The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Hinduism, taking devotees through four holy shrines nestled in the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand. This spiritual journey to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath promises divine blessings and breathtaking natural beauty.
The Four Sacred Shrines
1. Yamunotri - Source of River Yamuna
Altitude: 3,293 meters | Trek: 6 km from Janki Chatti
Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, this temple marks the beginning of the Char Dham circuit. The natural hot springs at Janki Chatti are perfect for taking a holy dip.
2. Gangotri - Origin of River Ganga
Altitude: 3,100 meters | Accessible: By road
Where the holy Ganges descended to earth. The temple overlooks the roaring Bhagirathi River, offering a serene spiritual atmosphere.
3. Kedarnath - Abode of Lord Shiva
Altitude: 3,583 meters | Trek: 16 km from Gaurikund or helicopter available
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Kedarnath is the most challenging yet rewarding pilgrimage site. The temple stands magnificently against snow-capped peaks.
4. Badrinath - Temple of Lord Vishnu
Altitude: 3,300 meters | Accessible: By road
Set between Nar and Narayan mountain ranges, Badrinath is one of the four Dhams of India. The natural hot springs here are believed to have medicinal properties.
Char Dham Yatra 2026 Opening & Closing Dates
Opening Dates (Tentative):
- Yamunotri: April 28, 2026
- Gangotri: April 29, 2026
- Kedarnath: May 2, 2026
- Badrinath: May 3, 2026
Closing Dates: November (Diwali week)
*Dates may vary, always check official website before planning
Best Time for Char Dham Yatra
May to June: Most popular, pleasant weather, all routes open
September to October: Post-monsoon, less crowded, clear mountain views
Avoid: July-August (monsoon - risk of landslides)
Complete Char Dham Yatra Itinerary
Day 1: Haridwar to Barkot (210 km)
Start journey from Haridwar, visit Kempty Falls in Mussoorie, reach Barkot by evening
Day 2: Barkot to Yamunotri to Barkot
Drive to Janki Chatti, trek to Yamunotri, darshan, return to Barkot
Day 3: Barkot to Uttarkashi (100 km)
Journey to Uttarkashi, visit Vishwanath Temple, night stay
Day 4: Uttarkashi to Gangotri to Uttarkashi
Drive to Gangotri, holy dip in Ganga, darshan, return
Day 5: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi (220 km)
Long drive through scenic routes, rest for Kedarnath trek
Day 6: Guptkashi to Kedarnath
Drive to Gaurikund, trek/helicopter to Kedarnath, darshan, overnight stay
Day 7: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
Morning darshan, trek back to Gaurikund, drive to Guptkashi
Day 8: Guptkashi to Badrinath (190 km)
Journey via Joshimath, visit Mana Village, darshan in evening
Day 9: Badrinath to Rudraprayag (160 km)
Morning darshan, visit Tapt Kund, drive back via scenic route
Day 10: Rudraprayag to Haridwar (165 km)
Return journey, stop at Devprayag (confluence), reach Haridwar
Char Dham Yatra Registration 2026
Online registration is mandatory through the official Uttarakhand government portal:
- Visit: registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
- Required documents: Aadhaar card, medical certificate (for Kedarnath trek)
- Register at least 3 days before journey
- Carry printed registration confirmation
Char Dham Yatra Package Cost
By Sedan (4 seater): ₹45,000 - ₹55,000
By SUV (7 seater): ₹65,000 - ₹75,000
By Tempo Traveller (12 seater): ₹95,000 - ₹1,20,000
*Includes vehicle, driver, fuel, tolls, parking. Excludes accommodation, food, helicopter (if opted)
Helicopter Services
For Kedarnath:
- Phata to Kedarnath: ₹3,000 - ₹7,000 per person (one way)
- Guptkashi to Kedarnath: ₹8,000 - ₹12,000 per person (return)
- Book in advance during peak season
Essential Packing List
- Documents: ID proof, registration, medical certificate
- Clothing: Warm jackets, rain gear, comfortable trekking shoes
- Medicines: Altitude sickness tablets, first aid, personal medications
- Essentials: Water bottle, energy bars, torch, power bank
- Religious items: Puja materials if needed
Health & Safety Tips
- Acclimatize properly, especially for Kedarnath
- Stay hydrated throughout the journey
- Avoid alcohol and smoking in high altitudes
- Senior citizens and children should consult doctors
- Keep emergency contacts handy
- Respect local customs and environment
Why Choose Our Char Dham Services?
- Experienced drivers familiar with mountain roads
- Comfortable AC vehicles for long journeys
- Flexible itineraries to suit your pace
- 24/7 support throughout the yatra
- Help with registration and helicopter booking
- Affordable packages with no hidden costs
Book Your Char Dham Yatra 2026
Embark on this sacred journey with complete peace of mind. Our professional services ensure your pilgrimage is safe, comfortable, and spiritually fulfilling. Contact us for customized Char Dham packages!