The Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand is a sacred pilgrimage circuit that encompasses four holy sites, each with its own significance in Hindu mythology and spirituality. The journey typically begins with Yamunotri - the source of the Yamuna River. Situated at an altitude of 3,293 meters, it is accessed via a trek from Hanuman Chatti. The main attraction is the Yamunotri Temple dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the hot springs (Janki Chatti) before visiting the temple. The next stop is Gangotri the origin of the holy River Ganges. Located at an altitude of 3,100 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas. Gangotri is home to the Gangotri Temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Pilgrims offer prayers and take a dip in the icy waters of the Bhagirathi River believed to cleanse sins. Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters amidst the stunning Kedar range of the Garhwal Himalayas. The Kedarnath Temple built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century is the main attraction. Pilgrims trek or take ponies to reach the temple from Gaurikund. The final destination of the Chardham Yatra is Badrinath the abode of Lord Vishnu. Situated at an altitude of 3,133 meters, Badrinath is surrounded by the Nar and Narayana mountain ranges. The Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Badri form is the main attraction. Pilgrims also visit the Tapt Kund hot springs and the nearby Mana Village believed to be the last inhabited village before the Indo-Tibetan border.
Highlights of the Chardham Yatra include:
The Chardham Yatra is believed to cleanse devotees of their sins and grant them salvation (moksha). It is considered one of the holiest pilgrimages for Hindus known as Chardham Tour. The journey takes pilgrims through some of the most breath-taking landscapes of the Himalayas, including snow-capped peaks, lush valleys and gushing rivers. Pilgrims get the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Uttarakhand interacting with locals, participating in rituals and experiencing traditional cuisine and hospitality. The Chardham Yatra involves trekking, pony rides and long journeys through mountainous terrain offering adventure enthusiasts an exhilarating experience.
How to Reach Char Dham Yatra?
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun approximately 210 kilometres from Yamunotri. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hanuman Chatti, the base camp for Yamunotri. The nearest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station, about 190 kilometres from Hanuman Chatti. From Dehradun you can proceed by road via taxi or bus. Hanuman Chatti is the base camp for Yamunotri, located about 215 kilometers from Rishikesh. Regular bus services and taxis are available from Rishikesh to Hanuman Chatti.
Tips for Char Dham Yatra
Altitude Sickness: Be prepared for high altitudes, especially in Kedarnath and Badrinath. Take necessary precautions and acclimatize properly. Weather Conditions, be mindful of weather conditions, especially during the monsoon season (July to September), when landslides are common in the region. Permits some areas may require permits especially for foreign tourists. Make sure to check the latest regulations before planning your trip.
The Chardham Yatra is not just a pilgrimage but a spiritual journey and an opportunity to connect with nature, culture, and divinity.