Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Chardham Yatra
Situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, the religious sites of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath form the magnificent Chardham Yatra.
Devotees worldwide have been embarking upon this challenging pilgrimage since ancient times, enabling it to be considered a self-introspective or transformative.
The Chardham Yatra is of high importance for people of the Hindu community, and pilgrims embark on this journey with hopes of attaining redemption through the Lord’s blessings.
Each year, routes to these four sacred temples open simultaneously at an altitude of over 10,000 feet. The beautiful Himalayas, thick forests, deep valleys, and unbeatable natural beauty make the 4dham Yatra one of the most exciting journeys.
In general, the order of undertaking the Char Dham Yatra is Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Now, let’s take a quick look at each of the sites of this pilgrimage.
History and Significance of Char Dham Yatra
It is believed that in around the 8th century, Adi Shankaracharya, the great scholar and philosopher, formed the Chardham Yatra. Generations after generations, devotees from all parts of India continue to visit these holy places each year.
Also known as the Chota Char Dham Yatra, this pilgrimage is of great importance in Hinduism, with many Hindus believing that completing this journey will open the gates to Heaven and wash away all their sins. Hence, every devotee aspires to take this pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime.
Four Sacred Shrines
Haridwar is the starting point of this pilgrimage, with Yamunotri being the first stop. Traditionally, the journey follows a west-to-east route, and this sequence is said to be quite crucial in the 4dham Yatra.
Each temple is dedicated to a deity of the Hindu religion. Goddess Yamuna is worshipped at the Yamunotri, and Goddess Ganga at the Gangotri. Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva, followed by Badrinath, which is the place of worship of Lord Vishnu.
Yamunotri Dham
Yamunotri, the first stop of the Chardham Yatra package, is the source of the river Yamuna, also known as Yami or Kalindi, the twin sister of Yamraj, the God of death.
As per Hindu mythology, Yama promised his sister that the person who takes a dip in Yamuna on the occasion of Bhai Dooj would attain salvation and not be taken to Yamlok.
Gangotri Dham
At an altitude of 3200m above sea level, Gangotri is the initial place of the river Ganga. The temple is located at Gomukh, the source of the river Ganga. It is believed that taking a dip here washes away all your sins.
According to Hindu mythology, King Bhagirath meditated here for a long time, after which Goddess Ganga appeared in the region. The temple also features the stone on which the King sat during his meditation.
Kedarnath Dham
Kedarnath is the most well-known among the 12 Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in India, with Kalpeshwar, Tungnath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Rudranath; it constitutes the Panch Kedar pilgrimage.
Badrinath Dham
The pilgrimage ends with the most significant of the four shrines, the Badrinath temple. This temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is set on the banks of river Alaknanda, also believed to be where Adi Shankaracharya attained salvation.
When to Visit?
Every year, the Chardham Yatra usually begins in April or May and ends in October or November. The temples are closed for the remaining months due to heavy snowfall.
Even though the peak time to undertake this pilgrimage is from May or June, a Chardham Tour Package can quickly be launched in September to avoid crowds. Make sure to plan accordingly!
On an Important Note!
Firstly, being physically fit is very important before booking your Chardham package. So, begin your workouts at least three months before the beginning of the journey.
This pilgrimage requires both mental and physical fitness. Make sure you consult a doctor before going on the Char Dham Yatra. Don’t forget to carry medicines, blankets, and other essentials.
The Char Dham Yatra is one to embark on if you wish to establish a bond with yourself, nature, and God. To avoid last-minute setbacks, it is recommended to opt for Char Dham Yatra Tour Packages convenient to you.
Snowclad Mountains, thick forests, and clear waters will surely make your Chardham tour package memorable!
Also Read:
Ashtavinayak Temples: A Tour of 8 Abodes of Lord Ganesha in Maharashtra
