Chardham Yatra Package

Latest Updates on CharDham Yatra:

•    The Char Dham Yatra will begin for devotees on 14th May 2024.

•    Best time to travel Char Dham is between April to June and September to October.

•    Book your Char Dham Yatra Package 2024 and enjoy your pilgrimage at a great price!

Tucked in the lap of the Himalayas, Char Dham temples are the spiritual epicentre for Hindus in India. Char Dham, a term coined by the prehistoric Hindu philosopher Shri Adi Shankaracharya, refers to the four abodes of God – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that the Pandavas visited all the four shrines to absolve their sins before embarking on their journey to heaven. Till date, as April arrives, millions of devotees gather in Uttarakhand to undertake the tough Chardham Yatra, believing that it can open their gates to salvation. After starting from the origin of river Yamuna, Yamunotri Dham, pilgrims head towards the renowned Gangotri shrine. Thereafter, they visit Shri Kedarnath Dham, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and finally end their holy journey at Shri Badrinath Dham, the only Dham sacred to Lord Vishnu. If you’re spiritually inclined and seeking a Char Dham tour to reconnect with God and fill your mind with spirituality, then pick any of the Chardham yatra package 2024 by MakeMyTrip.

Start your enlightening Chardham Yatra by seeking blessings at the sacred Yamunotri temple. Located amidst a picturesque green valley, Yamunotri is the place where the Yamuna originates. As per Hindu mythology, Yamuna is the twin sister of Yama (God of Death), one of the Ashtabharya of Krishna and daughter of Surya (the Sun God). Approachable by a six-kilometre trek from Janki Chatti, the holy town is mainly known for the sacred Gangotri Dham. The temple features a black marble statue of Goddess Yamuna, sitting beside the white stone idol of Goddess Ganga. Apart from the temple, you must include an excursion to Diyva Shila and hot water springs of Surya Kund and Gouri Kund in your Char Dham itinerary. Around a kilometre away from the main shrine is the Yamuna Glacier, located at an altitude of 6387 metre near the Bandarpunch peak in the Lower Himalayas. As per the legends, taking a dip in the streams flowing through Yamunotri Dham can absolve all your sins.

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas sacred to Lord Shiva and a part of the Char Dham and Panch Kedars (a group of 5 Shiva temples in Garhwal Himalayas) circuit, Kedarnath temple is an ancient holy temple. Many stories are associated with the origin of the temple. As per some of them, the temple was built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th Century. Other versions claim that the Pandavas worshipped Lord Shiva at the same place where the temple presently stands, to seek forgiveness for killing their cousins during the great war of Kurukshetra. Made of large grey stones, the temple has a Garbha Griha and a Mandap decorated with figures of various deities. To visit the temple, you will have to reach the last motorable point - Gaurikund and then walk or ride a pony for around 14 kilometres. However, if you’re booking a package with MakeMyTrip, you will also have an option to undertake Chardham Yatra by helicopter from Sirsi, Phata, or Guptakashi.

Badrinath temple, also known as Badrikashram, is the holiest of all the Char Dham temples where Lord Vishnu resides in his avatar of Badrinarayan. There are various stories associated with the origin of the Badrinath temple. As per one of them, Lord Vishnu once performed a rigorous meditation at this place. The meditation was so intense that he didn’t care about the weather conditions. To protect him from the scorching heat, Goddess Lakshmi took the shape of a Badri tree and spread over him. Lord Vishnu was so pleased by Goddess Lakshmi's devotion that he named the spot as Badrikashram. The black lingam stone in the temple was founded in the 8th century by Shri Adi Shankaracharya. After a few years, the lingam was enshrined in a cave, and later the Raja of Garhwal installed the deity by building a temple. It is said that visiting Badrinath can absolve all the sins of pilgrims. Another best part about Badrinath is that no trekking is required to reach the temple.

Immerse yourself in the divine powers of ancient temples on this Chardham Yatra 2024 by opting for packages with MakeMyTrip. Whether you're looking for Chardham Yatra by helicopter or planning to take strenuous treks, you will find a range of great value Chardham yatra package at MakeMyTrip.

Online/Offline registration process for Chardham Yatra

Pilgrims planning a Chardham Yatra 2024 are required to get a registration done before proceeding to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. With the help of biometric registration, the state government can receive regular updates of pilgrims' locations for security, data, and mitigation purposes. The registration process, both offline and online, is quite easy. You will have to register yourself at any one of the centres falling on the 4 Dham Yatra routes. Once the process of biometric registration is done, you will get a biometric card, which will also help with availing special facilities like food and lodging.

Although there are around 14 registration centres, it will be best to get an online registration done for the Chardham Yatra to save yourself some time and escape long queues. The process of online registration is quite easy. You need to have an email, mobile number, and a photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card, Voters ID card, PAN card, Driver’s License or Passport). Also, you will have to pay a fee of 50 INR. For the offline registration process, you need to carry a phone number and a photo ID card.

Best Time to Go on Chardham Yatra

The best time to visit Char Dham is from April to June and October to September as the temples remain open for pilgrims during this period. The temperature ranges between 3°C to 20°C, making it the best time to seek blessings at the temple. However, it is advised to carry heavy woollens as nights can be chilly. So, if you wondering which season to be picked for your Chardham Yatra, here’s what you should know:

Chardham Yatra in Summers

As mentioned above, the ideal time to go on a Chardham Yatra is from April to June. This is the summer season which witnesses pleasant weather for pilgrims. It also celebrates various festivals with great pomp and show.

Chardham Yatra in Monsoon

Since trekking is required to reach here, it is best to avoid visiting the dhams during the monsoon season due to occasional landslides.

Chardham Yatra in Winters

Months of September and October are also considered the best time to visit Chardham. This is the winter season with chilly weather and less crowd-.

How to Reach the Char Dham Temples

Yamunotri

Visiting Yamunotri is a full-day trip as it involves a trek of around 6 kilometres from Hanuman Chatti through dense forests and rugged terrain. Instead of trekking, you can take ponies to reach the temple. See below for the complete details on how to reach Hanuman Chatti in Uttarakhand.

Reach Yamunotri By Road:

Hanuman Chatti is easily accessible by road from all the major cities of Uttarakhand. If going on a Chardham Yatra from Delhi, regular buses are easily available from ISBT Kashmiri Gate to reach Rishikesh and Dehradun. Thereupon, you can hire a taxi or board another bus to reach Hanuman Chatti.

Reach Yamunotri By Train:

Dehradun Railway Station (around 175 kilometres away from Yamunotri) and Rishikesh Railway Station (around 200-km from Yamunotri) are the closest railway stations to reach Hanuman Chatti. From any of these two Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or bus to reach Hanuman Chatti.

Reach Yamunotri By Air:

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 210 kilometres from Yamunotri, is the closest airport to Hanuman Chatti. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Hanuman Chatti. Helicopter services are also available from Dehradun if you’re planning a Chardham Yatra by helicopter.

Gangotri

Reach Gangotri By Road:

Gangotri enjoys excellent road connectivity to and from important cities in Uttarakhand, such as Dehradun, Tehri Garhwal, and Uttarkashi. You can also travel by bus from Delhi, which is available from ISBT Kashmiri Gate. Many tourists also prefer travelling to Gangotri by cab as the roads are in decent condition. This is the most economical way to reach Gangotri.

Reach Gangotri By Train:

Haridwar Railway Station, around 287 kilometres away from Gangotri, is the closest railway station to Gangotri. From Haridwar, taxis and buses are available to reach Gangotri.

Reach Gangotri By Air:

Gangotri doesn’t have direct air connectivity. The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is well-connected with all the major cities in India. From the airport, cabs/buses are available for the journey towards Gangotri.

Kedarnath

To seek blessings at the Kedarnath temple, pilgrims will first reach Gaurikund - the starting point of the 14-kilometre trek to the temple. Mentioned below is a quick guide on how to reach Gaurikund in Uttarakhand.

Reach Kedarnath By Road:

Gaurikund, the starting and ending point of the journey to seek blessings at Kedarnath temple, is well-connected by motorable roads with all the prominent attractions of Uttarakhand. Regular buses from Rishikesh, Dehradun, Tehri, Srinagar and Chamoli are available to reach Gaurikund.

Reach Kedarnath By Train:

The closest railway station to Kedarnath Temple is Rishikesh Railway Station, around 216 kilometres away from Gaurikund. Regular bus services are available from Rishikesh to reach Gaurikund.

Reach Kedarnath By Air:

The closest Airport to Gaurikund is in Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport), around 238-km away. Flights to Dehradun are also available from Delhi and other popular cities in India. You can also hire a taxi from Jolly Grant Airport to reach Gaurikund.

Badrinath

Reach Badrinath By Road:

Regular buses and taxis are available to reach Badrinath from all the major destinations in Uttarakhand like Dehradun, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Pauri, and Rudraprayag.

Reach Badrinath By Train:

Dehradun Railway Station and Haridwar Railway Station are the closest railway stations to Badrinath. You can opt for a taxi or board a bus from any of these two railway stations to reach Badrinath.

Reach Badrinath By Air:

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, operating daily flights to all the major states of India, is the closest airport. You can hire a taxi or board a bus from the airport to reach Badrinath.

Places to visit on a Char Dham tour

Devprayag

Experience calm and adventure on a short visit to Devprayag during your Chardham Yatra tour. Located at an altitude of 830 meters, Devprayag is one of the holy confluences of Uttarakhand. Encircled by the three giant peaks, this is the place where Alaknanda meets Bhagirathi and attains the form of Ganga. Some legends even consider Devprayag as the starting point of the Panch Prayag Yatra. On a visit to this town, you can add an excursion to Sangam, Raghunath Ji Temple, Dhaneshwar Mahadev temple, Chandrabadni temple, and Mata Bhuvneshwari temple.

Srinagar

Located on the bank of the Ganga River, the historic town of Srinagar, a prominent place to visit on your Char Dham tour, is known for its natural beauty and prominent temples. Kamleshwar Mahadev, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the main shrine of Srinagar. The temple is known for performing special puja for childless couples. Established by Adi Shankaracharya, Kilkileshwar Mahadev, situated on the banks of the Alaknanda River, is a must-visit too.

Rudraprayag

The place where Gods, legends and rivers meet, Rudraprayag marks the holy confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. Encircled by emerald lakes, glaciers, and silver streams, the town is named after the Rudra avatar of Lord Shiva. One of the Panch Prayag (five confluences of Alaknanda River), Rudraprayag is the base point of the famous Badrinath and Kedarnath Yatra. Seek blessings at the Jagdamba Temple and Shiva Temple and feel the divine aura on a visit to the Koteshwar Mahadev temple in Srinagar.

Joshimath

Joshimath, also Jyotirmath, is home to Vasudeva temple where the idol of Lord Badrinath is brought down during the winter season. An important pilgrimage centre in the country, Joshimath remains crowded with devotees for seeking blessings at the 8th century Jyotirmath or the Shri Shankaracharya monastery. It is one of the four monasteries that were established by Adi Guru Shankaracharya in the 8th century AD. Do take out some time to visit Kalpavriksha, which is believed to be 1200 years old.

Chopta

Chopta, also known as the Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand, is a divine destination for trekkers. This hushed abode looks spectacular, especially during the morning hours when the crimson rays of the sun kiss Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba peak. Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, which is also a part of Chopta, is a sight to behold, owing to its rich flora and fauna, including Musk Deer and various species of birds. Chopta looks spectacular, especially during April and May, as the rhododendron trees are blooming during this time of the year.

Nandprayag

A small town on the confluence of the Alaknanda and Nandakini Rivers, Nandprayag was once the capital of the Yadu kingdom. It is believed that Raja Nanda performed Yagna on a stone here, which was later used as the foundation for the Nand Temple. Apart from seeking blessings at the various religious sites in the town, you could hike to Bangali and learn about the intriguing culture of this tiny hamlet.

Uttarkashi

Stunning hilly terrains, ancient temples and chattering rivers of Uttarkashi can sweep travellers off their feet. A paradise for nature lovers, Uttarkashi is also known for its Nehru Mountaineering Institute and Vishwanath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Apart from temples, Uttarkashi is known for Dayara Bugyal, a meadow with an awe-inspiring view of the Himalayas. The place often remains crowded with adventure junkies as various activities like trekking and rock climbing take place in Uttarkashi.

Harsil

Located at an altitude of 2620 meters on the banks of Bhagirathi River, Harsil in Uttarkashi is a quaint hamlet mainly known for its adventure activities. One of the offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand, Harsil mesmerizes with its panoramic view of snow-capped mountains, which is perhaps the reason why it is quite famous amongst the trekkers. Dharali, Mukhwas and Sattal are some of the prominent places to visit in Harsil that you can add in your Chardham Yatra package.

Mukhba Village

A small village in the town of Harsil, Mukhba Village is located on the banks of river Bhagirathi at an altitude of 2620 meters. The village is known for the fact that the idol of the goddess Ganga is brought here from the shrine of Gangotri in the Upper Himalayas due to heavy snow. There are two temples of Goddess Ganga in Mukhba Village and both are a must-visit. The enchanting valley also offers a gorgeous view of snow-capped peaks like Hindyani, Jaonli, and Sumeru.

Ukhimath

Home of Lord Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar during the winter season, Ukhimath (also known as Okhimath) is a tiny hamlet that often remains thronged with pilgrims looking for inner peace. During the winter season, the idol of Lord Kedarnath shifts to the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath as the main temple remains closed during the winter season. A prominent religious centre, Ukhimath is also home to various temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Mandhata, and Aniruddha. From here, you can plan a visit to the offbeat destinations like Chopta, Tungnath, and Madmaheshwar.

Guptkashi

A must visit during the Chardham Yatra, Guptkashi, apart from its beautiful local location, is known for Manikarnika Kund where two streams of the Ganga and Yamuna meet. It is said that the original Shivling of Kashi Vishwanath Temple was kept at this place during the Mughal era to keep it safe from Aurangzeb. The holy town of Guptkashi is home to prominent temples. Vishwanath temple and Ardhnarishwar temple are some of the most famous temples in Guptkashi. If you’re opting for a Chardham Yatra by helicopter, then you will have to reach Guptkashi helipad for your flight to the temple.

Sonprayag

Holding a captivating appeal, Sonprayag, located at an altitude of 1829 meters, marks the convergence of two majestic rivers, Mandakini and Basuki. Bounded by lofty snow-clad peaks, the place offers a scintillating view of snow-capped mountains and meadows. The prominent temple of Triyuginarayan in Triyugi village is also situated near Sonprayag. According to legends, Triyuginarayan is the same place where the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati took place.

Gaurikund

Marking the point from where the toughest trek to Kedarnath commences, Gaurikund is a famous pilgrimage destination on the way to Kedarnath Temple. As per the 6th-7th century Nayanars saints, Gauri Kund holds a strong association with Shiva's wife Parvati, who is also known as Gauri in some parts of India. It is believed to be the same place where Goddess Parvati had done penance to win Lord Shiva's heart. That's when Lord Shiva agreed to marry Goddess Parvati. Gaurikund Temple and Gauri Kund Lake are some of the prominent places to visit in Gaurikund.

Temples to visit on Char Dham Tour

Yamunotri Temple, Uttarkashi

Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, Yamunotri Temple is located at an altitude of 3923 meters near the foot of Kalind Parbat (peak). It is the first temple that travellers visit on the Char Dham circuit. According to legends, the temple was the home of Asti Muni, an ancient sage, which makes it extremely popular amongst Hindu devotees. The main sanctum of the temple houses a black marble idol of Yamuna along with a white stone representing River Ganga. As the Yama Dwitiya (second day after Diwali or on Bhai Dooj) approaches, the temple closes its portals, and the temple authorities shift the idol to Kharsali village for the winter season. The idol is brought back to the main temple on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya (occurring in April/May), marking a grand celebration by devotees.

Gangotri Temple, Uttarkashi

Located at an altitude of 3100 meters in the Uttarkashi district, the holy abode of goddess Ganga, Gangotri is the second ‘Dham’ of the Chardham Yatra. Gaumukh Glacier, around 18 kilometres away from the temple, is the point where the River Ganges originates. It is believed that taking a bath in the freezing water of Gaumukh Glacier can relieve one from all the sins. The temple remains open for pilgrims for only six months, starting from the festival of Akshaya Tritiya till Diwali. During the winter season, the idol of Goddess Ganga is worshiped at Mukhyamath temple in Mukhba village, around 18 kilometres away from the main temple.

Kedarnath Temple, Rudraprayag

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas and an important temple of the Char Dham tour and Panch Kedars (a group of 5 Shiva temples in Garhwal Himalayas), Kedarnath Temple is sacred to Lord Shiva. To reach the temple, pilgrims have to trek for 14 km from Gauri Kund. The main sanctum of the temple (also known as Garbha Griha) houses the idol of Lord Shiva along with Lord Krishna, Pandavas, Draupadi, and Kunti. Right outside the shrine, there's a large stone statue of Nandi Bull, protecting the temple. On the 1st day of Karthik month (October/November), the main idol is shifted to Omkareshwar temple in Ukhimath (Rudraprayag district) and then welcomed back in the Vaisakh (April/May) month of Hindu calendar.

Badrinath Temple, Chamoli

One of the most important temples sacred to Lord Vishnu, Badrinath Temple is counted amongst the prominent temples of the Char Dham tour. Located at an altitude of 3,300 meters along the bank of Alaknanda River, the temple is also known for its Garhwali wooden architecture, apart from religious significance. It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya founded the Saligram idol of Lord Badri immersed in the water of Alaknanda and installed the same near the Tapt Kund. The main sanctum features a black stone idol of the Lord Badrinarayan sitting in a meditative pose along with images of Nar, Narayana, Narad, Ganesha, Garud, and Kuber. During the winter season, the main idol of Badrinath is shifted to Yog Dhyan Badri in Pandukeshwar (Chamoli district).

Mansa Devi Temple, Haridwar

Located at Bilwa Parvat, Mansa Devi temple, one of the Sidhpeeths, is sacred to Goddess Mansa, a form of Shakti who is believed to have emerged from the mind of the great Saint Kashyap. To reach the temple, you can either opt for a ropeway ride from Haridwar called Mansa Devi Udan Khatola or trek for around three kilometres. The main sanctum of the temple features two idols of the goddess. One of the prominent temples in Haridwar, you can add a visit to the Mansa Devi temple in your Chardham tour package.

Raghunathji Temple, Devprayag

Situated close to Devprayag, Raghunathji temple is dedicated to Lord Ram. The temple enshrines an idol of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshmana. According to the legends, Raja Jagat Singh of Kullu constructed this temple to absolve his sins when he brought an idol of Lord Ram in an unethical manner. You can add a visit to Devprayag on your Chardham Yatra when you're travelling from Badrinath to Rishikesh.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Uttarkashi

Situated on the bank of the Bhagirathi River on the main Chardham Yatra route, Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the oldest temples in Uttarkashi. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath Temple was built by Sage Parshuram. As per the legend, in the second part of Kalyuga, Lord Shiva considered this place as his abode. The main shiva lingam of the temple is 56 cm in height, tilting in the Southern direction. There's also a Shakti Temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, inside the temple complex. In your Chardham tour package, you can add a visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple when travelling from Yamunotri to Gangotri.

Things to do on Char Dham

Go on a trekking tour

Chardham Yatra not only attracts pilgrims but also trekking enthusiasts. So, if you love trekking to offbeat villages and explore stunning locations, there are various trekking trails around the Char Dham circuit that you can add to make your spiritual sojourn even more memorable. Gaumukh – Tapovan Trek, Shivling Base Camp Trek, Khatling Sahastra Tal Trek, Chitkul Yamunotri, Ruinsara Tal-Yamunotri Trek and Panwali Kedarnath Trek are some of the treks that you can include in your Char Dham tour.

Explore the offbeat Mana Village

Some popular for their religious significance while some for their natural beauty and unique traditions, the tiny villages on the Chardham Yatra routes are a must-visit. One such prominent village that you should add in your Chardham Yatra package is Mana Village - the last Indian village located near the Indo-China border. The surreal beauty of this tiny tranquil village draws a lot of visitors each year, which is why Mana has been rightly titled as a 'Tourism Village' by the Uttarakhand Government. Apart from its natural beauty, the village is known for its handcrafted woollen shawls and blankets, local herbs, etc. It is also believed that the Pandavas crossed the Mana village en route their journey to heaven. Apart from Mana Village, you can add a visit to Mukhwas Village, mainly known for being the winter abode of Goddess Gangotri.

Visit Vyas Gufa

Situated in Mana Village, Vyas Cave is a must-visit attraction in Uttarakhand. Just a few kilometres away from Badrinath, Vyas Cave is believed to be the same place where sage Vyas with Lord Ganesha composed the Mahabharata epic. Considering its spiritual significance, you should add a visit to Vyas Cave in your Char Dham holiday.

Attend Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat

On your Chardham Yatra, make it a point to attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti - sunset prayer accompanied by music on the banks of the holy river. During the evening aarti, the ghat becomes a sight for sore eyes, with bells ringing and diyas flaming everywhere. Triveni Ghat is also one of the holy bathing places where pilgrims come to cleanse themselves in the pious water of River Ganga. It is believed that taking a bath here can relieve one from all ailments.

Visit Charan Paduka

Located at an altitude of 1030 meters on Narayan Parvat, Charan Paduka is a boulder with the imprints of Lord Vishnu's feet. It is believed that Lord Vishnu set his divine foot at this place when he came to earth from Vaikunth (celestial abode of the lord). The boulder is around 3 km away from Badrinath Temple. While here, you can undertake a short uphill trek and visit a meadow filled with colourful flowers.

Explore Haridwar

Literally meaning the 'Abode of God,' Haridwar is a beautiful spiritual destination where the mighty Ganga emerges from the Himalayas. During your Char dham Yatra, you could spend a day at Haridwar and explore its famous temples. Visit the Bharat Mata Temple, an ancient temple located on the bank of River Ganga. You could also seek blessings at Mansa Devi Temple sacred to Goddess Mansa Devi. In the evening, make it a point to attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti - a sunset prayer accompanied by spiritual music on the banks of the holy river.

This Char Dham travel guide will give you an idea on how to plan your trip to Char Dham, places to visit on Chardham Yatra, and the best time to visit Char Dham. Check out some of the best Chardham yatra package available with MakeMyTrip today and start planning your Char Dham now.