Are you planning to do Char Dham Yatra? Want to know the costs of visiting all the Dhams including – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath? You are in the right place! Thousands of pilgrims undertake this yatra every year to purify their souls and get moksha (liberation). But before you start, you need to know the financial aspects of this yatra. It is common to understand that the cost of the Char Dham Yatra package can vary greatly depending on your mode of transport, accommodation options and other factors.
In this detailed guide, we will break down the costs, compare different packages and give you valuable tips to plan your trip smartly. By the end of this, you will have all the information you need to go on this divine journey without burning a hole in your pocket. Let’s start!
Cost Breakdown for the Char Dham Yatra
In the below section, we will mention all types of expenses that usually occur when someone plans for the Char Dham Yatra. It will give you an idea to make an approximate budget, whether you want to travel budget-friendly or luxury. Initial point of Char Dham is Haridwar, Dehradun or Rishikesh, so you can choose anyone of them to begin your journey. Book a package and Reach any these places directly from your city to begin the 10 days journey. If you are coming at Delhi Airport from another country or state, book Char Dham Yatra package from Delhi.
Transportation Costs
Char Dham Yatra can be done in different ways and each mode of transport has its own impact on the budget. Whether you start from Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh or Dehradun, you have three major options: by car, by tempo traveller or by bus.
Travel by Road
Road travel is the most popular mode of Char Dham Yatra, it gives you flexibility and a chance to enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan views. Here’s a breakdown of the costs based on your starting point:
| Starting Point | By Car (4-8 Seats) | By Tempo Traveller (9-27 Seats) | By Bus (26-53 seater) |
| Delhi | ₹48,000–₹84,000 | ₹95,000–₹140,000 | ₹170,000–₹300,000 |
| Haridwar | ₹40,000–₹70,000 | ₹75,000–₹125,000 | ₹150,000–₹265,000 |
| Rishikesh | ₹40,000–₹70,000 | ₹75,000–₹125,000 | ₹150,000–₹265,000 |
| Dehradun | ₹40,000–₹70,000 | ₹75,000–₹125,000 | ₹150,000–₹265,000 |
Car rental for Char Dham is perfect for families or small groups of 4-7 people who want comfort and privacy. Char Dham Yatra by tempo traveller is for larger groups of 8 to 27 people and is cheaper when you split the cost. But if you are a group of more than 27 people then buses on rent are the most economical but can be less comfortable for longer journeys.
Note: Costs include transportation, accommodation, and meals as part of the package. Additional charges for helicopter rides, VIP darshan, and other activities may apply.
Travel by Air
For those short on time or who cannot bear long drives, air travel is the best option. The journey involves flights to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport or Pantnagar Airport which is the nearest to these spiritual sites and then helicopter rides to Char Dham.
- Flights to Dehradun: Airfare from Delhi is between ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 (one way) depending on the airline and season. Once you reach Dehradun, you can join a group or book a private tour by road or helicopter.
- Helicopter Services: Cost is between ₹1,90,000 to ₹2,00,000 per person for a round trip covering all the shrines of Char Dham (Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath). These packages include accommodation, food and VIP darshan services.
Suggested read: Char Dham Yatra Travel Guide
Travel by Train
Train travel is cost-effective and pilgrims can reach Haridwar or Rishikesh by train from anywhere in the country as these are the starting points for road travel.
- Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh: ₹500 to ₹2,500 (one way) depending on the class.
- From other cities like Mumbai or Kolkata: ₹1,000 to ₹3,500 for a sleeper or AC class.
Train travel is more economical for pilgrims travelling in groups. But train stations are not directly connected to Char Dham sites so further road transport is required.
Accommodation Cost
The Char Dham Yatra route offers a range of accommodations, from simple Dharamshalas to luxurious resorts. Here’s a breakdown of the options available:
- Budget Accommodations:
Cost: ₹500–₹1,500 per night.
Basic facilities such as shared bathrooms and beds.
- Mid-Range Hotels:
Cost: ₹2,000–₹4,000 per night.
Clean rooms with private bathrooms, better amenities, and sometimes dining facilities.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts:
Cost: ₹5,000–₹10,000+ per night.
These accommodations offer premium services, including hot water, room service, and proximity to the shrines.
Food Expenses
Food during the Char Dham Yatra is simple but completely satisfying. Pilgrims can choose from:
- Local Dhabas: Basic vegetarian meals such as dal, rice, roti, and sabzi cost around ₹100–₹200 per meal.
- Hotel Restaurants: Meals at mid-range hotels cost between ₹300 and ₹600 per person.
- Premium Dining: Luxury hotels offer elaborate meals costing ₹700–₹1,500 per person.
All food along the Char Dham route is vegetarian. So it does not matter what you want to eat you must have to limit yourself to vegetarian options only. It is because to keep with the religious significance of the journey.
Miscellaneous Costs:
Apart from the transportation, accommodation, and meals, there are other costs that you may or may not opt for:
- Pony/Doli Services: It is essential for you if you are someone who is aged, unfit, or just not able to trek. For example, Yamunotri and Kedarnath treks will cost you approx ₹2,500–₹5,000 per trip.
- Darshan Fees: Darshan in all temples are free of cost but the Kedarnath temple offers VIP darshan passes for ₹300–₹500.
- Travel Insurance: Protect yourself against emergencies with coverage costing ₹1,000–₹2,000 per person.
Estimated Total Cost for the Char Dham Yatra
Considering all the factors, here’s a rough estimate of the total cost of the pilgrimage:
- Budget Pilgrimage: ₹25,000–₹35,000 per person (shared transportation and budget stays).
- Mid-Range Pilgrimage: ₹45,000–₹65,000 per person (private vehicle and mid-range accommodations).
- Luxury Pilgrimage: ₹1,50,000+ per person (helicopter services and premium stays).
Planning your Char Dham Yatra with these insights will help you manage your budget effectively and ensure a spiritually enriching experience.
How to Start Char Dham Tour from Delhi?
As we have mentioned cost of Char Dham packages, but apart from this, you need to know travel tips, registration process for Char Dham Yatra and places to cover during yatra. You can start from Delhi by selecting best travel means for your group and explore all beautiful places and Dham.
Comparison of Famous Char Dham Packages
Let’s try to understand the key features and differences between our Char Dham Tour Package, which can help you to make a better decision for this sacred trip.
| Features | Our Packages | IRCTC/GMVN Packages |
| Duration | 11 Nights / 12 Days | 11 Nights / 12 Days |
| Cost | ₹40,000 – ₹55,000 (varies based on customization) | Starting from ₹50490 (Triple occupancies) |
| Accommodation | Comfortable hotels/guesthouses | Budget-standard hotels (as per the list only) |
| Transportation | AC vehicles as per your choice (up to Haridwar; AC is not functional in hilly areas) | AC tempo traveller (functional only up to Haridwar) |
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and dinner | Breakfast and dinner |
| Additional Inclusions | – Expert driver and local assistance – 24/7 support during the trip – Parking, toll, and driver allowances | – 1 lt packed water bottle |
| Flexibility | Customizable itineraries | Rigid packages |
| Cost Efficiency | More budget-friendly for families and groups | Higher starting price |