The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Hinduism, encompassing four holy shrines nestled in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. These four dhams — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath — are believed to wash away all sins and grant moksha to devotees who complete the pilgrimage circuit.
Traditionally, the Yatra follows a specific sequence: starting from Yamunotri in the west, proceeding to Gangotri, then Kedarnath, and concluding at Badrinath in the east. This route follows the course of the sacred rivers and is considered the most auspicious order.
🛕 The Four Dhams at a Glance
| Dham | Deity | Altitude | Opening Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yamunotri | Goddess Yamuna | 3,293m | May – November |
| Gangotri | Goddess Ganga | 3,100m | May – November |
| Kedarnath | Lord Shiva | 3,583m | May – November |
| Badrinath | Lord Vishnu | 3,133m | May – November |
📋 Registration & Requirements
The Uttarakhand government requires mandatory biometric registration for all Char Dham pilgrims. Registration can be done online through the official Char Dham Yatra Registration portal or at designated counters in Haridwar, Rishikesh, or at starting points of each Dham. Valid photo ID and a medical fitness certificate (for pilgrims above 50 years) are required.
📅 Recommended Itinerary (10-12 Days)
Day 1 is arrival at Haridwar or Rishikesh and attending the Ganga Aarti. Day 2 involves driving to Barkot (210 km, the base for Yamunotri). Day 3 is the trek to Yamunotri Temple (6 km) and return to Barkot. Day 4 is the drive to Uttarkashi (100 km, the base for Gangotri). Day 5 covers Gangotri Temple darshan (100 km drive). Day 6 is the drive to Guptkashi (240 km, the base for Kedarnath). Day 7 involves the trek to Kedarnath (18 km) or helicopter option. Day 8 is Kedarnath darshan and return trek to Guptkashi. Day 9 is the drive to Badrinath (240 km). Day 10 covers Badrinath Temple darshan and visit to Mana Village. Day 11 is the return journey to Rishikesh/Haridwar.
🚁 Helicopter Services
For those who want to reduce the physical strain, helicopter services are available for both Kedarnath and the complete Char Dham circuit. Do Dham (Kedarnath-Badrinath) helicopter packages start from approximately ₹70,000-90,000 per person. Complete Char Dham helicopter packages range from ₹1,50,000-1,85,000 per person. Advance booking is essential as seats fill up months in advance, especially during peak season.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
The exact opening dates are announced on Akshaya Tritiya based on the Hindu calendar, usually in late April or early May. Yamunotri and Gangotri typically open first, followed by Kedarnath and Badrinath within a few days. All four temples close by mid-November.
Yes, particularly the Kedarnath trek (18 km one way) and Yamunotri trek (6 km). However, pony, palki, and helicopter options are available at all treks. Badrinath and Gangotri are accessible by road with minimal walking. Physical fitness is recommended, and pilgrims above 50 should carry a medical fitness certificate.
