Chardham Yatra – A Complete Guide for Pilgrims (Routes, Dates & Tips)

The Chardham Yatra Packages 2026 is one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage journeys, taking devotees through the four holy shrines of Uttarakhand - Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Every year, lakhs of pilgrims travel deep into the Garhwal Himalayas seeking spiritual peace, divine blessings, and a once-in-a-lifetime connection with faith.

This page is designed as a complete Chardham Yatra guide, helping you plan your journey confidently. From opening dates and registration to routes, weather, costs, helicopter options, and safety tips, everything you need is covered in one place.

If you are planning individual yatras or shorter pilgrimages, you can also explore detailed guides for Kedarnath Yatra, Badrinath Yatra, Yamunotri Yatra, Gangotri Yatra, or the Do Dham Yatra.

What Is the Chardham Yatra?

The Chardham Yatra refers to the sacred circuit of four ancient temples located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Completing the yatra in the traditional sequence is believed to bring spiritual liberation and inner purification.

• Yamunotri – Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna

• Gangotri – Origin of the holy River Ganga

• Kedarnath – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva

• Badrinath – Dedicated to Lord Vishnu

Pilgrims traditionally begin from Yamunotri and conclude at Badrinath, following a spiritually auspicious order.

Chardham Yatra Opening & Closing Dates 2026

Knowing the Char Dham opening dates is essential before planning your journey, as all temples remain closed during winter due to heavy snowfall.

For temple-wise opening rituals, kapat muhurat, and seasonal alerts, refer to the Chardham Yatra Opening Dates Guide.

Meanwhile, the tentative dates are as mentioned below:

Chardham Yatra Route Map & Travel Flow

Before planning for this yatra, you must be aware of the complete Char Dham Yatra Route Map. It will give you a rough idea of how to start, plan travel days, rest points, accommodations and complete this whole circuit efficiently.

Traditional Route Sequence:

Delhi → Haridwar/Rishikesh → Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath → Rishikesh/Haridwar → Delhi

Distance overview (approx):

• Yamunotri: 220 km from Rishikesh

• Gangotri: 250 km from Yamunotri

• Kedarnath: 300 km from Gangotri

• Badrinath: 230 km from Kedarnath

For a day-wise route breakdown, road conditions, and trek details, explore the Chardham Yatra Route Map Guide.

Temples Covered in the Chardham Yatra

Yamunotri Temple

Yamunotri Temple marks the starting point of the Char Dham Yatra and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, believed to be the source of the Yamuna River. Situated at a high altitude in the Garhwal Himalayas, the temple is surrounded by snow-covered peaks and hot water springs like Surya Kund, where pilgrims cook rice as a sacred offering. The peaceful environment and spiritual energy make Yamunotri yatra an ideal beginning for the sacred journey.

Gangotri Temple

Gangotri Temple is devoted to Goddess Ganga and represents the origin of the holy River Ganges. Located along the banks of the Bhagirathi River, this temple holds immense religious importance in Hinduism. Pilgrims believe that a visit to Gangotri washes away sins and brings spiritual purity. The temple’s serene setting and ancient rituals create a deeply calming experience for devotees. Read our complete Gangotri yatra guide for more information.

Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and the most spiritually intense stop in the Char Dham circuit. Nestled near the Mandakini River and surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks, the temple is known for its powerful atmosphere and deep sense of devotion. Due to its high altitude and trekking route, proper planning is essential for pilgrims. For detailed travel planning, routes, registration and seasonal guidance, you can explore the Complete Kedarnath Yatra Guide to prepare for a smooth and meaningful journey.

Badrinath Temple

Badrinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and holds a unique place in Hindu pilgrimage traditions. Located along the Alaknanda River, the temple is accessible by road and is often visited after Kedarnath in the Char Dham sequence. The colourful architecture, daily rituals, and surrounding mountain views make it a spiritually uplifting destination. Pilgrims looking for detailed route information, accommodation options and best travel seasons can refer to the Badrinath Yatra Travel Guide for a well-planned visit.

Chardham Yatra Registration (Mandatory for All Pilgrims)

Registration is compulsory for all pilgrims. You can register via:

Online Registration

Official Website: Uttarakhand Tourism Registration Website

Details needed:

• Name

• ID Proof

• Mobile number

• Travel dates

Offline Registration Counters & Biometric Verification

Available at major entry points:

• Rishikesh

• Haridwar

• Sonprayag

• Guptkashi

Char Dham biometric registration must be completed at designated centers before moving towards Kedarnath.

For step-by-step instructions, visit the Chardham Yatra Registration Guide.

How Many Days Are Required for Chardham Yatra?

The duration depends on the travel mode you choose.

• By Road: 10–12 days

• By Helicopter: 4–5 days

For helicopter schedules, routes, and inclusions, check the Chardham Yatra by Helicopter Guide.

Chardham Yatra Weather & Best Time to Travel

The best time to plan for a Chardham Yatra is:

• May–June: Clear weather, peak season

• September–October: Pleasant, low crowd

Avoid

• July–August: Monsoon and landslides

For live forecasts and alerts, visit: India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Chardham Yatra by Helicopter

Helicopter services operate from:

• Dehradun (Sahastradhara)

• Sirsi

• Phata

• Guptkashi

Key inclusions:

• VIP darshan

• Same-day or 2-day itineraries

• Meals

• Priority boarding

For pilgrims looking for curated journeys, you can explore Divine Chardham Yatra Packages or Chardham Yatra by Helicopter Packages.

Chardham Yatra Cost Overview

Costs generally vary based on comfort level and travel mode. Here's a brief Char Dham Yatra cost analysis for you to look over. It will help you plan according to your budget and requirements.

Accommodation & Stay Options

Accommodation ranges from dharamshalas to standard hotels across the route. Booking early is highly recommended during peak season.

Chardham Yatra Essentials Checklist

• Warm clothes

• Comfortable trekking shoes

• Raincoat

• First-aid kit

• Power bank

• Woollen socks

• Thermals

• Water bottle

• ID proofs

Who Should Avoid Chardham Yatra?

• People with severe heart conditions

• Those advised against high altitudes

• Elderly pilgrims (unless medically cleared)

• Pregnant women (not recommended)

Visit our health and safety guide for senior citizens and individuals planning to visit Chardham.

Top Tips for a Comfortable Yatra

Here are some essential travel tips for a safe and comfortable yatra:

• Start early every day

• Stay hydrated

• Keep buffer days

• Book hotels in advance

• Carry cash (limited ATMs)

• Avoid night driving in the mountains