Overview
When we hear ‘Yatra’, we often associate the term with ‘Char Dham’. Devotees from all around the world begin their expedition to these divine Char Dhams: Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri and Gangotri dedicated to four Hindu deities: Shiva, Vishnu, Yamuna, and Ganga. The term Char means four and Dham means religious destinations, offer spiritual ambience, stunning Landscapes, and ancient architecture. Settled in the lap of Himalayas, it is accessible for only 6 months in a year and there is a lot to know about this serene place which we will explore through this article and understand the essence of the Char dham yatra journey.
The Char Dham Temples
Ø Yamunotri – It is the source of Yamuna River, one of the seven sacred rivers in Hinduism. Here you will worship to Goddess Yamuna. It is the first shrine that you will visit during your Char Dham Yatra. The trek is of moderate difficulty and require one to have good physical fitness to overcome steep ascents and descents, crossing bridges over river, and walking on rocky terrain.
Ø Gangotri – It is the source of Ganga River, the most sacred river in Hinduism. Here you will worship to Goddess Ganga. It is the second shrine that you will explore in Char Dham Yatra. It is emerged from Bhagirathi River and is surrounded by peaceful mountains full of alpine and deodar trees.
Ø Kedarnath – It is the most important temple in Uttarakhand which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. People come here to worship an elegant part of Lord Shiva which is ‘The hump of Shiva’. It is believed that people visit this place to clean their sin and get moksha.
Ø Badrinath – It is the final shrine which you are going to visit in Char Dham Yatra. It is a holy shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The whole town of Badrinath looks so vibrant and Neelkanth Peak as its backdrop raise its epic beauty.
The Char Dham Yatra Route
The Char Dham Yatra is usually done in clockwise direction that begins from Haridwar and ends in Badrinath. The following is a sample itinerary for the Char Dham Yatra:
· Day 1 – You arrive to Haridwar.
· Day 2 – Drive from Haridwar to Barkot.
· Day 3 – You trek from Barkot to Yamunotri and back.
· Day 4 – You drive from Barkot to Uttarkashi.
· Day 5 – You trek from Uttarkashi to Gangotri and back.
· Day 6 – You drive from Uttarkashi to Guptkashi.
· Day 7 – You trek from Guptkashi to Kedarnath and back.
· Day 8 – You drive from Guptkashi to Joshimath.
· Day 9 - Again you drive from Joshimath to Badrinath.
· Day 10 – Visit the Badrinath Temple and nearby attractions.
· Day 11 – You drive from Badrinath to Rishikesh.
· Day 12 – Your departure from Rishikesh.
Char Dham Yatra Package Highlights
· Duration – 10-12 days.
· Visiting places – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath
· Time – April to November
· Mode of travel – By road with expert driver
· Accommodation – Budget friendly Lodges and Hotels
· Inclusions:
Ø Accommodations with meals.
Ø Transport with an experienced driver.
Ø Helicopter services (optional).
Ø Entry fees and permits.
Ø Expert guide services.
Ø Travel insurance.
· Exclusions:
Ø Personal expenses.
Ø Pony or mule ride charges.
Ø Flights to Dehradun/Haridwar.
Ø Any additional activities not mentioned.
· Optional Activities:
Ø Meditation and Yoga sessions.
Ø Visit to nearby attractions.
Ø Ganga Arti in Haridwar or Rishikesh.
· Safety measure:
Ø Medical assistance available.
Ø Well planned acclimatisation.
· Group size – you can go solo, as a couple or with group.
· Booking – Available through phone contact or in website.
· Package cost – Nearly Rs 30,000/- per person.
Nearby Attractions of Char Dham Yatra
There are many nearby attractions which you can explore during your yatra. You can meet new people and visit sites of interests. Following are the 4 main nearby attractions which you would like to visit:
Ø Haridwar – You can participate in the sacred evening Ganga Arti and can visit Mansa Devi temple via cable car.
Ø Rishikesh – You can visit the famous Ram and Lakshman Jhula followed by Triveni Ghat and Evening Ganga Aarti.
Ø Uttarkashi – Here you can visit the holy Vishwanath Temple, Maneri Dam, and if time permits probably a short trekking to Dayara Bugyal trek.
Ø Mana village – It is situated near Badrinath and is the last village of Bharat near North borders. Some of the best attractions here are the Vasudhara falls, Bhim Pul, Ganesh Gufa, and Vyas Gufa.
Conclusion
The holy pilgrimage to ancient Dhams will cleanse your soul and give you taste of spirituality. People often come here to get rid of their sin and achieve moksha. The Pahadi people showcase their warm hospitality and guide you in your way whenever you seek help from them. All the Dhams are naturally settled in such a way that you will witness some of the best landscapes ever. Overall, this yatra is going to be etched in your heart for your entire life.
