Char Dham Yatra Itinerary : A Detailed Guide

The Char Dham Yatra, an important pilgrimage circuit in India, resonates with spiritual significance and showcases the splendor of the mighty Himalayas. Comprising the four sacred shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, this yatra offers both spiritual rejuvenation and a delightful tryst with nature. If you're planning to embark on this holy journey, creating a well-thought-out itinerary is crucial to ensure a seamless experience.

Before we dive into the Itinerary here's all you need to know about registration:

Char Dham Yatra Registration 

Note: 

• The registration is free of cost.
• Make sure to carry the original ID proof (the same one used for registration) during the Yatra.
• Registration is essential for everyone, irrespective of age.
• It's recommended to register well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles and to get a preferred date for the Yatra.

A Detailed Char Dham Yatra Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar

• Begin your spiritual sojourn in the holy city of Haridwar.
• Participate in the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri.
• Overnight stay in Haridwar.

Day 2: Haridwar to Barkot

• Drive to Barkot, with a brief halt at Mussoorie's famous Kempty Falls.
• Evening arrival at Barkot.
• Overnight stay in Barkot.

Day 3: Barkot to Yamunotri and back

• Early morning drive to Jankichatti, followed by a trek to Yamunotri.

Note: Buses/taxis can be taken to Hanuman Chatti or Janki Chatti. From Janki Chatti, it's a 6 km trek to Yamunotri Temple. Earlier, the trek used to start from Hanuman Chatti, which made it a 13 km trek, but with the construction of the road up to Janki Chatti, the trek has been shortened. Pilgrims can undertake this trek on foot or hire ponies or palanquins.

• Offer prayers at the Yamunotri Temple.
• Return trek to Jankichatti and drive back to Barkot.
• Overnight stay in Barkot.

Day 4: Barkot to Uttarkashi

• Drive to Uttarkashi.
• Visit the ancient Vishwanath Temple.
• Overnight stay in Uttarkashi.

Get Customized Char Dham Packages

Day 5: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and back

• Early morning drive to Gangotri.

Note: Direct buses/taxis are available from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and other major towns. However, if pilgrims wish to visit the actual source of the Ganges, Gaumukh, there's a 19 km trek from Gangotri.

• Attend rituals and prayers at the Gangotri Temple.
• Return drive to Uttarkashi.
• Overnight stay in Uttarkashi.

Day 6: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi

• Enjoy the scenic drive to Guptkashi.
• Visit the ancient Vishwanath Temple.
• Overnight stay in Guptkashi.

Day 7: Guptkashi to Kedarnath

• Morning drive to Gaurikund, followed by a trek to Kedarnath. Alternatively opt for a Helicopter services. 

Read more on Kedarnath by Helicopter

• Participate in the evening aarti at Kedarnath Temple.
• Overnight stay near the temple.

Day 8: Kedarnath to Guptkashi

• Return trek to Gaurikund.
• Drive back to Guptkashi.
• Overnight stay in Guptkashi.

Day 9: Guptkashi to Badrinath

• Drive to Badrinath via Joshimath.

Note: Buses and taxis operate directly to Badrinath from major towns in Uttarakhand. However, the Mana Village, which is just 3 km from Badrinath and is the last village before the India-Tibet border, can be explored on foot.

• Attend the evening aarti at Badrinath Temple.
• Overnight stay in Badrinath.

Day 10: Badrinath to Rudraprayag

• Explore Mana Village and Tapt Kund.
• Drive to Rudraprayag.
• Overnight stay in Rudraprayag.

Day 11: Rudraprayag to Haridwar

• Return drive to Haridwar.
• Evening at leisure.
• Overnight stay in Haridwar.

Day 12: Departure from Haridwar

• Morning sightseeing or relaxation.
• Departure to onward destination in the afternoon. Train from Haridwar Railway Station or flight from Jolly Grant Airport.

The Char Dham Yatra is not just a pilgrimage but a transformative experience, immersing the traveler in spiritual fervor and the unparalleled beauty of the Himalayan landscapes. This itinerary offers a structured path to ensure you witness the grandeur of each shrine and the natural beauty surrounding it. As always, due consideration should be given to weather conditions, personal health, and local advisories when planning your trip. Safe travels on your spiritual odyssey!