The Char Dham Yatra is a revered pilgrimage in India, comprising four sacred sites located in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. It holds immense spiritual significance in Hinduism, believed to wash away sins and help achieve salvation. The pilgrimage includes:
Yamunotri: Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, it is the source of the Yamuna River and the starting point of the Yatra. The Yamunotri Temple and nearby hot springs are major attractions.
Gangotri: The origin of the sacred Ganga River, marked by the Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga. The serene surroundings and glacial origin at Gaumukh add to its significance.
Kedarnath: A prominent Shiva temple and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, set against the majestic Kedarnath Range. It is accessible via a trek or helicopter services.
Badrinath: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it is one of the most important Vaishnavite shrines. The Badrinath Temple lies between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges near the Alaknanda River.
The Char Dham Yatra typically takes place from April/May to October/November, depending on weather conditions, and offers both spiritual fulfillment and breathtaking natural beauty.
