Char Dham Holy Tour

Trip Facts

  • Destination India
  • Activity Tours
  • Duration 14 Days
  • Trip Difficulty moderate
  • Max. Altitude 5300
  • Best Time August to October
  • Start and End Delhi - Delhi
  • Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation Hotel
  • Group Size 5 - 60

Trip Highlights

  • YAMUNOTRI / GANGATORI / KEDARNATH / BADRINATH
  • A complete darshan of Char Dham: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedharnath and Badrinath
  • Visit the holy places of Rishikesh, Haridwar, Uttarkashi, Dev Prayag, Gaumukh
  • Pancha Prayag, the five holy confluences (Dev, Rudra, Karna, Nanda and Vishnu Prayags)
  • Garhwal parts of the Himalayas & Mana Gaun, the last village of India
  • Visit Surya Kund, Divya Shila, Tap Kund, Narad Kund, Vyash Gupha and many more

Introduction

Every year, more and more people go on the sacred Char Dham Yatra, visiting the four holy places in the Garhwal region of India: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. RP Adventures offers a special pilgrimage package for this journey starting from Kathmandu, Nepal. Our unique team ensures a memorable pilgrimage experience, providing inner peace and salvation to the soul.

The journey begins in late April and concludes in October/November with elaborate rituals. Despite facing challenges like extreme weather and limited facilities, the adventure of camping under the starry sky and navigating narrow routes adds to the memorable experience of the Char Dham Tour.

The exact dates for the pilgrimage are confirmed by the Mandir Samiti on Maha Shivaratri. As in previous years, the committee has announced the opening and closing dates this year. However, the specific dates are determined by the priest of the Bhimashankar Linga Temple. The Char Dham Yatra continues to attract a growing number of pilgrims each year.

The Char Dham Tour takes place in high-altitude areas, so it’s important for trekkers to be physically and mentally fit. If you prepare and plan thoroughly before your journey, it won’t be as challenging as it might seem. Pick the right time for the trip to make it more enjoyable and memorable.

Let’s dive into details so that you can book from us.

YAMUNOTRI

Nearby Attractions: Hanuman Chatti, Surya Kund, Janki Chatti, Yamunotri Temple
Timings: All around the day
Distance From City: 210 km
Transportation Options: The railway network is good. Local cab services are available.

Many people believe that the Yamunotri Temple, situated high in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3,235 meters, has special powers. Pilgrims come from far and wide to visit this temple dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. The temple, built in 1839 by King Sudarshan Shah, houses a black marble idol of the goddess. Taking a dip in the Yamuna River near the temple is thought to protect people from untimely death.

The journey to Yamunotri Temple usually takes a full day from Uttarakhand’s main towns. The surroundings and the flowing Yamuna River create a beautiful and spiritual atmosphere in the heart of the Himalayas. Many believe that the hot springs around the Yamunotri Temple are magical. Pilgrims bring raw potatoes and rice, dip them in the hot springs, and consider them as special offerings from Goddess Yamuna. They take these items home as blessed offerings.

GANGOTRI

Nearby Attractions: Ganges Glacier, Kedar Tal, Harsil, Auden’s Col
Timings: All around the day
Distance From City: 98 km
Transportation Options: Cab or local buses

Gangotri is an important destination among the Char Dham, found in the Uttarkashi region of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by tall Garhwal Himalayan peaks, dense pine forests, and glaciers, it sits at an elevation of 3,415 meters above sea level. The temple, built in the early 18th century by Gurkha Commander Amar Singh Thapa, is dedicated to the goddess Ganga.

Gangotri is considered one of the holiest places for Hindu devotees. The divine atmosphere, along with the breathtaking surroundings, makes it a significant pilgrimage site. Pilgrims visit the sacred shrine between May and October each year. The priests and Brahmins who conduct the rituals are from the village of Mukhwa.

People believe that the water from Gangotri is special. It is carried to offer to Lord Shiva. According to the belief, this water contains Amrit (nectar) and is said to soothe the throat of Shiva, who swallowed poison during the churning of the ocean.

KEDARNATH

Nearby Attractions: Gandhi Sarovar, Kalimath, Gaurikund
Timings: All around the day
Distance From City: 14 km
Transportation Options: Local buses or cab services

The Kedarnath Temple, believed to be over 1,200 years old, is one of the 12 special places dedicated to Lord Shiva in India. The temple is situated against the backdrop of the majestic Kedarnath peak, which stands tall at 6,940 meters, along with other nearby peaks, creating beautiful scenery. Legend has it that the Pandavas, the five brothers from the Mahabharata, built this temple about 800 years ago. Later, in the 8th century AD, Adi Shankaracharya renovated it.

The temple is a remarkable structure made from large, heavy, and evenly cut grey stone slabs. Inside, the conical Shiva lingam is worshipped as the Lord in his Sadashiva form, making it distinctive among all Shiva shrines. The Kedarnath Temple shuts down on the initial day of Kartik (October-November) and resumes its operations in Vaishakh (April-May) annually.

Snow-covered peaks, meadows, and forests in the lower range of the Himalayas create a serene atmosphere. The temple is positioned on the banks of the Mandakini and Saraswati rivers, enhancing its scenic beauty. Devotees from all over the country are drawn to this sacred place dedicated to Lord Shiva.

BADRINATH

Nearby Attractions: Vasudhara Falls, Neelkanth, Tapt Kund, Badrinath Temple, Charan Paduka
Timings: All around the day
Distance From City: 1 km
Transportation Options: Local cab services

The Badrinath Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, part of the real Chardham pilgrimage sites. This temple has a one-meter-tall black stone statue of Lord Badrinarayan. According to ancient mythology, Lord Vishnu meditated here for 1,000 years under a Badri Tree for humanity’s welfare.

Situated at 10,279 feet above sea level in the Garhwal region, the temple offers breathtaking landscapes. The presiding deity’s statue is 3.3 feet tall. Legend has it that the Pandavas ascended to heaven from this spot through Mana village, considered the last village in India. Rishi Vyasa is believed to have written the Mahabharata in a cave here.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Delhi
Day 02: Journey to Rishikesh and Barkot
Day 03: Rest and Acclimatization at Barkot
Day 04: Yamunotri Darshan
Day 05: Drive to Uttarkashi (Harshil)
Day 06: Gangotri Darshan
Day 07: Drive to Rudraprayag/Guptakashi
Day 08: Journey to Kedarnath
Day 09: Return from Kedarnath and Drive to Rudraprayag/Pipalkoti
Day 10: Badrinath Darshan
Day 11: Drive to Devprayag/Srinagar
Day 12: Return to Rishikesh
Day 13: Flight to Delhi and Free Time
Day 14: Departure from Delhi

Conclusion

The Char Dham Yatra not only takes you to important religious sites in India but also helps you understand their significance. For Hindus, visiting this place is a must at least once in a lifetime, and many people, both young and old, have successfully completed this journey. To start your Yatra, it’s important to make a good plan and prepare yourself. Along the way, you’ll pass through many beautiful places in India that will make your trek enjoyable. The surroundings of Chardham are truly amazing. So, get ready and plan your trip with us. If you have any questions or need information about this journey, you can email or contact us.

Alternative Pilgrimage Journeys Around the Char Dham Holy Tour

The Char Dham Holy Tour is a deeply spiritual journey to four sacred Hindu sites—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—nestled in the Himalayas. If you’re looking for similar sacred pilgrimages that offer profound religious significance, breathtaking landscapes, and spiritual fulfillment, here are some of the best alternatives:

Detailed Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

    Your spiritual journey begins as you arrive at Delhi Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, you can take some time to rest or explore the capital city at your own pace. This day allows you to prepare for the upcoming sacred pilgrimage.

    Altitude: 315 m
    Meals: Breakfast / lunch / Dinner
    Accommodation: 5 star hotel in Delhi

  • Day 2: Journey to Rishikesh and Barkot

    Early in the morning, you will embark on a scenic drive towards Rishikesh, a spiritual town on the banks of the Ganges. After visiting key landmarks like Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan, and Lakshman Jhula, the journey continues to Barkot (170 km / 6 hours), where you will stay overnight, preparing for the Yamunotri visit.

    Altitude: 372 m
    Meals: Breakfast / lunch / Dinner
    Accommodation: 5 star hotel in Delhi

  • Day 3: Rest and Acclimatization at Barkot

    Today is a rest day in Barkot, allowing you to acclimatize to the altitude and prepare for the upcoming trek to Yamunotri. You can explore the nearby villages and enjoy the serene mountain views.

    Altitude: 1,220 m
    Meals: Breakfast / lunch / Dinner
    Accommodation: 3 star hotel in Haridwar

  • Day 4: Yamunotri Darshan

    Early morning, you will drive 42 km to Janki Chatti, the starting point of the 7 km trek to Yamunotri Temple. After a sacred dip in the Surya Kund hot spring, you will perform puja at Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. After seeking blessings, you will return to Barkot for an overnight stay.

    Altitude: 3,293 m
    Meals: Breakfast / lunch / Dinner
    Accommodation: Tea house

  • Day 5: Drive to Uttarkashi (Harshil)

    After breakfast, you will embark on an 82 km drive to Uttarkashi, a spiritual hub known for the Vishwanath Temple and the Shakti Temple. The journey continues towards Harshil, a beautiful Himalayan valley near Gangotri, where you will spend the night.

    Altitude: 1,158 m
    Meals: Breakfast / lunch / Dinner
    Accommodation: Tea house

  • Day 6: Gangotri Darshan

    Today, you will visit the Gangotri Temple, the sacred source of the Ganges River. Here, you will witness the Bhagirathi River and offer prayers at the temple. After seeking blessings, you will return to Harshil/Uttarkashi for an overnight stay.

    (Optional: If you wish to visit Gaumukh, the glacier source of the Ganges, an additional day will be needed.)

    Altitude: 3,100 m
    Meals: Breakfast / lunch / Dinner
    Accommodation: Tea house

  • Day 7: Drive to Rudraprayag/Guptakashi

    The journey continues as you drive 165 km through stunning Himalayan landscapes towards Rudraprayag or Guptakashi, important spiritual towns en route to Kedarnath. You will stay overnight here, preparing for the Kedarnath visit.

    Altitude: 895 m
    Meals: Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Tea house

  • Day 8: Journey to Kedarnath

    You have the option to take a helicopter from Phata or trek 16 km from Gaurikund to reach the sacred Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Upon arrival, you will seek blessings and experience the divine aura of this ancient temple before staying overnight in Kedarnath (if trekking) or returning to Guptakashi (if flying).

    Altitude: 3,553 m
    Meals: Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Tea house

  • Day 9: Return from Kedarnath and Drive to Rudraprayag/Pipalkoti

    After offering morning prayers at Kedarnath, you will begin your descent either by trekking back to Gaurikund or taking a helicopter to Phata. From there, you will drive towards Rudraprayag or Pipalkoti, where you will stay overnight.

    Altitude: 895 m
    Meals: Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Tea house

  • Day 10: Badrinath Darshan

    Today, you will drive 72 km to the revered Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. After taking a holy dip in Tapt Kund (hot water spring), you will visit the temple for darshan. Additionally, you will explore Mana Village, the last Indian village near the Tibet border, and witness the beautiful Basudhara Falls before staying overnight in Badrinath.

    Altitude: 3,100 m
    Meals: Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: 3 star hotel

  • Day 11: Drive to Devprayag/Srinagar

    After attending the morning aarti at Badrinath Temple, you will begin a 270 km drive to Devprayag/Srinagar. Along the way, you will witness the sacred confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda Rivers, forming the Ganges. This day offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking Himalayan views.

    Altitude: 830 m
    Meals: Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Tea house

  • Day 12: Return to Rishikesh

    You will visit Devprayag Sangam and Raghunath Temple before heading towards Rishikesh (73 km / 3 hours). In Rishikesh, you can experience the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan, a mesmerizing spiritual ceremony on the riverbank, before staying overnight.

    Altitude: 372 m
    Meals: Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: Tea house

  • Day 13: Flight to Delhi and Free Time

    Today, you will take a flight from Dehradun to Delhi, marking the final leg of your journey. In Delhi, you will have free time for sightseeing or shopping before spending the night in the capital city.

    Altitude: 315 m
    Meals: Breakfast/lunch/Dinner
    Accommodation: 3 star hotel

  • Day 14: Departure from Delhi

    Your spiritual Char Dham Yatra comes to an end as you are transferred to Delhi Airport for your flight home. You will carry back divine blessings and unforgettable memories of your journey through the sacred Himalayas.

    Altitude: 315 m
    Meals: Breakfast/

What's included

  • All ground transport services in private vehicle.
  • Helicopter ride to Kedarnath and back to Guptkashi
  • Sightseeing entry fees
  • All veg. meals and bottled mineral water
  • Support crew from Nepal and India
  • First Aid Medical Kit
  • Special assistance to senior citizens or needy people

What's not included

  • India visa fee and international flight fee
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Personal gear and equipment
  • Personal expenses.
  • Expenses caused by factors that are beyond our control, such as train and flight delays and cancellations, road blockades, vehicle malfunction etc.

FAQs of Char Dham Holy Tour

  • When does the Chardham Yatra Start and end?

    The Chardham pilgrimage usually starts in April-May when the weather gets warmer and closes in October-November as winter begins. The specific dates are determined by important priests who use the Panchang Hindu calendar to make calculations.

  • When is the best time to undertake Char Dham Yatra?

    The suitable time to visit Chardham Yatra is in the months of May and June. During this time, the weather is pleasant; the skies are clear, and it is perfect.

  • Do I need permits for Char Dham Yatra?

    You do not require a special permit for the Char Dham, but you will need Char Dham registration if you are planning to visit the Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri temples. If you travel with us, then you don't have to worry about this as our trekking agency will manage these things.

  • What kind of medical facilities are provided in the Yatra?

    Your safety and security is our first priority. In case of any difficulty, we will provide you with a medical facility during the Yatra.

  • Why is Char Dham significant for Hindus?

    In India, Hindus think that going on the Char Dham pilgrimage helps them get rid of their sins and opens the doors to salvation. People believe it's essential to go on this journey at least once in their life. These four holy places are very important in Hindu stories and traditions.

  • What are the precautions for Chardham?

    Travelers should pack their things wisely Keep your body hydrated all the time Plan ahead Prepare yourself physically and mentally Respect the culture Be prepared for altitude sickness Be aware of the surrounding Don't wear precious Jewellery

  • How much time is required for Char Dham Yatra?

    Char Dham Yatra can be completed from weeks to two weeks depending upon the transportation you choose. For example, if you choose the helicopter, then you can complete this trek in weeks. You can select a package based on your budget and the available time.

  • Is mobile allowed in Kedarnath Temple?

    You can carry the mobile with you, but it's restricted to taking pictures and using them inside the temple.

  • How many km walk is Kedarnath?

    Typically, the trekking journey begins at Gaurikund and is around 16 kilometers in total.

  • Can I stay overnight in Kedarnath?

    Yes, as there are numerous accommodation options available near the temple.

  • What are the Hot Spring Water Sources near Badrinath?

    Around the Badrinath temple, there are hot springs like Tapt Kund, Suraj Kund, and Narad Kund. It's a tradition to bathe in these warm spring waters before praying at the Shri Badrinath Ji temple.

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Rajan Neupane

Born in a small village of Nuwakot, began his career in the tourism industry as a porter which helped him to become a professional experienced guide and now operating RP Treks sincerely.

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