Are you looking for a life-changing experience that will enrich your soul and rejuvenate your body and mind? If yes, then you should consider taking the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, India.
Char Dham Yatra is a religious pilgrimage circuit that covers four holy shrines: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These shrines are dedicated to different aspects of Hinduism and are believed to grant salvation to the devotees who visit them.
Char Dham Yatra is not only a spiritual journey but also a scenic adventure that takes you through the majestic Himalayas, the sacred rivers, the lush valleys, and the ancient temples. You will witness the beauty and diversity of nature, culture, and history along the way.
In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to plan your Char Dham Yatra 2023. We will cover everything you need to know about the opening and closing dates, routes, itinerary, cost, accommodation, places to visit, and travel tips for the yatra. We will also share some insights and stories that will inspire you to embark on this ultimate spiritual journey.
Opening and Closing Dates of Char Dham Yatra 2023
The opening and closing dates of Char Dham Yatra depend on the auspicious occasions of Akshaya Tritiya and Bhai Dooj respectively. These are Hindu festivals that fall in the months of April-May and October-November respectively.
The opening dates of the four shrines are usually announced by the temple authorities a few weeks before Akshaya Tritiya. The closing dates are decided on the day of Vijaya Dashami or Dussehra, which is another Hindu festival that falls in September-October.
The tentative opening and closing dates of Char Dham Yatra 2023 are as follows:
Shrine Opening Date Closing Date
Yamunotri April 30, 2023 November 6, 2023
Gangotri April 30, 2023 November 6, 2023
Kedarnath May 1, 2023 November 5, 2023
Badrinath May 2, 2023 November 4, 2023
These dates are subject to change depending on the weather conditions and other factors. Therefore, it is advisable to check the latest updates and announcements from the official websites of the shrines or the Uttarakhand Tourism Board before planning your trip.
The best time to visit Char Dham Yatra is from May to June and from September to October. These are the peak seasons when the weather is pleasant and the roads are clear. However, these are also the busiest seasons when the crowd is high and the prices are inflated. If you want to avoid the rush and enjoy a peaceful yatra, you can also visit during July-August or November. These are the off-seasons when the weather is unpredictable and the roads are risky. However, these are also the cheapest seasons when you can get discounts and deals on your travel expenses.
How to Get to Char Dham Yatra by Road or Helicopter
There are two main ways to reach Char Dham Yatra: by road or by helicopter. Both have their pros and cons depending on your budget, time, comfort, and preference.
By Road
The most common and economical way to reach Char Dham Yatra is by road. You can either drive your own car or bike or hire a taxi, a driver, or a tour operator for the yatra.
The nearest airports to reach the base points of the yatra are Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (for Yamunotri and Gangotri) and Pantnagar Airport in Udham Singh Nagar (for Kedarnath and Badrinath).
The nearest railway stations are Haridwar Junction (for Yamunotri and Gangotri) and Kathgodam Junction (for Kedarnath and Badrinath). You can also take a bus from Delhi or other major cities to reach these points.
The options and costs of hiring a taxi, a driver, or a tour operator for the yatra vary depending on the type of vehicle, the number of passengers, the duration of the trip, and the season of the visit. You can expect to pay anywhere between Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 50,000 per person for a 10-12 day trip.
The advantages of taking a road trip for the yatra are:
1. You can enjoy the scenic beauty and diversity of the Himalayas, the rivers, the valleys, and the temples along the way.
2. You can stop and explore the places of your interest and choice at your own pace and convenience.
3. You can experience the local culture, cuisine, and festivals of Uttarakhand and interact with the people.
The disadvantages of taking a road trip for the yatra are:
1. You have to endure long and tiring journeys on narrow and winding roads that are prone to landslides, traffic jams, and accidents.
2. You have to face the challenges of high altitude, low oxygen, cold weather, and unpredictable climate changes that can affect your health and comfort.
3. You have to deal with the hassles of booking, parking, fueling, and maintaining your vehicle or finding a reliable and affordable taxi, driver, or tour operator.
By Helicopter
The most convenient and luxurious way to reach Char Dham Yatra is by helicopter. You can book a helicopter service that will take you to each shrine in a matter of minutes and save you from the troubles of road travel.
The helicopter services are operated by private companies that have their helipads at different locations near the shrines. You can choose from different packages that offer one-way, round-trip, or full yatra options. You can also customize your package according to your preferences and needs.
The advantages and disadvantages of taking a helicopter service for the yatra are as follows:
1. You can save time and energy by avoiding long and tedious road journeys. You have to spend a lot of money as helicopter services are very expensive.
2. You can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Himalayas, the rivers, the valleys, and the temples from the sky. You have to compromise on the thrill and adventure of road travel.
3. You can avoid the risks of landslides, traffic jams, and accidents on the roads. You have to face the risks of bad weather, technical glitches, and flight cancellations in the air.
4. The cost of booking a helicopter ticket for the yatra depends on the type of package, the number of passengers, the season of the visit, and the availability of seats. You can expect to pay anywhere between Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 2 lakh per person for a full yatra package.
You can book a helicopter ticket online or offline through various websites or agents that offer helicopter services for Char Dham Yatra.
Char Dham Yatra Route and Itinerary
The traditional sequence and direction of visiting the four shrines of Char Dham Yatra is as follows:
Yamunotri:
The first shrine that is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, who is considered as the sister of Lord Yama (the god of death) and the daughter of Lord Surya (the sun god). Yamunotri is located at an altitude of 3,293 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas. The main attraction here is the Yamunotri Temple, which houses a black marble idol of the goddess. Another attraction is the Surya Kund, a hot water spring where devotees cook rice and potatoes as offerings to the goddess. The trek to Yamunotri starts from Janki Chatti, which is 6 km away from the shrine. You can also hire a pony or a palanquin for the trek.
Gangotri:
The second shrine that is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, who is revered as the mother of all rivers and the source of life. Gangotri is located at an altitude of 3,415 meters in the Uttarkashi district. The main attraction here is the Gangotri Temple, which was built by a Gorkha general in the 18th century. Another attraction is the Gaumukh Glacier, which is the actual source of the river Ganga. The trek to Gaumukh starts from Gangotri and covers 18 km one way. You need to obtain a permit from the forest department for the trek.
Kedarnath:
The third shrine that is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped as the destroyer of evil and the protector of devotees. Kedarnath is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters in the Rudraprayag district. The main attraction here is the Kedarnath Temple, which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas (self-manifested lingas) of Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be more than 1,000 years old and was restored by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. Another attraction is the Vasuki Tal, a lake that offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks. The trek to Kedarnath starts from Gaurikund, which is 16 km away from the shrine. You can also take a helicopter service from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi to reach Kedarnath.
Badrinath:
The fourth and final shrine that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is regarded as the preserver and sustainer of the universe. Badrinath is located at an altitude of 3,133 meters in the Chamoli district. The main attraction here is the Badrinath Temple, which is one of the 108 Divya Desams (holy abodes) of Lord Vishnu. The temple has a colorful facade and a gold-plated roof. It houses a black stone idol of Lord Vishnu in a meditative pose. Another attraction is the Tapt Kund, a hot water spring where devotees take a bath before entering the temple.
The number of days required to complete Char Dham Yatra depends on your mode of travel, your route, your itinerary, and your pace. However, a typical duration for Char Dham Yatra by road is 10-12 days and by helicopter is 4-5 days.
You may also like to check out: Chardham Yatra: A Complete Guide (Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Chopta, Badrinath & Rishikesh)
You can customize your itinerary according to your preferences, budget, and time constraints. However, a sample itinerary for Char Dham Yatra by road is as follows:
Day Destination Distance Time
1 Delhi - Haridwar 220 km 6 hours
2 Haridwar - Barkot 220 km 7 hours
3 Barkot - Yamunotri - Barkot 36 km + 6 km trek 8 hours
4 Barkot - Uttarkashi 100 km 4 hours
5 Uttarkashi - Gangotri - Uttarkashi 200 km 8 hours
6 Uttarkashi - Guptkashi 210 km 9 hours
7 Guptkashi - Kedarnath - Guptkashi 30 km + 16 km trek 10 hours
8 Guptkashi - Joshimath 175 km 8 hours
9 Joshimath - Badrinath - Joshimath 90 km 4 hours
10 Joshimath - Rudraprayag 160 km 6 hours
11 Rudraprayag-Rishikesh 140km 5 hours
12 Rishikesh-Delhi 230km 7 hours
How to Register for Char Dham Yatra
It is mandatory to register for Char Dham Yatra as it helps the authorities to keep a track of the number of pilgrims, provide them with facilities and services, and ensure their safety and security. The registration also entitles you to some benefits such as free insurance, medical aid, and priority darshan.
You can register for Char Dham Yatra online or offline. The online registration can be done through the official website of the Uttarakhand Tourism Board: https://www.chardhamyatraportal.com/.
You need to fill an online form with your personal details, upload your photo and ID proof, and pay a nominal fee of Rs. 50 per person. You will receive a confirmation email and SMS with your registration number and QR code.
The offline registration can be done at any of the 14 registration centers set up by the Uttarakhand Tourism Board at various locations such as Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, Barkot, Uttarkashi, Guptkashi, Joshimath, etc. You need to visit the registration center with your photo and ID proof and fill a physical form. You will get a biometric card with your registration number and QR code.
You need to carry your registration card or QR code with you throughout the yatra and scan it at the designated checkpoints at each shrine. This will help the authorities to monitor your movement and provide you with assistance in case of any emergency.
You can also cancel or modify your registration in case of any changes or emergencies. You can do this online through the website or offline through the registration centers. However, you need to do this at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time.
Things to Keep in Mind for Char Dham Yatra
Char Dham Yatra is a challenging and rewarding journey that requires a lot of preparation and precautions. Here are some of the things that you need to keep in mind for Char Dham Yatra:
Packing:
You need to pack light and smart for Char Dham Yatra as you will have to carry your luggage on long treks or flights. You need to pack only the essential items such as clothes, shoes, toiletries, medicines, snacks, water bottles, etc.
You also need to pack some warm clothes, woolen socks, gloves, caps, etc. as the temperature can drop drastically at high altitudes. You also need to pack some raincoats, umbrellas, torches, etc. as the weather can change unpredictably in the mountains. You also need to pack some religious items such as offerings, prasad, etc. for the temples.
Health:
You need to be physically and mentally fit for Char Dham Yatra as you will have to face the challenges of high altitude, low oxygen, cold weather, and unpredictable climate changes. You need to consult your doctor before taking the yatra and get a medical certificate that certifies your fitness level.
You also need to take some preventive measures such as acclimatizing yourself to the altitude, drinking plenty of water, eating light and nutritious food, avoiding alcohol and smoking, etc. You also need to carry some medicines such as painkillers, anti-nausea pills, anti-diarrhea pills, etc. in case of any illness or discomfort.
Safety:
You need to follow the safety and security measures and guidelines for Char Dham Yatra as you will have to deal with the risks of landslides, traffic jams, accidents, etc. on the roads. You need to drive carefully and cautiously on the narrow and winding roads that are prone to landslides and traffic jams.
You also need to follow the instructions and signals of the traffic police and road authorities. You also need to avoid driving at night or in bad weather conditions. You also need to carry some emergency items such as first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, spare tire, etc. in case of any mishap.
Environment:
You need to respect the environment and culture of Char Dham Yatra as you will be visiting some of the most sacred and pristine places in India. You need to avoid littering or polluting the surroundings with plastic bottles, wrappers, etc.
You also need to avoid harming or disturbing the wildlife or flora that inhabit the region. You also need to follow the rules and regulations of the forest department and wildlife sanctuary that protect the environment. You also need to respect the local culture and traditions of Uttarakhand and interact with the people politely and courteously.
Places to Stay During Char Dham Yatra
There are various types and costs of accommodation available at each shrine and nearby areas for Char Dham Yatra. You can choose from different options such as hotels, There are various types and costs of accommodation available at each shrine and nearby areas for Char Dham Yatra. You can choose from different options such as hotels, guest houses, ashrams, camps, etc. depending on your budget, comfort, and preference.
The hotels range from budget to luxury and offer facilities and services such as rooms, beds, blankets, heaters, geysers, TVs, Wi-Fi, etc. The guest houses are similar to hotels but cheaper and simpler. The ashrams are religious places that offer basic and cheap accommodation for pilgrims. The camps are tents that are set up in open areas and offer a camping experience with nature.
You can book your accommodation online or offline through various websites or agents that offer accommodation for Char Dham Yatra.
The facilities and services offered by different accommodation providers vary depending on the location, season, and demand. You can expect to pay anywhere between Rs. 500 to Rs. 5,000 per night for a room.
Some of the tips and tricks to save money and get comfortable stays during the yatra are:
1. Book your accommodation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles and price hikes.
2. Compare the prices and reviews of different accommodation providers before booking.
3. Choose your accommodation according to your proximity to the shrine and the helipad.
4. Opt for shared rooms or dormitories if you are traveling solo or in a group.
5. Check the amenities and cleanliness of the room before checking in.
6. Carry your own bedding, toiletries, towels, etc. if possible.
Places to Visit During Char Dham Yatra
Char Dham Yatra is not only about visiting the four shrines but also about exploring the places that surround them. There are many places to visit during Char Dham Yatra that will enhance your experience and make your trip memorable. Some of the main attractions and activities at each shrine are:
Yamunotri: You can visit the Divya Shila, a rock pillar that is worshipped before entering the temple. You can also visit the Kharsali Village, which is known for its ancient Shani Temple and its terraced farms.
Gangotri: You can visit the Bhagirathi Shila, a rock where King Bhagirath meditated to bring down the Ganga from heaven. You can also visit the Pandava Gufa, a cave where the Pandavas rested during their exile.
Kedarnath: You can visit the Shankaracharya Samadhi, a memorial where Adi Shankaracharya attained nirvana. You can also visit the Bhairav Nath Temple, a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva’s fierce form.
Badrinath: You can visit the Brahma Kapal, a platform where devotees perform rituals for their ancestors. You can also visit the Charan Paduka, a rock that has the footprints of Lord Vishnu.
Some of the lesser-known but equally amazing places to visit near each shrine are:
Yamunotri: You can visit the Saptarishi Kund, a glacial lake that is the original source of the Yamuna river. You can also visit the Hanuman Chatti, a confluence of the Yamuna and Hanuman Ganga rivers.
Gangotri: You can visit the Nandanvan Tapovan, a meadow that offers a stunning view of the Shivling peak. You can also visit the Gangnani Hot Springs, a natural thermal spring that has medicinal properties.
Kedarnath: You can visit the Triyuginarayan Temple, a temple where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married. You can also visit the Sonprayag, a confluence of the Mandakini and Son Ganga rivers.
Badrinath: You can visit the Mana Village, the last Indian village near the Indo-China border. You can also visit the Vyas Gufa, a cave where Sage Vyas composed the Mahabharata.
Some of the best scenic spots, viewpoints, waterfalls, lakes, etc. along the route of Char Dham Yatra are:
Yamunotri: You can enjoy the view of the Bandarpunch Peak, which is one of the highest peaks in Uttarakhand. You can also enjoy the view of the Saptarishi Kund Waterfall, which is formed by the melting of the Saptarishi Kund glacier.
Gangotri: You can enjoy the view of the Gaumukh Glacier, which is one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas and the source of the Ganga river. You can also enjoy the view of the Tapovan Meadow, which is a green oasis surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Kedarnath: You can enjoy the view of the Kedarnath Peak, which is one of the highest peaks in Uttarakhand and a part of the Chaukhamba massif. You can also enjoy the view of the Chorabari Lake, which is a glacial lake that reflects the image of the temple and the peak.
Badrinath: You can enjoy the view of the Neelkanth Peak, which is a pyramid-shaped peak that glows in different colors at different times of the day. You can also enjoy the view of the Alaknanda River, which is one of the main tributaries of the Ganga river and flows through the valley.
Char Dham Yatra is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will fill your heart with devotion and your mind with peace. It will also give you a chance to witness the beauty and glory of nature and culture in Uttarakhand.
Dreaming of a journey to heaven and back? Check out this guide to Char Dham Yatra before you jet off on life-changing journey to the 4 Holy Shrines of India!
We hope this article has provided you with a complete guide to plan your Char Dham Yatra 2023. We also hope it has inspired you to embark on this ultimate spiritual journey.
If you have any feedback, queries, or experiences about Char Dham Yatra, please feel free to share them with us in the comments section below.
We wish you a happy and safe yatra!