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Overview
The Chardham Yatra is one of the most sacred and revered pilgrimages in Hinduism, encompassing four holy sites located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. These four sites are Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, each holding significant religious importance.
Here's an overview of each of the four pilgrimage sites:
Yamunotri: Located at an altitude of 3,293 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas, Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna River. The main attraction here is the Yamunotri temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Pilgrims undertake a challenging trek of around 6 kilometers from Janki Chatti to reach the temple.
Gangotri: Situated at an altitude of 3,100 meters in the Uttarkashi district, Gangotri is where the holy River Ganges originates. The Gangotri temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, is the focal point of this pilgrimage site. Pilgrims travel around 19 kilometers from Gangotri town to reach the temple.
Kedarnath: Nestled in the Rudraprayag district at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Kedarnath temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, holds immense significance. Pilgrims have to trek for around 16 kilometers from Gaurikund or can use pony and palanquin services available there.
Badrinath: Situated at an altitude of 3,133 meters in the Chamoli district, Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Badrinath temple, also known as Badri Vishal, is a significant pilgrimage site. It is accessible by road, unlike the other three sites.
The Chardham Yatra typically starts from Yamunotri and proceeds to Gangotri, then Kedarnath, and finally concludes at Badrinath. The yatra usually commences in April-May and continues until October-November, with the exact dates determined by Hindu lunar calendars.
Pilgrims undertake this journey not only for spiritual fulfillment but also to witness the breathtaking natural beauty of the Himalayan region. The yatra attracts devotees and tourists from all over India and beyond, making it one of the most significant religious and cultural events in the country.
Important Expert Travel Tips for Chardham
- While visiting Hindu mythological sites, shrines and temples, one should remove shoes and cover head with a piece of cloth before entering the Holy Place.
- Do carry your personal daily use products toiletries, creams, moisturizers, sunscreen etc. Pack a medical kit with painkillers, antibiotics, cough lozenges, Antiseptic cream, Iodine, tube-squeeze cream and medicines for cold and fever. Carry your routine medicines, as you might find only limited and general medicine at such remote locations.
- Carry dark chocolates, dry fruits, Glucose (Glucon D), toffees. They will provide your instant energy during the trekking and during long jams.
- It can rain anytime here, so it is mandatory to carry an umbrella and raincoat along with your rain shoes.
- To protect yourself from the cold winds here, carry a windcheater, woolen socks, monkey caps and a muffler. These will enable you to withstand the chill that comes with wind on the upper Himalayan region.
- When asking for directions, speak to shopkeepers, not pedestrians. Check with at least two persons or more.
- Do not take pictures if cameras are not allowed in any particular area. Do not play with the sentiments of any particular religion.
- At least a month before the Yatra, it is advisable to start preparatory exercises for the trip 4 months in advance.
- Though self-managed tours happen to be economical, it is advisable for your Chardham yatra to go for a guided tour arranged by an expert local travel agent.
- Carry extra batteries and films for your camera, as electricity is not regular in such remote places.
- Avoid traveling in the rainy season as there are a lot of landslides during that time.
- Book your trip well in advance if you are travelling close to the temple opening dates, there is a heavy rush of pilgrims.
- Alcohol or non-vegetarian food is not permitted during Char Dham Yatra Tour.
- Drink packaged water or boiled water only.
- Accommodation Expectation: The provided hotels are of a standard Category unless you have booked Deluxe / Luxury package. Expect Basic Home stay / Guest houses in Kedarnath.
- Meals Exceptions: We provided Breakfast and Dinner to our guests it will be basic Indian vegetarian meals (We do not offer any meals in Kedarnath).
- From Sonprayag to Gaurikund our vehicles are not allowed and hence one has to go with Union Taxi by paying 40-50 Rupee Person one way.
- Be prepared for changes in itinerary.
- Do not fall victim of fraud travel agents.
- Do not negotiate hard with your travel agents as it may hamper your service quality, as the offered prices are prepared keeping in mind quality of services.
Clothing during Char Dham Yatra
Summers (May, June, July, August)- Moderate Woolens.
Winters (April, September, October, November)- Heavy Woolens.
Medical Emergency Number
In case of any serious medical emergency, call 108 (The Mobile emergency service from Government of Uttarakhand). Don't make fake calls, as it is punishable offence.
Travelling Tips
Train Connectivity: Rishikesh, Haridwar and Dehradun are well connected to major cities of India by Railway Network.
Air Connectivity: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. Helicopter service to Kedarnath and Badrinath is available from Delhi, Dehradun, Phata, Augustmuni and Gauchar near Rudraprayag and Jollygrant Airport Dehradun.
If self-driving in Uttarakhand during Chardham
- Always keep your vehicle on left side of the Road.
- Use Horn at curves on hills, never overtake the overtaking vehicle.
- One should not drive more than 8 hours a day in hilly region.
- Avoid driving after sunset, as it is not allowed in hilly area of Uttarakhand.
- Use shoes instead of slippers while driving.
- Check your Brakes and Hand Brakes before starting journey.
- Check the Headlights, Break light and Parking lights of your vehicle.
- Always give way to uphill vehicles.
- Keep your vehicle's valid documents with you to avoid inconvenience.
- Before journey, make sure that fuel tank of your vehicle is full; in case of landslides you might have to take alternate long routes.
- Ensure to refuel, where ever easily you get chance, during season there might be long queues in Petrol Pumps at main stations.
- Carry first aid box with you.
- Do not drink and drive.
- In case of traffic jam, park your vehicle at the end of the queue. If you initiate a parallel queue, the traffic from other side might force you to drive in reverse gear, till you reach again at end of the original queue. And you may find it very difficult to drive long in reverse gear on a hilly road.
- Do not compete with local vehicles/drivers. They know the terrain very well.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Haridwar to Barkot.
Pick-up Point: Haridwar
Time Taken: 7-8 Hrs.
Meals: Dinner Only.
Room Type: Triple Bed Standard.
- Our journey continues as we drive to Barkot via the picturesque route passing through Mussoorie and Kempty Fall.
- Feast your eyes on the breathtaking beauty of the mountains as we make our way to Barkot.
Day 2: Day Excursion to Yamunotri and by Trek 6 Kms (One Way) and Back to Barkot.
Pick-up Point: Barkot
Time Taken: 10-12 Hrs.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Room Type: Triple Bed Standard.
- From Jankichatti, our trek to Yamunotri Temple begins.
- Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of lush green valleys teeming with diverse flora and fauna as we journey onward.
Day 3: Barkot to Uttarkashi.
Pick-up Point: Barkot
Time Taken: 6-7 Hrs.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Room Type: Triple Bed Standard.
- Today's itinerary includes a drive to Uttarkhashi.
- Upon arrival, explore the nearby attractions such as the Vishwanath Temple and Shakti Temple nestled in Uttarkashi.
Day 4: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and back to Uttarkashi.
Pick-up Point: Uttarkashi
Time Taken: 10-12 Hrs.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Room Type: Triple Bed Standard.
- During our journey, we pause at Gangnani to take a purifying dip in the holy waters of Garam Kund.
- Continuing our drive, we traverse through the stunning Harsil Valley en route to Gangotri.
- Harsil is renowned for its pristine natural allure, characterized by majestic Deodar trees and towering mountains.
- Upon reaching Shree Gangotri, immerse yourself in the divine waters of the sacred river Ganges, also known as Bhagirathi.
- Participate in rituals and seek blessings as you perform Pooja and Darshan at the revered site.
Day 5: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi.
Pick-up Point: Uttarkashi
Time Taken: 8-9 Hrs.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
Room Type: Triple Bed Standard.
- Along the way, marvel at the scenic beauty of the Mandakini River as it flows through Tilwara.
Day 6: Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi to Sonprayag to Kedarnath Ji.
Pick-up Point: Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi
Time Taken: 10-12 Hrs.
Meals: No Meals.
Room Type: Multi-sharing Standard.
- From Sonprayag, avail yourself of a local taxi service to Gauri Kund, operated by the local taxi association, with a nominal fee ranging from INR 30-50 per person (payment made directly).
- If you arrive early in Kedarnath, seize the opportunity to witness the enchanting evening Aarti Ceremony at the temple. Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring Kedarnath range, the Kedarnath shrine holds significance as one of the 12 jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. "Kedar" is a revered epithet of Lord Shiva.
Please note that meals in Kedarnath will be available for direct payment.
Day 7: Kedarnath Ji to Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi.
Pick-up Point: Sonprayag
Time Taken: 3-4 Hrs.
Meals: Dinner.
Room Type: Triple Bed Standard.
- Begin your day by participating in the sacred Aarti Ceremony at Kedarnath Temple.
- Arrange for a local taxi from Gaurikund to Sonprayag Taxi stand at your own expense.
- Following this, embark on a trek of approximately 16-18 kilometers to descend to Gaurikund.
Day 8: Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi to Badrinath.
Pick-up Point: Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi
Time Taken: 7-8 Hrs.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner.
Room Type: Triple Bed Standard.
- Tapt Kund: These natural thermal springs, located on the banks of the river Alaknanda, are a customary bathing spot before entering the Badrinath temple.
- Mana Village: Inhabited by an Indo-Mongolian tribe, Mana Village marks the last Indian settlement before the border with Tibet.
- Vasundhara: Aptly named, Vasundhara is a magnificent waterfall located 5 kilometers from Badrinath, with the final 2 kilometers being accessible by motorable road up to Mana.
- Bhim Pul: Situated on the opposite side of Mana village, Bhim Pul is a massive rock formation forming a natural bridge over the roaring Saraswati River. Legend has it that it was placed there by Bhim, the second eldest among the five Pandava brothers.
- Vyas Gufa (cave): Near Mana Village, this rock cave is believed to be the site where Ved Vyas composed the Mahabharata and other pauranic commentaries.
Day 9: Badrinath to Haridwar.
Pick-up Point: Badrinath
Time Taken: 8-9 Hrs.
Meals: Breakfast Only.
Room Type: No Bed.
Sumit Gupta
Travel Expert
Since 2005 Mr. Sumit Gupta is working hard to provide a best travel experience to each customer in north India. He is based in Dehradun Uttarakhand, providing seemlessly Chardham and other tour services to 1k+ customers every month.
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