Char Dham Yatra Guide: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath

Char Dham Yatra Guide: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath

Uniqueness of Indian cultures and traditions lies in its diversity which is well reflected in the plenty of spiritual tours. Among these spiritually enriched tours, Chardham is the one which lasts only for 6 to 7 months. India’s one of the finest states, Uttarakhand is well known as the Dev Bhoomi and Chardham Yatra is the essence of this region. Some spiritual seekers find moksha here while others worship the deity and seek blessings.

In this article, we are going to pen down some important things about Chardham yatra for 2025. So, with the blessings of Lord Shiva, let’s begin this guide “Har Har Mahadev.”

In India, Chardham lies at four corners of the country, i.e., Rameshwaram, Puri, Dwarka, and Badrinath. But one Chardham is also situated in the mountains of Uttarakhand, which covers Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. In true senses, this yatra is referred as Chota Chardham. 

Importance of Char Dham Yatra –

While we talk about the significance of Chardham yatra, the aim is to achieve Moksha (Salvation). Yearly, more than lac of tourists flocks here to worship these four holy adobes. In one of the Hindu scriptures, philosopher Shri Adi Shankaracharya fabricates the term “Chardham,” which means the four adobes of God or Spiritual sites. This yatra covers the two Hindu sectarian traditions – Kedarnath & Badrinath and two shakti sites – Yamunotri & Gangotri. These places are beautifully wrapped up with great Indian Himalayas and are generally covered by a blanket of snow and a piercing atmosphere.

History of Char Dham Yatra –

Every spiritual destination of this route has its own legendary past. And each adobes camouflages some mysticism that has entitled them to form a holy circuit of Chardham. Till the 1950s, travelling to this route meant embarking on foot through the hilly terrains. So, usually this route is least travelled only the wanderers like sadhus or solitary ascetic and those being inclined towards spirituality or could afford to travel worship here more often.

Before 1962, during the Indo-China war, there were no known roads connecting these holy places but with the time, a massive effort was put to build a better means of connectivity to and infrastructure near the border areas. With refreshing vibes and well-built terrains, roads could tak one to the nearest points of the sacred areas. People have initiated a specific tour of Chardham or chota Chardham, marking as an important circuit for Indians or Sanatans.

Char Dham’s of India:

Yamunotri – Yamunotri Dham is the starting point of this spiritual yatra, the main source of the Yamuna River. The best and cheapest way to visit Yamunotri is by road from Haridwar via Mussoorie, Dehradun to Barkot. Barkot is the main stoppage point where, devotees visiting Yamunotri usually plan their stay. This may take 6 to 7 hours to reach Barkot from Haridwar. Travellers may also opt for helicopter services that operates in Dehradun from Sahastradhara Road. This could let you experience the purity of nature and feel the vibes of the holy places without struggling a lot.

Distance from Rishikesh to Hanuman Chatti: 208 kms by road

Hanumanchatti to Yamunotri Trek: 14 km

Popular attraction: Yamunotri Dham, Kharsali, Ancient Shani Dev Mandir.

Gangotri – Gangotri Dham is the second stopover of this trip, which is known for the most pious Ganga River and River Bhagirathi. From Barkot, travellers will leave for Uttarkashi which is 80 km of ride and takes only 3 hours. An excursion to the Gangotri Temple is among the most enchanting, charismatic and amazing experiences. Hear the most captivating sound of the gushing River Ganga, visit the temple offer the prayers, take a dip in the pure hue of spirituality and enjoy the scenic background.

Route of Journey: Haridwar – Rishikesh – Dharasu – Uttarkashi – Harsil – Lanka – Gangotri

Distance from Rishikesh to Gangotri Dham: 200 km by road

Popular attraction: Bhagirath Shila, Gangotri Dham Mandir

Kedarnath – The third stoppage is the Kedarnath dham, devoted to Lord Shiva. This is the ultimate dham and lies 230 kms from Gangotri. Because of the crowded traffic, it is recommended to leave before 6 am in the morning and travel to either Sonprayag, Guptkashi, Phata, and Sitapur where you can plan your stay. Prefer taking Chardham yatra by helicopter to make the travel ease and relaxing. Recite the pious name of Lord Shiva with belief and full energy. The place is so vibrant that is venerated as one of the 12 jyotirlingas.

Route of Journey: Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Agastmuni – Gauri Kund – Kedarnath

Gaurikund to Kedarnath Trek: 16 km trek (by foot, pony, palki, or by horses)

Popular attractions: Kedarnath Temple, Amalgam Temple.

Badrinath –

Get on the last stage of the four adobes of Uttarakhand, Badrinath Dham. The place is known as a holy dham of Lord Vishnu with the divine blessings of Lord Shiva. Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Badrinath Dham is a more developed dham among the other three. The temple will make you feel the innate vibes and purity of the air after witnessing the beautiful gold-plated Badrinath Temple that looks regal and magical.

Route of Badrinath Journey: Haridwar-Rishikesh-Devprayag-Srinagari-Rudraprayag-Chamoli-

Joshimath-Vishnuprayag-Pandukeshwar-Badrinath

Distance from Rishikesh to Badrinath: 297 Km (By motor)

Distance from Kotdwar to Badrinath: 327 Km (By Motor)

Popular Tourist Sightseeing Places: Badrinath Temple, Vishnu Sahasranamam Path, Mana Village

Conclusion –

So, now that you are familiar with all of these, you can now explore hassle-free with Kullu Manali Packages. They are the best travel agencies in India offering all-inclusive Chardham yatra tour packages at best affordable rates.