A masterpiece of spiritual pilgrimage, beautifully situated in the heart of Himalayas and attracting thousands of pilgrims every year for a soul stiring but physically challenging trek is the much-awaited tour of the year, THE CHARDHAM YATRA. A life changing journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening, this place is so much more than a religious pilgrimage. Every step you take towards these sacred shrines is a step counted towards inner calm, which is much needed in our daily lives and a deeper awareness about the eternal realities of life.
Also known as the CHOTA CHARDHAM YATRA, this holy place is located in magnificient Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, consisting of four sacred sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. If you are planning a chardham yatra this year or just feel curious to know about this beautiful journey then here’s a detailed guide for you which includes key information about the opening dates, itinerary suggestions, reservation tips, and helicopter booking criteria, along with insights into what makes each Dham uniquely special?
A life-changing journey
Yamunotri:
The yatra begins in Yamunotri, the source of the Yamuna River. Here, you can visit the temple devoted to the Goddess Yamuna. This temple is gracefully decorated in pure white snow and will provide you with a breathtaking vista. One important ceremony you will get to see here is rice boiling in the hot springs and offering it to the deity, representing the nature and God. Also, visiting Yamunotri first, is believed to be a spiritual cleansing that prepares pilgrims for the journey ahead.
Gangotri:
The next destination in the yatra, which is located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River and is the source of the holy Ganges, is Gangotri. It is believed that the purity of Ganga water is supreme, and people worship it as a holy treasure. Along with this, the mesmerizing natural beauty of the location, plus its spiritual atmosphere, leaves a tremendous impact on the pilgrims, imparting a deep sense of calm and devotion.
Kedarnath:
The yatra continues towards Kedarnath, the home to one of Lord Shiva’s twelve Jyotirlingas. The kedarnath temple, nestled in the snow-covered peaks, will provide you with a serene yet dramatic experience. However, the trek to Kedarnath, is both hard and thrilling. It is here that the individual’s physical preserverance and spiritual commitment are tested, bringing them closer to God.
Badrinath:
The Chardham Yatra finally concludes at Badrinath, which is Lord Vishnu’s abode. The temple is surrounded by the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges and stands out beautifully against the rough alpine landscape. One should be aware that Badrinath is not an end of a spiritual journey but in real terms it is actually a fresh beginning, leaving pilgrims with a sense of spiritual enlightenment.
Chardham Yatra Opening and Closing Dates- when exactly to plan?
The Chardham Yatra could be undertaken during a specific window of time only. It opens generally from late April or early May marking the auspicious Akshaya Tritiya and continues till October or November each year and closes shortly after Diwali. It is to note that these dates can vary slightly every year depending on weather conditions at that time and also the Hindu calendar calculations. It’s is advisable to check the latest information before planning your trip.
How to craft a suitable itinerary for the Chardham Yatra?
It is crucial for you to have a well-planned schedule ready before starting the yatra for a memorable Chardham Yatra experience. No matter where you are coming from, it will always be helpful if you take a night at Haridwar or Rishikesh and then start the yatra with Yamunotri being the first, then Gangotri, Kedarnath, and finally Badrinath. You will require 10-15 days for the circuit to be completed, depending on how you are travelling and the amount of time you’ll be staying at each place.
Also Read – A Guide to Pilgrimage Tour in India
Suggested Itinerary:
Here’s a suggested itinerary for Chardham Yatra from Delhi, spanning approximately 12-14 days:
- Day 1: Delhi to Haridwar
– Start your journey from Delhi and drive to Haridwar.
– Visit the Har Ki Pauri ghat for the Ganga Aarti in the evening.
– Overnight stay in Haridwar.
- Day 2: Haridwar to Barkot
– Moving from Haridwar to Barkot, a beautiful town situated at the base of the Yamunotri trek.
– Visit the Kempty Falls in Mussoorie between the journey .
– Overnight stay in Barkot.
- Day 3: Barkot to Yamunotri and back to Barkot
– Early morning, proceed to Yamunotri.
– Visit the Yamunotri Temple and the Surya Kund.
– Return to Barkot in the evening.
– Overnight stay in Barkot.
- Day 4: Barkot to Uttarkashi
– Drive from Barkot to Uttarkashi.
– Visit the Vishwanath Temple and the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering.
– Overnight stay in Uttarkashi.
- Day 5: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and back to Uttarkashi
– Depart early for Gangotri.
– Visit the Gangotri Temple and take a dip in the holy waters of the Bhagirathi River.
-Back to Uttarkashi in the evening.
- Day 6: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi
– Move from Uttarkashi to Guptkashi.
– Visit the Tehri Dam and the beautiful town of Rudraprayag, in mid of the journey.
– Overnight stay in Guptkashi.
- Day 7: Guptkashi to Kedarnath
– Depart early morning for Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath trek.
– Trek or take a helicopter to Kedarnath.
– Visit the Kedarnath Temple and explore the natural surroundings.
– Overnight stay in Kedarnath or return to Guptkashi, if possible
- Day 8: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
– If in Kedarnath, trek back to Gaurikund and drive to Guptkashi.
– If in Guptkashi the previous evening, relax or explore the town.
– Overnight stay in Guptkashi.
- Day 9: Guptkashi to Joshimath
– Drive from Guptkashi to Joshimath, a mesmerizing town located near Badrinath.
– Visit the ancient temples of Ukhimath and Chopta.
– Overnight stay in Joshimath.
- Day 10: Joshimath to Badrinath and back to Joshimath
– Early morning, drive to Badrinath.
– Visit the Badrinath Temple, the Mana Village, and the hot springs of Tapt Kund.
– Return to Joshimath in the evening.
- Day 11: Joshimath to Rishikesh
– Drive from Joshimath to Rishikesh.
– Visit the famous Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula bridges.
– Overnight stay in Rishikesh.
- Day 12: Rishikesh to Delhi
– Drive back to Delhi
– Arrive in Delhi by evening.
A comprehensive overview of the Chardham Yatra, with all four sacred sites and giving an unforgettable chardham experience.
How to get Booking done on time?
If you are desiring for a smooth and hassle-free Chardham Yatra, then planning everything in advance is the key for a sweet reality. Accommodation options range from budget dharamshalas to luxury hotels but booking well in advance is mandatory due to high demand.
Important Tip- To make planning and travel easy and problem-free, Progressive Tour and Travel is the best travel company to rely on. We offer carefully crafted tour packages with a variety of hotel stays and luxury vans, considering your preferences and budget.
Are Helicopter Services available?
If you don’t have a considerable amount of time required for the tour or you are someone who just can’t bear arduous treks, helicopter services are available for Kedarnath from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi. You can make Helicopter bookings online through official portals or through authorized travel agents. But, make sure to get your bookings done before time as slots fill up in no time.
*Note- bad weather conditions may affect helicopter operations.
The Chardham Yatra is so much more than just a journey through the Himalayas, it’s a journey towards self-realization. All it demands is efficient planning, respect for local practices and a positive mindset to take in all the gifts this journey offers!