Char Dham Yatra

Pilgrims need to obtain a biometric registration card, which can be acquired online or at registration centers only available at official Uttarakhand Government centers or website. Also carry either online or offline your legal Govt. ID.

The Char Dham Yatra is a pilgrimage to the four ancient Hindu shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath in Uttarakhand, India. Each shrine has a unique backstory which we will explore in further questions.

The Char Dham Yatra typically begins in late April or early May and concludes in October or November close to Diwali or Deepawali, depending on the pre-decided opening and closing dates & weather conditions.

The Yatra typically takes 10 to 12 days, though this can vary depending on individual itineraries and types of transportation.

Although trekking alone is totally safe and many people do trek to Kedarnath and Yamunotri solo. But is not recommended due to health & safety advisory, it's always better to trek with a guide or in a group for safety and health concerns.

The weather at Chardham route and temples varies, with cold winters and mild summers. It can be unpredictable, so it's essential to check the weather forecast before planning the trip.

• Haridwar, Dehradun, Rishikesh and low altitude areas are always hot during summers and moderate during autumn months of September and October.

• The weather begins to change as you gain altitude irrespective of the season especially in Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath.

• The major valley towns like Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Srinagar, Gauchar are warm or hot during summers and mild during autumn.

Typically, the sequence starts with:

1. Yamunotri (origin of the Yamuna River),

2. Gangotri (origin of the Bhagirathi River which laters morphs in the holy Ganga at Devprayag),

3. Kedarnath (Lord Shiva temple), and

4. ends with Badrinath (a Vishnu temple, also a part of national Chardham across India).

Why This Sequence?

This order is established by geographical conditions, each site's altitude, and the temples' spiritual value. This isn't only tradition; it adheres to the natural flow of rivers and the region's geography, with Yamunotri at the lowest elevation. Pilgrims normally begin here, then travel to Gangotri, Kedarnath, and finally Badrinath, the highest destination. While others prefer to begin at Badrinath, the classical order allows for a steady elevation, which improves the spiritual journey across these sacred temples. The sequence combines geography, religion, and tradition.

Previously, it was also believed that this sequence represented pilgrims' movements to follow seasonal changes and Hindu rituals of honoring different deities in a cycle. Moving from west to east "honors the journey of life," beginning with the origins of the Yamuna and Ganga.

There are three different travel seasons for Char Dham Yatra:

1. Summers (May to June): Moderate climate and heavy crowds,

2. Monsoon (late July & Aug): Heavy rainfall and extreme weather,

3. Autumn (Sep, Oct & Nov): Pre-winter temperatures but less footfall.

While there's no official age limit, the journey can be physically demanding due to multitude of factors ranging from high altitude, heavy crowd, and extreme weather. Hence, it's advisable for elderly individuals and children to consult a doctor before planning.

You can reach Chardham by reaching Haridwar, Rishikesh or Dehradun first. If you take the traditional route, below is the route map:

Haridwar/Dehradun - Vikasnagar/Mussoorie - Barkot - Janki Chatti - Yamunotri - Uttarkashi - Harshil - Gangotri - Uttarkashi - Tilwara - Guptkashi - Phata - Sonprayag - Gaurikund - Kedarnath - Gaurikund - Tilwara - Rudraprayag - Gauchar - Karnaprayag - Joshimath - Badrinath - Joshimath - Rudraprayag - Srinagar - Devprayag - Rishikesh - Haridwar

Here is the detailed information about 'How to reach Chardham Yatra':

By Road

• First reach either reach Haridwar, Rishikesh or Dehradun from Delhi or your hometown. All three cities are well connected to almost major North Indian cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Jaipur and so on via National Highways.

By Train

• The nearest railway station is Dehradun, Rishikesh & Haridwar.

• Haridwar is the most well connected out of three railway stations.

• From there you can either rely on public transport for Chardham Yatra or choose a travel partner for the pilgrimage. Choose your travel partner carefully and avoid impulsive decisions and rampant scams.
  

By Flight

• The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.

• The closest city to the airport is Rishikesh, Dehradun and Haridwar respectively.

• There are local and app based cabs available from the airport. Choose wisely.

• For Chardham Yatra, Dehradun would be an ideal spot and for Kedarnath, Rishikesh would be ideal.

By Helicopter

• There are two options via Helicopter for Chardham Yatra.

  • You can either book a Chardham Luxury Helicopter Services from Dehradun, or

  • Only book a Kedarnath Shuttle Heli Service from Guptkashi, Phata or Sirsi. The booking for Shuttle Heli services can only be done through IRCTC's official website: https://heliyatra.irctc.co.in/

• Keep in mind, there are lot of scams done in the name of Helicopter services and Kedarnath Shuttle services can only be booked through IRCTC official website and anyone else claiming to provide these services independently is illegal.

• And Chardham Luxury Services is only provided by Uttarakhand Govt. approved carriers. Check all the documents before booking.

First reach Haridwar, Rishikesh or Dehradun.

• To Yamunotri
  

  • Here's the route map: Dehradun - Mussoorie/Vikasnagar - Lakhamandal - Barkot - Janki Chatti - Yamunotri

  • There are two routes to reach Barkot from Dehradun from Mussoorie or Vikasnagar.

  • During peak Chardham Yatra, to reduce the traffic congestion, the route is mostly diverted through Vikasnagar ring road.

  • Barkot is the last major town in the Yamunotri route.

  • Janki Chatti is the stop before the trek starts for Yamunotri temple.

  • Direct public transport to Barkot from Dehradun is minimum and time bound, state buses mostly scheduled for early mornings.

  • You can also take shared local taxis like Bolero which is the most common mode of transport used in upper Himalayan region.

  • You can also go to Vikasnagar and explore shared local taxis from there.

  • Distance between Dehradun & Barkot via Mussoorie: Approx. 124 Km

  • Distance between Dehradun & Barkot via Vikasnagar: Approx. 138 Km

  • Distance between Vikasnagar & Barkot: Approx. 105 Km

  • Distance between Barkot & Janki Chatti: Approx. 45 Km

  • Trek distance from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri: Approx. 6 Km

First reach Yamunotri, check our prior question for the details regarding reaching Barkot.

• To Gangotri
  

  • Here's the route map from Barkot or Janki Chatti:

    • Yamunotri - Dharasu - Uttarkashi - Gangnani - Harshil - Gangotri

  • Here's the direct route map from Dehradun or Rishikesh:

    • Dehradun - Mussoorie - Chinyalisour - Dharasu Band - Uttarkashi - Gangnani - Harshil - Gangotri

    • Rishikesh - Chamba bypass - Chinyalisour - Dharasu Band - Uttarkashi - Harshil - Gangotri

  • The Dehradun-Mussoorie route is a good two lane road till Chinyalisour (and merges with four lane highway till Uttarkashi) and is shorter in distance and time.

  • The Rishikesh-Chamba bypass is a four lane road till Uttarkashi.

  • You can choose to stay in Uttarkashi (the district centre town) which has stay options of almost all range.

  • Or you can also choose to stay along the way in small hill-stations like Barsu, Raithal, Harshil, Mukhwa to name a few.

  • While almost everyone will suggest Uttarkashi as your stop during this leg of the Yatra, we suggest otherwise.

  • We suggest to cover as much distance while traveling to Gangotri and opt for stays near Gangotri rather than Uttarkashi, Why? Because it helps you beat the early morning traffic and gives you more time in the temple.

  • Direct public transport from Barkot to Gangotri is minimum at best and you will have to travel to Uttarkashi first and take further transport from there.

  • As mentioned earlier, shared local taxis are the most frequent mode of public transport.

  • You can easily avail a shared local taxi from Uttarkashi to Gangotri or Harshil or nearby.

  • Distance between Janki Chatti, Yamunotri & Gangotri: Approx. 220 km

  • Distance between Barkot & Gangotri: Approx. 180 Km

  • Distance between Barkot & Uttarkashi: Approx. 83 Km

  • Distance between Uttarkashi & Gangotri: Approx. 98 Km

  • Distance between Harshil & Gangotri: Approx. 26 Km

  • You don't have to trek to reach Gangotri temple.

Once you complete Yamunotri & Gangotri circuit, our next destination would be Kedarnath Dham.

Incase if are looking for only Kedarnath related information and FAQs, check out our comprehensive Kedarnath guide.

• To Kedarnath
  

  • Here's the route map from Gangotri & Uttarkashi:

    • Gangotri - Uttarkashi bypass - Ghansali - Tilwara - Augustmuni - Guptkashi - Phata - Sersi - Sonprayag - Gaurikund - Kedarnath

  • Here's the direct route map from Haridwar or Rishikesh:

    • Haridwar - Rishikesh - Devprayag - Srinagar - Rudraprayag bypass - Tilwara - Augustmuni - Guptkashi - Sonprayag - Gaurikund - Kedarnath

  • The Uttarkashi bypass route is a two-lane stateway till Gaurikund.

  • The direct route from Haridwar or Rishikesh is a four-lane highway (part of Badrinath highway) till Rudraprayag and merges into a two-lane road from Guptkashi.

  • The vehicles of all types including cars and buses are not allowed to go beyond Sonprayag which has one of the biggest available Himalayan parking facility.

  • You will have to take a local shuttle from Sonprayag to Gaurikund for an approx, 8 km route with fixed fares every year.

  • You can choose to stay in Augustmuni, Guptkashi, Phata, Sersi and Sonprayag.

  • Keep in mind that accommodation charges or prices closer to Gaurikund will be comparatively higher irrespective of the property type due to the proximity to Kedarnath trek starting point. Example - Staying in Guptkashi will be cheaper when compared to Sonprayag but during peak Yatra traveling to Gaurikund from Guptkashi will be far more exhausting and time consuming than Sonprayag.

  • Try to plan your Kedarnath Yatra strategically and cover as much distance as possible without exhausting yourself.

  • Direct public transport from Gangotri to Sonprayag is not readily available and you will have to travel to Uttarkashi first and take further transport from there, more specifically through local shared taxis till Rudraprayag, Augustmuni or Guptkashi.

  • As mentioned earlier, shared local taxis are the most frequent mode of public transport.

  • Distance between Gangotri & Sonprayag, Kedarnath: Approx. 323 km

  • Distance between Uttarkashi & Sonprayag: Approx. 227 Km

  • Distance between Rudraprayag & Sonprayag: Approx. 70 Km

  • Distance between Rishikesh & Sonprayag: Approx. 205 Km

  • Distance between Guptkashi & Sonprayag: Approx. 30 Km

  • Kedarnath trek starts from Gaurikund and the total distance is between 16-20 km.

Once you complete Yamunotri, Gangotri & Kedarnath, our next and final destination would be Badrinath Dham.

• To Badrinath
  

  • Here's the route map from Sonprayag, Kedarnath:

    • Kedarnath - Gaurikund - Sonprayag - Guptkashi - Rudraprayag - Gauchar - Karnaprayag - Joshimath - Badrinath

  • Here's the direct route map from Haridwar or Rishikesh:

    • Haridwar - Rishikesh - Devprayag - Srinagar - Rudraprayag - Gauchar - Karnaprayag - Joshimath - Badrinath

  • The Badrinath road from Haridwar and Rishikesh is a National highway.

  • Majority of the route is a four-lane highway road. Only few stretches majorly after Srinagar is a two lane road.

  • Joshimath is the biggest town on the Badrinath route.

  • We highly recommend you to plan your stay in Joshimath or Badrinath (or somewhere between the stretch) due to two major factors - proximity to temple which saves time and availability and variety of hotel/homestay options.

  • Keep in mind that closer you are to destination or tourist hotspot, higher the prices of available hotels.

  • Direct public transport from Sonprayag or Guptkashi to Badrinath is not available but you can easily get a local shared taxi from Rudraprayag to Joshimath and Badrinath.

  • As mentioned earlier, shared local taxis are the most frequent mode of public transport.

  • Distance between Sonprayag & Badrinath: Approx. 220 km

  • Distance between Guptkashi & Badrinath: Approx. 192 Km

  • Distance between Rudraprayag & Badrinath: Approx. 149 Km

  • Distance between Joshimath & Badrinath: Approx. 40 Km

  • Badrinath Dham is on road and you don't have to trek to reach the temple.

You can find all types of stays or accommodation options like guesthouses, lodges, dharamshalas, hotels and resorts at the following locations at the Chardham route:

• While going to Yamunotri - Suggested town stops are Barkot or Janki Chatti.

• While coming from Yamunotri - Barkot.

• While going to Gangotri - Gangnani, Mukhba or Harshil.

• While coming from Gangotri - Uttarkashi, Barsu or Raithal.

• While going to Gaurikund, Kedarnath - Sonprayag, Phata, Guptkashi or Rudraprayag.

• At Kedarnath - Camps, lodges or Hotels (the closer to temple, the more expensive).

• While coming from Kedarnath - Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, Ukhimath or Chopta.

• While going to Badrinath - Joshimath or Badrinath

• While coming from Badrinath - Joshimath, Badrinath or Rudraprayag.

Yes, a range of accommodations from budget lodges, premium hotels to guesthouses is available. However, it's recommended to book in advance during peak seasons.

Yes, pilgrims and devotees are required to register and acquire a registration certificate, either online through Uttarakhand Government Chardham Registration Portal or at offline designated registration centers en route especially at Haridwar or Rishikesh.

Keep in mind, registration process is totally free of cost and if someone or any travel agency demands money for registration, you can either complain to the authorities or not indulge in these offers.

Temple timings vary, but generally, they open early in the morning (around 4:00 AM) and close in the evening (around 9:00 PM).

Acclimatization is crucial due to high altitudes. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity initially, and be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness.

Devotees with prior medical history are advised to disclose the same during registration for the yatra and preferably get a doctor NOC and suggestion before undertaking the Chardham Yatra.

Basic medical facilities are available at various points, but they may be limited. Carrying personal medications and a first aid kit is advisable.

We also suggest to save or make a list of emergency numbers and district hospital numbers enroute like Barkot, Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Joshimath and Rishikesh.

The treks are high-altitude, to Kedarnath is longer and gradual and Yamunotri trek is quite steep and narrow. Adequate preparation and physical fitness are essential.

There are multiple options available for elderly pilgrims:

• Senior citizens can take a shuttle helicopter service to Kedarnath to skip the long trek route. Keep in mind that shuttle service can only be booked through IRCTCs official website.

• Luxury Helicopter services are also available for the entire Chardham route from Dehradun. Do a proper background check and due diligence before booking or availing this service.

• And lastly, Palkis (palanquins) and ponies are available for hire to assist elderly or physically challenged pilgrims on trekking routes.

It's advisable to compile a list of local emergency contacts, including police, medical facilities, and your country's embassy or consulate in India.

• Emergency Services - 108

• Police Assistance - 100

• Tourist Helpline - 1363

Respect local customs, remove footwear before entering temples, avoid loud conversations, avoid alcohol and tobacco products and seek permission before photographing locals.

Each shrine holds unique religious importance: Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna River; Gangotri is the origin of the Bhagirathi River which eventually becomes River Ganga at Devprayag; Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is also part of Panch Kedar circuit; and Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

It is strongly advised to maintain cleanliness, avoid littering, use biodegradable products, and respect the sanctity of the natural surroundings and local people and customs.

All the Chardham temples and open throughout the monsoon season but is advised to check the weather forecast before undertaking the Chardham yatra. It's generally discouraged due to the risk of landslides, road blockages, and heavy rainfall making travel hazardous.

Hindi and Garhwali are widely spoken. Basic English is understood in many areas, especially by tour operators and guides.

There is a belief that visiting these four shrines washes away sins, liberates the soul, and leads to moksha (salvation). Each temple is connected to an important Hindu deity.

Yes, except during extreme weather conditions or natural calamities.

No special permit is needed for Indian citizens, but foreign nationals require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for certain regions.

Aadhar card, PAN card, Passport (for foreigners), or any valid government ID.

Yes, but they must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) and carry valid identity proof.

No, the registration is free of cost. If someone or any travel agency tells you otherwise or demands money for registration, avoid them or raise a complaint to the authorities.

If you register online, you can save the document on your phone or you can reprint it online or visit the nearest tourist registration center.

Dehradun, Haridwar or Rishikesh are the main starting points.

Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport and is located midway to Dehradun, Haridwar & Rishikesh, which is the closest city to the airport.

Dehradun, Haridwar and Rishikesh are the nearest railway stations in the moment but the railway connectivity is reaching Rudraprayag soon is under construction.

No, there are no direct flights to any of the Chardham temples. You need to take a flight to Dehradun, then travel by road or via Helicopter to all four temples.

Yes, but here are two most important things to keep in mind while undertaking Chardham through your vehicle:

• Peak traffic - The summer season (May - June) is the most visited time of the year so be prepared for long queues and traffic lines, especially in the upper Himalayan region.

• It is recommended to have prior mountain driving experience and etiquette to navigate the Himalayan road due to steep roads and the safety of you, your family and others on the road.

• Proper planning is very important due to high footfall, do advance hotel booking at strategic locations to avoid heavy traffic lines.

Yes, taxis and shared/private cabs are available. You can find a lot of private taxi or transportation agencies in Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh which provide Chardham taxi services.

But we recommend to plan a proper itinerary, do your diligence properly and avoid rushed bookings.

After the implementation of the 'Char Dham All Weather Road Project' most of the roads are in good condition, especially till the last major towns before all the temples. Some parts are still patchy due to geographical challenges and landslides are common during monsoon.

For more details about each temple route or road check out our detailed answers to transportation options for each temple above.

Yes, except for Kedarnath & Yamunotri, which requires trekking.

Yes, Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) runs buses from major cities but expect huge crowds during the peak summer season.

• Yamunotri to Gangotri: 1 day minimum or 10–12 hours without traffic.

• Gangotri to Kedarnath: 1 day minimum or 12–14 hours without traffic.

• Kedarnath to Badrinath: 1 day minimum or 9–10 hours without traffic.

For more detailed answer including distance and accommodation options check our above answers.

Yes, pre-booking is recommended and beneficial, especially during peak season. It helps you avoid immediate seasonal prices and helps in reaching a destination in case of traffic and tourist flow advisory.

Yes, GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) guesthouses are available almost everywhere along the route.

Luxury hotels are available but very limited due to geographical constraints. Most of the luxury hotels are available far from the temples.

Badrinath is the only Dham where you can find luxury accommodation nearby. Below are the closest locations where you can find luxury or premium hotels:

• Yamunotri - Barkot

• Gangotri - Harshil

• Kedarnath - Guptkashi & Rudraprayag

• Badrinath - Joshimath, Auli & Badrinath.

No, camping near temples is not allowed.