Uncover 15 hidden gems and tourist places to visit in Chardham Yatra in our blog - your companion for an unforgettable journey.
India is a land filled with myriad hues of culture, history, and spirituality - each resonating a unique narrative that makes this country what it is. And one of the many things that make this country special is the holy Char Dham Yatra, taken by pilgrims every year. It is a journey that many people make, not just for religious reasons but also to explore and discover more about themselves. It is a journey of peace and a soulful experience.
The Char Dham Yatra takes you across Uttarakhand to four sacred places that are at the core of Hinduism. These are Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Each place has its own story, its unique beauty, and its special charm. They are all places where you can feel the deep spirituality of India.
However, the journey does not stop just at these four places - no, not at all. Along the way, there are many unmissable places that one must spare some time to visit on their pilgrimage. Let’s look at some of the many places to visit in Chardham Yatra.
Badrinath and Nearby Places
1. Badrinath
Nestled in the northern peaks of the Himalayas, the holy town of Badrinath is, in fact, the best place for one to start their Char Dham Yatra. Badrinath is home to the ancient Badrinath Temple of Lord Vishnu and is a spiritual haven for all devotees.
According to Hindu lore, Lord Vishnu meditated at this very spot for eons, making it a center of intense spiritual energy. The Badrinath temple is located at the same spot, against the backdrop of a lofty, snow-capped mountain. It presents a breathtaking view that attracts millions of devotees and tourists alike.
Reaching Badrinath: The town is well connected by road. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the nearest railway station is in Rishikesh.
2. Joshimath
A few miles from Badrinath, one can find the spiritual destination of Joshimath - a significant junction in the pilgrimage route. It is the place where Adi Shankaracharya, an 8th-century reformer and philosopher, established one of the four ‘matts.’ Narasimha Temple is also located here.
Reaching Joshimath: Joshimath is about 45 km from Badrinath and can be reached by road.
3. Mana Village
Mana Village is a place that is also known to folks that are just traveling through Uttarakhand for its beauty, not for any spiritual journey. This village has the distinction of being the last Indian settlement before the Tibet Border - which should be enough of a reason for one to visit this place. However, this place is also rich in mythology and folklore.
Mana Village is home to Bheem Pul, a natural stone bridge that has been placed by Bheem, one of the Pandavas brothers.
Reaching Mana Village: Mana is just 3 km from Badrinath and can be easily reached by foot or local transport.
4. Valley of Flowers
Near Badrinath, one would also find the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This heavenly valley, adorned with diverse flora and fauna and a variety of wildflowers, is a spectacle to behold. The valley is especially vibrant during monsoons when it blossoms and invites countless visitors to enjoy its mesmerizing beauty.
Reaching Valley of Flowers: The starting point is Govind Ghat, about 22 km from Joshimath. From Govind Ghat, it is a 13 km trek to the Valley of Flowers.
Yamunotri and Nearby Places
5. Yamunotri Temple
On our trip, the next holy site to visit is Yamunotri Temple. This stop, hidden in the pristine beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas, is a special site dedicated to the goddess Yamuna - something that is pretty obvious by its name. It is often the first stop in the Char Dham Yatra Package and offers a serene spiritual experience to the traveler.
The temple, bathing in the aura of spirituality amidst thermal springs and towering glaciers, is visited by millions of devotees every year.
Reaching Yamunotri: You can drive up to Janki Chatti from Dehradun or Rishikesh, then trek 6 km to reach Yamunotri.
6. Janki Chatti
On the way to Yamunotri Temple, devotees would come across Janki Chatti. It is the starting point of the Yamunotri Trek and is known for its hot water springs, which reinvigorates travelers before their trek to Yamunotri. These thermal springs are a popular attraction among pilgrims and tourists.
Reaching Janki Chatti: Well-connected by road with major towns in Uttarakhand.
7. Hanuman Chatti
Hanuman Chatti is a picturesque spot at the confluence of the Hanuman Ganga and the Yamuna River. It was also once the starting point of the trek to Yamunotri, but over the years, Janki Chatti has become the go-to place for travelers.
Hanuman Chatti offers visitors a breathtaking landscape that will make them fall in love with nature all over again. You might even consider staying in this place forever.
Reaching Hanuman Chatti: Just about 13 km from Yamunotri, it is a smooth drive down the road.
8. Surya Kund
Last but not least, we have Surya Kund, one of the many thermal springs that are located near Yamunotri Temple. However, among all of the springs, it is without a doubt the most famous. If you are a devotee who is on a pilgrimage to the Char Dham, then you have to visit the place.
Reaching Surya Kund: It is situated near the Yamunotri temple and can be visited during the temple visit.
Gangotri and Nearby Places
9. Gangotri Temple
Gangotri Temple is next on the list of the Char Dham Yatra. Gangotri Temple is an 18th-century shrine dedicated to Goddess Ganga, the lifeline of northern India. The shrine echoes with spiritual fervor and is surrounded by captivating mountainous scenery and the calming nature of the Bhagirathi River. It is a haven for devotees and nature enthusiasts alike. But one needs to keep a close eye on the weather here as landslides can easily cut this place from the nearby population centers.
Reaching Gangotri Temple: Dehradun to Gangotri is a scenic drive of approximately 10 hours through serpentine mountain roads.
10. Gaumukh Glacier
Gaumukh Glacier is actually the starting point of the mighty river Ganga. The glacier is located around 18 km of trek away from Gangotri Temple. And while the journey can be a bit of a painful one, trekking 18 km from Gangotri through alpine meadows and dense forests is well worth it.
Reaching Gaumukh Glacier: An 18 km trek from Gangotri Temple.
11. Harsil
Harsil is a hidden gem in the heart of the Himalayas. 20 km away from the Gangotri Temple, this place is tucked amidst the lush greenery and towering snow-capped peaks.
Harsil is also known for its winter temple, where the idol of the Goddess Ganga is brought once the Gangotri's main gate closes in the winter season - hence the name winter temple. The village also provides accommodation options for those looking to spend more time in this serene location.
Reaching Harsil: 20 km away from the Gangotri Temple; 1-2 hr drive depending on the road conditions.
12. Jalmagna Shivling
On the Gangotri part of the Char Dham Yatra, there is one spot that no devotee can miss - Jalmagna Shivling. The Jalmagna Shivling is a half-submerged idol of Lord Shiva, located at the spot where Lord Shiva caught the River Ganga in his matted locks. During the summer months, when the water level rises, the Shivling is submerged halfway.
Reaching Jalmagna Shivling: Located near the Gangotri Temple.
Kedarnath and Nearby Places
13. Kedarnath Temple
Undoubtedly, you cannot miss the Kedarnath Temple - in fact, it should be your first stop on this leg. Kedarnath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and lies at an altitude of 3,583 m near Chorabari Glacier, which is also the source of the Mandakini River.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has exquisite architecture built of large but evenly shaped grey stone slabs. Lord Shiva is worshipped here in his ‘Sadashiva’ form.
Reaching Kedarnath Temple: A 16-km trek from Gaurikund, which is reachable by roads.
14. Sonprayag
En route to Kedarnath, you will encounter another important place of religious significance - Sonprayag. It is believed that one dip in the river of Sonprayag washes away all the sins one has committed in their life.
Reaching Sonprayag: Located 5 km before Gaurikund; well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand.
15. Vasuki Tal
Located 5 km away from Kedarnath Temple is Vasuki Tal, seated at a dizzying height of 4,328 m. The name of the Vasuki Tal is inspired by its form, echoing the serpent Vasuki that winds around Lord Shiva's neck. One look at the Tal, and you can see for yourself the shape of the place that is reminiscent of the divine snake.
Reaching Vasuki Tal: 5 km of trek from Kedarnath Temple
Final Words
Char Dham Yatra is much more than just a spiritual expedition; it is a magical voyage that will take you on a journey that is both physically mesmerizing and spiritually invigorating. The above-listed are just 15 of the countless places, each holding a significant piece of the mystical puzzle that makes up this divine Yatra.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and book your Chardham Yatra from Delhi today!
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Char Dham Yatra
Q1. Which Place To Visit First In Char Dham Yatra?
Ans. You can begin your journey with Surya Kund and Saptrishi Kund. You can also discuss with your tour operator for better ideas.
Q2. Can I Cover Char Dham Yatra In 7 Days?
Ans. Yes, you can easily cover Chardham Yatra in a week. But, 11-12 days are preferred for Char Dham Yatra.
Q3. What Is The Age Limit For Badrinath?
Ans. There is no age limit for Badrinath. People of any age can visit Badrinath temple.
Q4. Can We Go To Badrinath By Own Car?
Ans. Yes, vehicles go directly to Badrinath.
Q5. What Is The Right Time For Char Dham Yatra?
Ans. From April to June, the weather is pleasant for Char Dham Yatra as the summer season is the most preferred time.
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