In the heart of the great Himalayas lies a sacred pilgrimage circuit known as the Chardham Yatra, a journey that encompasses four holy destinations – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Pilgrims from all corners of the globe undertake this spiritual journey seeking blessings, purification, and a profound connection with god. One of the common questions that arise when planning this pilgrimage is: how many days are required for the Chardham Yatra?
How to Plan for char Dham yatra
Char Dham Yatra is a profound journey that pilgrims undertake to seek spiritual and divine blessings. This sacred pilgrimage encompasses four significant sites in the landscapes of Uttarakhand, India—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. The duration required to complete the Char Dham Yatra can vary, typically between 10 to 14 days, depending on the chosen route and the pace of the traveler.
Starting from Haridwar, Uttarakhand, which serves as the gateway to this spiritual Journey, pilgrims embark on a transformative expedition that weaves through ancient temples, and the Himalayan foothills. Haridwar, well-connected by road and rail networks, welcomes devotees from all over India, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey of devotion.
For those considering the Char Dham Yatra, our tailored packages offer comprehensive itineraries designed to provide a holistic overview of this sacred Journey. These packages cater to varying preferences and requirements, ensuring a seamless experience amidst the divine of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Immerse yourself in the spirituality of Uttarakhand.
Char Dham Yatra from Haridwar(10 days)- MND Travels
Planning chardham yatra from haridwar is the best way to start your journey, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism, and considered as the Gateway to chardham yatra, every year thousands of pilgrims all over india and abroad specifically visit haridwar to start their chardham yatra after taking blessing of Maa Ganga Arti.
Day 1- Haridwar – Barkot (190 Kms / 4-5 Hrs)
Day 2- Barkot – Yamunotri – Barkot (42 Kms Drive / 5 Kms Trek 3-4 Hrs. each side )
Day 3- Barkot – Uttarkashi (82 Kms / 3 Hrs)
Day 4- Uttarkashi – Gangotri – Uttarkashi (100 Kms 3 Hrs. each side )
Day 5- Uttarkashi – Guptkashi (200 Kms / 6-7 Hrs)
Day 6- Guptkashi- Sonprayag- Gaurikund – Kedarnath (2Hrs Drive , 5Hrs trek Approx 50km)
Day 7- Kedarnanth- Gaurikund- Sonprayag – Guptakashi (2Hr Drive , 5Hr trek Approx 50km)
Day 8- Guptkashi- Badrinath (194km / 6Hrs)
Day 9- Badrinath- Rudrprayag (150km / 4.30Hrs)
Day 10- Rudrprayag- Rishikesh- Haridwar (157km / 4Hrs)
Char Dham Yatra from Delhi(12 days): MND Travels
Starting the Chardham yatra from Delhi is always a great option as it allows pilgrims to manage and plan their journey effectively. Thousands of pilgrims opt for Delhi to start their chardham yatra.
Day 1- Delhi To Haridwar (220 Kms 4.30 Hrs. Drive)
Day 2- Haridwar – Barkot (190 Kms / 5-6 Hrs. Drive)
Day 3- Barkot – Yamunotri – Barkot (42 Kms Drive / 5 Kms Trek 3 to 4 hrs. each side )
Day 4- Barkot – Uttarkashi (82 Kms / 3 Hrs. Drive )
Day 5- Uttarkashi – Gangotri – Uttarkashi (100 Kms 3 hrs. each side )
Day 6- Uttarkashi – Guptkashi (200 Kms / 7 Hrs. Drive)
Day 7- Guptkashi- Sonprayag- Gaurikund – Kedarnath (2Hrs Drive , 5Hrs Trek Approx 50Km)
Day 8- Kedarnanth- Gaurikund- Sonprayag – Guptakashi (2Hrs Drive , 5Hrs Trek Approx 50Km)
Day 9- Guptkashi – Badrinath (195 Kms Drive /6-7 Hrs)
Day 10- Badrinath to Rudrprayag (152km 4-5Hrs Drive)
Day 11- Rudrprayag to Haridwar (165Km 5Hrs Drive)
Day 12- Haridwar – Delhi (222 Kms 5 Hrs. Drive)
Where are the Char Dhams Situated?
Each of the Char Dhams holds its unique significance and is situated in the picturesque Garhwal region of Uttarakhand:
- Yamunotri: Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, situated at an altitude of 3,293 meters.
- Gangotri: The origin of River Ganga, located at an altitude of 3,100 meters.
- Kedarnath: Home to Lord Shiva’s revered Jyotirlinga, nestled at an altitude of 3,583 meters.
- Badrinath: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, situated at an altitude of 3,133 meters.
Opening Dates of Char Dham Yatra
The yatra for Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines starts from Akshaya Tritiya, i.e., on May 15. The opening date of the Kedarnath Temple was decided on Shivaratri, and this year, it will open on May 17. Badrinath Temple will open on May 18. Char Dham Yatra starts in April/ May and closes in October/ November near Deepavali every year.
The temples are open for six months, and for the rest of the year, they remain closed due to harsh weather and heavy snowfall. In the winter, the idols from the Kedarnath Temples shift to the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, and from Badrinath Temple, the idols shift to the Narasimha Temple in Joshimath. From Gangotri Temple, the idols shift to Mukhimath in Uttarkashi, and from Yamunotri Temple, the idols shift to Khushimath in Kharsali. The devotees can visit there to seek blessings.
FAQs
1-How long does the Char Dham Yatra typically take?
The duration of the Char Dham Yatra usually spans between 10 to 14 days, depending on the specific itinerary chosen and the pace of travel.
2-When is the best time to undertake the Char Dham Yatra?
The ideal time for the Char Dham Yatra is during the summer months from April/May to October/November, when the weather is favorable and the temples are open for pilgrimage.
3-How can one reach Haridwar, the starting point of the Char Dham Yatra?
Haridwar is well-connected by both road and rail networks. It can be easily reached by train from major cities across India and is also accessible by road.
4-What are the opening dates of the Char Dham temples?
The temples open around mid-May (specifically on dates like Akshaya Tritiya and Shivaratri) and remain accessible until the onset of winter, usually around October/November.
5-What are the altitudes of the Char Dham sites?
Yamunotri is situated at an altitude of 3,293 meters, Gangotri at 3,100 meters, Kedarnath at 3,583 meters, and Badrinath at 3,133 meters above sea level.
6-What are the significance and rituals associated with each Char Dham site?
Each site holds unique religious and mythological importance. For instance, Yamunotri is associated with the origin of the River Yamuna, while Kedarnath houses one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, representing Lord Shiva’s cosmic light.
7-Are there specific precautions to take during the Char Dham Yatra?
Given the high altitudes and varying terrains, it’s advisable to carry appropriate clothing, medicines for altitude sickness, and to maintain physical fitness for the trekking involved.
