The Chardham Yatra is one of the most important pilgrimage journeys in Hinduism. It is made up of the four holy sites of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, all of which are situated in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Each of these shrines has its own unique significance, and together they represent the four points of a spiritual journey that Hindus believe is essential for achieving salvation.

If you are planning to embark on the Chardham Yatra, you will need to choose a package that suits your budget and preferences. Here is what you can expect from your journey.

Yamunotri: The first stop on the Chardham Yatra is Yamunotri, which is located at an altitude of 3,293 meters above sea level. It is believed to be the source of the Yamuna river, which is considered to be the sister of the Ganges. The journey to Yamunotri begins from the town of Hanuman Chatti, which is about 220 km from Dehradun.

Most Chardham Yatra packages will include transportation from Dehradun to Hanuman Chatti. From there, you will need to trek for about 6 km to reach Yamunotri. The trek is not very difficult, but it can be tiring for those who are not used to walking in high altitudes. There are also ponies and palanquins available for hire if you do not want to walk.

Once you reach Yamunotri, you will be able to take a dip in the hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. You can also offer prayers at the temple of Yamuna, which is situated on the banks of the river. The temple is open from 6 am to 8 pm, and you can expect to spend about 2-3 hours here.

Gangotri: The second stop on the Chardham Yatra is Gangotri, which is located at an altitude of 3,042 meters above sea level. It is believed to be the source of the Ganges river, which is considered to be the holiest river in Hinduism. The journey to Gangotri begins from the town of Uttarkashi, which is about 100 km from Yamunotri.

Most Chardham Yatra packages will include transportation from Yamunotri to Uttarkashi. From there, you will need to travel for about 100 km to reach Gangotri. The road is narrow and winding, and it can be difficult for those who are not used to driving in the mountains. There are also taxis and buses available for hire if you do not want to drive.

Once you reach Gangotri, you will be able to take a dip in the holy river and offer prayers at the temple of Ganga. The temple is open from 6 am to 9 pm, and you can expect to spend about 2-3 hours here. You can also visit the nearby Bhagirath Shila, which is believed to be the spot where King Bhagirath meditated to bring the Ganges down from heaven.

Kedarnath: The third stop on the Chardham Yatra is Kedarnath, which is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, who is one of the most important deities in Hinduism. The journey to Kedarnath begins from the town of Sonprayag, which is about 240 km from Gangotri.

Most Chardham Yatra packages will include transportation from Gangotri to Sonprayag. From there, you will need to trek for about16 km to reach Kedarnath. The trek is quite challenging, as it involves steep climbs and rough terrain. However, there are ponies and palanquins available for hire if you do not want to walk.

Once you reach Kedarnath, you can offer prayers at the Kedarnath temple, which is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The temple is open from 6 am to 3 pm and from 5 pm to 9 pm, and you can expect to spend about 2-3 hours here. You can also visit the nearby Bhairavnath temple, which is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, the protector deity of Kedarnath.

Badrinath: The Chardham Yatra's last destination is Badrinath, which is situated 3,133 metres above sea level. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Vishnu, who is one of the most important deities in Hinduism. The journey to Badrinath begins from the town of Joshimath, which is about 240 km from Kedarnath.

Most Chardham Yatra packages will include transportation from Kedarnath to Joshimath. From there, you will need to travel for about 50 km to reach Badrinath. The road is narrow and winding, and it can be difficult for those who are not used to driving in the mountains. There are also taxis and buses available for hire if you do not want to drive.

Once you reach Badrinath, you can offer prayers at the Badrinath temple, which is one of the four Char Dham temples. The temple is open from 4:30 am to 1 pm and from 4 pm to 9 pm, and you can expect to spend about 2-3 hours here. You can also visit the nearby Tapt Kund, which is a natural hot spring believed to have medicinal properties.


Accommodation: Most Chardham Yatra packages will include accommodation in budget hotels or guesthouses. The quality of accommodation can vary, depending on the package you choose. If you are looking for more luxurious accommodation, you can opt for higher-end packages that offer better facilities and amenities.

Food: Most Chardham Yatra packages will include meals, which are typically vegetarian. The meals can vary, depending on the package you choose. If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, you should inform your tour operator in advance.

Transportation: Most Chardham Yatra packages will include transportation by car or bus. The type of vehicle can vary, depending on the package you choose. If you are prone to motion sickness, you should inform your tour operator in advance so that they can make necessary arrangements.

Guides: Most Chardham Yatra packages will include the services of a guide who will accompany you throughout the journey. The guide can provide you with valuable insights into the history and significance of the shrines. However, if you prefer to explore on your own, you can opt for packages that do not include a guide.

Weather: The Chardham Yatra is typically open from April to November, as the weather is most favorable during this time. However, the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, and you should be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions. It is advisable to carry warm clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes.

In conclusion, the Chardham Yatra is an important pilgrimage journey that can provide you with a unique spiritual experience. However, it is important to choose a package that suits your budget and preferences, and to be prepared for the challenges of traveling in the mountains. With the right preparation and mindset, the Chardham Yatra can be a fulfilling journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your journey:

Start preparing early: The Chardham Yatra involves a lot of travel and trekking, and it is important to be physically and mentally prepared for the journey. Start preparing at least 2-3 months in advance by exercising regularly and following a healthy diet. You can also consult a doctor to ensure that you are fit to undertake the journey.

Carry essential items: Make sure to carry essential items such as warm clothing, rain gear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a first aid kit, and a water bottle. You can also carry snacks and energy bars to keep yourself fueled during the trek.

Respect the local customs: The Chardham Yatra is a pilgrimage journey that is steeped in tradition and culture. It is important to respect the local customs and traditions, and to dress modestly when visiting the shrines. You should also avoid consuming alcohol and non-vegetarian food during the journey.

Stay hydrated: The mountain air can be dry, and it is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. You can also carry an electrolyte solution to replenish your body's fluids and minerals.

Be mindful of altitude sickness: Traveling to high elevations during the Chardham Yatra can result in altitude sickness. Some common symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to rest and hydrate, and to descend to a lower altitude if necessary.

Be respectful to fellow travelers: The Chardham Yatra attracts travelers from all over the world, and it is important to be respectful and courteous to your fellow travelers. You can also take the opportunity to interact with people from different cultures and backgrounds, and to learn from their experiences.

In conclusion, the Chardham Yatra is a journey that will take you through some of the most sacred and awe-inspiring places in India. It is an opportunity to connect with your spiritual side and to immerse yourself in the rich culture and tradition of India. With the right preparation and mindset, the Chardham Yatra Package can be a life-changing journey that will stay with you forever.