How to Prepare for Your Chardham Yatra 2024
Delhi Tempo Travels
Delhi Tempo Travels has its fleet called Luxury Tempo Traveller Hire for Minimum Seating 9 to 20 Seater Tempo.
Chardham refers to a group of four pilgrimage sites in India that are considered highly sacred in Hinduism. These four sites are in the Himalayas in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Chardham Yatra is an important and revered journey for Hindu devotees to accomplish for moksha.
The Four Sacred Sites of Chardham are:
1. Yamunotri
It is the source of the river Yamuna and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Yamunotri Temple is in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of about 3,293 meters (10,804 ft).
Yamounotri Road Route Map
Yamunotri, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site, is located in the Garhwal Himalayas. This route starts from Hanuman Chatti, which can be reached by road from Barkot. From Hanuman Chatti, pilgrims trek 13 km to reach Yamunotri. The route passes through lush forests, grasslands, and beautiful landscapes, with the Yamuna River flowing along the journey. This journey offers a spiritual and picturesque experience in the breathtaking Himalayan region.
Important Place to Visit: Yamunotri Temple, Saptarishi Kund, Surya Kund, Divya Shila, HanumanChatti, Kharsali.
2. Gangotri
Situated at an altitude of about 3,100 meters (10,200 ft), Gangotri is the origin of the river Ganga. The main temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Gangotri Road Route Map
The route starts from Rishikesh, passing through Uttarkashi, and continuing along NH34. From Uttarkashi, take the state highway towards Gangotri. The scenic journey involves navigating winding mountain roads along the Bhagirathi River. Key stops include Gangnani, Harsil, and Dharali. The final stretch includes a steep ascent to Gangotri, where the holy Ganges River originates. The route offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and pristine landscapes.
Important Place to Visit : Bhojbasa, Gangnani, Kedartal, Gaumukh, Gangotri Temple, Bhaironghati, Jalmagna Shivlinga, Tapovan.
3. Kedarnath
Situated at an altitude of about 3,583 meters (11,755 ft), Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is considered one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites.
Kedarnath Road Route Map
Start at Haridwar, proceed to Rishikesh, then drive to Rudraprayag. From there, follow NH107 to Guptkashi and Sonprayag. The trek begins at Gaurikund, leading to Kedarnath. The sacred shrine is nestled in the Himalayas. Return via the same route or explore alternative paths.
Important Place to Visit: Gandhi Sarovar, Phata, Son Prayag, Triyugi Narayan Temple, Chandrapuri, Kalimath, Vasuki Tal, Shankaracharya Samadhi, Gaurikund.
4. Badrinath
This pilgrimage site is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,133 meters (10,279 ft). The main deity in Badrinath temple is Lord Badri Narayan.
Badrinath Road Route Map
The route typically starts from Rishikesh, passing through Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Chamoli, and Joshimath. From Joshimath, one takes the uphill journey to Badrinath. The route offers breathtaking views of the mountains, rivers, and lush landscapes, making it a spiritually enriching and scenic journey for pilgrims and travelers alike.
Important Places to Visit: Pandukeshwar, Yogadhyan Badri Temple, Mana Village, Satopanth Lake, Tapta Kund, Neelkanth Peak, Charan Paduka, Mata Murti Temple, Narad Kund, Bheem Pul, Ganesh Cave, Brahma Kapal, Sheshnetra etc.
Read More: Delhi to Agra, Mathura, and Vrindavan with the best Tempo Traveller Rental in Delhi
Who is it for?
However, there are many adverse situations during the journey to Chardham that not everyone can avoid. Therefore, it is for those who are above 18 years of age. It is better not to take children with you as their bodies may not be able to tolerate the harsh cold temperatures encountered during the trip. Similarly, Chardham Yatra is not for those who are 70 years of age. Older people are more likely to contract active diseases in cold areas.
Opening And Closing Timing for Chardham Yatra 2024
The holy Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is open to devotees only for a brief period of six months a year. Char Dham Yatra 2024 opening date is 10th May 2024 which lies on the auspicious day of Akshay Tritiya. The temples are open every year from April to November and closing dates are decided by Badrinath Kedarnath Commit.
Note: To get the latest information for the Chardham Yatra in 2024, we recommend checking with official government tourism websites, trusted travel agencies, or reliable news sources. They can provide the latest details, including schedules, rules, and any other important information related to the trip.
Which month is better for Char Dham Yatra?
Char Dham Yatra in India is traditionally undertaken from May to October, with the peak season being from May to June. These months are considered favorable for pilgrimage as the weather is relatively pleasant, and the snow at higher altitudes has melted, making pilgrimage routes accessible.
Tips for Effective Planning for Your Chardham Yatra 2024
If you are planning to visit Chardham Yatra in 2024, here are some essential preparations you should consider:
Plan your itinerary: Research and plan your route keeping in mind the order of visiting the four Dhams. Decide the duration of your trip and allow enough time for each destination. You can plan a Chardham yatra by tempo traveller for a comfortable trip with family or fellow members.
Weather conditions: Be aware of weather conditions during your trip. Pack accordingly, keeping in mind both day and night temperatures.
Health check-up: Consult your doctor before leaving on a trip to make sure you are physically healthy. Carry essential medicines and a basic first aid kit.
Fitness level: The journey involves trekking and traveling in challenging terrain. Make sure you are physically prepared. Practice light exercise and walking to improve stamina.
Travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unexpected events.
Permits and Permissions: Check if any permits are required to travel, especially if you are a foreign national. Obtain necessary permissions for trekking and visiting certain areas.
Accommodation: Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage season. Carry a list of emergency contact numbers and addresses for each location.
Clothes and Necessities: Pack appropriate clothing for varying temperatures and weather conditions. Include the essentials like a good pair of walking shoes, rain gear, a hat, sunglasses, and a water bottle.
Altitude sickness: Destinations are at altitude. To avoid altitude sickness, acclimatize yourself slowly and stay hydrated. Carry prescribed medicines for altitude sickness with you.
Cash and Card: Carry sufficient cash with you as ATMs may not be easily available in remote areas. Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card.
Communications: Inform your family and friends about your travel itinerary. Carry a mobile phone with a power bank for emergency communications.
Cultural sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions. Wear decent clothes while visiting religious places.
Transportation: Decide for transportation between Dhams in advance. Confirm the availability of public transportation or rent a reliable tempo traveller on rent.
Stay informed: Stay updated on weather forecasts, road conditions, and any travel advisories.
Pack light: Keep your luggage to a minimum. Pack only the essentials to make the trip more comfortable.