Uttarakhand is known as Dev Bhoomi, literally translated as 'Land of Gods'. The Char Dham of Uttarakhand, which is also referred to as the Chota Char Dham attracts millions of Hindu devotees and spiritual seekers to soak in the spiritual side of the country and also to get enlightenment.
Talking about the history of the Char Dham of Uttarakhand, then these four holy sites, which include Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri are still not acknowledged that how and when they got associated in a pilgrimage loop synchronically. Each of the holy sites has its own mythological history and legends. But possibly it is the prominence and spiritualism, which made these four holy sites a sacred place and now thousands of devotees from all around the world have become a part of it.
However, it is believed that a great Hindu philosopher and reformer Adi Shankaracharya initiated the 4 Dham Yatra in an endeavor to strengthen the Hindu religion during the 8th century. Before the Indo-China war of 1962, visiting these four sacred sites was an arduous journey due to the steep and rugged trails, only few travelers like saints, and altruists with their group were able to reach these 4 holy sites. But after the war, India started extensive efforts into developing means of more reliable connectivity at border areas. Now visiting these holy sites are enticing and engaging.
Located in the Rudraprayag district of the Garhwal region in Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is one of the holiest sites and highly revered among the Hindus. Kedarnath temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and also one of the most important Dham among Panch Kedar. Perched at an altitude of about 3586 meters with a backdrop of mighty Himalayas, Kedarnath is also one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
Badrinath is one of the four sites and one of the most famous pilgrimage places in the country. It is situated at an altitude of about 3,133 meters amidst the two beautiful mountains Nar and Narayan. Badrinath is the only shrine that is part of both Chota and the main Char Dham of India. Badrinath is one of the pre-eminent pilgrimage places among Hindus, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Badrinath Temple is a beauty to behold, the temple has a height of around 15 meters and the main deity inside the temple is Lord Vishnu.
Located at an altitude of about 3185 meters above sea level, on the western side of the Garhwal region, the Yamunotri temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and renowned for its hot spring. It was built in the 19th century by Maharani Gularia of Jaipur and was demolished twice in the present century and rebuilt again.
The original Gangotri Temple is an old 18th-century temple built of white marble located on the banks of River Bhagirathi. Built by the Nepalese Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa. The temple is devoted to the River Goddess and the origin of the holy river is at Gaumukh set in the Gangotri glacier. It is famous for its ancient shrines and religious significance.
The holy yatra is also called 'Teerth Yatra', devotees from various states aspire to be a part of this holy pilgrimage once in a lifetime. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that being a part of this holy yatra opens the gates of salvation by washing away all the sins of a lifetime. It is also believed that after completing this holy yatra one will also attain absolute calmness of soul.
The best time to embark on the spiritual journey of Chota Char Dham or the Char Dham yatra of Uttarakhand is from April, May, and the first half of June. Between these months you can easily do the tour of four holy sites, as the temperature remains pleasant. It is suggested not to make a plan for the chardham yatra at the time of monsoon season, as there is an extreme threat of landslides, which can hinder your plan. So it is better to avoid planning your Char Dham yatra during the monsoon season.
To be a part of Chardham yatra visit the page of - All you Need to Know About Chardham Yatra Registration. You can easily get detailed information about the registration process and other details, which will help you to enjoy your holy yatra conveniently.
Traditionally, the Chardham yatra is undertaken from the west to the east, thus, the yatra starts from Yamunotri, then proceeding to Gangotri, and finally to Kedarnath and Badrinath. Pilgrims traditionally first visit Yamunotri and Gangotri and bring with them the holy waters from the sources of the rivers Yamuna and Ganga and offer abhishekams to Kedareshwara. Char Dhams of Uttarakhand is also known as Chota Char Dham of India.
Popular Route: Haridwar - Rishikesh - Deo Prayag - Tehri - Dharasu - Yamunotri - Uttarkashi - Gangotri - Gaurikund - Kedarnath - Joshimath - Badrinath.
The cost for Chardham Yatra starts from 32000 per person. However, it all depends on your itinerary.
If you are looking to start your spiritual journey, then book our well-designed Chardham Yatra packages to soak in spirituality. Seek the blessing of the Supreme Being, along with enjoying the enchanting natural beauty. Our tour packages can be customized as per your requirements. It also comes with comfortable accommodation, delish meals, sacred Darshan, and great sightseeing.
Places such as Har ki Pauri, Rishikesh, Mana Village, Vasudhara Falls, Madhyamaheshwar Temple, Kalimath, Chandrashila, Surya Kund, and Saptrishi Kund are some of the must-visit places during your Chardham Yatra. To get detailed information about the best places to visit during Chardham Yatra all you need to visit the page - These Places You Shouldn’t Miss In Char Dham Yatra.
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