Kedarnath Badrinath Yamnotri Gangotri Char Dham Yatra
Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri are significant pilgrimage sites located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. These four destinations are collectively known as the Char Dham Yatra, which holds great religious importance for Hindus. Here's an overview of the Char Dham circuit and a suggested itinerary for a 9-night, 10-day trip:
Char Dham Yatra: The Char Dham Yatra is a pilgrimage circuit in Uttarakhand, India, consisting of four sacred sites - Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. It is believed that undertaking this yatra helps devotees attain spiritual enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Yamunotri: Located at an altitude of 3,293 meters, Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna River. The main attraction here is the Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. The temple is accessible via a 6-kilometer trek from Jankichatti and is surrounded by scenic beauty and hot water springs.
Gangotri: Situated at an elevation of 3,100 meters, Gangotri is the origin of the holy River Ganges (Ganga). The Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, is the main pilgrimage site. It is reached by a trek from the town of Gangotri and offers mesmerizing views of snow-capped mountains and the Bhagirathi River.
Kedarnath: Located at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main attraction is the Kedarnath Temple, which is accessed by a trek from Gaurikund or by helicopter. The temple is nestled amidst breathtaking Himalayan peaks and is a significant destination for devotees.
Badrinath: Situated at an altitude of 3,133 meters, Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Badrinath Temple is the most important shrine on the Char Dham circuit. It is accessible by road and offers stunning views of the Neelkanth Peak and Alaknanda River. The town of Badrinath also has several other attractions, including Mana Village and Tapt Kund.
Best Time to Visit: The Char Dham Yatra season typically starts in April/May and extends until October/November. The weather is relatively pleasant during these months, making it suitable for trekking and temple visits. However, it's important to note that the monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall and can lead to road closures and landslides.