Char Dham Itinerary: A Spiritual Journey through Uttarakhand

Saturday October 21: Delhi to Haridwar

Embark on your spiritual journey by traveling from Delhi to Haridwar. In the morning, visit the Har Ki Pauri ghat to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti. Afterward, explore the bustling streets of Haridwar and indulge in local delicacies. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to the Mansa Devi Temple for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, take a dip in the holy Ganges and experience the evening Aarti.

• Har Ki Pauri: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 2-3 hours
• Mansa Devi Temple: Estimated cost – Cable car ride - INR 120, Time spent – 2-3 hours

Sunday October 22: Haridwar to Yamunotri

Start your journey towards Yamunotri, the first stop of the Char Dham pilgrimage. In the morning, leave Haridwar and drive to Janki Chatti. From there, begin a trek to Yamunotri, located amidst picturesque mountains and lush greenery. After reaching Yamunotri, visit the Yamunotri Temple and take a dip in the hot springs. Spend the evening exploring the serene surroundings and seeking blessings.

• Trek from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri: Estimated cost – Trek - INR 500, Time spent – 6-8 hours
• Yamunotri Temple: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 1-2 hours

Monday October 23: Yamunotri to Gangotri

Continue your spiritual journey by traveling to Gangotri, the second stop of the Char Dham pilgrimage. In the morning, drive from Yamunotri to Gangotri, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. After reaching Gangotri, visit the Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Explore the nearby attractions, including the Bhagirathi River and the picturesque town of Gangotri. Witness the evening Aarti at the temple.

• Drive from Yamunotri to Gangotri: Estimated cost – Taxi - INR 3,000, Time spent – 6-7 hours
• Gangotri Temple: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 1-2 hours

Tuesday October 24: Gangotri to Kedarnath

Continue your pilgrimage by traveling to Kedarnath, the third stop of the Char Dham circuit. In the morning, drive from Gangotri to Guptkashi or Sonprayag. From there, begin a trek to Kedarnath, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the temple complex and soak in the spiritual ambiance. Spend the evening witnessing the evening Aarti and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings.

• Trek from Guptkashi/Sonprayag to Kedarnath: Estimated cost – Trek - INR 3,500, Time spent – 6-8 hours
• Kedarnath Temple: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 2-3 hours

Wednesday October 25: Kedarnath to Badrinath

Continue your journey to Badrinath, the final stop of the Char Dham pilgrimage. In the morning, trek back to Guptkashi or Sonprayag, and then drive to Badrinath. Upon reaching Badrinath, visit the Badrinath Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Take a holy dip in the Tapt Kund and explore the nearby attractions, including the Mana Village and the picturesque Alaknanda River.

• Trek from Kedarnath to Guptkashi/Sonprayag: Estimated cost – Trek - INR 3,500, Time spent – 6-8 hours
• Badrinath Temple: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 2-3 hours

Thursday October 26: Badrinath to Rishikesh

Conclude your Char Dham journey by traveling back to Rishikesh. In the morning, drive from Badrinath to Rishikesh, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. Once in Rishikesh, visit the famous Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, iconic suspension bridges over the Ganges. Explore the ashrams, attend yoga and meditation sessions, and indulge in adventure activities like river rafting. Witness the evening Aarti at Triveni Ghat.

• Drive from Badrinath to Rishikesh: Estimated cost – Taxi - INR 3,000, Time spent – 7-8 hours
• Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Estimated cost – Free, Time spent – 2-3 hours

Friday October 27: Rishikesh to Delhi

End your spiritual journey by traveling back to Delhi. In the morning, visit the famous Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in the 1960s. Explore the graffiti-adorned walls and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere. Afterward, drive back to Delhi, concluding your Char Dham pilgrimage with divine memories.

• Beatles Ashram: Estimated cost – Entry fee - INR 150, Time spent – 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly experience off the beaten path, consider visiting Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located around 30 km from Rishikesh. This serene temple nestled amidst the mountains is dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers breathtaking views. Another local favorite is the Patanjali Yogpeeth, a renowned yoga and Ayurvedic center where you can learn about holistic wellness practices. Both these attractions offer a unique glimpse into the spiritual and cultural aspects of Uttarakhand.

Check here to find the best deals on hotels and flights for your Char Dham journey.