The Chardham Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage in India that encompasses four holy shrines located in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. These four shrines are Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Pilgrims embark on this journey to seek spiritual enlightenment and blessings from these revered deities. In this article, we will provide a detailed route map of the Chardham Yatra, along with the distances between each shrine, to help you plan your pilgrimage effectively.
Yamunotri
The Chardham Yatra typically begins with a visit to Yamunotri, which is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. To reach Yamunotri, pilgrims usually start from Haridwar or Rishikesh. Here’s the route map and distance from these two cities:
Haridwar to Yamunotri
- Haridwar to Dehradun: Your journey typically begins in Haridwar, a major city in Uttarakhand. From Haridwar, you can take a train or bus to Dehradun, which is the capital city of the state and serves as a gateway to the Himalayan region.
- Dehradun to Yamunotri Base Camp: From Dehradun, you’ll need to reach the town of Hanuman Chatti, which is the starting point for the Yamunotri trek. You can hire a taxi or take a shared vehicle to reach Hanuman Chatti.
- Hanuman Chatti to Phool Chatti: The trek officially begins from Hanuman Chatti. The first stop on the trek is usually Phool Chatti, which is about 5-6 kilometers from Hanuman Chatti. You can stay overnight in Phool Chatti.
- Phool Chatti to Janki Chatti: On the second day of the trek, you’ll continue your journey to Janki Chatti, which is another 3-4 kilometers from Phool Chatti. Janki Chatti is known for its hot springs, where you can take a dip to soothe your muscles.
- Janki Chatti to Yamunotri: The final leg of the trek takes you from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri, which is around 6 kilometers away. Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna River and is a sacred place for Hindus. You can visit the Yamunotri temple and take a dip in the holy Yamuna River.
Total Distance from Haridwar to Yamunotri: Approximately 221 kilometers by road and 6 kilometers by trek.
Rishikesh to Yamunotri
- Start your journey from Rishikesh, another important gateway to the Chardham Yatra.
Drive to Barkot (approximately 180 kilometers). - From Barkot, follow the same trekking route as mentioned above to reach Yamunotri.
Gangotri
After visiting Yamunotri, the next destination on the Chardham Yatra is Gangotri, dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Here’s how you can get from Yamunotri to Gangotri:
- Yamunotri: Yamunotri is the starting point of the journey.
- Janki Chatti: This is the first major stop on your way to Gangotri. It’s approximately 6 kilometers from Yamunotri.
- Dharasu: Continue your journey towards Gangotri, and you’ll reach Dharasu, which is about 101 kilometers from Hanuman Chatti.
- Uttarkashi: The next significant town you’ll pass through is Uttarkashi, which is around 32 kilometers from Dharasu.
- Gangnani: After Uttarkashi, you’ll reach Gangnani, which is famous for its hot water springs. It’s approximately 47 kilometers from Uttarkashi.
- Harsil: Continue your journey, and you’ll come across Harsil, which is known for its scenic beauty. It’s around 27 kilometers from Gangnani.
- Gangotri: Finally, you’ll reach Gangotri, the destination of your pilgrimage. It’s approximately 25 kilometers from Harsil.
Total Distance from Yamunotri to Gangotri: Approximately 227 kilometers.
Kedarnath
From Gangotri, the pilgrimage proceeds to Kedarnath, the abode of Lord Shiva. Here’s the route map:
- Gangotri: Start your journey from Gangotri.
- Harsil: Harsil is the first significant point on your way to Kedarnath from Gangotri. It’s approximately 25 kilometers away.
- Uttarkashi: After Harsil, you’ll reach Uttarkashi, which is around 75 kilometers from Harsil.
- Tehri: Continue your journey to Tehri, which is approximately 136 kilometers from Uttarkashi.
- Srinagar: From Tehri, head towards Srinagar, which is about 52 kilometers away.
- Rudraprayag: Next, you’ll reach Rudraprayag, which is around 34 kilometers from Srinagar.
- Augustmuni: Continue towards Augustmuni, which is approximately 10 kilometers from Rudraprayag.
- Phata: After Augustmuni, you’ll come across Phata, which is known as a base for helicopter services to Kedarnath. It’s about 50 kilometers from Augustmuni.
- Gaurikund: Gaurikund is the last point accessible by road, and it’s about 15 kilometers from Phata.
- Kedarnath: To reach Kedarnath, you’ll have to trek from Gaurikund. The trek is approximately 16-18 kilometers long and takes you to the sacred Kedarnath Temple.
Total Distance from Gangotri to Kedarnath: Approximately 332 kilometers by road and 18 kilometers by trek/helicopter.
Badrinath
The last leg of the Chardham Yatra takes you to Badrinath, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Here’s how to reach Badrinath from Kedarnath:
- Kedarnath: Start your journey from Kedarnath.
- Gaurikund: From Kedarnath, you’ll need to trek back to Gaurikund, which is about 16/18 kilometers away.
- Sonprayag: After reaching Gaurikund, you can take a vehicle to Sonprayag, which is approximately 5 kilometers away.
- Rudraprayag: Continue your journey towards Rudraprayag, which is about 72 kilometers from Sonprayag.
- Karnaprayag: From Rudraprayag, head to Karnaprayag, which is approximately 33 kilometers away.
- Nandaprayag: Next, you’ll reach Nandaprayag, which is about 21 kilometers from Karnaprayag.
- Chamoli: Continue towards Chamoli, which is approximately 10 kilometers from Nandaprayag.
- Joshimath: From Chamoli, you’ll reach Joshimath, which is about 50 kilometers away.
- Badrinath: Finally, you’ll reach Badrinath, your destination, which is approximately 45 kilometers from Joshimath.
Total Distance from Kedarnath to Badrinath: Approximately 243 kilometers.
Route Map and Distances
Here is a detailed Chardham Yatra route map with distances:
- Delhi to Haridwar: The journey commences from Delhi, where you can take a train or flight to Haridwar, which is around 220 kilometers away.
- Haridwar to Barkot: From Haridwar, you will travel to Barkot, covering a distance of about 188 kilometers.
- Barkot to Yamunotri: A scenic drive of 46 kilometers will take you from Barkot to Yamunotri.
- Yamunotri to Uttarkashi: After visiting Yamunotri, proceed to Uttarkashi, which is approximately 128 kilometers away.
- Uttarkashi to Gangotri: A 99-kilometer journey will lead you from Uttarkashi to Gangotri.
- Gangotri to Guptakashi: From Gangotri, travel to Guptakashi, covering a distance of approximately 287 kilometers.
- Guptkashi to Kedarnath: A 45-kilometer trek will take you from Guptakashi to Kedarnath.
- Kedarnath to Rudraprayag: After seeking blessings at Kedarnath, head to Rudraprayag, which is around 88 kilometers away.
- Rudraprayag to Badrinath: The final leg of the journey takes you from Rudraprayag to Badrinath, covering a distance of about 157 kilometers.
- Badrinath to Haridwar/Delhi: After visiting Badrinath, you can either return to Haridwar (320 kilometers) or directly to Delhi (526 kilometers).
Best Time to Visit
The Chardham Yatra is usually undertaken between April and November when the weather is conducive for travel. The monsoon season, from July to September, should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and landslides.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Chardham Yatra is a spiritual journey that covers a total distance of approximately 1607 kilometers by road and 25 kilometers by trek/helicopter. Pilgrims usually start from Haridwar or Rishikesh, visit Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath in that order, and then return to their starting point. This pilgrimage not only offers a profound spiritual experience but also allows you to witness the natural beauty and serenity of the Himalayan region. It’s essential to plan your journey well in advance, considering the weather conditions and the availability of accommodations and transportation options along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Chardham Yatra suitable for all age groups?
Yes, people of all age groups can undertake the Chardham Yatra. However, it’s essential to consider the physical challenges and make necessary preparations.
What should I pack for the Chardham Yatra?
Pack warm clothing, comfortable walking shoes, rain gear, and essential medications. Don’t forget to carry a valid ID proof.
Can I hire a guide for the Chardham Yatra?
Yes, hiring a local guide is advisable, as they are well-versed with the terrain and can enhance your overall experience.
Are there accommodation options along the route?
Yes, there are various accommodations available, including hotels, guesthouses, and dharamshalas, catering to different budgets.
Is there mobile network coverage along the Chardham Yatra route?
Mobile network coverage is limited in some remote areas, so it’s advisable to inform your family and friends about your itinerary beforehand.
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