Char Dham Yatra From Rishikesh | Haridwar

Overview

The Char Dham Yatra, one of the most sacred pilgrimage circuits in India, holds immense spiritual significance for Hindu devotees. Nestled in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, the yatra covers four revered shrines — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. For many, the journey begins at the holy cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Gods."

HIGHLIGHTS

• Badrinath
• Yamunotri
• Gangotri
• Kedarnath

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

• Day 1 : HARIDWAR TO BARKOT

  Begin your spiritual Char Dham Yatra with a soul-refreshing drive from Haridwar to Barkot, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. This journey combines spiritual significance with natural beauty, taking you through misty mountains, charming hill towns, and serene valleys.
  
  Along the way, you’ll experience the peaceful rhythm of the mountains and witness the transition from city bustle to Himalayan tranquility.
  
  Top Attractions & Highlights En Route:
  Mussoorie
  – Known as the “Queen of Hills,” Mussoorie offers panoramic views, colonial architecture, and a cool breeze perfect for a stopover.
  
  Kempty Falls
  – A refreshing waterfall near Mussoorie where you can take a break, click photos, or enjoy a hot cup of tea by the water.
  
  Local Villages & Hills
  – Drive through untouched Garhwali villages with terraced farms, giving a glimpse into traditional hill life.
  
  Arrival at Barkot
  – A peaceful hill town ideal for acclimatization and rest before your Yamunotri trek. Many camps and hotels offer scenic views and warm hospitality.
  

• Day 2 : BARKOT – YAMUNOTRI – BARKOT

  Rise early and head towards Janki Chatti, the base point for your sacred Yamunotri Temple trek. The 6 km trek to Yamunotri, one of the four shrines in the Char Dham Yatra, takes you through enchanting Himalayan trails, cascading waterfalls, and lush green valleys.
  
  Upon reaching the temple, take a holy dip in the Surya Kund, a natural hot water spring believed to possess healing properties. Offer prayers at the revered Yamunotri Temple, the spiritual source of the Yamuna River, and soak in the divine atmosphere.
  
  After darshan, trek back to Janki Chatti and drive back to Barkot for a restful overnight stay.
  
  Highlights of the Day:
  Scenic drive to Janki Chatti through picturesque mountain roads
  
  Trek through rhododendron forests and serene Himalayan trails
  
  Holy dip in Surya Kund (hot spring)
  
  Darshan at Yamunotri Temple, the origin of the Yamuna River
  
  Return trek with mesmerizing views of snow-capped peaks

• Day 3 : BARKOT TO UTTARKASHI

  After a wholesome breakfast, begin your journey towards Uttarkashi, a tranquil hill town nestled on the banks of the sacred Bhagirathi River. This serene destination plays a key role in the Char Dham Yatra, serving as the base for pilgrims heading to Gangotri.
  
  Enjoy the scenic drive through dense pine forests, terraced fields, and charming mountain villages. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take time to rest and refresh.
  
  In the evening, visit the ancient Vishwanath Temple, a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its peaceful aura and spiritual importance in the region.
  
  Unwind in the quiet surroundings of this holy town and prepare for the spiritual journey ahead.
  Overnight stay in Uttarkashi.
  
  Attractions of the Day:
  Bhagirathi River Views – Serene riverside drive with panoramic Himalayan backdrops
  
  Uttarkashi Town – Traditional hill town with spiritual charm and clean mountain air
  
  Vishwanath Temple – One of the oldest Shiva temples in North India, with deep spiritual roots
  
  Mountain Villages En Route – Scenic stops with glimpses of Garhwali culture and lifestyle
  
  Natural Beauty – Pine forests, river bends, and peaceful landscapes throughout the journey
  
  

• Day 4 : UTTARKASHI – GANGOTRI – UTTARKASHI

  Start your day early with a drive towards the revered Gangotri Temple, one of the most significant sites in the Char Dham Yatra. The route takes you through the breathtaking Harsil Valley, a hidden gem in Uttarakhand known for its lush deodar forests, apple orchards, and snow-capped peaks.
  
  Upon reaching Gangotri, take a holy dip in the Bhagirathi River, considered one of the purest and most sacred rivers in India. Then, visit the historic Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Feel the divine presence and soak in the calm, spiritual vibes of this Himalayan shrine.
  
  Spend some quiet moments exploring the serene surroundings before heading back to Uttarkashi by evening.
  Overnight stay in Uttarkashi.
  
  Attractions of the Day:
  Harsil Valley Uttarakhand – Scenic Himalayan valley known for pristine beauty and peaceful ambiance
  
  Gangotri Temple – A key Char Dham shrine devoted to Goddess Ganga
  
  Bhagirathi River Dip – Spiritual cleansing in the sacred waters
  
  Mountain Landscapes – Stunning views of pine forests, rocky cliffs, and glacier-fed streams
  
  Local Culture – Encounter traditional villages and customs along the route

• Day 5 : UTTARKASHI TO GUPTKASHI

  After breakfast, begin your journey to Guptkashi, a town steeped in spiritual significance and nestled amidst the Garhwal Himalayas. The scenic drive winds along deep river valleys and forested mountain roads, offering breathtaking views throughout the day.
  
  En route, stop at the sacred confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini Rivers at Rudraprayag, one of the five revered Prayags in Uttarakhand. This spot holds immense religious value and provides a peaceful break along the journey.
  
  On arrival in Guptkashi, check into your hotel and relax. Later, if time permits, visit the Ardhnareshwar Temple, a unique shrine symbolizing the unity of Shiva and Parvati.
  
  Overnight stay in Guptkashi.
  
  Attractions of the Day:
  Rudraprayag – Sacred river confluence offering divine energy and stunning views
  
  Guptkashi – A peaceful spiritual town, gateway to Kedarnath
  
  Ardhnareshwar Temple – Rare temple dedicated to the half-male, half-female form of Lord Shiva
  
  Scenic Mountain Roads – Travel through deep valleys, pine forests, and charming hillside villages
  
  Mandakini River Views – Serene river flowing beside the route to Kedarnath

• Day 6 : GUPTKASHI TO KEDARNATH (TREK)

  Begin your day early and proceed to Sonprayag, the last point accessible by private vehicle. From there, take a shared jeep or local transport to Gaurikund, the base camp for the sacred Kedarnath Temple trek.
  
  Embark on a 16 km trek through scenic trails, alpine forests, river crossings, and dramatic views of snow-covered peaks. This spiritually uplifting journey takes you deep into the heart of the Himalayas, offering moments of both physical challenge and divine connection.
  
  On reaching Kedarnath, visit the revered Kedarnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and a key destination in the Char Dham Yatra. The temple's setting — nestled against towering mountains — is a truly awe-inspiring experience.
  
  Spend some peaceful time in devotion and reflection.
  Overnight stay in Kedarnath (basic accommodation facilities).
  
  Attractions of the Day:
  Sonprayag & Gaurikund – Scenic towns with mythological significance
  
  Kedarnath Temple – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, surrounded by Himalayan glaciers
  
  The 16 km Trek – A powerful journey through nature and spirituality
  
  Alpine Beauty – Breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, valleys, and wildlife
  
  Devotional Vibes – Evening aarti, temple chants, and the divine stillness of Kedarnath

• Day 7 : KEDARNATH TO GUPTKASHI

  After attending the morning darshan at the sacred Kedarnath Temple, begin your trek back to Gaurikund, retracing the scenic 16 km trail through majestic Himalayan landscapes and spiritual serenity.
  
  From Gaurikund, continue your return journey by road to Guptkashi. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind after the long day of travel and trekking. This pause offers time to reflect on the powerful experience at Kedarnath and recharge for the days ahead.
  
  Overnight stay in Guptkashi.
  
  Attractions of the Day:
  Morning Darshan at Kedarnath Temple – Experience the divine energy in the calm of early morning
  
  Scenic Trek Back to Gaurikund – Revisit the serene alpine trails and mountain vistas
  
  Mandakini River Views – Follow the sacred river back towards Guptkashi
  
  Rest and Reflection – A day to relax after completing one of the most spiritual parts of the Char Dham Yatra

• Day 8 : GUPTKASHI TO BADRINATH

  After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive to Badrinath, the final and one of the most revered destinations in the Char Dham Yatra. The route offers spectacular views of the Himalayan valleys, meandering rivers, and charming mountain settlements.
  
  Upon reaching Badrinath, take a ritual dip in the Tapt Kund, a natural hot water spring believed to cleanse the body and soul. Then, proceed to offer prayers at the magnificent Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and nestled between Nar and Narayan mountain ranges.
  
  As evening falls, attend the peaceful Aarti ceremony, where chants and bells echo through the valley — a spiritually uplifting experience not to be missed.
  
  Attractions of the Day:
  Scenic Himalayan Drive – Enjoy panoramic views along winding mountain roads
  
  Tapt Kund – Holy hot spring known for its healing and purifying qualities
  
  Badrinath Temple – One of the most sacred Vishnu temples and final stop of the Char Dham Yatra
  
  Evening Aarti – A divine ritual that fills the air with devotion and peace
  
  Alaknanda River – Flowing beside the temple, adding to the sacred ambiance

• Day 9 : BADRINATH TO RUDRAPRAYAG

  Begin your morning with a short excursion to Mana Village, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border. This culturally rich village holds deep mythological significance and offers a unique glimpse into ancient Himalayan life.
  
  Explore sacred sites like:
  
  Vyas Gufa – The cave where Sage Vyas is believed to have composed the Mahabharata
  
  Ganesh Gufa – Dedicated to Lord Ganesh, said to have penned down the epic
  
  Bhim Pul – A natural stone bridge believed to be placed by Bhim for Draupadi to cross the Saraswati River
  
  After this spiritual and cultural exploration, begin your journey towards Rudraprayag, another sacred confluence town where the Alaknanda and Mandakini Rivers meet. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax for the evening.
  Overnight stay in Rudraprayag.
  
  Attractions of the Day:
  Mana Village – The last Indian village, rich in culture and mythology
  
  Vyas Gufa & Ganesh Gufa – Ancient caves with deep Mahabharata connections
  
  Bhim Pul – A stunning natural bridge with mythological legend
  
  Scenic Drive to Rudraprayag – Through forests, valleys, and river confluences
  
  Alaknanda-Mandakini Confluence – A peaceful riverside spot with spiritual energy

• Day 10 : RUDRAPRAYAG TO HARIDWAR

  After breakfast, begin your return journey to Haridwar, bringing your unforgettable Char Dham Yatra to a spiritual close. The route is filled with sacred stops and mesmerizing Himalayan beauty.
  
  Along the way, visit the revered Dhari Devi Temple, located on the banks of the Alaknanda River. This temple is believed to protect the Char Dham region and holds great importance among locals and pilgrims alike.
  
  Further en route, halt at Devprayag, the sacred confluence where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers unite to form the holy Ganga. The spiritual energy and natural beauty of this site make it a perfect stop for reflection and gratitude.
  
  By evening, arrive in Haridwar, one of India’s holiest cities. Check into your hotel and relax after a meaningful journey.
  Overnight stay in Haridwar.
  
  Attractions of the Day:
  Dhari Devi Temple – Guardian deity of Uttarakhand, standing on a mid-river rock
  
  Devprayag Sangam – Sacred confluence where the Ganga officially begins
  
  Mountain-to-Plains Transition – Witness the gradual shift from Himalayan terrain to the Ganges plains
  
  Return to Haridwar – A spiritual circle completes where the journey began

• Day 11 : DEPARTURE FROM HARIDWAR

  After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your journey back home — carrying with you divine blessings, a calm spirit, and the unforgettable memories of your Char Dham Yatra.
  
  As you leave the sacred city of Haridwar, may the spiritual energy of the Himalayas, the purity of the Ganga, and the soul-stirring moments from Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath remain etched in your heart.
  
  Though your pilgrimage comes to an end, the inner journey of faith, peace, and transformation continues.
  
  Wishing you a safe, peaceful, and blessed return.

Facilities

• Hotels
• Parking