Char Dham: Sacred Journey to the Abodes of the Gods
Char Dham, nestled in the serene and majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand, is a revered pilgrimage circuit in India, comprising four sacred sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These ancient temples are dedicated to deities deeply embedded in Hindu mythology and spirituality, attracting millions of devotees each year. Embarking on the Char Dham Yatra is not only a journey of faith but also an exploration of stunning natural beauty and spiritual tranquility.
Yamunotri: Source of the Yamuna River
Yamunotri, the westernmost of the Char Dham sites, is the source of the sacred Yamuna River. Situated at an elevation of 3,293 meters (10,804 feet), Yamunotri is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests. The Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, is a significant place of worship. Pilgrims also visit the nearby hot springs, Surya Kund, where they cook rice and potatoes as offerings to the goddess. The trek to Yamunotri is a picturesque journey through verdant valleys and gushing streams, providing a serene start to the Char Dham Yatra.
Gangotri: Birthplace of the Ganges
Gangotri, located at an altitude of 3,100 meters (10,170 feet), is the birthplace of the sacred Ganges River, also known as the Ganga. The Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, stands on the banks of the river and is a central place of worship for pilgrims. The mythological significance of Gangotri lies in the legend of King Bhagirath, who performed intense penance to bring the Ganga down from the heavens to purify the souls of his ancestors. The crystal-clear waters of the Ganga, the serene surroundings, and the spiritual ambiance make Gangotri a profound destination on the pilgrimage.
Kedarnath: Abode of Lord Shiva
Kedarnath, perched at an elevation of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet), is one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Kedarnath Temple, believed to have been built by the Pandavas and later renovated by Adi Shankaracharya, is a magnificent structure amidst the rugged Kedarnath range. The temple\’s backdrop of snow-clad peaks and the Mandakini River flowing below add to its spiritual and scenic charm. Pilgrims undertake a challenging trek to reach Kedarnath, but the journey\’s hardships are rewarded with the temple\’s divine aura and breathtaking beauty.
Badrinath: Sacred Abode of Lord Vishnu
Badrinath, situated at an altitude of 3,133 meters (10,279 feet), is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is the most significant of the Char Dham sites. The Badrinath Temple, with its striking facade and intricate architecture, is a symbol of spiritual devotion and architectural grandeur. Nestled between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges and with the Alaknanda River flowing nearby, Badrinath offers a tranquil and picturesque setting. According to legend, Lord Vishnu meditated here for thousands of years, and the site is considered one of the holiest in Hinduism. The temple\’s Tapt Kund hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are a significant part of the pilgrimage.
The Spiritual Journey
The Char Dham Yatra is more than just a pilgrimage; it is a transformative journey that blends faith, devotion, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. Each temple holds unique religious significance, and together they provide a holistic spiritual experience. Pilgrims often begin the yatra from Yamunotri, proceed to Gangotri, then to Kedarnath, and finally to Badrinath, following a clockwise path that symbolizes the cycle of life and spiritual ascent.
Discover Char Dham
Char Dham invites pilgrims and travelers to embark on a sacred journey through some of the most revered and picturesque sites in India. Whether you seek spiritual solace, an adventure in the Himalayas, or a deeper connection with nature and divinity, the Char Dham Yatra offers a profound and enriching experience. Come and explore the divine sanctity and natural splendor of Char Dham, where every step brings you closer to the abode of the gods.
Itinerary
Morning meet our representative at Railway Station. After some basic information start your journey to Barkot. Later drive to Barkot. Check into the hotel arrival in Barkot. Overnight stay at Barkot.
Early morning after breakfast, drive to Jankichatti / Phoolchatti. Start your trek from here to Yamunotri (6kms) (Either by walk or by horse or by Doli at own cost). After arrival at Yamunotri take bath in warm waters of Surya Kund (Hot Spring). Enjoy Darshanof"Yamunaji". Return trek to Jankichatti. Later drive towards Barkot. Overnight stay at Barkot.
After breakfast (packed breakfast), drive to Jankichatti / Phoolchatti & star trek from here to Yamunotri (6Kms) (Either by walk or by horse or by Doli at own cost). After taking bath in Jamunabai Kund’s warm water and having “Darshan” of “Yamunaji” return to Jankichatti by trek. Later drive towards Barkot, dinner & overnight stay at Hanuman Chatti.
Early morning after breakfast, drive to Gangotri. On the way visit Gangnani Hot Spring. Take a holy dip in Kund. Later drive to Gangotri via beautiful Harsil valley. On arrival at Gangotri, take a holy dip in the sacred river Ganges which is also called Bhagirathi at its origin. Perform Pooja and Darshan, after that relax for some time in the lovely surroundings. Later return drive to Uttarkashi.
Morning after breakfast, drive to Guptkashi. Enroute you can see the beautiful river Mandakini at Tilwara. The Mandakini River comes from Kedarnath, drive alongside the river to reach Guptakashi, visit ArdhNarishwar Temple in Guptakashi. Check into the hotel arrival in Guptakashi. Overnight stay at Guptkashi.
Morning after breakfast, today we will go to Kedarnath. To reach Kedarnath you will have two options. One if by trekking and other is by Air via Helicopter (at your own cost).
Morning after breakfast explore nearby areas by walk at Kedarnath. Later reach Guptkashi as per your choice by trek or Helicopter.
Morning after breakfast, drive to Badrinath. Check in to the hotel arrival in Badrinath. Pilgrims after having a bath in the Taptkund have the Darshan of Badrivishal&Aarti in evening. Overnight stay at Badrinath.
Morning enjoy the after breakfast, drive for Rudraprayag via Joshimath. Visit on the way Darshan of VishuPrayag, Narsingh Temple in Joshimath, KarnPrayag and NandPrayag. Check into the hotel arrival in Rudraprayag. Overnight stay at Rudraprayag.