Chardham Yatra From Haridwar/Rishikesh

Char Dham yatra is the most sacred yatra for Hindu in India. There are four temples included in char dham yatra, Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath. all of these four are sacred places for Hindus. Every year many peoples come to take blessing from these four temples. brought you 9 nights 10 Days Char Dham tour packages from Haridwar in which you can visit all Char Dham of Uttarakhand. This package starts from Haridwar, Rishikesh or Dehradun as per your convenience at the time of booking. Due to Covid, we are organizing customized tours only Chardham Yatra

YAMUNOTRI DHAM

On the western side of Garhwal Himalayas, in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, lies the holy place of Yamunotri. About 3,293 metres above the sea level, Yamunotri stands proudly with its enormous mountain peaks, glaciers and gushing waters of Yamuna. River Yamuna, the second most sacred river of India, originates in Yamunotri, making it one of the pilgrimage sites in the Chota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand.

The venerated goddess Yamuna is said to be the daughter of Sun and twin sister of Yama (the god of death); in Vedas, Yamuna is called Yami (lady of life). A bath in the sanctified waters of Yamuna is said to cleanse all sins and protect from untimely or painful death. Such strong associations in Hindu mythology place Yamuna Devi (goddess) in high ranks of divinity.

On the western side of Garhwal Himalayas, in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, lies the holy place of Yamunotri. About 3,293 metres above the sea level, Yamunotri stands proudly with its enormous mountain peaks, glaciers and gushing waters of Yamuna. River Yamuna, the second most sacred river of India, originates in Yamunotri, making it one of the pilgrimage sites in the Chota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand.in Chardham Yatra

The venerated goddess Yamuna is said to be the daughter of Sun and twin sister of Yama (the god of death); in Vedas, Yamuna is called Yami (lady of life). A bath in the sanctified waters of Yamuna is said to cleanse all sins and protect from untimely or painful death. Such strong associations in Hindu mythology place Yamuna Devi (goddess) in high ranks of divinity.Chardham Yatra

Yamunotri Temple Opening Dates 2025

The sacred shrine in Uttarakhand will open for the pilgrims on 30 April 2025 on the auspicious occasion of Akshay Tritya.

HISTORY OF YAMUNOTRI TEMPLE

he holy abode of Goddess Yamuna is situated near the foot of Kalind Parbat (peak) and on a side of Banderpoonch Parbat. Nestled in the intimidating Himalayas, Yamunotri temple is believed to be constructed by the king of Tehri, Naresh Sudarshan Shah in 1839. One of the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage sites, the stunning setting of the temple is enough to fill the hearts of the devotees with wonder. Yamuna River jets down from one side of the temple, which houses Goddess Yamuna in the form of a black marble idol. Ganga Devi too finds her place, in white stone, by the side of Yamuna.

The temple of Yamuna closes its portals as winter approaches on Yama Dwitiya (second day after Diwali or on Bhai Dooj). Devi’s winter address is Kharsali village where she reaches in a palanquin and will remain for the entire period of winters. On Akshaya Tritiya (occurring on April/May), the goddess comes back to grace Yamunotri again. Both closing and opening ceremonies of the Yamunotri shrine are brought about with celebrations, elaborate rituals and vedic chants.

SURYA KUND (THE POND OF THE SUN)

Very near to the Yamuna Devi temple there are many hot water springs; the most significant among them is the Surya Kund. It holds the boiling-hot water as it emerges from the crevices in the mountain. People boil rice and potatoes by tying them in a cloth (preferably muslin cloth) and consider them a Prasad (religious offering) from Goddess Yamuna. in Chardham Yatra

DIVYA SHILLA (THE DIVINE STONE)

Chardham Yatra It is a reddish-brown rock near the Surya Kund which needs to be worshipped before offering reverence to the main deity, Yamuna maa (mother). According to Skanda Purana, with a mere touch of the sacred rock one can attain spiritual liberation.

GANGOTRI DHAM

HISTORY OF GANGOTRI DHAM

Gangotri Dham, located at the height of 3,100 meters (approx.) on the Chardham Yatra Himalayan range in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, holds a very special place in the hearts of Hindus. It is one of the four sacred and important pilgrimage sites of Chota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. Amid all the natural beauty and grace which the mountains and altitude of the place affords, what makes Gangotri one of the holiest places is its intimate connection with River Ganga (the Ganges).

Ganga Maa (mother), the much revered deity of Hindus, originates from the Gangotri glacier at Gaumukh which is some 18 km from the Gangotri town. It is said that Goddess Ganga came to earth in order to wash away the sins of King Bhagirathi’s ancestors. From the folds of mythology till the present time, Ganga River has always been a sacred source of purity for the mankind. Coming to Gangotri for a religious tour is not only a religious duty but a spiritual calling too.the Chardham Yatra

Gangotri Opening Dates 2025/strong (Chardham Yatra )
Devotees will be able to perform the pilgrimage to Gangotri Dham from 30 April 2025 the auspicious day of Akshay Tritya

WHAT TO SEE IN GANGOTRI DHAM?

A picture of serenity, the humble abode of Maa Ganga is situated by the side of Bhagirathi River. Located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, the revered temple is one of the four pilgrimages in the Chota Chardham Yatra circuit of Garhwal Himalayas. Mother Ganga is present in the premises of the white temple building in the form of a small silver idol. The amazing mountain range of Himalayas and the flowing Bhagirathi by the side makes for a perfect setting to behold the life-giving, gentle yet powerful deity. The pilgrims are required to bath in the crystal clear waters of the pious river before visiting the main shrine.in VChardham Yatra

As the winter season gets ready to knock on the doors of the mountain region, Goddess Ganga gets ready to leave for Mukhyamath temple in Mukhba village, 20 km downstream. The transfer takes place on the auspicious day of Diwali (Oct/Nov) amid vedic chants and elaborate rituals. With greater joy and enthusiasm, the Goddess is brought back to the Gangotri temple on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya (April/May).

UNDERWATER SHIVLING

A Shivling made from natural rock is submerged under water and is easily visible in winters when the water recedes. It is said to be the place Lord Shiva sat on while he tied Ganga in his matted hair. Dividing it into 7 streams, Shiva saved earth from the massive force of Devi Ganga.Chardham Yatra

GAUMUKH AND TAPOVAN

Chardham Yatra To witness the holy birth of River Ganges at Gaumukh, one can take up a picturesque and exciting trek surrounded with peaks and soaring peaks. One can further trek to Tapovan which is about 4 km from Gaumukh. Tapovan has meadows, beautiful flowers, streams and incredible views of surrounding Himalayan Peaks such as Shivling and Bhagirathi. Tapovan is also a base camp initiating a number of mountaineering tours

BHAIRON NATH TEMPLE IN BHAIRON GHATI

Some 10 km downstream from Gangotri, near the point where Jadh Ganga (also called Jhanvi River) merges with Bhagirathi, lies the temple of Bhairon Nath. As per a legend, Bhairon Nath was chosen by Lord Shiva as the protector of the region. And every visit to the Gangotri temple should be followed by a visit to the temple of Bhairon.

Moving about 3 km from Bhairon Ghati one can reach Lanka Chatti to witness one of the highest river bridges of the region; the bridge over River Jhanvi is quite a spectacle in its own right.

KEDARNATH DHAM

ABOUT KEDARNATH DHAM

Kedarnath Dham, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, is one of the most paramount locations for worshipers of Shiva. The air appears to be reverberating with the name of Lord Shiva amid the mighty snow-clad peaks, enchanting meadows and forests of the lower mountain range of Himalayas. Chardham Yatra Situated in a breathtaking location, near the source of Mandakini River and at the height of 3,584 meters, Kedarnath Dham celebrates the greatness of Lord Shiva. Kedarnath temple is one of the 12 Jyotir Lingams and is also the most important temple among the Panch Kedars (group of 5 Shiva temples in Garhwal Himalayas). It is also one of the significant temples of the sacred Chota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, raising the glory of the place to further heights.of Chardham Yatra

Accessible from major destinations of Uttarakhand, the motorable road towards Kedarnath temple stretches till Gauri Kund. After that one needs to take a 14 km trek towards Kedarnath temple. Ponies and palanquins (doli) are easily available; one can also avail helicopter services during peak season of yatra.

The hard journey till the great shrine of Shiva is well compensated with the spiritual atmosphere which is created by the unruffled, tranquil and splendid beauty of the region. The majestic Kedarnath peak (6,940 meters) stands behind the temple along with other peaks, forming a perfect setting for the holy land of the supreme deity. The conical-shaped Shiva lingam in the Kedarnath temple is a unique feature of the temple among all Shiva shrines.of Chardham Yatra

HISTORY OF KEDARNATH TEMPLE

Kedarnath Temple’s history is a testament to the power of devotion and faith of Chardham Yatra

According to Hindu mythology, the temple was built by the Pandavas, the legendary heroes of the Hindu epic Mahabharata. As per legends, after the great Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas wanted to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva to atone for their sins. However, Lord Shiva was not pleased with them and refused to meet them. The Pandavas then followed him to the Himalayas, where he took refuge in the form of a bull. The Pandavas then built temples at the sites to worship Lord Shiva in his bull form where they found the body parts of the bull. Kedarnath Temple was the site where the hump of the bull was seen. The current temple is believed to have been built by Adi Shankara in the 8th century CE. However, the temple has undergone several renovations over the centuries due to damage caused by natural disasters such as earthquakes and avalanches. The current structure is believed to have been built in the 19th century.

KEDARNATH TEMPLE PORTALS OPENING & CLOSING DATES

Chardham Yatra The opening and closing dates of the Kedarnath Temple are decided by the priests based on the auspicious dates in the Hindu calendar. The dates are generally announced on Mahashivratri, in February. Generally, the temple opens in the last week of April or the first week of May and closes in the second week of November.

This year, Kedarnath Dham will open on Coming Soon The closing date is not announced yet; in general, it is announced on the day of Bhai Dooj.

KEDARNATH TEMPLE ARCHITECTURE

Kedarnath Temple features North-Indian style architecture. It is made of grey stones or slabs which are interlocked with each other using iron clamps. It is worth noting that there is no mortar used in the construction of the temple. The main attraction is the magnificent Kedarnath, which has an irregular shape and is accompanied by a pedestal measuring 3.6 metres (12 feet) in circumference and height. Additionally, visitors can also explore a small pillared hall situated in front of the temple. This hall features captivating images of Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva, as well as the five Pandava princes. As you step inside the Kedarnath Temple, the first hall welcomes you with a magnificent display of statues. Here, you will find striking representations of the revered Lord Krishna, and Nandi, the trusty vehicle of Lord Shiva himself apart from the five heroic Pandava brothers. You will also come across the fierce Virabhadra, one of Shiva’s loyal guards, standing tall and proud among the deities.Chardham Yatra

As you continue your exploration of the temple, you’ll enter the main hall, where you’ll be greeted by a mesmerising collection of statues, including the graceful Draupadi and several other revered deities. Chardham Yatra

One feature of the Kedarnath Temple that truly stands out is the triangular stone lingam, which boasts an intricately carved head of a man. Interestingly, a similar head can also be found in another temple located nearby, which was constructed on the very site where Lord Shiva and Parvati were united in marriage. The combination of these stunning features makes Kedarnath a truly special and awe-inspiring destination for spiritual seekers and tourists alike.Chardham Yatra

KEDRANATH TEMPLE ARTI TIMIMG

In Kedarnath Temple, daily pujas or rituals take place under the guidance of Rawal, who is the main priest of the temple. The darshan timings are also chosen by the main priest and other board members.

Maha Abhishek starts everyday at 4:00 AM and the Shyan aarti marks its end at 7:00 PM. For the general public, darshan is available from 6:00 AM onwards, with a break between 3:00 and 5:00 PM. Darshan at the Kedarnath temple ends at 7:00 PM.

Before 3:00 PM, guests can perform Abhishek with Ghee. After 5:00 PM, visitors are allowed for darshan from a distance.

RELIGIOUS SIGNIFICANCE OF KEDARNATH TEMPLE

Kedarnath Mandir is a famous Hindu temple located in the state of Uttarakhand in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India and holds significant religious importance for Hindus, which is the main reason why it is visited by lakhs of devotees every year. The temple is located at an altitude of 3,584 metres above sea level, in the midst of the majestic Himalayan ranges, and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The temple is also situated near the source of the Mandakini River, which is considered sacred by Hindus. As per legends, it is believed that the original temple was built by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era and was later renovated by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.of chota Chardham Yatra

Kedarnath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (lingams of light) of Lord Shiva, which are considered the most auspicious Shiva temples in India. Chardham Yatra

The temple is visited by devotees from late April to early November, and during this time, thousands of devotees visit the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The Kedarnath Dham Yatra is considered one of the most difficult pilgrimages in India, as the Chardham Yatra temple is accessible only by foot or on horseback, and the trek involves steep climbs and difficult terrain.

BADRINATH DHAM

The picturesque town of Badrinath is where divinity meets with the serenity of nature. Located in the Chamoli district in Uttarakhand at the height of 3,133 meters, the pre-eminent abode of Lord Vishnu is one of the holiest of the holy shrines of Char Dham pilgrimage in India. Other Chardham Yatra sites include Dwarka, Puri and Rameswaram. Chardham Yatra

Situated between Nar and Narayan peaks, the pious land of Vishnu also belongs to the Chota Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand. Starting with Yamunotri, Gangotri and Kedarnath, Badrinath is the last and most celebrated stop in the pilgrimage tour of Garhwal Himalayas. Badrinath Dham is easily accessible by motorable roads and the Badrinath temple can be reached by walking along an easy trek. Around 3 km from Badrinath is the village of Mana, which is one of the last villages before the boundary of India ends and that of Tibet begins. The peak of Neelkanth stands strong spreading its mighty aura for all pilgrims and travellers alike.

Badrinath is a land of myriad legends, each one only adding to the glory of this place. Along with these legends, the snowy mountain peaks, gracefully flowing Alaknanda River and incredible landscapes create the perfect background to facilitate a spiritual connection.Chardham Yatra

Badrinath Temple Opening Dates 2025

The holy shrine of Badrinath in Uttarakhand will open for pilgrimage 2025 on Coming Soon.Chardham Yatra

HISTORY OF BADRINATH TEMPLE

Ancient texts hold this abode of Lord Vishnu at a very high esteem, stating – “there are many spots of pilgrimage in the heaven, earth and the world, but there has been none equal to Badri, nor shall there be.” At the height of 3,133 meters, it stands proud with its rich past along the banks of Alaknanda River. Regarded as the most important temple of Vishnu, the Badrinath shrine is said to be established by Adi Shankaracharya. He found the Saligram idol of Lord Badri immersed in the waters of Alaknanda and installed it in a cave near the Tapt Kund.the Chardham Yatra

It was in the 16th century that a Garhwal King got a temple erected to house the statue of the God Chardham Yatra . The present structure is the result of plenty of restorations the temple has undergone due to damages caused by avalanches and earthquakes. Lord Vishnu can be worshipped in a black stone idol sitting in a meditative pose surrounded by idols of other gods like Nar, Narayana, Narad, Ganesha, Garud and Kuber. In the winter season, the idol of Lord Badri is shifted to Yogadhyan Badri in Pandukeshwar (Chamoli district).

THE ORIGIN OF RIVER ALAKNANDA

Last but not the least, there is another great legendary tale, which is associated to Badrinath. Legends state that the holiest and curse reliever, river Ganges had granted the request of Bhagiratha, for relieving the humanity from the curse of sufferings and sins. While ascending to earth, the intensity of river Ganges was such that it could have immersed the entire earth under its waters. To release the earth from such unbearable consequences, Lord Shiva bore her onto his tresses and ultimately, the river Ganges got divided into twelve holy rivers and river Alaknanda, which flows past the sacred Badrinath Temple, was one of them.Chardham Yatra

TAPT KUND

Just below the temple, there is a natural thermal spring which is believed to be infused with therapeutic properties. A dip in the holy and hot waters of the Kund is necessary before a devotee visits the sacred shrine of Badrinath. Near the Tapt Kund also lie five boulders which are, as per mythology, Narad, Narsingh, Varah, Garur and Markanday.

BRAHMA KAPAL

It is a flat platform by the banks of Alaknanda 100 meters north of the temple. Performing propitiating rites for the deceased family members, it is believed, would free them from the vicious circle of life and death.

NEELKANTH PEAK

Known as the ‘Queen of Garhwal’, Neelkanth Peak, standing with its gigantic height of 6,597 meter (approx.), sets a great background to the Badrinath shrine. Named after Lord Shiva, the splendour of the snow-covered peak gets augmented as it receives the first rays of the Sun at the crack of dawn Chardham Yatra

MATA MURTI MANDIR

It is located 3 km from the Badrinath temple, on the banks of Alaknanda River. Mata Murti temple is believed to be the mother of Nara and Narayan, the twin-brother avatar (incarnation) of Lord Vishnu. It was the relentless prayers of Mata Murti that persuaded Lord Vishnu to take birth from her womb. Every year, in the month of September, pilgrims throng to attend the Mata Murti ka Mela (fair). of Chardham Yatra

CHARANPADUKA

Strewn with boulders and caves, a steep climb of about 3 km from the Badrinath town will take you to Charanpaduka. It is a rock which is believed to be imprinted with the footprints of Lord Vishnu, as he descended on earth from Vaikunth (his heavenly abode).

SHESHNETRA

Between two seasonal lakes, on the opposite bank of Alaknanda, there exists a big rock which gives the impression of Shesh Nag, the legendary snake of Lord Vishnu. The Sheshnetra has a natural mark which looks like an eye of the Shesh Nag. Located 1.5 km from the temple, the serpent is believed to be guarding the sacred shrine of Badrinath.

VASUDHARA FALLS

A 122 meters high beautiful waterfall positioned in the tranquil surroundings of Himalayas can be reached by covering 3 km (up to Mana village) by road and trekking the other 6 km on foot.

Chardham Yatra

Short Itinerary of Char Dham Yatra from Haridwar

Day 1: Haridwar – Barkot

Day 2: Barkot – Yamunotri – Barkot

Day 3: Barkot – Uttarkashi

Day 4: Uttarkashi – Gangotri – Uttarkashi

Day 5: Uttarkashi – Guptkashi

Day 6: Guptkashi – Kedarnath

Day 7: Kedarnath – Guptkashi

Day 8: Guptkashi – pipalkoti

Day 9: Pipalkoti – Badrinath – pipalkoti

Day 10: Pipalkoti – Haridwar

Chardham Yatra