Chardham Yatra spiritual journey

The Chardham Yatra is a spiritual journey that takes pilgrims through four holy shrines located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. These four shrines are Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, and together they form the Chardham Yatra.

The journey is considered very auspicious and is believed to provide spiritual salvation to those who undertake it. The Chardham Yatra typically begins in April/May and ends in October/November, considered the best months to visit these shrines.

The first shrine on the route is Yamunotri, which is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy waters of Yamuna here can wash away one’s sins. The second shrine is Gangotri, which is dedicated to the river Ganga. It is believed that the river Ganga originated from the Gangotri glacier and that taking a dip in its waters can wash away one’s sins.

The third shrine is Kedarnath, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that this is the place where Lord Shiva absolved the Pandavas of their sins after the Mahabharata war. The fourth and final shrine is Badrinath, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is believed that a visit to Badrinath can grant spiritual enlightenment.

Undertaking the Chardham Yatra requires physical fitness and mental preparation as it involves a lot of travel on mountainous terrain. However, the journey is considered very rewarding and fulfilling for those who undertake it.

Yamunotri

Yamunotri is a Hindu temple and pilgrimage site situated in the Uttarkashi district of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is one of the four shrines that constitute the Chardham Yatra and is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. The temple is situated at an elevation of 3,293 meters above sea level and is surrounded by the Garhwal Himalayas.

According to Hindu mythology, Yamuna is the daughter of the Sun god and sister of Yama, the god of death. The Yamunotri temple is believed to have been built by the sage Asit Muni, who used to meditate in this region. The temple’s main deity is a black marble idol of the goddess Yamuna, which is adorned with garlands and ornaments.

The Yamunotri temple is accessible by foot, and the trek to the temple is considered challenging due to the mountainous terrain. The trek begins from the town of Hanuman Chatti, which is about 14 kilometers from Yamunotri. Visitors can also hire horses or palanquins to reach the temple.

The temple is open to visitors from May to November, and the best time to visit is between May to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant. The temple attracts thousands of pilgrims every year who come to take a dip in the holy waters of the Yamuna and seek blessings from the goddess Yamuna.

Gangotri

Gangotri is a small town and a Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Uttarkashi district of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an elevation of 3,415 meters above sea level and is one of the four holy shrines that make up the Chardham Yatra. Gangotri is famous for its temple dedicated to the river Ganges, also known as the Ganga.

According to Hindu mythology, the river Ganges is believed to have originated from the Gangotri glacier, which is located about 19 kilometers from the town of Gangotri. The Gangotri temple is believed to have been built by the Gurkha general Amar Singh Thapa in the 18th century. The temple is made of white granite and is situated on the banks of the river Bhagirathi, considered the mainstream of the Ganges. The temple’s main deity is a silver idol of the goddess Ganga, which is worshipped by thousands of pilgrims who visit the temple every year.

The Gangotri temple is accessible by road, and visitors can take a taxi or bus from Uttarkashi, about 100 kilometres from Gangotri. The temple is open to visitors from May to November, and the best time to visit is between May to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.

The town of Gangotri is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and is known for its scenic beauty. Visitors can take a dip in the holy waters of the Bhagirathi and seek blessings from the goddess Ganga. The trek from Gangotri to the source of the river Ganges at the Gangotri glacier is considered challenging but is also popular among adventure enthusiasts.

Kedarnath

Kedarnath is a town located in the Rudraprayag district of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an elevation of 3,584 meters above sea level and is one of the four holy shrines that make up the Chardham Yatra. Kedarnath is famous for its temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as the Kedarnath temple.

According to Hindu mythology, Kedarnath is the place where Lord Shiva absolved the Pandavas of their sins after the Kurukshetra war in the Mahabharata. The Kedarnath temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, which are considered to be the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The temple is made of stone and is situated amidst the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. The temple’s main deity is a conical lingam, which is worshipped by thousands of pilgrims who visit the temple every year.

The Kedarnath temple is accessible by foot, and visitors have to trek about 14 kilometres from the town of Gaurikund to reach the temple. The trek is considered challenging due to the mountainous terrain, but it is also popular among adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can also hire horses or palanquins to reach the temple.

The town of Kedarnath is surrounded by the peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas and is known for its scenic beauty. The town is also the starting point for the trek to the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to several rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.

The Kedarnath temple is open to visitors from May to November, and the best time to visit is between May to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant. Visitors can take a dip in the holy waters of the Mandakini River and seek blessings from Lord Shiva at the Kedarnath temple.

Badrinath

Badrinath is a town located in the Chamoli district of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an elevation of 3,133 meters above sea level and is one of the four holy shrines that make up the Chardham Yatra. Badrinath is famous for its temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known as the Badrinath temple.

According to Hindu mythology, Badrinath is the place where Lord Vishnu meditated and was observed by the sage Narada. The Badrinath temple is believed to have been built by Adi Shankaracharya, a great Hindu philosopher, and reformer, in the 9th century. The temple is made of stone and is situated on the banks of the river Alaknanda.

The temple’s main deity is a black stone idol of Lord Vishnu, which is worshipped by thousands of pilgrims who visit the temple every year. The temple also has idols of other deities like Lord Shiva, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Narasimha.

The Badrinath temple is accessible by road, and visitors can take a taxi or bus from the town of Rishikesh, which is about 300 kilometers from Badrinath. The temple is open to visitors from May to November, and the best time to visit is between May to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.

The town of Badrinath is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and is known for its scenic beauty. Visitors can take a dip in the hot water springs at Tapt Kund, which is believed to have medicinal properties. The town is also the starting point for several treks to nearby peaks and glaciers.

Badrinath is also known for its annual Badrinath Kedarnath Yatra, which is considered to be one of the most sacred pilgrimages for Hindus. During this yatra, thousands of pilgrims visit both the Badrinath and Kedarnath temples to seek blessings from Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, respectively.

Chardham package from Haridwar

There are several tour operators and travel agencies in Haridwar that offer Chardham Yatra packages. The package usually includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and sightseeing. The cost of the package varies depending on the duration of the tour, the type of accommodation, and the facilities included.

Here is an example of a typical Chardham Yatra package from Haridwar:

Day 1: Haridwar to Barkot

• Pick up from Haridwar and drive to Barkot
• En-route visit Mussoorie and Kempty Falls
• Check-in at the hotel in Barkot
• Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2: Barkot to Yamunotri and back

• Early morning drive to Jankichatti and trek to Yamunotri
• Take a dip in the hot water springs and offer prayers at the Yamunotri temple
• Trek back to Jankichatti and drive back to Barkot
• Dinner and overnight stay

Day 3: Barkot to Uttarkashi

• Check out from the hotel in Barkot and drive to Uttarkashi
• En-route visit Prakateshwar Cave and Kashi Vishwanath Temple
• Check-in at the hotel in Uttarkashi
• Dinner and overnight stay

Day 4: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and back

• Early morning drive to Gangotri
• Take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges and offer prayers at the Gangotri temple.
• Drive back to Uttarkashi.
• Dinner and overnight stay

Day 5: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi

• Check out from the hotel in Uttarkashi and drive to Guptkashi
• En-route visit Tehri Dam and Devprayag
• Check-in at the hotel in Guptkashi
• Dinner and overnight stay

Day 6: Guptkashi to Kedarnath and back

• Early morning drive to Gaurikund and trek to Kedarnath
• Take a dip in the hot water springs and offer prayers at the Kedarnath temple.
• Trek back to Gaurikund and drive back to Guptkashi
• Dinner and overnight stay

Day 7: Guptkashi to Badrinath

• Check out from the hotel in Guptkashi and drive to Badrinath
• En-route visit Joshimath and Vishnu Prayag
• Check-in at the hotel in Badrinath
• Dinner and overnight stay

Day 8: Badrinath to Haridwar

• Early morning visits to the Badrinath temple and taking a dip in the hot water springs at Tapt Kund
• Drive back to Haridwar.
• Drop-off at Haridwar

Note: The itinerary mentioned above is just an example, and it can be customized according to your preferences and requirements.

Barkot

Barkot is a small town located in the Uttarkashi district of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 1,220 meters above sea level and is known for its scenic beauty and religious significance. It is a popular destination for tourists who are visiting the nearby Yamunotri temple, which is one of the four shrines that make up the Chardham Yatra.

Barkot is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests, and the river Yamuna flows through the town. The town is known for its apple orchards, and visitors can enjoy freshly picked apples and apple juice.

Apart from the Yamunotri temple, several other attractions in and around Barkot are worth visiting. These include:

1. Surya Kund: It is a natural hot water spring located near the Yamunotri temple. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy waters of Surya Kund can cure skin diseases and other ailments.
   
2. Hanuman Chatti: It is a small town located about 13 kilometers from Barkot. It is the starting point of the trek to Yamunotri and is known for its scenic beauty.
3. Janki Chatti: It is a small town located about 7 kilometers from Yamunotri. It is the last motorable point before the trek to Yamunotri and is known for its hot water springs.
   
4. Lakhamandal: It is a historical site located about 45 kilometers from Barkot. It is believed to be the place where the Kauravas of the Mahabharata had set fire to the house of the Pandavas.

Barkot is well connected by road, and visitors can take a taxi or bus from the nearby towns of Dehradun or Rishikesh. The best time to visit Barkot is from April to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.

Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a popular hill station located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 2,005 meters above sea level and is known for its scenic beauty, pleasant weather, and colonial charm. Mussoorie is also known as the “Queen of Hills” and is a popular destination for tourists from all over India and abroad.

Mussoorie offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges and is surrounded by dense forests, which makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The town has several attractions that are worth visiting, including:

1. Kempty Falls: It is a popular waterfall located about 13 kilometers from Mussoorie. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the cold water of the falls.
2. Gun Hill: It is the second-highest peak in Mussoorie and offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can reach Gun Hill by taking a cable car ride.
3. Lal Tibba: It is the highest peak in Mussoorie and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges.
4. Mall Road: It is the main shopping area in Mussoorie and is lined with shops selling souvenirs, clothes, and local handicrafts.
5. Mussoorie Lake: It is a man-made lake located about 6 kilometers from Mussoorie. Visitors can enjoy boating and picnicking at the lake.
6. Happy Valley: It is a small Tibetan settlement located on the outskirts of Mussoorie. Visitors can learn about the Tibetan culture and enjoy delicious Tibetan food.

Mussoorie is well connected by road, and visitors can take a taxi or bus from the nearby towns of Dehradun or Rishikesh. The best time to visit Mussoorie is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.

Kempty Falls

Kempty Falls is a popular waterfall located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, about 13 kilometres from the hill station of Mussoorie. It is situated at an altitude of 1,364 meters above sea level and is a popular destination for tourists visiting Mussoorie and the surrounding areas.

The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The water cascades down from a height of about 40 feet and falls into a pool of water, where visitors can take a refreshing dip or go for a swim. There are also several small shops and stalls near the falls selling souvenirs, snacks, and drinks.

Kempty Falls can be reached by taking a taxi or bus from Mussoorie. Visitors can also take a cable car ride from Mall Road in Mussoorie to Gun Hill, from where they can enjoy panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains.

The best time to visit Kempty Falls is from March to June and September to December when the weather is pleasant. However, during the monsoon season, the water level at the falls rises significantly, and it can be dangerous to go for a swim or take a dip. Therefore, it is advisable to check the weather conditions before planning a visit to Kempty Falls.

Jankichatti

Jankichatti is a small town located in the Uttarkashi district of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 2,650 meters above sea level and is a popular destination for tourists visiting the nearby Yamunotri temple, which is one of the four shrines that make up the Chardham Yatra.

Jankichatti is located about 7 kilometers from the Yamunotri temple, and it is the last motorable point before the trek to Yamunotri. Visitors can take a taxi or bus from the nearby town of Barkot to reach Jankichatti.

Apart from the Yamunotri temple, several other attractions in and around Jankichatti are worth visiting. These include:

1. Janki Chatti Temple: It is a small temple located in Jankichatti and is dedicated to the goddess Janki. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy waters of the nearby hot water spring can cure skin diseases and other ailments.
2. Hanuman Chatti: It is a small town located about 14 kilometers from Jankichatti. It is the starting point of the trek to Yamunotri and is known for its scenic beauty.
3. Kharsali: It is a small village located about 7 kilometers from Jankichatti. It is known for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the region.

Jankichatti is well connected by road, and visitors can take a taxi or bus from the nearby towns of Barkot or Dehradun. The best time to visit Jankichatti is from April to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.

Uttarkashi

Uttarkashi is a town located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 1,165 meters above sea level and is known for its scenic beauty, ancient temples, and cultural heritage. The town is located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, which is a tributary of the River Ganges.

Uttarkashi is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The town has several attractions that are worth visiting, including:

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: It is an ancient temple located in the heart of Uttarkashi and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be one of the region’s holiest shrines and attracts many devotees every year.
2. Nehru Institute of Mountaineering: It is a renowned mountaineering institute located in Uttarkashi. The institute offers various courses in mountaineering, trekking, and adventure sports.
3. Dodital: It is a beautiful freshwater lake located about 30 kilometers from Uttarkashi. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Dayara Bugyal: It is a high-altitude meadow located about 28 kilometers from Uttarkashi. The meadow is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for trekking and camping.
5. Gangotri National Park: It is a wildlife sanctuary located about 95 kilometers from Uttarkashi. The park is home to a variety of wildlife species, including snow leopards, musk deer, and Himalayan black bears.

Uttarkashi is well connected by road, and visitors can take a taxi or bus from the nearby towns of Dehradun or Rishikesh. The best time to visit Uttarkashi is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.

Guptkashi

Guptkashi is a small town located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 1,319 meters above sea level and is known for its ancient temples and scenic beauty. The town is located on the way to Kedarnath, one of the four shrines that make up the Chardham Yatra.

Guptkashi is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is a popular destination for pilgrims and nature lovers. The town has several attractions that are worth visiting, including:

1. Vishwanath Temple: It is an ancient temple located in the heart of Guptkashi and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be one of the region’s holiest shrines and attracts many devotees every year.
2. Manikarnik Kund: It is a holy pond located near the Vishwanath Temple. According to legend, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are said to have bathed in this pond.
3. Ardhnarishwar Temple: It is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located about 1 kilometer from Guptkashi. The temple is believed to be one of the few temples in the world dedicated to the Ardhnarishwar form of Lord Shiva.
4. Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary: It is a wildlife sanctuary located about 15 kilometers from Guptkashi. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, including Himalayan black bears, musk deer, and snow leopards.

Guptkashi is well connected by road, and visitors can take a taxi or bus from the nearby towns of Rishikesh or Haridwar. The best time to visit Guptkashi is from April to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.

Gaurikund

Gaurikund is a small town located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 1,982 meters above sea level and is known as the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath, one of the four shrines that make up the Chardham Yatra.

Gaurikund is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is a popular destination for pilgrims and nature lovers. The town has several attractions that are worth visiting, including:

1. Gauri Temple: It is an ancient temple located in the heart of Gaurikund and is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. The temple is believed to be one of the region’s holiest shrines and attracts many devotees every year.
2. Hot Springs: Gaurikund is known for its hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. Visitors can take a dip in the hot springs to relax and rejuvenate their bodies.
3. Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary: It is a wildlife sanctuary located about 15 kilometers from Gaurikund. The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife species, including Himalayan black bears, musk deer, and snow leopards.
4. Trekking: Gaurikund is the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath, which is one of the most popular treks in the region. The trek is about 16 kilometers long and takes visitors through beautiful forests, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes.

Gaurikund is well connected by road, and visitors can take a taxi or bus from the nearby towns of Rishikesh or Haridwar. The best time to visit Gaurikund is from April to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.

Joshimath

Joshimath is a small town located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 1,890 meters above sea level and is known as the winter seat of Lord Badri, one of the four shrines that make up the Chardham Yatra.

Joshimath is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is a popular destination for pilgrims and nature lovers. The town has several attractions that are worth visiting, including:

1. Narasimha Temple: It is an ancient temple located in the heart of Joshimath and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his half-man and half-lion incarnation. The temple is believed to be one of the region’s holiest shrines and attracts many devotees every year.
2. Kalpavriksha: It is a holy tree located near the Narasimha Temple. According to legend, the tree is more than 1200 years old and is believed to grant wishes.
3. Auli: It is a beautiful hill station located about 16 kilometers from Joshimath. Auli is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for skiing and trekking.
4. Trekking: Joshimath is the starting point of several popular treks, including the Kuari Pass trek and the Valley of Flowers trek. The treks take visitors through beautiful forests, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes.

Joshimath is well connected by road, and visitors can take a taxi or bus from the nearby towns of Rishikesh or Haridwar. The best time to visit Joshimath is from April to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.

Best time for Char Dham Yatra

The best time for Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, India, is from April to June and from September to November. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the temperature is moderate, making it ideal for pilgrims to undertake the yatra.

The summer months of April to June are the most popular time for Char Dham Yatra, as the weather is pleasant, and the snow has melted, making it easier to travel in the region. The temperature during this time ranges from 15°C to 30°C, which is comfortable for travelers.

The monsoon season in Uttarakhand starts in July and continues till August, and during this time, the region experiences heavy rainfall, making the roads and trekking trails dangerous and inaccessible. Therefore, it is not advisable to undertake the Char Dham Yatra during the monsoon season.

The autumn season from September to November is also a good time to undertake the Char Dham Yatra, as the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are comparatively less. The temperature during this time ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it an ideal time for trekking and sightseeing.

It is advisable to check the weather conditions and the latest updates on the Char Dham Yatra before planning a trip and to carry appropriate clothing and gear according to the season.

Chardham Yatra by car

Char Dham Yatra by car is a popular way to undertake the pilgrimage in Uttarakhand, India. Many travelers prefer this mode of transportation as it offers flexibility and convenience, allowing them to travel at their own pace and stop at various places along the way.

To undertake the Char Dham Yatra by car, you can either bring your car or hire a taxi or a car rental service. The starting point for the Char Dham Yatra by car is usually Haridwar, from where you can hire a car and drive to the different pilgrimage sites.

The roads leading to the Char Dham sites are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the mountains and the rivers. However, the roads can be narrow and winding in some places, and it is important to be cautious while driving and follow all traffic rules.

It is recommended to check the weather conditions and the road conditions before starting the journey and to carry appropriate clothing, gear, and medicines for emergencies. It is also important to plan the journey well in advance and to book accommodation and other facilities in advance, especially during peak season.

Overall, Char Dham Yatra by car can be a comfortable and convenient way to undertake the pilgrimage, allowing you to explore the region at your own pace and enjoy the scenic beauty of Uttarakhand.

Difference between Chota and bada Chardham yatra

Chota Char Dham Yatra and Bada Char Dham Yatra are two pilgrimage circuits in Uttarakhand, India, that are similar but cover different sets of temples.

1. Chota Char Dham Yatra: Chota Char Dham Yatra refers to the pilgrimage circuit that includes four temples, namely Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These four temples are situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand and are considered to be the holiest shrines in Hinduism. The Chota Char Dham Yatra is also known as the Mini Char Dham Yatra.
2. Bada Char Dham Yatra: Bada Char Dham Yatra, on the other hand, includes the four temples of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, along with eight other temples, namely Kalpeshwar, Rudranath, Tungnath, Madhyamaheshwar, Gopeshwar, Vishwanath, Trisulnath, and Nanda Devi. The Bada Char Dham Yatra is also known as the Greater Char Dham Yatra.

The main difference between the two pilgrimage circuits is the number of temples covered. While the Chota Char Dham Yatra covers four temples, the Bada Char Dham Yatra covers twelve temples. The Bada Char Dham Yatra is considered to be a more comprehensive pilgrimage circuit and is undertaken by many devotees who have the time and resources to cover all the temples.

Both the Chota Char Dham Yatra and Bada Char Dham Yatra are considered to be very auspicious and are believed to offer spiritual benefits to the devotees who undertake them. However, the choice between the two circuits depends on the individual’s preferences, time, and resources.

Chardham Yatra sightseeing tour options

There are many sightseeing tour options available during the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, India. Here are some of the popular ones:

1. Haridwar Sightseeing: Haridwar is the starting point of the Char Dham Yatra and has many places of historical and cultural significance, such as Har Ki Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, and Daksheswara Mahadev Temple.
2. Rishikesh Sightseeing: Rishikesh, also known as the Yoga Capital of the World, is a popular destination for spiritual seekers and adventure enthusiasts. Some of the popular attractions in Rishikesh include Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, and Parmarth Niketan.
3. Mussoorie Sightseeing: Mussoorie is a scenic hill station located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is known for its natural beauty, picturesque landscapes, and colonial architecture. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Mussoorie include Kempty Falls, Lal Tibba, Gun Hill, and Mussoorie Lake.
4. Auli Sightseeing: Auli is a popular ski resort and hill station located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is known for its panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains, and the ski slopes attract adventure enthusiasts from all over the world. Other popular attractions in Auli include the Auli Artificial Lake and the Nanda Devi National Park.
5. Badrinath Sightseeing: Badrinath is one of the four pilgrimage sites of the Char Dham Yatra and is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The Badrinath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is the main attraction here. Other popular attractions in Badrinath include the Tapt Kund Hot Springs, the Narad Kund, and the Mata Murti Temple.
6. Kedarnath Sightseeing: Kedarnath is another important pilgrimage site of the Char Dham Yatra and is situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. The Kedarnath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the main attraction here. Other popular attractions in Kedarnath include the Vasuki Tal Lake, the Gandhi Sarovar, and the Bhairav Temple.

**  These are some of the popular sightseeing tour options available during the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand.

Do and don’t for Chardham Yatra

Here are some general do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your Char Dham Yatra:

Do’s:

1. Carry sufficient warm clothing, as the temperature can drop significantly at higher altitudes.
2. Carry comfortable shoes and avoid wearing high heels or flip-flops.
3. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
4. Follow the dress code of the temples and cover your head before entering the temple premises.
5. Respect the local customs and traditions.
6. Take care of your belongings and avoid carrying too much cash.
7. Take adequate rest and avoid overexertion, especially if you have any health conditions.
8. Carry your identity proof and important documents with you.

Don’ts:

1. Do not litter or damage the environment in any way.
2. Do not consume alcohol or non-vegetarian food during the yatra.
3. Do not smoke or light fire in the forest areas as it can lead to a forest fire.
4. Do not disturb the wildlife and maintain a safe distance from them.
5. Do not indulge in any unethical or illegal activities.
6. Do not ignore any signs of altitude sickness and seek medical attention if necessary.
7. Do not take any shortcuts or stray from the designated trekking path.
8. Do not disrespect the local culture or customs.

These are some general do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind during your Char Dham Yatra. It is always advisable to be mindful of your surroundings, respect the local customs, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Chardham yatra route

The Char Dham Yatra usually starts and ends in Haridwar or Rishikesh, and the four pilgrimage sites are located in the following order:

1. Yamunotri: The first stop is Yamunotri, located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. From Haridwar or Rishikesh, you can travel to Barkot via Mussoorie, and then to Jankichatti. From Jankichatti, you can trek or hire a pony to reach Yamunotri.
2. Gangotri: The second stop is Gangotri, located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. From Yamunotri, you can travel back to Barkot, Uttarkashi, and then to Gangotri.
3. Kedarnath: The third stop is Kedarnath, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. From Gangotri, you can travel back to Uttarkashi and then to Guptkashi, and then trek or hire a pony to reach Kedarnath.
4. Badrinath: The final stop is Badrinath, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. From Kedarnath, you can travel back to Guptkashi and then to Joshimath, and then drive to Badrinath.

After visiting Badrinath, you can return to Haridwar or Rishikesh via the same route. The entire Char Dham Yatra usually takes around 10-12 days, depending on your travel plans and preferences.

What is unique in Chardham yatra from Haridwar?

The Char Dham Yatra from Haridwar is a unique and spiritual journey that takes you through Uttarakhand’s most beautiful and scenic parts. Here are some unique features of the Char Dham Yatra from Haridwar:

1. The starting point of the Yatra: Haridwar is one of the most sacred places in India and is often referred to as the “Gateway to God.” Starting the Char Dham Yatra from Haridwar adds a special spiritual significance to the journey.
2. Holy dip in the Ganges: Before starting the Yatra, pilgrims take a holy dip in the Ganges at Haridwar, which is believed to wash away sins and purify the soul.
3. Scenic drive to the pilgrimage sites: The drive from Haridwar to the four pilgrimage sites is breathtaking, with stunning views of the Himalayas, verdant forests, and glistening rivers.
4. Trekking to Yamunotri and Kedarnath: Yamunotri and Kedarnath are the only two sites in the Char Dham Yatra that require a trek to reach. Trekking to these sites is a unique and challenging experience that adds an adventurous element to the pilgrimage.
5. Natural hot water springs at Yamunotri and Gangotri: Yamunotri and Gangotri are famous for their natural hot water springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties and are a popular attraction for pilgrims.
6. The confluence of two rivers at Devprayag: Devprayag is the site where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers converge to form the holy Ganges. The confluence is a unique and significant site for pilgrims.

These are some of the unique features of the Char Dham Yatra from Haridwar that make it a special and memorable journey for pilgrims.

What are the options to do the Chardham yatra in June month?

The Char Dham Yatra in June can be challenging due to the monsoon season and the possibility of landslides, but it is still possible to undertake the journey. Here are some options for doing the Char Dham Yatra in June:

1. Helicopter tour: A helicopter tour is an excellent option for those who want to avoid the risks of travelling by road during the monsoon season. Helicopter tours are available for the entire Char Dham Yatra or specific sites.
2. Trekking: Trekking to Yamunotri and Kedarnath is a unique and adventurous option for those who enjoy hiking. Trekking in June can be challenging due to the weather conditions, but it is still possible with proper planning and preparation.
3. Private car tour: If you prefer traveling by road, you can opt for a private car tour. This option provides more flexibility and control over your itinerary, allowing you to plan your journey according to the weather conditions.

Group tours are a popular option for the Char Dham Yatra, especially during the peak season. Many tour operators offer group tours that include transportation, accommodation, and meals, making it a convenient option for those who want a hassle-free journey.

It’s essential to keep in mind that traveling during the monsoon season can be unpredictable, and it’s important to check the weather and road conditions before embarking on the journey. It’s also advisable to carry appropriate clothing, gear, and medication to prepare for any situation.

Chardham yatra with Rishikesh

A Chardham Yatra combined with a visit to Rishikesh is a popular itinerary for pilgrims who want to explore more of the spiritual and scenic attractions of Uttarakhand. Rishikesh, also known as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” is a holy city situated on the banks of the river Ganges and is known for its ancient temples, ashrams, and yoga centers. Here’s what you can expect on a Chardham Yatra with Rishikesh:

1. Visit Triveni Ghat: Triveni Ghat is a holy bathing spot located in Rishikesh, where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers converge. It is believed to be a highly auspicious spot for taking a dip in the river and offering prayers.
2. Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan: Parmarth Niketan is a famous ashram located in Rishikesh that offers spiritual retreats and yoga classes. The Ganga Aarti, a daily ritual of worshipping the river Ganges, is performed at Parmarth Niketan in the evening and is a spectacular sight to behold.
3. Visit to Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula are two suspension bridges that cross the river Ganges in Rishikesh. They are popular attractions for pilgrims and tourists and offer breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding hills.
4. Adventure activities: Rishikesh is also known for its adventure activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and zip-lining, which are popular among thrill-seekers.
5. Scenic drive to Chardham sites: From Rishikesh, the drive to the Chardham sites is scenic and offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges, dense forests, and glistening rivers.

A Chardham Yatra with Rishikesh allows you to combine the spiritual aspects of the pilgrimage with the cultural and natural attractions of the region, making it a comprehensive and memorable journey.

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