Why Char Dham Yatra has more Significant in Hindu Religious

India is a great nation to visit for tourist charms. In India, the spiritual beliefs, most famous culture and heritage wonders are the main reasons,the temples with magnificent architecture, world famous destinations that is why the pilgrims plan to visit in India. India is really a paradise for the seekers of spirituality and tranquility. Among of these pilgrimages, Char Dham Yatra is the world famous and attraction of all worlds tourist, chardham yatra begins in the state of Uttarakhand from east to west. The Hindus called it as the Teerth Yatra (pilgrimage) to well known place of the Hindu Gods namely Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath. And Kedarnath these 4 religious places are located in the different districts of Uttarakhand.

A Common Myth about Char Dham Yatra

It is a common myth among the people that the Char Dham Yatra is organized only for the old aged pilgrims. This myth stops when a pilgrim starts the tour. A pilgrims starts experiencing and believing that the pilgrims of all age equally enjoy the tour, which is not only full of cultural values, but also a adventurers.

Importance of Char Dham in Hindu Religion

The Char Dham Yatra is a most visited place to achieve salvation. Every year, more than 2.5 Lac travelers visit these holy places. According to Hindu mythology, it is accepted that the Hindu philosopher Shri Adi Shankaracharya announced this name ‘Char Dham’. The meaning of this name is four Holy Destinations (living place of God). These 4 places are in the region that is famous for the magnificent and peak mountains surrounded by a snow as well cold and perfect atmosphere.

In India, the Hindus think that the Char Dham darshan opens the entry of salvation by washing away all their sins. It is also considered that this place must be visited at least once in a lifetime. These four Religious place have a great significance and place in Hindu mythology. According to hindu mythology, Shri Adi Shankaracharya obtain freedom from rebirth in the Shri Badrinath Dham. The starting of the Chardham Yatra is Yamunotri. Proceed to Gangotri shrine. Then next destination is Shri Kedarnath Dham and finally Shri Badrinath Dham. After completing the Char Dham the pilgrim or visitors got an serenity of the mind which is main purpose of every visitors.

Yamunotri Temple

Dham is a main destination for Hindus as it boasts Yamunotri- the source of the holy Yamuna River. This holy river has a famous mythological story among Hindus that the Yamuna was the sister of Yamraj and at the occasion of Bhai Dooj, Brother Yamraj make a promise to Yamuna that whosoever will having a bath in the Yamuna River will not be taken to Yamlok and he would achieved salvation. The temple is the seat of Goddess Yamuna and also the main starting point (source) of the Yamuna River. It is the most famous religious plac in Garhwal (Uttarakhand). Yamunotri Dham, situated at the altitude of 3164 M from ocean level, millions of visitors visiting this holy place the major attraction point here are the temple dedicated to the Goddess Yamuna and the Janki Chatti’s hot water springs. Here the environment is cleared Yamunotri with the cold flow of Yamuna. The place remains hot with the thermal springs famous as Kunds of Hindu Goddess ‘Shakti’.

Gangotri Temple

The Gangotri Dham is situated at an altitude of 3200 Mtr in the centre of affecting surroundings with bank of river Bhagirathi. The main focus place of Gangotri Dham is Gomukh, which is the source of the Holy River Ganges. It is assume that river Ganga came to earth after King Bhagirath prayer for a long time. The rock on which King Bhagirath did his prayer is situated near to Ganga Temple in Gangotri. Here a special prayer of Ganga River is organized both inside the place as well bank of the river. A beautiful and attractive temple devoted to Goddess Ganga is located in this area. It is consider that the holy river Ganga is the source of clearness and sanctity. That is why before entering inside the temple, the pilgrims having a bath in this great river

Kedarnath Temple

Shri Kedarnath Dham is also a famous religious place for all Hindus as it is one of the twelve jyotirlingas of Bhole Nath(Lord Shiva), the God of holocaust. Tungnath, Kedarnath, Madhmaheshwar, Kalpeshwar, and Rudranath sites are together known as Panch Kedar. Adi Shankaracharya reconstructs the temple. After the ruler of Satyuga named this temple as ‘Kedar’ Kedarnath temple. This place is open from April end till Kartic Poornima.

Badrinath Temple

‘Kedar’ Kedarnath Temple the importance of Shri Badrinath Dham can be believed from the fact that it is considered as the most famous holy place among the four other holy places. Located at an elevation of 3,133 meters from the ocean level and situated on the left bank of the Alaknanda River. The Dham is devoted to Lord Vishnu, the preserver and the guard of the Hindu Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. These temples are also known as Vishal Badri. This region has also witnessed Saint Adi Shankaracharya achieved freedom from the process of rebirth.

Best Time to Visit Char Dham, Uttarakhand:

One of the religious places for Hindus, Char Dhma Yarta for Hindus is assembles by pilgrims every year. Pilgrims should always keep in mind the best time to visit these destinations, before going to the trip. The perfect timea & Session to go for these places are during the months from May to October, but in the monsoon season don’t to go at this place. In the winters session all these place are blocked due to heavy snowfall. At the time of monsoon season, yatra stops due to landslides that may disrupt the trip.

Char Dham Yatra Travel Guide for NRI

The holiest Chardham Yatra, which is located in the breathtaking Garhwal of the Himalayan Mountains, is one such journey that is inspired by spirituality and encourages individuals to go on it if they want to find peace and tranquility. The Chardham Yatra is a wonderful chance to discover the amazing snow-capped Himalayas and the exquisite Hindu culture. For devotees, traveling to the four main holy sites of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath (collectively known as the “Chardham”) is the pinnacle of an incredible experience.

The majority of NRI/foreign visitors, along with Indian tourists, want to take part in the Char Dham Yatra each year. Before their trip, they look for relevant information and appropriate travel guides. Here is a comprehensive travel guide for the Char Dham Yatra for visitors from out of India. Go through this article and make yourself prepare for the holiest journey of your life.

uttarakhand chardham yatra

Make a Suitable Planning

Make suitable planning based on the weather. Remember that the best time to visit the temples is from May to October. Before arranging a trip, travellers should check with the Indian government on the COVID-19 pandemic guidelines and laws. Passengers should confirm the latest information with the appropriate airline or operators since these policies are subject to change. Passengers ought to verify prices at all levels before making reservations to travel.

Pack Appropriately

Do not forget to keep all essential documents/ ID card and passport. Bring warm clothing because the weather might be cold at high altitudes. Have adequate food and water in your suitcase for the trip. Carry any additional requirements, such as a torch, first-aid kit, medications; cash in hand, sunglasses, walking stick, raincoat, and other things for emergency use.

Consider the Altitude

It is critical to be aware of the potential consequences of altitude sickness. Because the Char Dham Yatra takes you to high elevations. Symptoms include shortness of breath, nausea, and headache. If you see any of these symptoms, contact your pilot immediately and get medical attention. If a traveller has a medical condition that would make flying difficult, they should notify the airline.

Be respectful

Remember that the Char Dham Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage. It is essential to respect the traditions and culture of the region. Dress appropriately and remove your shoes before entering the temples.

So, these are some points you must keep in mind. Now, move on to know more about the holy Char Dham Yatra.

Know about the Holy Char Dham Yatra

Char Dham Yatra is one of the most famous pilgrim trips, with countless devotees visiting all of these holy destinations in the hope of purifying their souls and attaining peace via the Lord’s blessings. The Char Dham must be visited from left to right, starting with Yamunotri, then Gangotri, Kedarnath, and ending with Badrinath. It must be done in a certain order. This path follows the Hindu practice of Parikrama. Every year, almost 250,000 people from all over India visit Char Dham. The four pilgrimages of Char Dham are accessible from May to October each year. All four locations may be visited in ten to eleven days.

Yamunotri Dham – In the magnificent Himalayas, Yamunotri Dham is a devout pilgrimage place for Hindu worshippers. It is the source of India’s second holiest river, the Yamuna. It is thought that taking a holy bath in the Yamuna River will keep someone from dying prematurely. Yamunotri Dham is dedicated to Goddess Yamunotri. Yamunotri Glacier, lush vegetation all around, hot springs, and lakes make it one of Uttarakhand’s most famous tourist destinations.

Gangotri Dham – Situated in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas, Gangotri Dham is one of the holy locations and Char Dhams that attract devotees from all over the world. It is the source of India’s most holy river, the Ganga. Gangotri Glacier is the source of the sacred Ganga River. Gangotri Dham is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. It is also among the top adventure places in Uttarakhand since the Garhwal Himalayas are ideal for hikers and mountaineers. The Gangotri-Gaumukh trek is the most popular here.

Kedarnath Dham – The sacred Kedarnath Dham is one of the most significant and famous pilgrimage locations in Uttarakhand for Hindu worshippers, surrounded by gorgeous valleys. Lord Shiva is the main deity of Kedarnath Temple Dham. It is the tallest of Lord Shiva’s 12 Jyotirlingas in India. Furthermore, if you enjoy nature, Kedarnath is a wonderful site to visit because of its wealth of natural beauty, which includes gorgeous valleys, pure lakes, and tall mountains.

Badrinath Dham – Badrinath Dham is one of India’s four holiest Char Dhams. The principal deity of Badrinath Temple is Lord Vishnu. What is the main draw of this location? It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Uttarakhand, located between the Nar and Narayana mountain ranges. Devotees from all over the world travel to seek heavenly blessings and finish their spiritual quests. Badrinath is a must-see location in Uttarakhand because of its beautiful lakes, sacred hills, majestic peaks, and ponds.

Ease of Reaching

Nowadays, one can also get helicopter services to visit Char Dham sites in just 2-4 days. The Chardham Yatra by Helicopter is regarded as one of the most popular Heli-Yatra packages and also promises you an extra dose of adventure, fascination, the divine, and of course numerous picturesque views from the mountains and mild terrains. To go to Haridwar, Uttarakhand, overseas visitors must fly into the airports in Delhi or Dehradun (Jolly Grant). After arriving at these points, one can begin their journey with the Chardham Yatra package chosen. This pilgrimage begins in Dehradun, passes through the most significant spiritual places, including Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, and then ends at Dehradun.

You can arrange a helicopter flight after you receive permission. Contact a trustworthy tour operator or travel company to do so. In this, your driver will take you to your pre-booked Helipad in the morning at each door. After returning to the helipad, your car will transport you to the hotel for relaxation. There are various Char Dham Yatra tour packages for NRI Travellers, that offer a lot, including delicious meals, opulent services, comfy accommodations, and Exclusive VIP Darshan.

The Best Time to Plan Your Journey

The months of May and June, as well as September and November, are perfect for traveling by helicopter to the Char Dham Yatra. These are the months when the sky is clearest and most consistent. Because of the nice weather, flying can be easier. Because the weather may change quickly, it’s critical to verify the forecast for the specific days you intend to travel. In addition, the number of temple visits decreases throughout these months. This makes visiting the temples more enjoyable.

If you have been longing for the almighty blessing of India’s most holy places – the Char Dhams – now is the time to arrange your Charm Dham Yatra Tour. As the most heavenly sites in India, these Dhams and their surroundings provide visitors and devotees with the most gorgeous panoramas that are a visual feast for their eyes and spirit. The emotions one experiences here are unique and mystical, as the cool mountain air and undiscovered terrains of Uttarakhand provide several adventure activities for a rush and thrill toad in your spiritual quest. It is, without a doubt, the greatest place to visit in India.

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Char Dham Yatra for NRI Visitors

Q1. Which SIM Card Works In Char Dham Yatra?

Ans: If you are planning a Char Dham Yatra, you might be worried about the network. And BSNL is the best mobile network for one, who is going on Char Dham Yatra.

Q2. What Precautions Should I Take For Char Dham Yatra?

Ans: You should plan your Char Dham Yatra in advance. Have a well-planned itinerary, take all the necessary items, stay hydrated, and ensure you are physically fit.

Q3. How Many Days Are Enough For Char Dham Yatra?

Ans: You should plan at least an 11–12-day itinerary to ensure you have a blissful experience on Char Dham Yatra.

Q4. Which Is Difficult Kedarnath Or Badrinath Yatra?

Ans: The climb to Shri Kedarnath is tough. You can go to Shrine Shri Badrinath directly by car.

Q5: Are Foreigners Allowed In Kedarnath?

Ans: Yes, but they must receive the necessary permit and follow the guidelines set by the authorities.

Helpful Guidelines for Char Dham Yatra

A journey of four holy rivers of India, namely Ganga, Yamuna, Mandakini, and Alaknanda, is an experience you don’t want to miss. It is a trip, taking you to the four prominent holy destinations and is an unforgettable experience for all the devotees. Chota Char Dham is a spiritual tour of four pilgrimage sites in India, namely Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, all present in Uttarakhand. Hindus believe that everybody must visit these places during their lifetime.

Best Time to Visit

Although, the four places remain open from Akshaya Tritiya to Bhai Dooj. The best time to visit them is between May and June as the weather is pleasant and the climatic conditions work in our favor. It takes approximately 11-12 days to complete the Yatra. You will meet people from around the world, some worshipping, while others just exploring these mesmerizing sites.

Opening Dates

  • Yamunotri: 10th May 2024
  • Gangotri: 10th May 2024
  • Kedarnath: 15th May 2024
  • Badrinath: 16th May 2024

Closing Dates

  • Yamunotri: 31th October 2024
  • Gangotri: 2nd November 2024
  • Kedarnath: 2nd November 2024
  • Badrinath: 9 November 2024

Places to Visit Along the Way

Tapovan: It is a seasonal home to several sadhus living in caves, huts, etc. In the past few years, it has transformed into a popular trekking destination and people from far-off places come to see the expansive grasslands of Tapovan, which are decorated with different flowering plants.

Gaumukh: This glacier acts as the source of water for the River Ganga, and this is why it is really special to the Hindus. It is at a walking distance of 18 kilometers from the Gangotri Glacier. The place where this glacier ends resembles a cow’s mouth, and so the name Gaumukh.

Chopta: This valley is quite famous among tourists. It’s located away from all the hustle-bustle. You can come to relax here, or you can also take part in adventure sports.

Hemkund Sahib: This Gurudwara, situated near a lake, is dedicated to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Govind Singh Ji. Find your inner peace by meditating at the Gurudwara and you can admire its beauty at the same time.

Auli: A cold haven, visited by many all year round. It’s a skiing hub and is surrounded by all sorts of vegetation. The snowy mountain peaks and the thick forests, give it a warm and cozy feel.

Vasuki Tal: It’s a lake that lies nears Kedarnath. The most beautiful landscape that you will ever come across. The lake freezes in winter and there is no sign of any vegetation around it.

The Journey

This is the basic outline of how your Yatra would be.

Yamunotri Dham

Yamunotri Dham

It will probably begin from Barkot. You will drive up to the Yamunotri Dham which will be followed by a 7 km trek. Or you could also visit Uttarkashi, which is just about 100 km from the Gangotri Dham.

Yamuna, the second most sacred river in India, originates from Yamunotri. The Yamunotri temple is believed to be constructed by the king of Tehri, Naresh Sudarshan Shah in 1839. It is one of the pilgrimage sites you will see on this tour. The temple itself is a work of art, and the devotees make it more serene and beautiful. The Yamuna River looks breathtaking while flowing down from one side of the temple.

Gangotri Dham

gangotri dham

Located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, this is one of the four sites which make up the Chota Char Dham. The shrine is very special to the Hindus because of its incomparable beauty. Another key factor is that legends believe that this place is the origin of the river Ganga after it descended from heaven. The present shrine was built by Gorkha Commander, Amar Singh Thapa in the early 18th century. The river has always been considered the purest. People visit this place to attain Moksha.

Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath Temple

From here, you can drive to Kedarnath, which is about 180 km from Uttarkashi, which will be followed by a 21 km trek uphill.

In this ancient temple, we find inscriptions written in Pali. The present temple was built by Adi Shankaracharya Ji. On the inner walls of the temple, there are sculptures of various deities and scenes from mythology. On the outside of the temple, there is a large statue of the Nandi Bull. The temple is set amidst the mountains of the Garhwal Himalayas. The Kedarnath shrine is surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful snow-covered mountains. You will definitely feel at peace after visiting this place.

Badrinath Dham

Badrinath Temples

Then on to Rudraprayag which is just 160 km away from Badrinath Dham, the final Dham in your Yatra.

Situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, this religious site is set in the backdrop of the Neelkanth mountain peak, which leaves one breathless. Believed to be the home of Lord Shiva, this place holds a lot of myths and legends. People from around the world visit this place, to listen to the tales of the gurus and the sadhus. This place is especially busy during the festival of Mahashivratr.

Alternative Options

You may want to complete your Yatra within a few days. To do this, opt for the Chardham Helicopter Tour. Beginning from Yamunotri, the journey continues on to Gangotri, Kedarnath, and concludes at Badrinath. It will take around 4-5 days, but you will be able to enjoy the trip at your own pace.

Some Last-Minute Tips

  • Wear comfortable and warm clothing at all times.
  • Do not attempt to do the journey, if not feeling well.
  • Carry all kinds of medicines with you.
  • Stay close to your, family/friends.
  • Carry some kind of identity card, in case of an emergency.
  • Hire a guide/use maps, if you are not sure of the routes.
  • Carry a cheap/local cellphone for safety purposes.

Have a safe journey!

Kedarnath Badrinath Yatra Package

We are back with our another spiritual tour package i.e. Kedarnath Badrinath Yatra Package. This 4 nights / 5 days long meticulously designed package is tailored beautifully and is inclusive of deluxe accommodations, transports, and sightseeing destination visit. Browse our most customized tour package and visit the two holiest places in Uttarakhand which are the most important parts of the Char Dham circuit. Besides attaining spiritual experience you can also get mesmerized with the surreal beauties adorning this beautiful state.

Duration of the trip: 4 Nights / 5 Days

Destinations to be covered under the package: Haridwar – Guptkashi – Kedarnath – Badrinath – Joshimath – Rudraprayag – Haridwar

Trip Highlights

  • Participate in the early morning puja ceremony called Abhishekam and in the prayers at the shrine.
  • Explore the nearby astonishing places in and around Badrinath like Mana Village which is renowned among tourists as the last village in India and also visits the Mata Murti Temple.
  • Visiting Badrinath shrine which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
  • Explore Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula which are the major attractions of Rishikesh.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Haridwar – Guptkashi

Welcome to the gateway of Devbhoomi! Our tour representative will join you at Haridwar and then will take you towards Guptkashi via Rudraprayag and Devprayag. While moving towards Guptkashi enjoy the beautiful view of gorgeously flowing River Ganga and River Alaknanda. In Guptkashi you can visit Ardh Narishwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Upon arrival at Guptkashi, check-into one of our listed hotels. Post-check-in freshens up and relax in the cozy hotel environment and stay overnight.

Fact about Guptkashi – The literal meaning of this place is “hidden Benarasi” and the place holds a great religious significance in Hinduism. According to Hindu mythology, Pandavas in the urge of seeking freedom from their sins of doing fratricide performed a deep penance in order to please Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva didn’t want to forgive them so easily and so transformed himself into a bull and then hid at Guptkashi. It is believed that during the winter months when the Kedarnath shrine is closed then priests of the shrine shift to Guptkashi and reside there.

Day 2: Guptkashi – Kedarnath – Guptkashi

Baba Kedarnath Dham

By Helicopter – Early in the morning our driver will take you to the pre-booked helipad. After visiting the sacred Kedarnath shrine, our tour representative will pick you and drop you to the hotel for rest.

By Trek: However, it is quite challenging to return back to the hotel on the same day by trek but if you avail the facility of pony rides or helicopter services to reach the shrine then it is easily possible to explore the place. Be informed that there is parking issue at Sonprayag and even vehicles are not allowed to move further so we request you to stay calm and co-operate with the driver.

Facts of Kedarnath: One of the most important and divine jyotirlingas among 12 jyotirlingas in India, Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This huge ancient shrine is nestled beautifully at an elevation of 3584 meters above sea level. Interesting Hindu mythology states that Pandavas after defeating Kaurava in the Kurukshetra war were burdened with the guilt of fratricide and performed a deep penance to Lord Shiva. But Lord Shiva didn’t want to free them so easily and he took the form of a bull. When one of the Pandava brothers recognized him and chased him when he dived into the ground and his body parts were shattered. His hump was found in Kedarnath and so since then, Shiva is being worshipped at Kedarnath in the form of a bull hump.

Day 3: Guptkashi – Badrinath

Badrinath Temples

Post enjoying the relishing Garhwali cuisine in breakfast, drive towards Badrinath. On reaching Badrinath check-into the pre-booked hotel. Loosen up yourself and get ready to drive towards the holy shrine of Lord Vishnu. There is a ritual to take a dip into the hot thermal spring of Tapt Kund so after taking holy bath pay homage to Lord Badri and if time permits you then participate in the grand evening Aarti ceremony at the temple. You can also visit Brahmakapal to perform the Shraddha rituals of your ancestors. You can also visit the other sightseeing destinations encircling Badrinath like Mana Village, Vyas Cave, Charanpaduka, Bhimkund, Mata Murti, and other places. Return to the accommodation after the day exploration and then go for a relaxing overnight stay.

Badrinath, one of the most important dhams in Char Dham pilgrimage circuit is nestled at an astounding elevation of approx. 3100 meters above the sea level and is adorned with two majestic mountain peaks named as Nar and Narayan. The place is studded beautifully with forests of berries and is so named as Badrivan.

Tapt Kund – A natural hot water spring which is located on the holy Alaknanda River where taking bath before entering the Badrinath Shrine is an important custom.

Mana Village – Reckoned as the last village in India and is located on the border of India and Tibet and is a habitat to the tribes belonging to Indo-Mongolian tribes.

Vasudhara Falls – The name clearly depicts the significance of this place. This magnificent waterfall is quite appealing and alluring to the tourists that it has now become a must visit place in all the itineraries designed for Badrinath visit. One needs to cover a distance of almost 5 km from Badrinath to reach this place and 2 kilometers of the distance is covered by the motorable roads.

Day 4: Badrinath – Joshimath – Rudraprayag

After savoring the morning meal drive towards Rudraprayag via Joshimath. On the way to Rudraprayag make a visit at Narsingh Temple located in Joshimath.

Post breakfast, drive towards Rudraprayag via Joshimath and on the way to Rudraprayag you can visit the popular Narsingh Temple located in Joshimath and after paying a visit to the temple return to Rudraprayag by following the same route. On reaching Rudraprayag, check-into the hotel, freshen up yourself and then go for a relaxing overnight stay.

Significance of Joshimath – The place holds a great religious significance in Hinduism as it is located on the confluence of two holy rivers Dhauliganga and Mandakini. It is also one of the most important and highly frequented maths established by the great Hindu philosopher Adi Shankaracharya and the place is also reckoned as winter abode of Badrinath. During the winter season when the Badrinath Temple is closed then the idol of Lord Badri is brought here.

Day 5: Rudraprayag – Haridwar

After enjoying the lavish breakfast, our representative will assist you in reaching Haridwar via Rishikesh. Also called as “place of sages” is a highly revered spiritual city located on the holy banks of River Ganga and is adorned beautifully with the Shivalik Ranges located in the Garhwal Himalayas. His tough penance pleased god and he appeared in front of as “Rishikesh” and this is how the place got its name.

Upon your arrival at Rishikesh, check-into the hotel and get ready for the spiritual tour in Rishikesh. Visit the majestic temples and other sightseeing destinations including Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, the two huge iron suspension bridges. After Rishikesh excursion, you will be dropped at Haridwar from where you can get the transport to get back home.

Significance of Rishikesh – This holy city in Uttarakhand has been dedicated to Lord Vishnu and holds a great religious significance in Hinduism. Also called as “Yoga capital of India”, Rishikesh boasts a number of ashrams where one can participate in the meditation and yoga classes. Enjoy white-water rafting activity, go for a rejuvenating hang-out, and base of all trekking trails.

Significance of Badri Kedar Yatra

The Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand which is also known as the Chota Char Dham Yatra in India, this Hindu pilgrimage circuit is considered to be extremely importance. As per Hindu mythology, the prominent saint and philosopher Adi Shankaracharya established these holy destinations and shrines of Badrinath Kedarnath Yatra, with an aim of evoking a spiritual feeling within the soul of devout Hindus. It is believed that if an individual goes on this pilgrimage to these holy centres then they will attain moksha (freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth). Every year, annually these vital Dhams caters to almost 2 lakh devotees and tourists from all over the subcontinent and across the globe. Not only are these abode of the lord extremely sacred but the surrounding captivating beauty makes the journey worthwhile.

Importance of Badrinath Dham Yatra

Badrinath Temples

Located on the right bank of holy River Alaknanda and perched at a height of 3,133 metres, Badrinath Dham is one of the oldest Hindu sites of worship. The towering peaks of the majestic Nar Narayan snowcapped mountain forms the backdrop of this vital temple. This is the largest Dham among other five Badris and just like every Dham it is also dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The name ‘Badri’ is inspired from the availability of the wild berries available here and was reestablished during 9th century.

Myths Related to Badrinath Dham

There are numerous myths related to the establishment of Badri Dham, some say that since Lord Vishnu was meditating in the Badri forest his consort gave him the name of Badri Vishal which later became the name of the temple, another reason is that since the gods knew that the earth won’t be able to withstand the force of the holy River Ganga so they split the river into 12 different tributaries one of them being River Alaknanda which passes by Badrinath Dham. All these reasons along with numerous others make Badrinath Dham Yatra extremely pious.

Importance of Kedarnath Dham Yatra

Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath Temple

Situated at a high altitude of 3,584 metres above sea level, and being home to home of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, Kedarnath is said to be the seat of Lord Shiva. People believe that people visiting this Dham will be cleansed of their sins leaving their souls purified; this fact attracts lakhs of pilgrims and Shaivites to this holy destination. Kedarnath houses several Kunds (pools or tanks) which are religiously significant and bears significant natural healing properties which is said to rid the pilgrim from their body pains and aches. Adi Shankaracharya is to be credited with the re-establishment of this holy centre. It is also believed that if a devotee visits the Kedarnath Dham after Badrinath Dham then he is guaranteed to achieve some peace of mind.

Myths Related to Kedarnath Dham

As per ancient Hindu Vedic and other scriptures, Lord Shiva had agreed to dwell in this place at the hearty request of Nar Narayana. It is also said that the Pandava brothers, after the Kurukshetra war, where they had to kill their cousins, came to ask for forgiveness from Lord Shiva so they constructed this temple here in order to pray for penance. The earliest reference for Kedarnath has been seen in Skanda Purana dating back to 7th and 8th century.

When to Go For the Do Dham Yatra

The best time to visit these Do Dham Yatra sites are between the months of June and September since the temple doors are opened and accessible only during the summer months. One can be a part of the opening or closing ceremony of the main Dwar during the ‘on’ season which is considered to be an extremely auspicious time for all the devotees.

Places to Visit in Gangotri and Yamunotri

Rightly named Devbhoomi or the abode of gods, Uttarakhand has a unique sense of deep-seated spirituality which makes it different from the rest of India. The destinations of Gangotri and Yamunotri are two of the ideal destinations for every pilgrim and travel lover. There is no dearth of places to visit in this place of incredible wonders. The entire region is replete with deep green Rolling Meadows, snowcapped mountains, and thick thriving forests of oaks, conifers, and rhododendrons which serve as a home to a thriving range of flora and fauna. The clear blue skies blended with a feeling of deep spirituality will definitely be one of the best options for your vacation.

Here are a few places which you can include in your Gangotri Yamunotri Tour Package:

Places to Visit in Gangotri

Maa Gangotri Dham

Pandava Gufa: This ancient cave is located at a mere distance of 1.5 kms from Gangotri right on the Uttarkashi – Gangotri road. It is believed that this is the place where the Pandava brothers are said to have stayed for a while and meditated on their way to mount Kailash. The beauty of this place is unmatched and filled with picturesque and enthralling vistas. The path leading up to the cave is extremely enchanting and filled with boundless natural beauty.

Gaumukh: This adventure destination is located at a distance of 19 kms from Gangotri and is the source of the Bhagirathi River. Literally translating into ‘face of a cow’, this place is one of the most popular trekking routes. Sitting at an elevation of 13,200 feet above sea level, this is famed for being the second-largest glacier in India, the first being the legendary Siachen. The trek is 3 days long and should be done during the summer months of May to October.

Tapovan: This idyllic hamlet is located at a distance of 23 kms from Gangotri and is known for its magnificently lush green meadows and sits at an elevation of 4,460 meters above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayan region. The name literally translates into ‘forest of penance’; this region is filled with immense greenery, clear streams, and colorful flowers which sets the perfect vibe for performing meditation.

Harsil: Sitting amidst the serene natural beauty of Uttarkashi district, Harsil is located at a distance of just 24 kms from Gangotri and at an elevation of 2,620 meters above sea level. This quaint hamlet is known for its dense forests, apple orchards, tranquil surroundings and a beauty which is unmatched to anywhere else in India. The valley is nestled amidst the snowcapped mountains and gives you the opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy the quiet solitude.

Kedar Tal: Also popularly known as Lord Shiva’s lake, this pristine and glimmering lake is situated at a distance of 17 km from Gangotri. Located in the magnificent district of Uttarkashi at an altitude of 4,912 metres above sea level this lake is also famed for being the highest glacial lake in Uttarakhand. The trekking route leading up to this lake is strewn with colorful plants and scenic sites which makes it also one of the most beautiful treks in Uttarakhand. The clear water of this lake reflects the towering and majestic surrounding of snow-clad peaks of Thalay Sagar, Meru and Bhrigupanth which is truly a sight to behold.

Places to Visit in Yamunotri

Yamunotri Dham

Janki Chatti: Known for being a sister for Hanuman Chatti and located at an elevation of 2,700 metres above sea level Janki Chatti is known for its natural hot water springs. You can stop at Janki Chatti and relax there on your way to the main Dham shrine of Yamunotri. Surrounded by mesmerizing mountain from all sides this hot water spring is believed to carry medicinal properties which cures you of all your physical and mental ailments.

Saptarishi Kund: Sitting majestically at a distance of 10 kms from Yamunotri Mandir this high glacial lake is known for being the original source of River Yamuna which is fed by the massive Champasar Glacier. This peaceful lake can be reached after covering a distance of 2 to 3 days and is home to the rare Himalayan flower called Brahma lotus. The importance of this place lies in the fact that the seven important rishis had performed their penance there.

Kharsali: Situated right off the route to Janki Chatti at a distance of just 1.5 kms and can be reached easily during your visit to Yamunotri Dham. This place is primarily known for being a picnic destination among families and friends. The entire region of Kharsali is also home to a number of naturally occurring hot water springs, Rolling Meadows covered in conifers and oaks as well as a feeling of unmatched tranquility. Also known as ‘Khushimath’ the quaint hamlet of Kharsali serves as the winter abode to the presiding deity of Goddess Yamuna.

Barkot: Located at a distance of almost 4 hours from the main Dham shrine of Gangotri, this undisturbed hill town is an ideal location for everyone looking to escape for a while from the maddening city crowd. Sitting at an elevation of 1,220 metres above sea level amidst the gloriously snow-clad peaks of Bandarpoonch this place is also a popular destination among outdoor sports enthusiasts and trekking lovers. This quiet village has managed to stay untouched and offers its visitors some of the most encapsulating views of the surroundings.

Divya Shila: Sitting at an elevation of 3,000 metres above sea level the rock pillar of Divya Shila is situated right next to the holy Surya Kund and is another ideal attraction for every pilgrim there. As per the age-old ritual pilgrims and devotees visit this rock pillar structure, and offer their prayers there prior to entering the temple. Also popularly known as the ‘slab of divine light’, this pious slab has been of incredible importance to the devotees and pilgrims.

Celebrities and Famous Personalities Who Have Taken the Char Dham Yatra

Char Dham Yatra has been one of the most iconic and famous pilgrimages in India. It is a dream for many to go on this soul-searching journey through the Garhwal hills of the Himalayas to the holy places of worship that make up this pilgrimage which is Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Every year, hordes of pilgrims from the deepest corners of India and across the globe head over to these spiritual centers on the lap of the scenic Himalayas.

Why Do People Go For Char Dham Yatra?

The pilgrimage was established during the 8th century by the great sage, seer, philosopher, and propagator of Advait Vedant, Adi Shankaracharya. He was a defining personality in the establishment of Hinduism across the subcontinent and he did so by traveling to different parts of the country and debating his way through. The main motive behind the establishment of these holy Maths and temples was reigniting the feeling of Hinduism and devotion to the faith among the Hindus in India which was shaken greatly by numerous invasions by outside forces who wanted to completely wipe out the religion.

Adi Shankara made his way from Kerala to Uttarakhand and established these holy pilgrimages which had a lot of history and legends associated with them. This was done to remind Indians and Hindus of their rich cultural and traditional heritage. Ever since then, these temples remain a very strong foundation on which the beliefs and culture of Hindus were later on defined and carved out.

Being one of the most important places of worship, many people from all walks of life make it a point to visit the holy Char Dham temples. Recently many famous personalities like actors and high-end politicians have made their way to the Char Dham Yatra. Here are some popular personalities who have visited Char Dham:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Kedarnath Dham and other Char Dham temples rose to popularity when the honorable prime minister of India, Narendra Modi had graced the temple with his visit prior to the declaration of election results which gave him another term of serving India as the prime minister. He had also made the visit to the holy temple of Lord Shiva with the aim of also opening up the Rudra Cave which is located about 1 km uphill from the temple. After that visit, the popularity of Kedarnath and the list of people looking to stay at the cave skyrocketed and continue to be one of the most famous temples in India.

Sushant Singh Rajput

Sushant Singh Rajput
Sushant Singh Rajput

Late actor Sushant Singh Rajput was always spiritually bent. He was a massive devotee of Lord Shiva and used to sing hymns in his praise which was clear through his social media posts. It is understandable that once he was offered the movie Kedarnath, he took it up at once without hesitation. He not only researched intently for his role in the movie, but he also spent a lot of time in and around the Kedarnath temple complex. He was even seen spending time on top of the mountain rock that had stopped the floodwater from demolishing the temple completely.

Sara Ali Khan

Sara Ali Khan
Sara Ali Khan

Sara Ali Khan, daughter of Saif Ali Khan, is known for being very religious and spiritual. Being the female lead in Kedarnath she was also a part of the crew who stayed and spent a lot of time around the temple complex. During that time, the Rudra Cave was not functioning but both the stars did not hesitate in spending ample amounts there to get into the spiritual vibe of the place. She posted several pictures of herself with the cast and crew of Kedarnath and also said how much she appreciated that place for its spiritual vibe and peaceful Aura.

Janhvi Kapoor

Janhvi Kapoor
Janhvi Kapoor

Recently Janhvi Kapoor, daughter of late movie icon Sridevi, made her way to the Char Dham Yatra. She was accompanied by Sara Ali Khan, who had already been there on several occasions. The actress posted pictures of herself and her companion actress from outside the temple premises looking happy and content. Janhvi Kapoor had risen to fame with her debut movie Dhadak which was also the debut movie of Ishaan Khatter. She was seen in Kedarnath taking pictures and completely engulfed in the Holy Spirit.

Samantha Akkineni

Samantha Akkineni
Samantha Akkineni

Family man 2 was all about action-packed scenes, Manoj Bajpai and the menacing guerilla soldier, Raji which was played by the South Indian stunner, Samantha Akkineni. Recently she went to the Char Dham Yatra with her best friend through one of the many Chardham Yatra by Helicopter. She posted pictures from different spots at Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. She recently made headlines for divorcing Naga Chaitanya, son of the great South Indian Superstar Nagarjuna, after 4 years of married life.

Bachchan Family with Amar Singh

In the year 2008, the Bachchan family, Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had made a trip to the holy 4 Dham temples of Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand. This was after the grand wedding of the 2 actors had taken place. Accompanying them was the very close friend and confidant of the Bachchans and the iconic political figure, Amar Singh. Amar Singh passed away in August 2020 following kidney failure. All the 4 Dham temples were lit and beautifully decorated to welcome the Bollywood family.

Sonia Gandhi with Priyanka Gandhi

The 2013 floods had an irreversible impact on the environment and life of the people involved in it. Thousands lost their lives and thousands of others went missing, never to be found. To speculate the damage done and show their support to the locals, congress party head Sonia Gandhi and her daughter Priyanka Gandhi made their way to the site of the flooding. In order to assess the situation, several politicians had headed down to the flooding site and offered their help to the people who needed it the most.

Mukesh Ambani

Mukesh Ambani
Mukesh Ambani

The Ambanis are regular visitors of Char Dham Uttarakhand which is clear with the fact that they are in the Badri Kedar temple committee with their son Akash Ambani as one of their members. The billionaire industrialist and the owner of reliance is a very spiritual and religious individual that helps in keeping himself deeply rooted and humble. During his visit, not only did he offer his prayer, he even donated 2 crore rupees to the Badri Kedar temple committee so that they are able to buy sandalwood and saffron.

This goes on to show the glory and serenity the Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand has to offer to everyone and anyone who makes their way to this stairway to heaven.

Why is Akshay Tritiya Important – Spiritual Significance and Everything You Need to Know?

This year the auspicious day of Akshay Tritiya was celebrated on 14th May 2021. Also referred to as ‘Akha Teej’ this is one of the most holy days in the life of Hindus across the nation. As a part of tradition Hindus make it a point to buy gold to mark this auspicious occasion. It is said that buying gold on this day will ensure prosperity and good fortune for the rest of their life. But what is the spiritual reason behind the grand celebration of this festival? Read till the end to learn about everything you need to know about Akshay Tritiya.

Significance of Akshay Tritiya

Significance of Akshay Tritiya

Literally speaking, Akshay means ‘never decreasing’ signifying never ending hope, joy and prosperity. Tritiya translates into ‘third phase of the moon’. When put together Akshay Tritiya is celebrated or named after the third lunar day of the spring month of Vaishakh according to Hindu tradition. It is also considered to be the best time to start a new venture or get involved with some new projects.

Here are some of the few importance or religious significance of Akshaya Tritiya:

  • This is the birth day of Lord Parshuram who is one of the 10 Dashavataras of Lord Vishnu. Parashuram ranks sixth among the 10 different forms of Lord Vishnu. He is known for being one of the immortal ones and is believed to appear at the end of the Kali Yuga. His traits include – warfare, aggression and valour along with prudence, serenity and patience.
  • This day also marks the starting of Treta Yuga after the completion of satyug. Technically speaking Treta Yuga defines the age of three where the length of this time period is 3 times more than that of Kali Yuga. The bull of dharma that is symbolic of morality is also seen standing on 3 legs instead of 4 during this time. One the other hand sat yug was believed to be the age of truth, which means literally. The Sat yug is said to last for 4,800 divine years and humanity during this time was governed by the gods themselves.
  • Akshaya Tritiya is also related to Lord Krishna in one way. On this day Lord Krishna is said to have given Akshaya Patra to Draupadi when the Pandavas are said to have started their Vanvas or spending 14 years in the forest. This signified that they will never fall short of food to feed themselves.
  • It is also believed that on this day Veda Vyasa is said to have started writing the grand epic of Mahabharata. Sage Vyasa is the son of Rishi Parashar and fisherwoman Satyavati. He is not only the author of the greatest Hindu epic overwritten but he is also credited for being the compiler of the vedas and also for having written some important works on the Puranas.
  • Some also believe that it is on this holy day that the iconic Ganga River is said to have descended from the heavenly realm to the earth. This descending of the Ganga River from heaven to earth through lord Shiva’s braided hair is considered to be one of the most defining features in Hindu tradition. This life-giving river is now the holiest in India, worshipped by numerous devotees across the world and a holy place to put the mortal remains after the cremation ceremony.
  • This is also the day when the holy Rath Yatra in Jagannath Puri Temple commences. Rath yatra or the festival of chariots is celebrated every year in Puri in the temple town of Odisha.
  • Keeping all the significance of Akshay Tritiya in mind, it is also the special chosen day when the holy Char Dham Yatra begins. It is one this day that the temple doors of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri open up. This day is also when the idols of the gods and goddesses are brought to their original homes from their winter homes where they spend the whole winter months during which the accessibility to the main temples are stopped due to weather conditions.

What to Do On Akshaya Tritiya

As a common man who worships gods equally, Akshay Tritiya is the time to buy some gold and silver to mark prosperity and shower good fortune for the rest of the year. Puja of goddess Lakshmi is performed which signifies gold, silver and wealth. It is said that doing this will ensure that you are bestowed with good will, fortune and wealth.

It is also said that any business venture started during this day will definitely be a huge success and will flourish with flying colors. Feeding cows is also said to relieve sin and other Doshas that may have been causing problems in your life or business.

Deeply religious people make sure to observe fasting, perform Japa and charity work along with worshipping Lord Vishnu and goddess Lakshmi.

How to Do Helicopter Ticket Booking For Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath, one of the most eminent and revered shrines of Lord Shiva, the supreme deity of Hindus is visited by millions of devotees every year. This ancient Shiva Temple is nestled beautifully at a height of almost 3584 meters above the sea level and one needs to cover the challenging and pretty difficult trekking trail from Gaurikund to reach here.

But now those days had gone a long back when the pilgrimage was difficult to explore by senior citizens or people who were physically unfit as the journey is quite challenging and arduous. The initiation of Chardham Helicopter tour has made it more convenient and easier for such people to complete their dream of visiting the shrines of this holy circuit.

Kedarnath is one of the most important pilgrimages of this spiritual Yatra and hence there are many leading travel companies offering Kedarnath helicopter service from different destinations like Phata, Sitapur, Sersi, and Guptkashi.

Kedarnath Dham Helicopter Ticket Booking

Kedarnath Helipad - Kedarnath Dham Helicopter Ticket Booking
Kedarnath Helipad

One of the most sought destinations of Shiva followers Kedarnath witnesses a huge influx of devotees coming from different corners of the world every year. Being one of the most prominent Jyotirlingas of the country, Kedarnath is reckoned for its impeccable spiritual aura and admiring architecture.

Kedarnath Temple is established at a good distance from Gaurikund or Sonprayag and can reach the shrine either by covering the trekking trail or by opting for Kedarnath Helicopter Booking.

Companies Offering Services Are

  • Pawan Hans: One of the most trusted and reputed Heli service providers Pawan Hans provides daily helicopter services Phata to Kedarnath.
  • Prabhatam Aviation: Another trustworthy tour operator in the state providing its services from many years and has been successful in achieving its aim.
  • Aryan Aviation: One of the most leading aviation companies that is providing its impeccable chopper services from last many years. The choppers provided by them are generally 5-seater.
  • Himalayan Heli: One of the most experienced companies that has been awarded for its awesome service in 2015.
  • UT Air India: A famous private limited company registered under the Indian Companies Act 1956 is enlisted among top Heli service provider for Char Dham Yatra.

Helipads En-Route Kedarnath for Helicopter Services

Sersi Helipad

  • Distance from Kedarnath: 23 km
  • Time taken to reach Kedarnath Temple: 11 minutes
  • Ticket Price: INR 2470 Per Person
  • Altitude: 6500 feet
  • Accommodation: There are many hotels established at Sersi and its nearby places like Sonprayag, Guptkashi, Phata, etc.

Phata Helipad

  • Distance from Kedarnath: 31 km
  • Time taken to reach Kedarnath Temple: 9 minutes
  • Ticket Price: INR 2399 per person
  • Altitude: 4921 feet
  • Accommodation: Number of hotels are established at Phata and even in the nearby places.

Guptkashi Helipad

  • Distance from Kedarnath: 46 km
  • Time taken to reach Kedarnath Temple: 15 minutes
  • Ticket Price: INR 4275 per head
  • Altitude: near around 4800 feet
  • Accommodation: It is one of the major stopovers of Kedarnath, hence many hotels are established there.

Sitapur Helipad

  • Distance from Kedarnath: 22 km
  • Time taken to reach Kedarnath Temple: 5 to 7 minutes
  • Ticket Price: INR 4000 and more per person
  • Location: It is located 7 km away from Gaurikund
  • Accommodation: You can easily find accommodation as per your budget and desire at Sitapur itself and also the nearby places like Phata, Sonprayag, and Guptkashi.

Augustmuni Helipad

  • Distance from Kedarnath: 70 km
  • Time taken to reach Kedarnath Temple: 15 to 20 minutes
  • Ticket Price: INR 4500 per head
  • Altitude: 3280 feet
  • Accommodation: No need to worry about the accommodation as good number of hotels are established there.

Dehradun to Kedarnath Helicopter Service

  • Distance from Kedarnath: 266 km
  • Time taken to reach Kedarnath temple: 45 minutes in general
  • Ticket Price: INR
  • Altitude: 2175 feet
  • Accommodation: There are many hotels and resorts established in Dehradun so you don’t need to worry about your stay.

Why Should You Visit Kedarnath By Helicopter?

There are several perks and benefits that you get to avail with helicopter service and a few of them are enlisted below:

  • Reduces the time span of journey: It is very obvious that if you go through the trekking trails then it is going to take a lot of time and you can save your time by opting for chopper service.
  • Makes your journey easier and more convenient: It doesn’t only help in reducing the time of reaching the shrine but also reduces the stress level of the pilgrims and make it easier and convenient for them to cover this arduous journey.
  • VVIP Pass: Some of the companies also provide you the facility of getting VVIP Pass with your Kedarnath helicopter tour packages, hence it’s a great deal.
  • Worth the money: Many people believe that it is economical as compared to road journey and this is very true that the cost of Kedarnath helicopter ticket is little high but the convenience you get is worth the money. Also, covering the surface travel is not at all easy and you will be spending money on your food and drink en-route so there is not a huge difference in the price.
  • Mesmerizing views of Snow peaked mountains: Witnessing the glory and charm of snow clad mountains from a height is really an eye treating and soul soothing experience. So, why to wait more? Let’s complete your booking procedure and set yourself to experience the alluring and admiring beauty of the scenic vistas.

How much time does it take to reach the shrine by helicopter?

It almost takes 45 minutes to cover the distance between Sahastradhara Helipad in Dehradun and Kedarnath Dham. 1 Hr and 30 minutes is more than enough to do the philosophy of Lord Shiva and seek his blessings for lifelong prosperity and wealth.

Frequently Asked Questions regarding Helicopter service for Kedarnath Yatra

Below enlisted are few of the most common questions that run in the minds of every travelers planning for Kedarnath Yatra.

Q. Can we go to Kedarnath by helicopter?

Ans- Yes, thousands of devotees seek avail the facility of chopper service for Kedarnath.

Q. How far is Kedarnath Temple from the helipad?

Ans- Scroll up the page and you will get the answer as we have enlisted the details of each helipad.

Q. How can I book Pawan Hans for Kedarnath?

Ans- Go to their official website and contact them for your query and they will guide you for further process required.

Q. What is the cost of Kedarnath?

Ans- The cost varies according to the helipad and if you want to know about this in detail then scroll up the page.

Q. What is the limitation of baggage weight?

Ans- A baggage of only 5 kg weight is allowed to be carried by each passenger and you are not allowed to carry suitcase.

Q. What is the criteria of ticket concession for kids?

Ans- Children below 2 years of age can travel free in the chopper but there will be no extra seat allotted to them. Kindly check the terms and conditions of the company you are engaging for your trip as it might vary.

Q. What is the distance between the Kedarnath Temple and the helipad?

Ans- Only 500 meter and this distance is easily covered by the devotees on barefoot.

Q. Is there any chance of flight cancellation?

Ans- Yes, there are chances that your flight might get postponed or cancelled due to the weather conditions, hence you are requested to be ready to face such situations.

Q. Can we buy one way ticket to Kedarnath?

Ans- Absolutely

Q. What time will I spend at the temple if I have booked round way ticket?

Ans- You don’t need to worry about this as there is a gap of almost 2 hours between your flights, so enjoy your helicopter ride and Darshan at Kedarnath.

Kedar Ghati is Looming with this Sense of Impending Danger – This Lake Merged with Glacier

After the 2013 disaster in Kedarnath when everything was destroyed and shattered. Kedar Ghati has been restored completely again. However, after 6 years the main reason behind the Kedarnath disaster, Chorabari lake, is being revived. However, scientists of the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology located in Dehradun have denied the development of such a lake.

Formation of Glacial Lake Above Kedarnath

What is the Case

Doctors running the health camp in Kedarnath Dham, over the past few days, claimed that a lake made out of glacier located at a distance of around 5 kms above the Kedarnath Dham was Chorabari Lake which is gradually getting bigger and larger in size. After this the information of this lake was passed on to scientists of the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology. Immediately after receiving this information, team of scientists in action is going to investigate this lake soon.

Why is there a Need to Panic?

Formation of Glacial Lake Above Kedarnath-3

A group of doctors serving health care in Kedarnath and the entire team of Six Sigma Star Healthcare Center is claiming this to be the lake. Chorabari Lake, also called Gandhi Sarovar, was almost disappeared after the devastating disaster in 2013 and the area started to appear as plain land.

When was the Lake Discovered?

According to the information, the team of doctors visited Chorabari Lake on 16th June with a team of state disaster response force, police and district administration, where they saw that the lake was again flooded with water. At present, Chorabari Lake is being aid to be about 250 meters long and 150 meters wide. Although this lake is flooded with rain, melting snow and avalanches.

Formation of Glacial Lake Above Kedarnath-2

Scientists studying the lake and its role in the 2013 disaster claimed that the lake would not be resurrected again. But the thing to note is that the lake that is made is not a Chorabadi lake. Chorabari Lake is situated just 2 kilometers away from the temple, but the question is whether the lake is at a distance of 2 kilometers or 5 kilometers away, the danger is still there. In such a situation it is vital to be serious because the cost of carelessness shown by visitors has already been paid by losing the life of numerous people.

DP Doval, the geo-scientific doctor of the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, told that a few days ago, the Rudraprayag district administration had given us an information under which some people went to Kedarnath, about 5 km where there was a lake in the middle of the glacier. But the lake which is being told is not Chorabari Lake because Chorabari Lake is only 2 kms away from Kedarnath.

Formation of Glacial Lake Above Kedarnath-4

Along with that Wadia’s scientist said that he has been working in Kedarnath since last 10 years and there is no possibility of the revival of Chorabadi Lake. Because of the disaster in Kedarnath shrine in 2013, the lake of Chorabari was totally devastated. Now there is no question of the revival of the Chorabari Lake. Simultaneously, they feel that it is a lake made of some other glaciers, for which they will be able to comment on further research.

Scientists have said that when the glacier melts then small lakes are formed. This year glaciers are expected to a number of tiny lakes since this time the region had experienced heavy rain and snowfall.

Because of this, the glaciers are melting and collecting around it and forming small lakes and there is no threat to these lakes, but there is no such thing that Chorabari is being rebuilt. In the report issued after the disaster, earlier it was said that Chorabari Lake could not be resurrected again.

Chorabari lake or any other lake, there is no need for any name to destroy the water, the way the water is shaping a big lake is actually an indication for the safety measures. It is noteworthy that for the year 2013 disaster, the Chorabari lake eruption was considered the main reason for large-scale destruction in Kedarnath. The floods in the Mandakini valley, caused the mixture of the lake water with debris and boulder that was the cause behind the extensive destruction in the city.