The Char Dham Yatra is a revered pilgrimage circuit located in Uttarakhand, encompassing the holy sites of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Considered some of the most sacred temples in the region, these sites attract millions of Hindus each year, all seeking spiritual liberation from their sins. The pilgrimage generally runs from April until September-October, with local priests announcing the specific dates for the temples' opening and closing. Visitors to the Yatra not only seek blessings at these temples but also explore various notable attractions throughout Uttarakhand. Additionally, each of these ancient temples is significant as they represent the sources of four major rivers: the Yamuna originates at Yamunotri, the Alaknanda flows from Badrinath, the holy Ganges begins at Gangotri, and the Mandakini emerges from Kedarnath.
Opening Dates for Char Dham 2025
CHAR DHAM SHRINES | OPENING DATES |
Yamunotri | 30th April |
Gangotri | 30th April |
Kedarnath | 2nd May |
Badrinath | 2nd May |
If you're preparing to embark on the Char Dham Yatra from Haridwar, we offer specially curated Char Dham tour packages that cover key pilgrimage destinations such as Haridwar, Barkot, Yamunotri, Uttarkashi, Gangotri, Guptkashi, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Rudraprayag, and Rishikesh. For a more personalized experience, you also have the option to rent a cab or traveller vehicle and plan the journey according to your preferences and schedule.
Char Dham Yatra Itinerary from Haridwar
Choosing a Char Dham Yatra package is a convenient way to enjoy a smooth and well-organized pilgrimage. These packages generally cover accommodation, meals, transportation, and guided tours, ensuring a stress-free journey. Numerous travel operators provide customizable options to suit varying preferences and budgets, making it easier for pilgrims to plan according to their needs. For visitors with time limitations or physical challenges, helicopter services to the shrines offer a faster and more accessible alternative.
As a major transportation hub, Haridwar serves as an ideal starting point for the Char Dham Yatra. With excellent road and rail connectivity, it provides easy access to the four sacred shrines. Pilgrims can choose to travel from Haridwar by bus, taxi, or private vehicle. However, to avoid the stress of managing logistics independently, many prefer booking comprehensive travel packages that include all necessary transportation arrangements.
Day 1: Haridwar to Barkot
Begin your journey from Haridwar with a scenic drive towards Barkot via Mussoorie. Stop at the picturesque Kempty Falls for a refreshing break. On arrival in Barkot, check into your hotel and rest for the night in preparation for the Yamunotri trek.
Day 2: Barkot – Yamunotri – Barkot
After breakfast, drive to Jankichatti or Phoolchatti and begin your 6 km trek to Yamunotri. Take a dip in the thermal waters of Surya Kund before offering prayers at the Yamunotri temple. After darshan, return to Jankichatti and drive back to Barkot for a peaceful overnight stay.
Day 3: Barkot to Uttarkashi
Enjoy a relaxed morning before heading to Uttarkashi. On the way, visit Shivgufa. Once in Uttarkashi, check into the hotel and later in the evening, visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Stay overnight in Uttarkashi.
Day 4: Uttarkashi – Gangotri – Uttarkashi
Post breakfast, drive towards Gangotri, stopping at the soothing hot water springs at Gangnani. Pass through the scenic Harsil Valley before reaching the revered Gangotri Temple. Take a dip in the sacred Bhagirathi River, perform rituals, and return to Uttarkashi for the night.
Day 5: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi
Depart early for Guptkashi, enjoying views of the Mandakini River along the way. On arrival, visit the Ardhnareshwar Temple. After the long drive, take some time to relax by checking into your hotel.
Day 6: Guptkashi to Kedarnath
Head towards Kedarnath via Sonprayag. Choose to trek, hire a horse, or opt for a helicopter ride (an advance booking required). Upon reaching, visit the Kedarnath Temple and nearby sacred sites. Stay overnight in Kedarnath.
Day 7: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
After morning darshan, begin your return journey to Guptkashi by trek or helicopter. Reconnect with your driver and check back into your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Day 8: Guptkashi to Badrinath
Set off for Badrinath after breakfast. After arrival, bathe in Taptkund and attend the evening aarti at Badrinath Temple. Overnight stay in Badrinath.
Day 9: Badrinath to Rudraprayag
Begin the day with darshan and visits to Mana Village, Vyas Gufa, and other spiritual sites. Post sightseeing, proceed to Rudraprayag via Joshimath. Overnight stay in Rudraprayag.
Day 10: Rudraprayag to Haridwar
Wrap up your yatra with a drive back to Haridwar. On the way, visit Devprayag, where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers merge to form the Ganges. Drop-off at your onward point marks the end of your spiritual journey.