Are you planning CharDham Yatra trip in 2024 then you have landed on the perfect page…but before You Begin check out Significance and Fascinating Facts about the Chardham: To truly appreciate the spiritual significance of the Chardham Yatra, delve into the fascinating stories and legends behind each Dham. Learn about the deities enshrined, the mythological tales associated with them, and the importance of these places in Hindu pilgrimage.
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CharDham Yatra 2024: Opening and Closing Dates
The opening dates of the Chardham Yatra are determined by the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, typically falling in April or May. The temples remain open throughout the summer and autumn months, closing after Diwali festivities in November.
Opening Dates –
- Yamunotri: May 10th, 2024
- Gangotri: May 10th, 2024
- Kedarnath: May 10th, 2024
- Badrinath: May 12th, 2024
Closing Dates –
- Yamunotri: November 3rd, 2024
- Gangotri: November 3rd, 2024
- Kedarnath: November 2nd, 2024
- Badrinath: November 9th, 2024
Important Note: These are tentative dates. The official opening and closing dates are usually finalized on the auspicious day of Basant Panchami (February) by the Char Dham temple committee.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal timeframe for the Chardham Yatra falls within two windows:
- Summer (Late April to Mid-June): This is the classic season for the yatra. You’ll experience pleasant weather, mostly sunny skies, and clear visibility for दर्शन (darshan) at the temples. This makes trekking and navigating the routes easier. However, it’s also peak season, so expect larger crowds.
- Post-Monsoon (Late August to Early November): This alternative window offers a different perspective. The crowds have thinned, and the landscape is lush and green after the monsoon rains. The skies are generally clear, but temperatures can be cooler.
A Word on Mountain Weather:
Remember, these are high-altitude locations, and the weather can change rapidly! I speak from personal experience – during my visit last year, we encountered sunshine, heavy rain, snowfall, and freezing cold – all within a short span. So, be prepared for anything!
Some tips for unpredictable weather:
- Pack layers of clothing, including waterproof gear and warm options for sudden temperature drops.
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat.
- Check the latest mountain weather forecasts before embarking on your trip.
- Be flexible with your itinerary and allow buffer days in case of road closures due to bad weather.
How and Where to Start the Yatra
- Most pilgrims choose to begin their Chardham Yatra journey from Haridwar. It’s a holy town considered the gateway to the pilgrimage circuit.
- Rishikesh, another popular pilgrimage destination, can also serve as a starting point, though it’s geographically located at the end of the traditional Chardham circuit.
- Delhi, the capital city, is another option for those arriving by air. From Delhi, travelers typically make their way to Haridwar or Rishikesh before commencing the yatra.
Advantages of each starting point:
- Haridwar: This is the traditional starting point and offers a more immersive experience for pilgrims.
- Rishikesh: Starting from Rishikesh allows you to visit the Dhams in the reverse order, which can be less crowded at times.
- Delhi: Choosing Delhi as your starting point provides easier air connectivity from various locations, but adds travel time to reach Haridwar or Rishikesh.
Char Dham Yatra by Road from Delhi
Day 01: Delhi to Haridwar (220 kms / 6-7 hrs)
- Height: 310 meters (1,017 ft)
- Activities: Start your journey from Delhi and reach Haridwar, the “Gateway to the Himalayas.” Spend the evening attending the Ganga Aarti (river worship ceremony) at Har ki Pauri.
Day 02: Haridwar to Barkot (210 kms / 6-7 hrs)
- Height: 1,352 meters (4,436 ft)
- Activities: This scenic drive takes you through the foothills of the Himalayas. Barkot is a charming town surrounded by mountains and serves as a base for visiting Yamunotri.
Day 03: Barkot to Yamunotri & Back (36 kms drive & 9 km trek each way)
- Height: Yamunotri – 3,235 meters (10,613 ft)
- Activities: Today’s highlight is the visit to Yamunotri temple, the source of the holy Yamuna River. Be prepared for a moderate 9 km trek (each way) on a well-paved path.
Day 04: Barkot to Uttarkashi (100 kms / 4 hrs)
- Height: 1,352 meters (4,436 ft)
- Activities: Enjoy the scenic drive along the Bhagirathi River to Uttarkashi, another essential stop on the Chardham Yatra.
Day 05: Uttarkashi to Gangotri & Back (100 kms / 3-4 hrs each side)
- Height: Gangotri – 3,048 meters (9,999 ft)
- Activities: Visit Gangotri, the origin of the sacred Ganges River.
Day 06: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi (220 kms / 8-9 hrs)
- Height: 1,319 meters (4,327 ft)
- Activities: This is a long day of travel, but the mountain vistas will keep you company. Guptkashi is a beautiful town located near Kedarnath.
Day 07: Guptkashi to Kedarnath & Back (30 kms by road & 19 kms trek one way)
- Height: Kedarnath – 3,384 meters (11,099 ft)
- Activities: This is the most challenging day. A 19 km uphill trek (each way) takes you to Kedarnath, one of the highest Shiva shrines in India. Prepare for cold weather and thin mountain air.
Day 08: Buffer Day in Guptkashi
- Activities: This buffer day allows you to rest and acclimatize after the Kedarnath trek. It also provides a cushion in case of landslides or road closures, which can be common in the mountains.
Day 09: Guptkashi to Badrinath (160 kms / 7 hrs)
- Height: 3,133 meters (10,279 ft)
- Activities: Visit Badrinath, another important Dham dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The road journey is scenic, but can be challenging.
Day 10: Guptkashi to Rishikesh (160 kms / 7 hrs)
- Height: 895 meters (2,936 ft)
- Activities: Descend from the mountains and reach Rishikesh, the “Yoga Capital of the World.” Spend the evening exploring the vibrant town.
Day 11: Rishikesh to Delhi (265 kms / 5-6 hrs)
- Activities: Enjoy the last leg of your journey back to Delhi, taking home memories of your spiritual pilgrimage.
Estimated Price per Person: Rs. 35,000 – Rs. 40,000
Price Includes:
- Vehicle with driver
- MAP Plan (Breakfast & Dinner)
- Accommodation
- Yatra registrations
- Sightseeing
Char Dham Yatra by Road from Haridwar
It’s same as the above itinerary only that Day 01 and Day 11 is reduced and from Rishikesh you’ll be dropped back to Haridwar to take your train/ flight back.
Estimated Price per Person: Rs. 30,000 – Rs. 35,000
Price Includes:
- Vehicle with driver
- MAP Plan (Breakfast & Dinner)
- Accommodation
- Yatra registrations
- Sightseeing
Important Note: It’s highly recommended to factor in an extra day as a buffer, especially during the monsoon season.
Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter from Haridwar
Day 1: Dehradun/ Haridwar arrival
On arrival at Dehradun airport/ Haridwar Railway station pick up and transfer to hotel. An overnight stay.
Day 2: DEHRADUN TO YAMUNOTRI
07:00 AM – DEPARTURE S’DHARA HELIPAD, DEHRADUN
07:45 AM – ARRIVAL KHARSALI HELIPAD, YAMUNOTRI
We will transfer you to Sahastradhara helipad on Sahastradhara Road, Dehradun which is the starting and ending point of this yatra. Vehicles are arranged for pick up. Breakfast will be arranged at Kharsali and passengers are supposed to leave their hotel early at Dehradun/Haridwar. Upon arrival at Kharsali (The helipad for Yamunotri) you’ll be transferred to your hotel.
Temple is a 9 KMS trek which can be covered by palki/ Pony / walk. Total journey will take approx. 9 hours
Day 3: YAMUNOTRI TO GANGOTRI
07:45 AM – DEPARTURE YAMUNOTRI HELIPAD
08:30 AM- ARRIVAL HARSIL HELIPAD, GANGOTRI
Harsil is one of the most beautiful and picturesque valleys in Uttrakhand also known as mini Switzerland. Gangotri temple is approx MS 22Km from Harsil helipad and drive by car is approx. 50 mins. Stay at Harsil is arranged.
Day 4: GANGOTRI TO KEDARNATH
09:00 AM – DEPARTURE HARSIL HELIPAD, GANGOTRI
10:00 AM – ARRIVAL KEDARNATH HELIPAD
Kedarnath is flanked by breathtaking snow-capped peaks, among all four Char Dham sites. We will arrive to phata helipad from Gangotri. Temple is approximately 500 meters away from helipad and take 15 min to reach. once the Darshan is completed, We will return to Guptkashi and stay is arranged at Guptkashi / Sitapur. Passengers can visit ancient Triyuginarayan or Kalimath Mandir in the evening if time permits.
Day 5: KEDARNATH TO BADRINATH
10:00 AM – DEPARTURE SERSI HELIPAD, GUPTKASHI
11:00 AM – ARRIVAL BADRINATH HELIPAD
Badrinath has as an average elevation of 3,100 metres. You can stay there and attend maha abhishekam aarti. Stay is arranged nearby.
Day 6: BADRINATH TO DEHRADUN
11:30 AM – DEPARTURE BADRINATH HELIPAD
12:30 PM – ARRIVAL S’DHARA HELIPAD, DEHRADUN
After reaching Dehradun helipad you’ll be Later DROPPED TO Dehradun Airport to board your flight/ Haridwar to board your Train.
Estimated Price per Person: Rs. 100,000 – Rs. 125,000
Price Includes:
- Char Dham Yatra by helicopter on sharing basis ex Dehradun
- All transfer by 4 wheeler
- Accommodation for 05 Nights
- Assistance on arrival and departure
- Breakfast and Dinner
- All transfer to temple
Book your Yatra Package
Get amazing and customised packages according to you from Realm of Dream India Private Limited (My travel company), we will provide you best service and the best memories of the yatra. Are you planning to go on this year comment down or message me and in the next blog I’ll share my own experience at each dham, till then you book your experience with us!