The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India, attracting thousands of devotees every year. Nestled in the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand, this spiritual journey includes visiting four revered sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Whether you are seeking peace, divine blessings, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the Char Dham Yatra offers it all.
The traditional Char Dham Yatra Route follows this order
Yamunotri (3,293 m)
Gangotri (3,100 m)
Kedarnath (3,583 m)
Badrinath (3,133 m)
The Char Dham Yatra Route 2025 is set to commence in late April and early May, marking the beginning of the pilgrimage season to the four sacred shrines in Uttarakhand: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These dates are determined based on auspicious Hindu festivals and are announced by the temple committees and the Uttarakhand government.
Char Dham Yatra 2025 Opening Dates
-
Yamunotri Temple: 30 April 2025
-
Gangotri Temple: 30 April 2025
-
Kedarnath Temple: 2 May 2025
-
Badrinath Temple: 4 May 2025
Starting Point of Char Dham Yatra: Where Does the Yatra Begin?
The Char Dham Yatra Route officially begins from the holy city of Haridwar or Rishikesh, both located in Uttarakhand. These cities are considered the gateway to the Himalayas and are the ideal launching points for your spiritual journey.
Why Haridwar or Rishikesh?
Char Dham Yatra Route
Haridwar is a major pilgrimage destination itself, located on the banks of the sacred Ganga River. It’s a city where devotees take a holy dip before starting their journey to the Char Dham.
Rishikesh, just 20 km from Haridwar, is another spiritual hub known for its yoga ashrams, riverfront ghats, and serene environment. Many tour operators start their Char Dham packages from here.
✈️ Nearest Airport:
- Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) – approx. 35 km from Rishikesh and 45 km from Haridwar.
Direct flights are available from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities.
🚆 Nearest Railway Stations:
Haridwar Railway Station – Well connected to major cities like Delhi, Varanasi, Kolkata, and Jaipur.
Yog N Rishikesh Railway Station – Limited connectivity but good for local access.
🛣 From Haridwar/Rishikesh, the road journey usually follows this sequence- The Char Dham Yatra Route :
- Haridwar/Rishikesh ➝ Barkot (base for Yamunotri)
- Barkot ➝ Yamunotri
- Yamunotri ➝ Uttarkashi ➝ Gangotri
- Gangotri ➝ Guptkashi ➝ Kedarnath
- Kedarnath ➝ Badrinath
- Badrinath ➝ Joshimath ➝ Rishikesh/Haridwar
Safety Tips for Char Dham Yatra Route 2025
Get a Health Check-Up: High altitudes can be tough. Check with your doctor before the trip.
Acclimatize Properly: Especially at Kedarnath and Badrinath. Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion.
Carry Essential Medications: Oxygen cans, altitude sickness tablets, and regular meds.
Pack Warm Clothes: Temperatures can drop sharply, especially in Kedarnath.
Travel Light but Smart: Include torchlight, ID proofs, first aid kit, power banks, and dry snacks.
Book in Advance: Register on the official Uttarakhand Tourism portal and book hotels/transport ahead of time.
Avoid the Rainy Season: Best time is May to June and September to October. Avoid July-August due to landslides.
Registration and Travel Tips
- Mandatory Registration: All pilgrims must register for the Yatra. Registration can be done online through the official Uttarakhand Tourism portal or via the “Tourist Care Uttarakhand” mobile app.
- Advance Planning: Given the high influx of devotees, it’s advisable to book accommodations and transportation well in advance.
Health Precautions: Due to the high-altitude locations of the shrines, ensure you are physically fit and consult a doctor before undertaking the journey.
Weather Considerations: Be prepared for sudden weather changes and carry appropriate clothing and gear.
Things to Carry
- Valid ID proofs (Aadhar, passport, etc.)
- Woollen clothes and thermal wear
- Raincoat or umbrella
- Trekking shoes with good grip
- Dry fruits, energy bars, glucose
- Personal hygiene items and sanitizer
Embark on a Transformative Journey with Char Dham Yatra 2025
The Char Dham Yatra 2025 offers more than just a pilgrimage; it’s a profound journey through the sacred Himalayas, encompassing spiritual awakening, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Starting from the serene towns of Haridwar or Rishikesh, pilgrims traverse through the revered shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, each holding deep religious significance.
With the temples opening between April 30 and May 4, 2025, it’s essential to plan ahead. Ensure timely registration, which is mandatory and can be completed online or at designated counters in Haridwar and Rishikesh
Prepare adequately for the journey by acclimatizing to high altitudes, packing essential items, and staying informed about weather conditions.
Whether you’re a devout seeker, an adventure enthusiast, or someone yearning for a serene escape, the Char Dham Yatra promises a life-enriching experience. Embrace the journey with reverence, and let the divine landscapes guide your path to spiritual fulfillment.