Char Dham Yatra 9 Days

Char Dham Yatra Overview

Spiritual pilgrims can visit the four sacred temples of Yamunotri Gangotri Kedarnath and Badrinath through the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage which takes place in Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand. Every year Hindu devotees from worldwide populations perform the revered spiritual journey as one of their important religious experiences.

The traditional order of the Char Dham Yatra begins at Yamunotri temple followed by Gangotri temple and continues to Kedarnath temple before reaching Badrinath temple. The Kedarnath and Yamunotri temple treks form a major physical and spiritual element of the journey since they demand high levels of mental and physical toughness. Humans in the sacred town of Haridwar initiate their Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage which means religion to thousands of devotees.

Each year the pilgrimage season expands from Vaishakh month (April-May) through Kartik month (October-November). The religious facilities become accessible and weather conditions are optimal throughout this specific season. During the Char Dham Yatra, one can visit not only the four holy sites but also experience important secondary sites including Panch Prayags, Panch Kedar, and Panch Badri. People make this religious journey for salvation because they seek the divine blessings of the deities through spiritual devotion and unwavering faith.

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Why Start the Char Dham Yatra from Haridwar?

People consider Haridwar to be sacred since it belongs among the seven most important cities in Hinduism and functions as the initial stage for the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage because it is so fundamental to religious practice. Haridwar occupies the position of the best starting destination because of multiple key reasons.

• Spiritual purifying occurs when individuals take a Ganges River bath at Haridwar for the purification of their souls.
• The religious practice of beginning the journey at Haridwar finds support in both historical traditions and religious beliefs.
• You can easily reach Haridwar through all forms of transportation including roads railways and air travel.
• Most pilgrims receive divine blessings in this city because it houses numerous temples directly before commencing their journey.
• Everyone recognizes Haridwar as a center that unites Hindu culture with spiritual practices because this destination hosts the Kumbh Mela alongside its role as a cultural center.

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Char Dham Temples

Yamunotri

• Altitude: 3,293 meters (10,804 feet).
• Pilgrimage Time: Open from Akshaya Tritiya (May) to Yama Dwitiya (November).
• Historical Significance: Linked with Sage Asit Muni.
• Belief: Bathing in the waters purifies the soul and frees you from curses.

Yamunotri Dham is located close to the source of the Yamuna River and was built by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. It is believed that a bath in the sacred waters here will purify your soul and absolve you of curses.

Gangotri

• Altitude: 3,200 meters (10,500 feet).
• Pilgrimage Time: Open from Akshaya Tritiya (May) to Yama Dwitiya (November).
• Historical Significance: Associated with Sage Bhagirath.
• Belief: Bathing in the Ganges destroys all sins.

Gangotri Dham, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, lies on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. It is believed that Rishi Bhagirath meditated here and performed severe penance to bring the Ganges from the heavens to cleanse the sins of his ancestors.

Kedarnath

• Altitude: 3,583 meters (11,755 feet).
• Pilgrimage Time: Open from April-May to October-November.
• Historical Significance: Established by the Pandavas after the Kurukshetra War.
• Belief: Pilgrims seek forgiveness and blessings from Lord Shiva.

Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. After the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas built the temple, seeking Lord Shiva's forgiveness. The temple was later renovated by Adi Shankaracharya.

Badrinath

• Altitude: 3,300 meters (10,827 feet).
• Pilgrimage Time: Open from Basant Panchami (April-May) to October-November.
• Historical Significance: Associated with Lord Vishnu and established by Adi Shankaracharya.
• Belief: Site where Lord Vishnu meditated.

Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located between the Nar and Narayan peaks, with the Neelkanth peak in the background. It is one of the Char Dhams established by Adi Shankaracharya.

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How to Make Online and Offline Booking for Char Dham Yatra

Online Registration

The Char Dham Yatra registration process is available through websites linked to the authorities as well as through travel agencies.

• Users can start the online registration process through the Uttarakhand Tourism Care website.
• Mobile App: : Use the Uttarakhand Tourist Care mobile app for easy registration on your smartphone.
• The smooth journey for Yatra bookings can be achieved through WhatsApp by messaging "Yatra" to the Uttarakhand Tourist Care WhatsApp number.

Offline Registration

The Char Dham Yatra offers offline registration services at specific enrollment points throughout its designated route.

• Guests must provide official identification and then finish the registration document which allows them to join the 2025 Char Dham Yatra.
• One should consider the difficulties of traveling through the Char Dham Yatra

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General Tips for Char Dham Yatra Package

• Acclimatization: The process of acclimatization involves spending more time in elevated areas which decreases alarm for altitude sickness symptoms.
• Physical Fitness: The preparation for trekking requires regular cardiovascular exercises together with strength training exercises which build physical fitness.
• Gear: The necessary trekking equipment consists of strong boots warm garments and rain protection along with a trekking stick and medical supplies.
• Hydration and Nutrition: As a way to sustain your stamina you must drink plenty of water along with eating energy-boosting snacks.
• Weather Preparedness: Travellers should prepare for swift weather alterations which become more prevalent at higher elevations.

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How to Reach Haridwar

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
• By Train: Haridwar Junction is well-connected to major cities.
• By Road: Regular bus services and taxis are available from Delhi and other cities.

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Char Dham Yatra Itinerary

Day 1: Haridwar to Barkot

• Travel: Drive from Haridwar to Barkot
• Distance: Approximately 220 km
• Time: Around 7-8 hours
• Altitude: 1,220 meters (4,003 feet)

The sacred pilgrimage begins in Haridwar which stands as an Indian holy city near the Ganga river and its sanctifying water that passes through all important temples. Among the foothills of the Himalayas, the road leads toward Barkot while passing through rich green regions. Travel visitors experience the major religious sites of Chandi Devi Temple along with Mansa Devi Temple and Daksheswara Mahadev Temple throughout their path towards Har ki Pauri Ghats and Kempty Falls through Mussorie and Surya Kund.

Day 2: Barkot to Yamunotri Temple and back to Barkot

• Travel: Drive from Barkot to Janki Chatti, then trek to Yamunotri
• Distance: 36 km by road, 6 km trek
• Time: 1.5 hours drive, 5-6 hours trek (round trip)
• Altitude: Janki Chatti - 2,650 meters (8,694 feet), Yamunotri - 3,293 meters (10,804 feet)

The travel sequence begins with first light breakfast then takes people to Janki Chatti before they continue their journey on foot to Yamunotri. Passengers can admire gorgeous landscapes of forested plains along with ranges of mountains during their drive through the area. Yamunotri has Divyashila as one of its divine sites that resides between Barkot and Yamunotri.

Travelers can easily access Yamunotri through the well-organized path that begins at Janki Chatti. Travelers will find this path moderately challenging because it combines gentle elevations with occasional steep zones. Bath in the spiritual Kharsali hot springs just before Yamunotri Temple when you travel closer to the shrine including Yamunotri Temple.

Day 3: Barkot to Uttarkashi

• Travel: Drive from Barkot to Uttarkashi
• Distance: Approximately 85 km
• Time: Around 4 hours
• Altitude: 1,158 meters (3,799 feet)

Tourists move onward from Yamunotri to visit Gangotri after enjoying a pleasant day there. As you drive you will witness little Himalayan villages along with fields shaped like terraces which display rural social life in these mountains. Popular sites on the way include Bhairav Ghati, Mukhba Village, Apple Orchards, Harshil Village, and Gangnani Hot Springs.

Visitors are attracted to Uttarkashi because it presents both historic temples along with a peaceful ambiance which deepens the spiritual journey.

Day 4: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and back to Uttarkashi

• Travel: Drive from Uttarkashi to Gangotri
• Distance: Approximately 100 km one-way
• Time: Around 3-4 hours one way
• Altitude: Gangotri - 3,100 meters (10,200 feet)

The distance from Uttarkashi to Gangotri unveils breath-taking vistas when combined with religious importance. The curvy road lets you view the fantastic sights of the Bhagirathi River while the surrounding snow peaks are visible. Typically, upon reaching Gangotri visitors encounter an atmosphere that supports deep spirituality surrounding the Gangotri Temple.

Day 5: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi

• Travel: Drive from Uttarkashi to Guptkashi
• Distance: Approximately 200 km
• Time: Around 8-9 hours
• Altitude: 1,319 meters (4,327 feet)

Travelers enjoy amazing sights combining nature alongside cultural landmarks on the trip from Uttarkashi to Guptkashi. The journey takes you through timbered forests.

Visitors seeking tranquility and spiritual enlightenment should stop in Guptkashi to rest before proceeding to Kedarnath.

Day 6: Guptkashi to Kedarnath

• Travel: Drive to Gaurikund, then trek to Kedarnath
• Distance: 35 km drive to Gaurikund, 22 km trek to Kedarnath
• Time: 1.5 hours drive, 7-8 hours trek
• Altitude: Kedarnath - 3,583 meters (11,755 feet)

Start your journey to Kedarnath from Gaurikund after completing a 35 km car ride. The strenuous movement across the mountain landscape brings you to magical views of the Himalayas' peaks. Surrendering to the Kedarnath Temple will provide you with a rich spiritual encounter.

Day 7: Kedarnath to Guptkashi

• Travel: Trek back to Gaurikund, then drive to Guptkashi
• Distance: 22 km trek to Gaurikund, 35 km drive to Guptkashi
• Time: 5-6 hours trek, 1.5 hours drive

Focus on morning devotion at Kedarnath Temple to begin your journey that leads back to the temple through trekking. By trekking through this path tourists can both admire natural splendor and understand the spiritual aspects of their expedition. Traversing from Gaurikund requires driving onward to Guptkashi where you will stop for relaxation.

Day 8: Guptkashi to Badrinath

• Travel: Drive from Guptkashi to Badrinath via Joshimath
• Distance: Approximately 190–200 km
• Time: Around 6-7 hours
• Altitude: Badrinath - 3,300 meters (10,827 feet)

Guptkashi to Joshimath runs along picturesque valleys and ascends into immense mountain peaks. Along with its profound spiritual significance, Joshimath serves as an important place of worship while presenting an atmosphere of peaceful tranquility. A journey from Badrinath leads visitors to visit the Badrinath Temple where Lord Vishnu stands as the principal deity.

Day 9: Badrinath to Haridwar

• Activities: Visit Badrinath Temple, participate in morning prayers, and explore the temple complex.
• Travel: Drive from Badrinath to Haridwar
• Distance: Approximately 315 km
• Time: Around 10-12 hours
• Altitude: Badrinath: 3,300 meters (10,827 feet), Haridwar: 314 meters (1,030 feet)

Moving from the Badrinath Temple pilgrimage one proceeds toward reaching Haridwar. Throughout the route, visitors can see the amazing scenery of the Alaknanda River in addition to its surrounding environment. The religious site of Haridwar stands on the Ganges River shoreline. A memorable close to your Char Dham Yatra occurs when you witness the renowned Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar.

Day 1: Haridwar to Barkot

Day 2: Barkot to Yamunotri Temple and Return to Barkot

Day 3: Barkot to Uttarkashi

Day 4: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and Return to Uttarkashi

Day 5: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi

Day 6: Guptkashi to Kedarnath

Day 7: Kedarnath to Guptkashi

Day 8: Guptkashi to Badrinath

Day 9: Badrinath to Haridwar

Best Time to Visit Char Dham Yatra

The ideal season to visit Char Dham Yatra falls within the two periods of April-May along with October-November. The favorable weather conditions during this period allowed people to visit the temples which remain open to the public.

Optimal Seasons

Summer (May to June)

The summer season is considered the best period for visiting Char Dham. Travelers will experience pleasant daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. All four temples remain open, providing comfortable conditions for visitors.

Autumn (September to October)

September to October is another great time for the Char Dham Yatra. The monsoon ends, revealing breathtaking green landscapes and comfortable temperatures. Pilgrimage activities thrive during this period.

Spring (April to Early May)

Spring offers pleasant weather and coincides with the blooming flower season. This period is ideal for a peaceful visit before the summer rush.

Winter (November to March) - Avoid Travel

Winter is not recommended for Char Dham Yatra due to severe snowfall and extreme cold, making access to the shrines nearly impossible.

Special Occasions

The Yatra is most unique during religious festivals like Akshaya Tritiya (April-May) and Janmashtami (August-September), which attract a large number of worshippers and enhance the spiritual ambiance.

Other Trekking Gear and Necessary Items:

• 50-60 liters Backpack: A spacious backpack to carry all your essentials during the trek.
• Pair of Trekking Shoes: Durable and comfortable shoes with good grip for challenging terrains.
• 2-3 Trek Pants: Lightweight and quick-drying pants for ease of movement.
• Rain Gaiters: Waterproof gaiters to keep your feet dry during rain or wet conditions.
• 2 Jackets: A lightweight jacket for mild weather and a heavy-duty one for colder temperatures.
• Extra Layers of Clothes in Winter: Additional warm clothing to combat freezing temperatures.
• Thermals: Thermal innerwear to retain body heat in cold climates.
• Medical Kit: A well-stocked kit with essential medicines, bandages, antiseptics, and personal medications.

Cancellation Policy:

• We assume that you have checked the challenge levels of the trek/tpor on your own or you can talk to our customer care team which will guide you on how to prepare for the trek.
• Please seek medical consultation before joining the trek as we are not skilled medical practitioners, although our trek leaders & guides can administer firstaid.
• It is solely your responsibility to highlight any prevailing medical condition that may hamper the trek/tour.

1. Booking Confirmation

• A booking is confirmed only after the full payment or the required deposit is received.
• Customers will receive a confirmation email with all the details of the booking.

2. Payment Methods

• We accept payments through credit/debit cards, net banking, UPI, and other digital payment methods.
• Cash payments are not accepted for online bookings.

3. Cancellation Policy

• Cancellation 30 Days or More Before Departure: Full refund, minus a small processing fee.
• Cancellation 15-29 Days Before Departure: 75% refund of the total booking amount.
• Cancellation 7-14 Days Before Departure: 50% refund of the total booking amount.
• Cancellation Less Than 7 Days Before Departure: No refund will be provided.

4. Refund Process

• Refunds will be processed within 7-10 business days from the date of cancellation.
• The refund will be credited to the original payment method used during the booking.

5. Rescheduling Policy

• Rescheduling requests must be made at least 15 days before the departure date.
• A rescheduling fee may apply, depending on the availability and the new dates chosen.

6. No-Show Policy

• If a customer fails to show up on the departure date without prior notice, no refund will be provided.

7. Force Majeure

• In case of unforeseen events like natural disasters, political unrest, or pandemics, customers will be offered a travel voucher equivalent to the booking amount, valid for one year.

8. Additional Charges

• Any additional services or upgrades requested after the booking will incur extra charges.

9. Child Policy

• Children below 5 years of age are usually free of charge, while those between 5-12 years may be charged at a discounted rate.

10. Group Discounts

• Special discounts may be available for group bookings. Please contact our customer service for more details.

11. Customer Support

• For any queries or assistance, customers can reach out to our 24/7 customer support team via phone, email, or live chat.

1. When does the Char Dham Yatra begin?

The Char Dham Yatra usually starts in late April or early May each year, once the temples are open for the pilgrimage season.

2. Which Dham should I visit first during the Yatra?

The traditional route begins with Yamunotri, followed by Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

3. What is the trekking distance for Kedarnath and Yamunotri?

The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is 22 km, while the trek from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri is 6 km.

4. How can I register for the Char Dham Yatra?

You can complete your registration online through the official Uttarakhand government portal.

5. Why is the Char Dham Yatra so significant for Hindus?

The Char Dham Yatra holds immense spiritual importance as it is believed to cleanse one's sins and lead to moksha (liberation).

6. What are the darshan timings for the temples?

Darshan timings vary for each temple, but generally, temples open around 6 AM and close by 8 PM. It’s best to check the specific temple’s schedule for exact times.

7. Is the Char Dham Yatra suitable for senior citizens?

While the yatra can be physically demanding, senior citizens in good health can undertake the journey with proper preparation. Palki and helicopter services can help make the journey easier for them.

8. What should I pack for the Char Dham Yatra?

You should pack warm clothes, comfortable trekking shoes, necessary medications, valid ID proofs, and personal hygiene products. A walking stick and a water bottle are also recommended.

9. How do I book a helicopter ride to Kedarnath?

Helicopter rides to Kedarnath can be booked through the official government website at heliservices.uk.gov.in. Flights are available from various points, including Phata, Guptkashi, Gaurikund, Sitapur, and Sersi.

10. Can I take a helicopter to visit Kedarnath and Badrinath from Dehradun?

Yes, helicopter services are available for visiting both Kedarnath and Badrinath from Dehradun, providing a faster and more convenient option for pilgrims.