Hindus attach great importance to the Char Dham Yatra, a circuit of holy pilgrimages. It includes four sacred sites that are tucked away in the Himalayas. These sacred locations are Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Together, let us set out on this spiritual journey to discover the heavenly appeal of every Dham.
Yamunotri: The Source of River Yamuna
Altitude: 3291 metres above sea level
Goddess: Devotees pay homage to Goddess Yamuna at the Yamunotri temple.
Climate: Summers (May-June) range from 6°C to 20°C, while winters (November-April) dip to -7°C to 5°C.
Temple Closure: The temple remains shut from November to April due to heavy snowfall.
Gangotri: The Origin of River Ganga
Altitude: 3048 meters above sea level
Goddess: Goddess Ganga presides over Gangotri.
Climate: Summer temperatures (May-June) vary from 10°C to 25°C, while winter temperatures (November-April) plummet to -10°C to 10°C.
Temple Closure: Like Yamunotri, Gangotri temple closes during the winter months.
Kedarnath: Abode of Lord Shiva
Altitude: 3584 meters above sea level
Deity: Kedarnath houses one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
Challenging Site: Kedarnath is the most remote and arduous of the Char Dhams.
Climate: Summer temperatures (May-June) range from 5°C to 18°C, while winters (November-April) see -20°C to -5°C.
Temple Closure: The temple remains inaccessible due to snowfall from November to April.
Badrinath: The Abode of Lord Vishnu
Altitude: 3133 meters above sea level
Deity: Badrinath is one of the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu.
Climate: Summer temperatures (May-June) span 8°C to 22°C, while winters (November-April) dip to -15°C to 5°C.
Also Read: Almora: The Soul of Kumaon Hills
Year-Round Access: Although the temple remains open throughout the year, road access is limited in winter due to snow.
Chardham Yatra Packages: A Divine Sojourn
Travel Acharya, a reputed Char Dham travel agency, offers fully customized Chardham Yatra holiday packages
Chota Char Dham: This circuit is entirely located in Uttarakhand.
Package Options:
Chardham Ex-Delhi (11 nights – 12 days): Begin your journey from Delhi and explore the sacred sites.
Chardham Ex-Haridwar (9 nights – 10 days): Start from Haridwar and experience the spiritual essence.
Chardham by Helicopter (5 – 6 days): Opt for a swift and scenic helicopter tour.
Chardham with Valley of Flowers: Combine the pilgrimage with the enchanting Valley of Flowers.
Route Map and Distance:
The clockwise route starts from Yamunotri and ends at Badrinath.
Total distance covered by road: 1200 kilometers; by air: 600 kilometers.
The Chardham Yatra is not just a physical journey; it’s a soul-stirring experience. You’ll find solace, devotion, and a connection with the divine as you traverse these sacred paths. So, pack your faith, embark on this spiritual quest, and let the Himalayan abode embrace your heart.
For more information and bookings, visit www.travelacharya.in
