Char Dham Uttarakhand
8 Nights / 9 Days
Pilgrimage Tours
Uttarakhand
Char Dham Yatra is a popular pilgrimage circuit that covers four sacred shrines located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The Char Dham Yatra starts from the holy city of Haridwar, which is located at the foothills of the Himalayas. Here's an overview of Chardham Yatra from Haridwar:
Yamunotri: The first stop of the Char Dham Yatra is Yamunotri, which is located at a distance of around 236 km from Haridwar. Yamunotri is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and is located at an altitude of 3,293 meters.
Gangotri: The second stop of the Char Dham Yatra is Gangotri, which is located at a distance of around 260 km from Yamunotri. Gangotri is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and is located at an altitude of 3,048 meters.
Kedarnath: The third stop of the Char Dham Yatra is Kedarnath, which is located at a distance of around 150 km from Gangotri. Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters.
Badrinath: The fourth and final stop of the Char Dham Yatra is Badrinath, which is located at a distance of around 223 km from Kedarnath. Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located at an altitude of 3,133 meters.
The Char Dham Yatra is usually undertaken during the summer months from April to June and again from September to November. The entire yatra takes around 10-12 days to complete, depending on the time available and the mode of transportation used. Pilgrims can travel by road or helicopter, depending on their preference and budget. However, road travel is the most common and affordable mode of transportation for most pilgrims.
Day 01 :Haridwar - Barkot (210kms/7-8hr) HT:1352MTS. Via Mussoorie
The package inclusions start from Haridwar or Dehradun. We usually assume that you have pre-booked arrangements for night stay in Haridwar. However, if you want us to arrange your accommodation then you can make a request to our coordinator to arrange. In the morning, you’ll be picked from your stay point to start the journey straight to Barkot. You can also enjoy an early morning bathing in Ganga before departure from Haridwar.
Usually, it takes 7 hours to reach Barkot from Haridwar if we stop for a short break at Kampty fall but with a non-stop stretch, we can reach Barkot in around 06 Hrs. In peak season, there is usually a heavy traffic in Mussoorie, so in such situations, we can divert the route to Barkot via Vikas Nagar for our guest’s convenience. In this case Kampty fall sight-seeing can be discarded under last moment decision. Upon reaching Barkot, we will have dinner and retire for the day & Night Halt.
Possible Sightseeing: Kempty Fall
Distance Covered: 220 Kms / 07-08 Hrs
Meals: Dinner Only
Stay: Barkot / Kharsali
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Day 02:Day 02: Barkot/Kharsali – Yamunotri – Barkot/Kharsali (42 Kms & 5 Kms Trek) Each side
Early Morning leaves for Janki Chatti via Hanuman Chatti & Phool Chatti. On arrival, Janki Chatti starts a Trek of 05 km for Yamunotri. Upon reach at Yamunotri Dham, experience Holi Dip in Garam (Tapt) Kund and then Pooja and Darshan of Shree Yamunotri Ji; after Darshan and Pooja, the afternoon starts trek back to Janki Chatti; on arrival at Janki Chatti meets with driver and drive back to Barkot. Overnight stay at hotel.
Hanuman Chatti: The confluence of Hanuman Ganga & Yamuna River.
Yamunotri Temple: Maharani Gularia of Jaipur built the temple in the 19th Century. It was destroyed twice in the present Century and rebuilt again.
Surya Kund: There are a Number of thermal springs in the vicinity of the temple, which flows into numerous pools. The most important of these is Surya Kund.
Divya Shila: A rock pillar, worshipped before entering the Yamunotri Temple.
Possible Sightseeing: Hanuman Chatti, Yamunotri Temple, Surya Kund, Divya Shila
Distance Covered: 42 Kms Drive & 5 Kms Trek Each Side
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Barkot / Kharsali
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Day 03:Barkot/Kharsali– Uttarkashi/Harsil (100kms/4hr) HT:1158 MTS
Late morning Drive to Uttarkashi after breakfast by 10 AM. After trekking to Yamunotri just a day before, you might be tired, so this is the day to grab your full nap and rest appropriately because the distance between Barkot to Uttarkashi is just 04 hrs, and we have planned this to keep you relaxed. Because onward journey will be gradually tiring as in between the destinations distance and road travel will be increased. Visit Vishwanath Temple before you check in to your hotel. Check-in Hotel. Rest day at leisure. Night Halt.
Possible Sightseeing: Vishwanath Temple
Distance Covered: 42 Kms Drive & 5 Kms Trek Each Side
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Barkot / Kharsali
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Day 04:Uttarkashi/Harsil - Gangotri - Uttarkashi: HT :1158 MTS
With packed breakfast & post Tea/ Coffee, leave for Gangotri early in the morning. Offering prayers & pooja darshan, later drive back to Uttarkashi, enroute visit Gangnani. Overnight stay at Uttarkashi.
Gangotri: Gangotri temple is 18th Century temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga. It is located near a sacred stone where king Bhagirath worshipped Lord Shiva Ganga is believed to have touched earth at this spot. Accordingly, to another legend, Pandavas performed the great Deva Yagna here to a tone the death of their kinsmen in the epic battle of Mahabharata. The temple is an exquisite 20 ft. high structure made of white granite.
Ritual and Activities: Perform Snan at Gangotri Ghat (VIP Ghat), Ganga Pujan & Aarti at Gangotri Ghat, Darshan of Bhagirath Shila, Darshan of Gauri Ganesha Temple, finally Gangotri Temple Darshan after that you must have Darshan of Surya Kund.
Possible Sightseeing: Harsil, Gangotri Temple
Distance Covered: 200 Kms / 05 Hrs (Round Trip From Uttarkashi)
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Uttarkashi
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Day 05:Uttarkashi – Guptkashi - Phata -Sitapur (240 Kms/8-9 hrs). O/N Stay in Guptkashi/Sitapur:
Leave early in the morning with packed breakfast for an almost day long drive to Sitapur via Guptkashi. On your drive you would pass through Ganga giving way to Tehri Dam (The Hydro Electric Project). Overnight stay in the hotel at Sitapur or Guptkashi. This stretch is the longest road travel in between the places of entire Chardham Yatra destinations. Sometimes it takes more than 10hrs if some traffic congestion is there. Upon reaching Sitapur or Rampur Or Guptkashi we will take rest. Night stay in hotel.
Possible Sightseeing: Tehri Dam
Distance Covered: 240 Kms / 08-09 Hrs
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Guptkashi / Sitapur
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Day 06:Sitapur/Phata/Sirsi – Kedarnath –Phata/Sersi/Sitapur – Fly or Trek - O/N Stay in Sitapur Or Kedarnath (21Kms Trek):
Here is the day when you are preparing for the Chardham Yatra’s most rewarding but toughest part “The Darshan of Shri Kedarnath Ji”. Here many pilgrims have their own choices and preferences as per their physical ability and comfort. We have designed the program for both of the pilgrims who prefer to trek or want to complete the journey by helicopter.
Note: Now the trekking to Kedarnath Ji has been increased by 05 Km and visitors will be recommended to make night stay in case of trekking. We would advise those who are not physically strong to cover this trek on foot, they should hire some assistance like Pony or Pithus to complete the Yatra without any hassle or complication.
Note: The road from Rudraprayag to Guptkashi Or Phata is good for small Or light vehicles but onward road to Gaurikund is in bad condition , the 14 km old trek route along the river Mandakini from Gaurikund to Rambara and then to Sri Kedarnath is washed away at many places and a new trek is approx. 19 km long climbing up to 13000 ft. and then coming down to Sri Kedarnath at 11760 ft. , it is not possible to travel this distance in one day so one night stop will be required. Nowadays the Govt. facilitated with many basic arrangements like Wifi and other health camps to serve in a better way and also allow the pilgrims to have a night stay at Sri Kedarnath. It has seen in recent years many trekkers have made their return the same day from Gaurikund-Kedarnath-Gaurikund but they were physically fit and strong enough to cover this distance in the same day by trek. Now pilgrims are getting a new opportunity to see BHIM SHILA a new mythological attraction. A giant stone protected Kedarnath Ji Temple during disaster time.
Highly important to note & understand:
We need to understand that Kedarnath Ji Yatra in the Chardham sector is most important for pilgrims who are visiting anytime during summer or winters. The Kedarnath region is unpredictable in terms of weather turbulence in trek or flying or even technical snag or operation restraints in flying also becomes sometimes a major reason for delay in completing Journey of Kedarnath Ji. There are also unforeseen reasons and further it can disturb your schedule If you are fix with your further pre- reserved program. We should always choose or opt for a buffer day in hand to stay in this region (03 Nights in Sitapur Or Rampur Or Phata Or Guptkashi Including a night in Kedarnathji in case or optional). Please don’t set any hectic program or itinerary suggested by any agent which is recommending only 02 nights in Sitapur or Kedarnath Ji Sector. As an experienced Chardham Yatra service provider, we can recommend you these important options to choose with your program and accordingly you can convince your co-passengers or associates.
Rituals & Activities: Visit GauriKund, Darshan of Kedarnath Ji Temple, BhimShila and Chance to meet Gurus and Sadhus meditating for a long time in Kedarnath.
Possible Sightseeing: Kedarnath
Distance Covered: 21 Kms Trek / 08-09 Hrs
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Kedarnath
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Day 07:Trekking down to Sitapur Or Guptkashi from Kedarnath Via Gaurikund & SonPrayag. Night Stay in Sitapur Or Guptkashi. (21 Kms Trek)
Trek down from Kedarnath to Gaurikund & Sonprayag and transfer to Sitapur or Guptkashi.
On this day we will stay in Sitapur to keep a buffer time in hand to handle any last moment delay because of bad weather or any technical or medical reason. This is the best way to arrange an itinerary or program for both trekkers and flyers to Shri Kedarnath Ji. In lack of geographical knowledge and climate conditions of this divine land some passengers or some travel agents or tour operators use to keep neck to neck program for 02 nights in Kedarnath Ji region and this always creates problems and they themselves use to disturb their further program. You should cover the sight-sing or Darshan of Shri Triyugi Narayan Temple (Optional and Chargeable Extra) for maximum use of this day if we stay in Sitapur.
Optional Stay in Chopta Or Ukhimath can be recommended in case we descend timely from Kedarnath Ji. But its always recommended to be base station of Shri Kedarnath Ji this night for maximum benefits and comfort.
Possible Sightseeing: Shri Triyugi Narayan Temple (Optional and Chargeable Extra)
Distance Covered: 21 Kms Trek / 06-07 Hrs
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Guptkashi / Sitapur
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Day 08:Sitapur/Guptkashi - Transfer to Govindghat / Pipalkoti Or Badrinath for Night Stay. (196 kms/ 07 Hrs):
After a comfortable sleep and breakfast, we will proceed to Govindghat Via Ukhimath -Chopta-Pipalkoti-Joshimath-Govindghat. The road from Guptkashi to Chopta and then to Pipalkoti is good for small vehicles, the road from Pipalkoti and then to Joshimath is better. We will reach Govindghat in the evening and stay in Govindghat.
Why we prefer to stay in Govindghat/Pipalkoti?
The journey from Sitapur to Govindghat is long distance and bit hectic. Its always been observed and experienced that passengers are always reaching Badrinath in midnight or late evening in case we book and confine their stay in Badrinath. It has always been experienced that we failed to manage the services timely in condition to stay in Badrinath. And its obviously being a tiring and rushed when they are confined to return next day to another destination from Badrinath. It has always been seen that road from Govindghat to Badrinath via Lambgarh is always disturbed. We never suggest pilgrims to cross this stage in late evening.
Advantages of Keeping you Govindghat Or Pipalkoti for 02 Nights while covering to Badrinath Ji Yatra in Chardham?
Advantages of Staying in Govindghat/Pipalkoti for 2 Nights during Chardham Yatra:
Logistics and Time Management:
• Avoiding late arrival in Badrinath: By staying in Govindghat or Pipalkoti, you ensure a more relaxed early morning journey to Badrinath, reaching before sunset. This eliminates the stress of rushing through darshan and accommodation arrangements in the dark.
• Managing services efficiently: Early arrival allows ample time to settle into your Badrinath accommodation, organize temple darshan, and participate in evening aarti, all without feeling rushed or pressured.
• Avoiding the hectic Sitapur-Badrinath one go journey: The long and sometimes challenging road trip from Sitapur to Badrinath can be tiring, especially in peak season. Starting from Govindghat or Pipalkoti reduces travel time and fatigue, allowing you to focus on the pilgrimage.
Acclimatization and Safety:
• Gradual ascent: Govindghat and Pipalkoti are situated at lower altitudes than Badrinath, allowing for gradual acclimatization to the thin mountain air. This reduces the risk of altitude sickness and improves your overall enjoyment of the yatra.
• Avoiding late evening travel on the Govindghat-Badrinath road: This stretch can be prone to landslides and disruptions, especially in the evenings. By staying in Govindghat, you avoid risking late journeys on this potentially hazardous route.
Spiritual and Leisure Benefits:
• Exploring Govindghat/Pipalkoti: Both locations offer scenic beauty, spiritual sites, and cultural experiences. You can visit Hemkund Sahib Ji, Govindghat or explore the traditional markets of Pipalkoti & Joshimath.
• Relaxing breaks: Having two nights in Govindghat/Pipalkoti allows for relaxation and rejuvenation before and after the Badrinath visit. This break can enhance your overall yatra experience and prevent exhaustion.
Overall, staying in Govindghat or Pipalkoti for two nights during your Chardham Yatra offers numerous advantages in terms of logistics, safety, acclimatization, and spiritual/leisure opportunities. It allows for a more relaxed, efficient, and enjoyable pilgrimage experience.
However, in an extreme choice & preferring condition of individual we can arrange stay in Badrinath but entirely on the own risk of passengers or pilgrims.
Possible Sightseeing: Chopta
Distance Covered: 196 Kms / 07-08 Hrs
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Pipalkoti/Govindghat/Badrinath
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Day 09 :Badrinath Full Day Trip. Sightseeing & Darshan – Vishnu Prayag (View) Pandukeshwar – Govindghat - NandPrayag (View)- Joshimath – Govindghat / Pipalkoti / Rudraprayag - (75 kms or 153 Kms /02:45 hr or 05 Hrs):
Early Morning take a holy dip in Tapt Kund, Have again Darshan of Badri Vishal if time allows otherwise Important visit to Nag Nagin Pith (One of the important place in India for Sarpkal Dosh Nivaran), Short Visit to Mana Village (Vyas Cave , Ganesha Cave , KeshavPrayag , Darshan of SarasawatiUdgam (origin) ), CharanPadukaDarshan , Short visit of EkadasiGufa& hanuman Gufa. View of VishnuPrayag ,Nandprayag , Karnprayag while returning back to GovindGhat
Badrinath: Cradled in the twin Mountain ranges of Nar and Narayan is the holiest of the four main shrines - Badrinath along the left bank of river Alaknanda with the towering Neelkantha Peaks as the splendid backdrop. Once the spot was carpeted with 'badris' or wild berries and hence was famous as Badri van. Legend has it, when the Ganga was requested to descend to earth to help suffering humanity; the earth was unable to withstand the force of its decent. Therefore, the mighty Ganga was split into 12 holy channels. Alaknanda was one of them that later became the abode of Lord Vishnu or Badrinath.
**Accommodation:** Return to Govindghat for an overnight stay.
Elevating your Badrinath Experience: A Full-Day Darshan and Exploration
This excursion isn't just a quick visit; it's an immersive experience into the heart of Badrinath, encompassing darshan, sightseeing, and cultural encounters. By dedicating a full day, you unlock unique advantages that enrich your pilgrimage in profound ways.
Deeper Darshan:
• Early Morning Serenity: Embrace the quietude of dawn with a holy dip in Tapt Kund, followed by serene darshan at the Badrinath temple. This tranquil atmosphere allows for deeper connection and reflection.
• Unhurried Exploration: Avoid the rush of a tight schedule. With ample time, you can linger at each sacred site, absorbing the spiritual essence without feeling pressured.
• Evening Aarti Bliss: Witness the captivating evening aarti ceremony, bathed in the soft glow of twilight. This mesmerizing experience culminates your darshan with a sense of completeness and divine blessing.
Beyond the Temple:
• A Journey Through History: Immerse yourself in the historical tapestry of Badrinath. Delve into the legends of NaradKund, BrahamaKapal, and Sheshnetra, each echoing with ancient tales and mythological significance.
• Spiritual Gems: Discover hidden gems like CharanPadukaDarshan, EkadasiGufa, and Hanuman Gufa, each adding a unique dimension to your spiritual journey.
• Cultural Tapestry: Visit Mana Village, the last Indian village before Tibet, and witness their unique customs and traditions. Interact with the locals, shop for handcrafted souvenirs, and experience a slice of their vibrant culture.
Advantages of a Full Day:
• Acclimatization: A full day allows for gradual acclimatization to the higher altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and maximizing your comfort.
• Flexibility: You can customize your itinerary based on your interests and priorities, spending more time at specific sites that resonate with you.
• Memories that Last: With a more relaxed pace, you can truly absorb the sights, sounds, and spiritual essence of Badrinath, creating lasting memories for years to come.
This full-day excursion transcends a mere sightseeing trip. It's an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the magic of Badrinath, connecting with its spirituality, history, and culture. So, embrace the slower pace, breathe in the divine air, and let Badrinath unfold its wonders at your own rhythm.
With a full day in Badrinath, you can truly unlock the depths of this sacred pilgrimage and return home with a heart full of blessings and memories that will stay with you forever.
Possible Sightseeing: Badrinath, Mana Village, Narsingh Temple
Distance Covered: 75 kms or 153 Kms /02:45 hr or 05 Hrs
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Govindghat/Pipalkoti/Rudraprayag
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Day 10:Pipalkoti – Karna Prayag (View)- Rudraprayag –Devprayag – Rishikesh/ Haridwar (240 Kmts / 159 kmts):
Early morning after breakfast, we will proceed to Rishikesh, and on the way, we will view of 05th and last Prayag -Dev Prayag on this route. Arrive in Rishikesh, and you will visit Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula on your own, as this is not motorable. The vehicle will wait for you in the parking. The best way to visit this part of Rishikesh is to enter Laxman Jhula and exit from Ram Jhula.
You can also see many Ghats and temples and beautiful Ashrams. Rishikesh is the next home of Sadhus & Saints.
It is also called the Capital land of Yoga. You need to keep watch on time if you have missed your Ganga Aarti on day 01 upon arrival to Haridwar. So, it is in your hand how fast you finish your sightseeing and reach Har-Ki-Pouri, Haridwar, for Ganga Aarti. It generally starts at 06:00 PM in summer and 5:15 PM in winter. Those who have enjoyed day 01 can have the opportunity to enjoy some more time in Rishikesh.
This is your last day and evening so must have to arrange your bags and pack. Evening you can enjoy shopping in Rishikesh. Departure to Dehradun Airport or Haridwar Railway Station for back to home. Time to wish you all the best for your glorious and spiritual life ahead. May God Bless You all spiritual advancement with great peace and super health.
Possible Sightseeing: Panch Prayag, Ram Jhula, Evening Aarti at Parmarth Niketan
Distance Covered: 240 kms or 159 Kms / 07-08 Hrs
Meals: Breakfast Only
Stay: NA
Please note that the itinerary might be subject to change based on weather conditions, travel restrictions, or any unforeseen circumstances.
Good Bye ! *TOUR END*
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