Why Char Dham Yatra?
Yamunotri Dham Yatra – As one of the four sacred sites in the Char Dham pilgrimage, Yamunotri in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, holds immense significance as the source of the Yamuna River and the home of Goddess Yamuna. The temple dedicated to the Goddess is the central point of this yatra, with a history tracing back to the 19th century construction by Maharani Gularia of Jaipur. This ancient pilgrimage in DevBhoomi provides a unique opportunity for profound spiritual experiences.
Gangotri Dham Yatra – Experience the spirituality of Gangotri, the revered origin of the Ganges, a key stop on the Char Dham Yatra. The historic Ganga Temple, an 18th-century creation of Amar Singh Thapa, is a testament to faith. The sacred Bhagiratha Shila, where King Bhagiratha meditated to Lord Shiva, is also a key site. Gangotri’s profound aura encompasses Surya Kund and Pandava Gufa, and its location marks the beginning of significant Himalayan trekking routes.
Badrinath Dham Yatra – Experience the divine at Badrinath, a significant pilgrimage site nestled in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district at an impressive 3,313 meters. This holy town, a key destination in the Char Dham Yatra, offers a unique blend of spiritual energy and breathtaking natural beauty. Discover the main temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, housed in the sacred Garbha Griha, and feel the profound devotion that permeates this Himalayan sanctuary, flanked by the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges.
Kedarnath Dham Yatra – Discover the profound spirituality of Kedarnath, a revered abode of Lord Shiva in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region, located at an altitude of 3,584 meters. This sacred site, nestled in a picturesque hill town by the Mandakini River, offers soul-soothing tranquility amidst majestic snow-clad mountains. For devotees of Lord Shiva worldwide, Kedarnath holds immense importance and is a key destination in the Chota Char Dham Yatra, steeped in the legends of the Mahabharata’s Pandava brothers.
Kedarnath Opening Date
Opening Date : 02 May 2025
Closing Date : 23 Oct 2025
Badrinath Opening Date
Opening Date : 04 May 2025
Closing Date : 06 Nov 2025
Gangotri Opening Date
Opening Date : 30 Apr 2025
Closing Date : 22 Oct 2025
Yamunotri Opening Date
Opening Date : 30 Apr 2025
Closing Date : 23 Oct 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which month is best for Char DhamYatra?
May and June is the best time to plan for Char DhamYatra as it becomes comfortable due to pleasant climatic conditions. ChardhamYatra will start on 3rd May 2025 & close on 26th October 2025 (tentative). Kedarnath and Badrinath temples will open on 6th May and 8th May, respectively.
Q. Which Char Dham should I visit first?
The starting point of ChardhamYatra is Haridwar, from where pilgrims begin their journey to the four holy shrines. First, they visit Yamunotri, then to the famous Gangotri, followed by the KedarnathDham, and finally fishing the pilgrimage at the BadrinathDham.
Q.Is registration mandatory for the Chardham Yatra, and how can I complete the registration process (online vs. offline)?
Yes, registration is mandatory for all pilgrims undertaking the Chardham Yatra, as mandated by the Uttarakhand government. This is for safety, crowd management, and providing necessary assistance.
- Online Registration: The most convenient way is through the official website of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) or a designated online portal. You’ll need to provide your personal details, contact information, ID proof, and travel dates. You can usually download your registration certificate after successful registration.
- Offline Registration: You can also register offline at designated registration counters set up at various locations along the yatra route and in major cities like Dehradun before you begin your journey. You’ll need to fill out a form and provide the necessary documents. Be prepared for potential queues during peak season.
It’s highly recommended to register online in advance to save time and ensure your participation in the yatra.
Q.What is the typical itinerary or route followed for the Chardham Yatra, and what is the approximate time needed for each Dham?
A common traditional itinerary for the Chardham Yatra, starting from a major hub like Dehradun, often follows this sequence:
- Yamunotri (2-3 days): Travel from Dehradun/Haridwar to Barkot or Janki Chatti, then trek or take a pony to Yamunotri. Return to Barkot/Janki Chatti.
- Gangotri (1-2 days): Travel from Barkot to Uttarkashi, then to Gangotri. Return to Uttarkashi.
- Kedarnath (2-3 days): Travel from Uttarkashi to Guptkashi or Sonprayag. From Sonprayag, you’ll need to trek (or take a pony/palki) to Kedarnath. Stay overnight and return.
- Badrinath (1-2 days): Travel from Sonprayag/Rudraprayag to Badrinath.
The total duration for covering all four Dhams by road typically ranges from 10-12 days, excluding travel to and from your starting point (like Dehradun). Helicopter yatras significantly shorten this to a few days. These are just estimates, and the actual time can vary based on travel speed, road conditions, and time spent at each location.
