Secure Travels
CHARDHAM YATRA FROM HARIDWAR
The Chardham Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India, covering four holy temples—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. This journey, nestled in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand, is believed to cleanse the soul and bring blessings. Starting from Haridwar, this guide will help you with the best time to visit, trip duration, travel options, and accommodations.
Overview of the Four Sacred Sites
1. Yamunotri Dham
Why Visit? It is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and known for its hot water springs.
Main Attractions: Yamunotri Temple, Surya Kund, and Divya Shila.
Height: 3,293 meters.
2. Gangotri Dham
Why Visit? This temple marks the origin of the holy River Ganga.
Main Attractions: Gangotri Temple, Bhagirath Shila, and Pandava Gufa.
Height: 3,100 meters.
3. Kedarnath Dham
Why Visit? One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath is a highly revered shrine.
Main Attractions: Kedarnath Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, and Vasuki Tal.
Height: 3,583 meters.
4. Badrinath Dham
Why Visit? This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is the last stop of the yatra.
Main Attractions: Badrinath Temple, Tapt Kund, and Charan Paduka.
Height: 3,133 meters.
Best Time to Visit & Trip Duration
The Yatra is open from April/May to October/November.
Best months to travel: May-June & September-October (pleasant weather, fewer roadblocks).
Trip Duration
Total Duration: 10-12 days.
Breakdown:
Haridwar to Yamunotri: 2 Days
Yamunotri to Gangotri: 2 Days
Gangotri to Kedarnath: 3 Days
Kedarnath to Badrinath: 2 Days
Return to Haridwar: 2 Days
Step-by-Step Itinerary from Haridwar
Day 1: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Janki Chatti (200 km / 9-10 hrs)
Drive to Barkot, enjoying the scenic beauty.
Night stay at Barkot/Kharadi.
Day 2: Janki Chatti to Yamunotri (5 km Trek) & Return
Drive to Janki Chatti (50 km), then trek to Yamunotri Temple (5 km).
Return to Janki Chatti for an overnight stay.
Day 3: Janki Chatti to Uttarkashi/Netala (150 km / 8-9 hrs)
Drive from Barkot to Uttarkashi, preparing for the Gangotri visit the next day.
Night stay at Uttarkashi/Gangori/Netala.
Day 4: Uttarkashi to Gangotri & Return (200 km / 9-10 hrs)
Drive to Gangotri Temple, perform darshan, then return to Uttarkashi.
Night stay at Uttarkashi/Gangori/Netala.
Day 5: Uttarkashi to Sonprayag (270 km / 10-11 hrs)
Travel towards Sonprayag/Phata, a base for the Kedarnath Yatra.
Day 6: Sonprayag to Kedarnath (5 km Drive + 19 km Trek / 8-9 hrs)
Drive to Gaurikund (5 km), then trek to Kedarnath (19 km).
Stay overnight in Kedarnath.
Day 7: Kedarnath to Sonprayag (19 km Trek + 5 km Drive)
Trek back to Gaurikund and drive to Sonprayag.
Overnight stay in Sonprayag.
Day 8: Sonprayag to Badrinath (240 km / 8-9 hrs) + Mana Village Visit (3 km from Badrinath)
Drive to Badrinath, visiting beautiful landscapes along the way.
Night stay in Badrinath.
Day 9: Badrinath to Haridwar/Rishikesh (300 km / 10-11 hrs)
Return journey via Rishikesh.
By Road
Private taxis, buses, and self-driven vehicles are available from Haridwar.
State and private buses operate regularly.
By Helicopter
Helicopter services from Dehradun allow a faster 3-4 day yatra.
By Train & Flight
Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar.
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels: Available in Barkot, Uttarkashi, Guptkashi, and Badrinath.
Luxury Hotels & Resorts: Found in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Joshimath.
Dharamshalas & Ashrams: Affordable options with basic amenities.
GMVN Guesthouses: Government-run guesthouses at major stops.
The Chardham Yatra is a journey filled with devotion and adventure. Starting from Haridwar, it takes you through scenic Himalayan routes and sacred temples. Proper planning and preparation will make your trip smooth and fulfilling. Whether by road or helicopter, this divine journey is bound to be a memorable spiritual experience.
Plan your Chardham Yatra today and embrace the blessings of the Himalayas!
