)
- Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna River and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna.
- The temple is located at an altitude of 3,293 meters.
- Pilgrims begin their trek from Janki Chatti, a 6 km trek to the temple.
- Hot water springs, especially Surya Kund, are a major attraction.
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Gangotri (Temple of Goddess Ganga)
- Gangotri is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, the holiest river in India.
- Located at an altitude of 3,100 meters, the temple stands on the banks of the Bhagirathi River.
- It is believed that King Bhagirath performed penance here to bring Ganga to Earth.
- The Gaumukh Glacier, the actual source of the Ganges, is 19 km from Gangotri.
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Kedarnath (Temple of Lord Shiva)
- Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- It is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas.
- The temple is accessible after a 16 km trek from Gaurikund.
- The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas and later revived by Adi Shankaracharya.
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Badrinath (Temple of Lord Vishnu)
- Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is the most important of the Char Dham sites.
- Located at an altitude of 3,300 meters, it lies between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges.
- The idol of Lord Vishnu is found in a meditative posture.
- The Tapt Kund, a hot water spring, is considered sacred for bathing before darshan.
Route and Itinerary
Many travelers complete the yatra in 10-12 days. Helicopter services are also available for those who prefer a faster journey.
Important Travel Tips
- Get medical check-ups before the journey, as the high altitude can be challenging.
- Carry warm clothes, comfortable trekking shoes, raincoats, and medicines.
- Book hotels and transport in advance, especially in peak season.
- Follow eco-friendly travel practices and respect local customs.
- Acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness, especially in Kedarnath.
Accommodation
There are many hotels, guesthouses, and dharamshalas available at all four temples. Basic and luxury stays are available, but advance booking is recommended.
Registration and Permits
- Registration for Char Dham Yatra is mandatory.
- You can register online on the Uttarakhand Tourism website or at designated centers.
- Biometric registration is also required for safety.
Food Options
Simple vegetarian food is available at dhabas and hotels. Many places also offer free meals (langar) to pilgrims.
Char Dham Yatra is a sacred journey filled with spiritual and scenic beauty. Plan well, stay safe, and enjoy the divine experience in the lap of the Himalayas.