Hi, I’m Manoj Kumar, an author and writer at Trip Guru Go. Join me as we explore the sacred Char Dham Yatra 2024 in Uttarakhand, a journey of spiritual significance and natural beauty.
Uttarakhand, often called Devbhoomi or the Land of Gods, is a region rich in spiritual heritage. It is home to numerous temples and attracts devotees all year round. One of the most significant spiritual journeys in Uttarakhand is the Char Dham Yatra. This pilgrimage involves visiting four holy sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. In Hindi, ‘char’ means four, and ‘dham’ means religious places.
These high-altitude temples remain closed for about six months every year. They open in summer (April or May) and close with the onset of winter (October or November). It is believed that the Char Dham Yatra should be completed in a clockwise direction. Hence, the pilgrimage begins at Yamunotri, moves on to Gangotri, continues to Kedarnath, and finally ends at Badrinath. The journey can be completed by road or by air, as helicopter services are available. Some devotees also opt for a two-dham yatra, visiting only Kedarnath and Badrinath.
Yamunotri: The First Stop
The Yamunotri temple dedicates itself to Goddess Yamuna and sits in a narrow valley near the source of the Yamuna River. Indians regard this river as the second holiest in their country, just after the Ganga. The Uttarkashi district locates the temple, surrounding it with breathtaking scenery, including snow-capped peaks and lush greenery. Read more…
Gangotri: The Abode of Goddess Ganga
The next stop is Gangotri, also located in Uttarkashi. People dedicate this temple to Goddess Ganga, India’s holiest river. It stands near the river’s source, known for its stunning natural beauty. Religious significance surrounds the sacred river Ganga, which people consider a purifying force.
Kedarnath: The Shrine of Lord Shiva
Kedarnath, situated in Rudraprayag district, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest Shiva temples. Kedarnath is set against the stunning backdrop of the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas. The journey to Kedarnath is challenging but deeply rewarding. Many devotees believe that a visit to Kedarnath can wash away sins and bring spiritual peace.
Badrinath: The Sacred Badrinarayan Temple
The final stop of the Char Dham Yatra is Badrinath, home to the sacred Badrinarayan Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Badrinath is located in the Chamoli district and is part of the Badrinath-Kedarnath circuit. The temple is set against the backdrop of the towering Neelkanth peak and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes. A visit to Badrinath is believed to bring salvation and eternal bliss.
The Divine Experience
The Char Dham Yatra is as divine as it is difficult, but it is a soul-satisfying experience. Devotees from all over the world undertake this journey to seek blessings and experience the spiritual energy of these sacred sites. The journey is not just a physical trek but a spiritual path that leads to self-discovery and inner peace.
Planning Your Yatra
- Best Time to Visit: April to November, when the temples are open.
- Travel Options: By road or by helicopter services.
- Preparation: Ensure you are physically fit, as some parts of the journey can be strenuous.
The Char Dham Yatra is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines adventure with spirituality. Whether you are seeking spiritual growth or simply wish to witness the beauty of the Himalayas, this pilgrimage offers a unique and unforgettable journey.
Char Dham Yatra 2024 Travel Advisory
The Char Dham Yatra is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. To ensure a smooth journey, the Uttarakhand Government has outlined several measures.
Char Dham Yatra Registration
- Portal: Register at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
- Daily Limit: There is a cap on daily travelers. Check your registration status before traveling.
Quick Registration Steps:
- Fill the Form: Complete the registration form.
- Submit Documents: Provide required documents.
- Pay the Fee: Pay online or at banks/post offices.
- Download Certificate: Get your electronic registration certificate.
Complete your Char Dham Yatra in 5 to 12 days with a seamless registration process.
Health Advisory
High altitudes can expose pilgrims to extreme cold, low humidity, and reduced oxygen. Follow these guidelines:
- Health Check-Up: Undergo a comprehensive health evaluation prior to the journey.
- Medication: Bring prescribed medicines and your physician’s contact information.
- Special Considerations: Senior citizens, those with comorbidities, or past COVID-19 patients should consider postponing their trip.
- Rest: Incorporate a rest day before reaching the final site.
- Warm Clothes: Carry woolen attire.
- Medical Conditions: Be extra cautious if you have heart, respiratory, diabetes, or hypertension issues.
- Symptoms: Seek immediate medical help if you experience headache, dizziness, chest tightness, nausea, or fast breathing. Call 104 or 108 for assistance.
- Alcohol and Smoking: Avoid these.
- Sun Protection: Use SPF 50 sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and eat properly. Take frequent breaks.
- Exercise: Avoid strenuous activity at high altitudes.
Emergency Contacts
Helplines:
- 108 โ National Ambulance Service
- 104 โ Uttarakhand Health Helpline
Travel Tips for Mountain Routes
Dos:
- Vehicle Registration: Register your vehicle.
- Passenger List: Keep a list of passengers.
- Right of Way: Yield to uphill vehicles.
- Documents: Carry valid vehicle documents and a spare stepney.
- Green Card: Obtained from the transport office.
- Honk on Turns: Honk on mountain road turns.
- Hand Brake: Use when parking; park only in designated areas.
- Proof: Carry proof or a QR code of your registration.
Donโts:
- Night Driving: Avoid driving between 4 am and 10 pm.
- Overtaking: Do not overtake on turns.
- Drinking and Driving: Avoid this.
- Unsafe Travel: Donโt travel on top of the vehicle.
- Littering: Do not litter.
- Commercial Use: Donโt use private vehicles commercially.
Overview of Popular Chardham Tours
| Tour No. | Start Location | Destinations | End Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Rishikesh | Kedarnath, Badrinath | Rishikesh |
| 02 | Haridwar | Kedarnath, Badrinath | Haridwar |
| 03 | Haridwar | Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath | Haridwar |
| 04 | Rishikesh | Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath | Rishikesh |
| 05 | Dehradun | Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath | Haridwar |
| 06 | Delhi | Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath | Haridwar |
| 07 | Dehradun | Yamunotri, Gangotri, Gaumukh | Haridwar |
| 08 | Rishikesh | Kedarnath, Badrinath | Rishikesh |
| 09 | Haridwar | Kedarnath, Badrinath | Haridwar |
| 10 | Rishikesh | Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath | Rishikesh |
| 11 | Haridwar | Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath | Haridwar |
| 12 | Rishikesh | Valley of Flowers, Hemkund Lokpal, Badrinath | Rishikesh |
| 13 | Rishikesh | Kedarnath, Badrinath | Rishikesh |
| 14 | Rishikesh | Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath | Rishikesh |
Contact Information for Advance Reservation and Chardham Yatra Inquiries
Delhi Uttarakhand Tourism
- PRO Delhi
- Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited
- 102-Indraprakash Building, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi 110001
- Phone: 011-23350481, 23326620
- Fax: 011-23327713
- Email: delhi@gmvnl.in
Bengaluru Uttarakhand Tourism
- PRO Bengaluru
- Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited
- Uttarakhand Tourism, 29/2, Second Floor, Nanjappa Mansion, Double Road (KH Road), Shanti Nagar, Bangalore-560027
- Telefax: 080-22249378
- Email: bangalore@gmvnl.in
Haridwar Uttarakhand Tourism
- PRO Haridwar
- PRO GMVN Limited Haridwar
- Rahi Motel, Near Bus Stand, Haridwar-249408
- Phone: 01334-228686
- Mobile: 09568006661
- Fax: 01334-226430
Chennai Uttarakhand Tourism
- PRO Chennai
- Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited
- C/O Tamil Nadu Tourism Complex, Wallajah Road, Chennai-600002
- Phone: 044-25363524
- Email: gmvn@vsnl.com
Hyderabad Uttarakhand Tourism
- PRO Hyderabad
- 172, GC Ground Floor, Bal Yogi Tourist Bhavan, Opp. Greenlands Guest House, Begumpet, Hyderabad-500016, AP
- Phone: 040-23409945
- Mobile: 09493982645
- Fax: 040-23409945
- Email: gmvnhyderabad@gmail.com, gmvnhyderabad@gmvnl.in
Kolkata Uttarakhand Tourism
- PRO Kolkata
- Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited
- 7/2C, Chakraberia Road (South), (Opposite Bank of Baroda), Bhawanipur, Kolkata-700025
- Mobile: 9831110999
- Email: gmvnkol@gmail.com
Mumbai Uttarakhand Tourism
- PRO Mumbai
- Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited, Mumbai
- Arun Chambers, Basement No. 5, Near AC Market, Tardeo Main Road, Mumbai Central-400034
- Phone: 022-23524013
- Fax: 022-23526054
- Email: mumbai@gmvnl.in
Additional Information
- Tourist Helpline Number
- Phone: 1364 (For other states: +91-135-1364)
- Chardham Yatra Control Room
- Phone: 0135-2559898, 2552627, 0135-3520100
- For Chardham Yatra Package Inquiries Contact
- Mr. SPS Rawat
- AGM, Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (Yatra Office)
- Phone: +91 9568006626
- Official In Charge of Chardham Yatra
- Mr. Kamal Kishore Joshi
- PRO, Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board
- Email: controlroomutdb@gmail.com
Conclusion
The Char Dham Yatra is a deeply spiritual expedition. Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and enriching experience. Prepare meticulously, honor the rules, and embark on this divine journey with devotion.
FAQs
Char Dham Yatra registration for 2024 starts with the opening dates of the temples. Kedarnath opens on May 10, 2024, and Badrinath on May 12, 2024. The dates for Gangotri and Yamunotri are yet to be announced.
There is no registration fee for Char Dham Yatra.
Kedarnath Temple opens on May 10, 2024.
Badrinath Temple opens on May 12, 2024, at 06:00 AM.
The best months for Char Dham Yatra are May to June and September to October. The weather is pleasant during these months, making it ideal for travel.
The Char Dham Yatra can be risky due to challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, high altitudes, narrow roads, and the possibility of landslides or avalanches.
Yamunotri is the first place to visit in the Char Dham Yatra.
Approximately 11-12 days are enough to complete the Char Dham Yatra.
Yamunotri is the toughest of the four dhams due to its narrow and crowded pathway, despite being at a lower elevation.
The Chardham Yatra by Helicopter, offered by Yatra.com, is the best option, especially for those with health issues or tight schedules.
The Char Dham Yatra is completed in a clockwise direction, starting at Yamunotri, moving to Gangotri, then Kedarnath, and ending at Badrinath. This journey can be completed by road or air (helicopter services).
The Kedarnath Yatra is considered the most difficult.
Yes, visitors can touch the idol and perform Abhishek with Ghee before 3:00 PM. After 5:00 PM, touching the idol is not permitted, but Darshan from a distance is allowed.
A trip to Kedarnath can cost between Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 20,000 or more, depending on your travel style, duration of stay, and activities.
The best time to visit Kedarnath with fewer crowds is during the early summer months (March to early June) or the autumn months (October to November).
