Amit Amit The Char Dham Yatra 2024 is one of the most revered pilgrimage in India, encompassing four sacred shrines in Uttarakhand: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Each year, thousands of devotees embark on this spiritual journey to seek blessings and attain salvation.
Char Dham Yatra 2024 Key Dates:
Opening Dates:
- Yamunotri: 6th May 2024
- Gangotri: 6th May 2024
- Kedarnath: 9th May 2024
- Badrinath: 10th May 2024
Closing Dates:
The temples typically close around Diwali, with specific dates announced closer to the festival.
Duration for Char Dham Yatra 2024:
The Char Dham Yatra usually takes about 10 to 12 days, allowing for a thorough visit to each temple, along with travel and acclimatization time.
Route and Distance for Char Dham Yatra 2024:
Yamunotri:
- Location: Garhwal Himalayas
- Starting Point: Rishikesh/Haridwar
- Distance: Rishikesh to Barkot (220 km) + Barkot to Janki Chatti (36 km) + Janki Chatti to Yamunotri (6 km trek)
Gangotri:
- Location: On the banks of the Bhagirathi River
- Starting Point: Barkot/Uttarkashi
- Distance: Barkot to Uttarkashi (100 km) + Uttarkashi to Gangotri (100 km)
Kedarnath:
- Location: Rudra Himalayas
- Starting Point: Guptkashi/Sonprayag
- Distance: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi (220 km) + Guptkashi to Gaurikund (32 km) + Gaurikund to Kedarnath (16 km trek)
Badrinath:
- Location: On the banks of the Alaknanda River
- Starting Point: Joshimath
- Distance: Guptkashi to Joshimath (180 km) + Joshimath to Badrinath (45 km)
Detailed Itinerary for Char Dham Yatra 2024:
Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar/Rishikesh
- Activities: Arrive in Haridwar or Rishikesh. Attend evening aarti at Har Ki Pauri (Haridwar) or Triveni Ghat (Rishikesh).
- Stay: Overnight in Haridwar/Rishikesh.
Day 2: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Barkot
- Distance: 220 km (approx. 7-8 hours)
- Route: Haridwar/Rishikesh – Mussoorie – Barkot
- Activities: Drive through scenic landscapes, visit Kempty Falls.
- Stay: Overnight in Barkot.
Day 3: Barkot to Yamunotri and back to Barkot
- Distance: 36 km drive + 6 km trek (one way)
- Route: Barkot – Janki Chatti – Yamunotri
- Drive to Janki Chatti and trek to Yamunotri temple. Perform rituals and return to Barkot.
- *Stay: Overnight in Barkot.
Day 4: Barkot to Uttarkashi
- Distance: 100 km (approx. 4-5 hours)
- Route: Barkot – Uttarkashi
- Activities: Drive to Uttarkashi, visit Vishwanath Temple and Shakti Temple.
- Stay: Overnight in Uttarkashi.
Day 5: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and back to Uttarkashi
- Distance: 100 km (one way)
- Route: Uttarkashi – Gangotri
- Activities: Drive to Gangotri, visit Gangotri temple, perform rituals, and return to Uttarkashi.
- Stay: Overnight in Uttarkashi.
Day 6: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi
- Distance: 220 km (approx. 8-9 hours)
- Route: Uttarkashi – Guptkashi
- Activities: Drive through beautiful valleys and villages, visit the heritage town of Tehri.
- Stay: Overnight in Guptkashi.
Day 7: Guptkashi to Kedarnath
- Distance: 32 km drive + 16 km trek
- Route: Guptkashi – Gaurikund – Kedarnath
- Activities: Drive to Gaurikund and trek to Kedarnath temple. Attend evening aarti.
- Stay: Overnight in Kedarnath (tent/hotel).
Day 8: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
- Distance: 16 km trek + 32 km drive
- Route: Kedarnath – Gaurikund – Guptkashi
- Activities: Early morning visit to Kedarnath temple, trek down to Gaurikund, and drive back to Guptkashi.
- Stay: Overnight in Guptkashi.
Day 9: Guptkashi to Badrinath
- Distance: 180 km (approx. 7-8 hours)
- Route: Guptkashi – Joshimath – Badrinath
- Activities: Drive to Badrinath, visit Narsingh Temple in Joshimath, evening aarti at Badrinath temple.
- Stay: Overnight in Badrinath.
Day 10: Badrinath to Rudraprayag
- Distance: 160 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
- Route: Badrinath – Rudraprayag
- Activities: Visit Badrinath temple early morning, explore Mana Village (last village of India), and see Vyas Gufa, Bhim Pul, and Saraswati River. Drive to Rudraprayag.
- Stay: Overnight in Rudraprayag.
Day 11: Rudraprayag to Rishikesh/Haridwar
- Distance: 160 km (approx. 5-6 hours)
- Route: Rudraprayag – Rishikesh/Haridwar
- Activities: Drive back to Rishikesh/Haridwar, en route visit Devprayag (confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi Rivers).
- Stay: Overnight in Rishikesh/Haridwar.
Day 12: Departure from Rishikesh/Haridwar
- Activities: Departure as per schedule, concluding the Char Dham Yatra.
Essential Tips for Pilgrims:
- Health Check: Ensure you are physically fit for the journey. Carry necessary medications.
- Clothing: Pack warm clothing, rain gear, and comfortable trekking shoes.
- Booking: Pre-book accommodations and transport to avoid hassles.
- Permits: Carry valid ID proof and necessary permits.
- Respect Local Customs: Follow temple guidelines and respect local customs and traditions.
Conclusion:
The Char Dham Yatra is a profound journey that not only encompasses a pilgrimage but also immerses you in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. Embark on this sacred expedition in 2024 to experience unparalleled spiritual upliftment and divine connection.
FAQ
Q-1 What is the best time to undertake the Char Dham Yatra?
- The ideal time to visit is from April to June and September to November, avoiding the monsoon season.
Q-2 How long does the Char Dham Yatra take?
- The yatra typically takes 10-12 days depending on the starting point and itinerary.
Q-3 What are the modes of transportation available?
- Transportation options include road travel, helicopter services, and trekking for certain segments.
Q-4 What should I pack for the Yatra?
- Essential items include warm clothing, comfortable trekking shoes, rain gear, personal medications, and basic toiletries.
Q-5 Are there any health considerations to keep in mind?
- Be aware of altitude sickness at high altitudes. People with respiratory or heart conditions should consult a doctor before the trip.