Snuggled up amid the tranquil heights of hazy great Himalayas are the four divine destinations namely Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. The serene pilgrimage places are collectively tagged as “Char Dham”. All of these divine shrines are nestled within the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state in Northern part of India. Conventionally, the Chardham Yatra starts with Yamunotri and terminates at the sacred destination of Badrinath.
Heavenly traverse of Chardham Yatra is the highly praised sojourn en route to the final salvation. The highest religious doctrines of Hindu mythology assure its importance in one’s lifetime to obtain celestial blessings for the unshackling from this ultra acquisitive world. Owing to the importance of this spiritual trip, devotees from various corners of globe, come to Uttarakhand to take a deep dive into the eternal bliss.
Now scroll down to unmask the sacredness and sheer beauty of Chardham Yatra:
Yamunotri
Positioned peacefully at the height of 3164 meters from the sea level, Yamunotri is the abode of Goddess Yamuna. Yamunotri temple is the centre of attraction here, which is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and constructed by Maharaja Guleria of Jaipur during 19th century. Hanuman Chhati, Janaki Chhati, Saptrishi Kund, and Divya Shilla are the other awe-inspiring places to explore here.
Gangotri
Gangotri, the second destination of Chardham Yatra, is devoted to Goddess Ganga and the source of river Bhagirathi. Lies at an elevation of 3200 meters above the sea level Gangotri, is the place where thousands of pilgrims come to wash away their wrongdoings in the quest of emancipation. The Gangotri temple, which was constructed during 18th century, catches the fancy of devotees. It is a perfect place for those who yearn to take a dip into the leviathan sea of mysticism, as well as for those who have a craving for adventure activities.
Kedarnath
Ducked amidst the snow-capped mountains of Himalayas, near the river Mandakini, Kedarnath is one of the twelve “Jyotirlingas” of Lord Shiva. Built by Guru Adi Shankaracharya and privileged by the name of King Kedar, Kedarnath temple stands tall next to an ancient shrine constructed by the Pandavas. Due to heavy snowfall during the chilling months of winter, the statues from Shri Kedarnath are transported to Ukhimath and adored there for six months.
Badrinath
An ideal specimen of devotion for humanity, the Badrinath temple is perched at a height of 3415 meters in the exquisite Garhwal hills and on the banks of river Alaknanda. The final destination of Chardham Yatra, Badrinath is the abode of Lord Vishnu and famous for Lord Vishnu’s shrine Badri Vishal. Badrinath town is famous for Adi Badri, Bhavishtya Badri, Yog Dhyan Badri, Panch Badri, and natural marvels that can leave you overwhelmed.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
May-November is the best time to explore the beauty of Chardham, but the monsoon season (July-September) is not safe due to the threat of heavy landslides.
What to carry in your luggage?
Devotees for safe and healthy trip should carry heavy woolen clothes, canvas shoes, prescribed medicines, energy drinks, eatables like biscuits, etc with them.
How to Reach
The four divine dhams can be reached by various modes of transport like car, helicopter, etc. Indubitably, the going is tough, but worthy at the end. Dolis can also carry you to these sacred dhams. For adventure-filled souls, trekking is enjoyable in the snow-capped terrain and a pony ride is an exhilarating experience down the track to these four dhams.
Chardham Yatra is a perfect way to find the holy salvation and re-energizing of body, mind and soul in every manner.