The Chardham Yatra refers to a pilgrimage to four holy shrines in Uttarakhand: • Yamunotri – Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna • Gangotri – Dedicated to Goddess Ganga • Kedarnath – A temple of Lord Shiva • Badrinath – A temple of Lord Vishnu .

The best time to do the Chardham Yatra is from May to October. During this period, the temples remain open for devotees, and the weather is comparatively mild. The pilgrimage season typically starts in late April or early May, with the temples opening on Akshay Tritiya (usually in May), and the Yatra ends in October, before the temples close for the winter season (around Dussehra or Diwali). • Summer (May to June): This is the peak season. The weather is pleasant, but it can get crowded, especially during the summer vacation period. • Monsoon (July to August): While fewer tourists visit during this time due to heavy rainfall, the monsoon season poses a higher risk of landslides and disruptions. It is best to avoid visiting during these months. • Autumn (September to October): The weather is again favorable, and the crowds have thinned out, making it an ideal time for those who prefer a quieter journey. .

Traditional Route: This route starts from Haridwar, traveling through Rishikesh, and then to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and finally Badrinath.

Chardham Yatra from Haridwar / Dehradun / Rishikesh it will take 9N/10D and from Delhi it will take 11N/12D to complete the packages.

The Chardham pilgrimage is accessible via multiple modes of transportation, including road, rail, and air. By Road: • The most common way to reach Chardham is by road. There are well-maintained highways that connect Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other towns to the Yatra destinations. • Private taxis, buses, and shared cabs are available from Haridwar, Dehradun, and Rishikesh. • The roads leading to the temples can be narrow and winding, so travel time may be longer. By Rail: • Haridwar and Rishikesh are the closest major railway stations. From there, you can take buses or taxis to the respective temples. By Air: • The closest airport to the Chardham shrines is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 25 km from Rishikesh. From Dehradun, you can travel by road to the temples. • For Kedarnath, you can take a helicopter ride from Phata or Sersi (near Gaurikund), which is the nearest helipad to the temple. By Helicopter: • The Chardham Helicopter Yatra is a popular and convenient option for those looking to complete the pilgrimage in a short time. The helicopter service offers direct flights from Dehradun or Phata to Kedarnath and Badrinath, significantly reducing travel time .

Accommodation at the Chardham shrines ranges from budget options to more comfortable guesthouses and hotels. However, the facilities are basic, particularly in remote areas like Kedarnath and Yamunotri. • Yamunotri: Accommodation options near Yamunotri are limited to dharamshalas, guesthouses, and tents. The area around Janki Chatti (a base point before the trek to Yamunotri) has more options. • Gangotri: There are hotels, guesthouses, and dharamshalas in Gangotri town. For better facilities, you can opt to stay in Uttarkashi, which is about 100 km away. • Kedarnath: Kedarnath offers very basic accommodation, primarily in the form of guesthouses, as well as tents that can be booked. During peak season, the demand for rooms can be high. • Badrinath: Badrinath has relatively better facilities compared to the other three shrines, with a range of hotels, guesthouses, and dharamshalas. You can also find premium hotels here. It is highly recommended to book accommodation in advance during the peak pilgrimage season (May-October).

The Chardham Yatra can take anywhere between 10-12 days, depending on the time you spend at each shrine and the mode of transportation. A typical itinerary looks like: • Day 1-2: Haridwar → Rishikesh → Yamunotri • Day 3-4: Yamunotri → Gangotri • Day 5-7: Gangotri → Kedarnath • Day 8-10: Kedarnath → Badrinath • Day 11-12: Return to Haridwar However, many pilgrims prefer to take the helicopter option for Kedarnath and Badrinath, which reduces travel time considerably. .

The Chardham Yatra is relatively safe, but there are certain risks that need to be considered, such as: • Landslides and Bad Weather: The monsoon season (July-August) brings the risk of landslides, so it is advisable to avoid traveling during this time. • Altitude Sickness: Kedarnath and Badrinath are located at high altitudes, and pilgrims should be prepared for the possibility of altitude sickness. • Trekking: The treks to Yamunotri and Kedarnath can be physically challenging, especially for elderly or unfit individuals..

The Chardham Yatra involves moderate to strenuous physical activity, particularly the treks to Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Kedarnath. The trek to Kedarnath, for example, involves a 16 km uphill climb from Gaurikund. • Yamunotri: A 5-6 km uphill trek from Janki Chatti. • Gangotri: A 20 km drive to Gangotri, and a short walk to the temple. • Kedarnath: A strenuous 16 km uphill trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. There are ponies and palanquins available for those who cannot walk the entire distance. • Badrinath: This is accessible by road, but there is a steep climb to the temple from the town. Pilgrims are advised to be in good health, carry adequate clothing and gear, and prepare for high altitudes, which may lead to altitude sickness.

Packing for the Chardham Yatra requires careful consideration of the weather, terrain, and physical exertion. Here’s a checklist: • Warm Clothing: Even in summer, temperatures can drop in the evenings or at higher altitudes, so pack a good jacket, thermal wear, and sweaters. • Comfortable Footwear: Good trekking shoes or sandals are essential for the long treks. • Rain Gear: Waterproof clothing and an umbrella are recommended during the monsoon months. • Medicines: Carry personal medications and a basic first-aid kit. Keep anti-altitude sickness tablets if you’re traveling at higher altitudes. • Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are important. • Water Bottles: Hydration is essential during the trek, especially at higher altitudes. • ID Proof and Travel Documents: Carry identification like an Aadhaar card, and any permits or passes required. .

Who is planning to Visit Yamunotri Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath registration is compulsory. You can register yourself online at registrationandtouristcare uk gov in., For registration you simply need Aadhar Card and mobile number to register yourself in Government portal for Chardham.

Tickets to Shri Kedarnath Dham will be booked through only IRCTC HeliYatra Website (https://heliyatra.irctc.co.in).

Yes, the yatra can be physically demanding, especially the trek to Kedarnath which is 19kms trek it takes 8-9hrs one side and Yamunotri 6kms trek which take 3-4hrs reaching at the temple. It's essential to be physically fit and acclimatize properly to the high altitudes.

It's important to stay hydrated, carry essential medicines, and be aware of weather conditions. Always carry warm clothes, raincoats and sports shoes that make a grip while trekking and not easily wet.

While the yatra can be physically demanding, arrangements are made for senior citizens and people with disabilities to make the journey with the help of palki and ponies and at Kedarnath there you can take Helicopter service.

Yes, there is a dress code for visiting the temples. Devotees are required wear traditional dresses while visiting the temple.

Yes, travelling to Chardham is completely safe for solo travellers.

Yes, some of the Char Dham temples in Uttarakhand offer special darshan tickets .