Chardham Yatra
The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most revered pilgrimages in India, taking devotees through the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes of Uttarakhand. Covering four holy shrines — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath — this journey is believed to cleanse the soul and lead toward spiritual liberation.
What is Char Dham Yatra?
The Char Dham Yatra refers to visiting four holy temples located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand:
Traditionally, pilgrims visit them in this sequence: Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath.
Yamunotri Dham – The Origin of River Yamuna
Yamunotri is the first stop of the Char Dham circuit and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and hot water springs, the temple offers a peaceful and divine atmosphere.
Pilgrims usually trek around 6 km from Janki Chatti to reach the temple.
Gangotri Dham – The Sacred Source of Ganga
Gangotri is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, the most sacred river in Hinduism. Located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, the temple is surrounded by stunning mountain views and spiritual serenity.
Nearby Gaumukh Glacier is considered the actual origin of the Ganges.
Kedarnath Dham – The Abode of Lord Shiva
Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and the most spiritually intense destination of the Char Dham Yatra. The temple sits dramatically against the backdrop of the Kedarnath mountain range.
Reaching Kedarnath involves a 16–18 km trek from Gaurikund, though ponies, palkis, and helicopter services are also available.
Badrinath Dham – The Sacred Home of Lord Vishnu
Badrinath Dham, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India, is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Nestled in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of about 3,300 meters, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped here as Badrinarayan. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and situated along the banks of the Alaknanda River, the spiritual atmosphere of Badrinath is both serene and powerful.
The temple is an important part of the Char Dham Yatra, which also includes Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Kedarnath.
Best Time to Visit Char Dham Yatra
The temples open every year around April/May (Akshaya Tritiya) and close around October/November (Diwali period).
✅ Best months: May–June and September–October
⚠️ Avoid monsoon (July–August) due to landslides.
Char Dham Yatra Route
Most pilgrims start from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun.
Traditional Route Order:
Haridwar → Barkot → Yamunotri → Uttarkashi → Gangotri → Guptkashi → Kedarnath → Joshimath → Badrinath → Rishikesh
Total duration: 10–12 days by road.
Why Char Dham Yatra is Life-Changing?
Many pilgrims say something interesting after completing the yatra:
“You don’t just visit Char Dham… Char Dham changes you.”
The silence of the mountains, the chants of devotees, the sound of temple bells, and the sight of rivers flowing through valleys create a rare emotional connection. It becomes less about religion and more about peace, gratitude, and self-reflection.
