The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most spiritually significant pilgrimages in India. It covers four sacred Hindu temples located in the serene Himalayan region of Uttarakhand: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Known collectively as “Char Dham,” these sites are visited every year by lakhs of devotees seeking spiritual peace, divine blessings, and a closer connection with nature.
As the 2025 Yatra season begins, this guide offers a complete overview for first-time travelers and returning pilgrims alike.When is Char Dham Yatra 2025 Happening?
In 2025, the Char Dham Yatra is scheduled to open around early May and will continue until mid-November, depending on weather conditions.
Opening Dates (Tentative):
- Yamunotri & Gangotri: May 10, 2025 - Kedarnath: May 11, 2025 - Badrinath: May 12, 2025
Tip: The temples close after Diwali, so it’s best to plan your journey between May and October for favorable weather.
The Four Sacred Shrines
Yamunotri
- Location: Uttarkashi district
- Significance: Source of River Yamuna, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna
- Trek: 6 km from Janki Chatti
- Nearby attractions: Surya Kund (hot spring)
Gangotri
- Location: Uttarkashi district
- Significance: Origin of River Ganga, temple of Goddess Ganga
- Travel: Accessible by road
- Nearby attractions: Gaumukh Glacier (source of Ganga)
Kedarnath
- Location: Rudraprayag district
- Significance: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva
- Trek: 16–18 km from Gaurikund (Helicopter services available)
- Altitude: 3,583 meters
Badrinath
- Location: Chamoli district
- Significance: Shrine of Lord Vishnu (Badri Narayan)
- Travel: Easily accessible by road
- Nearby attractions: Mana Village (last Indian village), Tapt Kund
How to Reach Char Dham
By Air:
Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. Helicopter services are available for direct visits to Kedarnath and Badrinath.
By Train:
Major railheads: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, Kotdwar.
By Road:
Char Dham is well-connected via national highways from Haridwar and Rishikesh. Regular government and private buses, taxis, and tour operators are available.
Suggested 10-Day Itinerary (2025)
- Day 1: Haridwar/Rishikesh - Arrival, spiritual activities, travel prep
- Day 2: Barkot - Drive to Yamunotri base (Janki Chatti)
- Day 3: Yamunotri - Trek to temple and back to Barkot
- Day 4: Uttarkashi - Drive to Gangotri base
- Day 5: Gangotri - Visit shrine and return to Uttarkashi
- Day 6: Guptkashi - Scenic drive
- Day 7: Kedarnath - Trek or fly to shrine, overnight stay
- Day 8: Guptkashi - Return from Kedarnath
- Day 9: Badrinath - Drive, visit shrine, explore Mana Village
- Day 10: Rishikesh/Haridwar - Return journey
Accommodation Options
Government Rest Houses (GMVN guest houses), budget hotels, lodges, ashrams, and dharamshalas are available. Advance booking is highly recommended during peak season (May–June).
Helicopter Package (Optional)
For those who wish to avoid trekking or are short on time, Char Dham helicopter packages are available in 2025:
- Departure point: Sahastradhara Helipad, Dehradun - Duration: 2–5 days - Includes: VIP darshan, meals, and overnight stays
Registration & Travel Requirements for 2025
Online registration is mandatory via the Uttarakhand Tourism portal: https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in Carry valid photo ID, health certificate (for Kedarnath), and keep emergency contact details handy.
Travel Tips
- Dress in layers: weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable.
- Stay hydrated and carry basic medicines.
- Avoid plastic and respect the sanctity of religious sites.
- Follow local guidelines, especially in forest and wildlife zones.
- Use certified guides or agencies if unfamiliar with the region.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Char Dham Yatra in 2025
The 2025 Char Dham Yatra promises improved infrastructure, better safety protocols, and enhanced facilities for pilgrims. Whether you're going for religious reasons or to explore the majestic Himalayan beauty, this Yatra is a life-changing experience.
With modern conveniences like helicopter tours, eco-lodges, and online registration, the journey is now safer and more accessible than ever before — while still preserving its spiritual essence.