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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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.

Yamunotri Yatra – Yamunotri Dham Travel Guide

Situated majestically at an elevation of 3,293 meters above sea level in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas, Yamunotri is one of the most pious sites for Hindus. Located at a distance of 30 kms from the holy town of Uttarkashi this place witnesses a throng of devout devotees each year during their Chota Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand. This place is divided by a gently snaking river which runs through this town and offers magnificent views of the rolling green mountains. The temple here serves as the seat for goddess Yamuna and the source of the river is at the Champasar glacier which is situated at a distance from the main temple Dham. Apart from its religious significance Yamunotri also serves as an appealing destination for people looking for some peace, quiet, and tranquility. Yamunotri is also famous for its natural hot water thermal springs and the surrounding places of excursions which guarantee to leave you with a lifetime’s worth of memories. Yamunotri is the perfect and breathtaking blend of deep spirituality and incredible natural beauty.

Location

The main temple shrine of Yamunotri is located at a distance of 13 kms from the holy town of Hanuman Chatty and at a 6 km walking distance from Jankichatti. If you are opting for an alternate method of travelling like ponies and palanquins then your journey towards the Dham will commence from here. The motorable road goes on until Janki Chatti through Syana Chatti which is situated at a distance of 50 kms from Barkot. Once you reach Jankichatti then you will be required to trek for 5 kms. This hamlet is located right among the lush greenery, gushing water, and exhilarating meadows. The location of Yamunotri Dham is extremely breathtaking and the perfect place to become one with nature.

How to Reach Yamunotri

By Air: The nearest airport to Yamunotri lies at Dehradun which is the Jolly Grant airport and is situated at a distance of 210 kms from the main town. Once you arrive at the airport you will be required to hail a cab to reach Yamunotri.

By Road – The town of Yamunotri is well connected with a wide network of good roads. Regular bus services are available which runs regularly to Hanuman Chatti from various places within the state.

By Train – In case you are planning by train then you will be reaching Dehradun railway station which is located at a distance of 172 kms from the main town of Yamunotri. There are fleets of cabs available outside the railway station which will take you to Yamunotri.

Best Time to Visit

Being situated at a whopping height the hilly town of Yamunotri experiences extreme weather conditions. During the winter times, the region gets entirely covered in a thick blanket of stunning white snow. During the summer months when the snow clears the weather becomes more pleasant and bearable for visitors and travelers but the weather remains at a comfortable temperature. This is the time when the Chota Char Dham Yatra commences and the town pours in with pilgrims and devotees, not only from India but also from abroad. Whenever you are planning on visiting it is important for you to carry light to heavy woolen winter wear depending on the month you visit.

Accommodation Facility at Yamunotri

Stay options at Yamunotri are limited which are generally budget friendly. There is also Dharamshala available at Yamunotri. Traveler’s lodges are made available at Janki Chatti which is created for the convenience of the devotees and pilgrims. A few of the accommodation facilities are also present in Barkot. A guest house which is run by GMVN is also present here along with a dormitory. Apart from guest houses and lodges Yamunotri also contains options for homestays and hotels.

Food Availability

Being a holy town the food available here is mostly Satvik i.e. devoid of any onion or garlic. There is a range of roadside food and snack stalls available. The food quality is freshly prepared but of average quality. Hotels offer some different food cuisines of various varieties which appeals to travelers. Close to the parking lot, there is also a range of hotels present in a row offering several food items. While trekking to the main Dham temple you will also have the option to gorge on some average quality food selections. All in all, it is advised for you to not keep your hopes up in the case of food.

Places to See Around Yamunotri

Saptarishi Kund

Situated at a distance of 10 kms from the main temple Dham shrine of Yamunotri Saptarishi Kund is famed for being the original source of the holy river Yamuna. Being situated on the upper regions of the Bandarpoonch massif this is considered to be the ideal trekking option for adventure enthusiasts. This trekking expedition will be of a good 2 to 3 days which will take you across some of the most breathtaking destinations near Yamunotri Dham.

Divya Shila

Situated extremely close to the natural hot water spring of Surya Kund, Divya Shila is a holy slab of stone or a pillar-like structure that is known for being extremely significant for religious purposes. As a part of their ritual, the devotees first offer their puja rituals and prayers at this point before heading onwards to the main temple shrine of Yamunotri.

Kharsali

Also popularly known as Khushi Math this charming village hamlet is situated at an elevation of 2,675 metres above sea level and nestled in the Uttarkashi district. This village also holds some religious significance since this is the place where goddess Yamuna is brought during the winter season for the pilgrims to visit even when the roads close off for Darshan due to snowfall.

Barkot

This sleepy town of Barkot is a quiet and serene hamlet that is located at an elevation of 1,220 meters above sea level. You will be able to witness the awe-inspiring and incredibly beautiful Bandarpoonch peaks making it a refreshing and rejuvenating spot for nature lovers. this place is also a summer retreat for people looking to beat the heat of the plains and get some peace of mind.

Janki Chatti

Sitting at an elevation of 2,650 metres above sea level Janki Chatti is popular for its hot springs and naturally occurring thermal water. This place acts as one of the major hubs for pilgrimage during the open season for pilgrimage. Alternate travel options like ponies and palanquins start their journey to the Yamunotri Dham. Initially, the starting point used to be Hanuman Chatty but later on, it was moved to Janki Chatii for the convenience of the pilgrims.

Origin of River Yamuna

The origin of River Yamuna falls on the Yamunotri glacier which is situated at an elevation of 6,315 meters above sea level. Sitting against the steep slopes just on the foothills of Kalind Peak, from this point the holy River Yamuna reaches the popular Kalind Peak which is located on the downward route to Saptarishi Kund creating a series of waterfalls. Towards the western end of the Kalind Parvat is the Bandarpoonch, a dominant mountain range that is located in the central Himalayan region of Garhwal and can be seen evidently from anywhere.

Associated Legends

As per Hindu legends, once when Lord Hanuman had doused his entire tail in a fire in an attempt to burn off Ravana’s Sri Lanka, it was here, in the cool and freezing waters of Yamuna at Bandarpoonch. This is how this place got its current name which means monkey’s tail. Another legend associated with this place is the fact that this place was used as a hermitage for sage Asit Muni. This muni used to take a bath in both the holy rivers of Ganga as well as Yamuna. However, during his old age, he was unable to travel to Gangotri. Soon his problems were recognized by the almighty who then created a stream of Ganga which then started to flow right beside the holy river Yamuna.

Yamunotri Dham Temple

This temple is one of the holiest and pious centers of pilgrimage during the Chota Char Dham Yatra of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. This temple is dedicated to goddess Yamuna and the presiding deity is in the form of a black marble idol. Reaching Yamunotri Dham will require you to travel for a full day from the nearby holy towns of Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun. The temple was constructed by Amar Singh Thapa during the 18^th century and later on it was damaged and even reconstructed by the 19^th century. The temple has withstood the test of time and has faced devastating damages due to flooding and snowfall twice. However, both times it was renovated and given its present shape and face. Each year during the Char Dham Yatra, massive throngs of pilgrims flock here together to offer their prayers to the almighty.