Char Dham Yatra, is a journey to the four sacred sites. It holds significance in Hinduism. Four Dham refers to the pilgrimage to four revered temples nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. These temples include Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Each temple is dedicated to different deities and unique spiritual energies. Badrinath is a temple of Vishnu. Kedarnath is a temple of Shiva. Gangotri is a temple of Ganga. Yamunotri is a temple of Yamuna. These holy sites of 4 Dham are situated in Uttarakhand. It is also known as Devbhoomi or the Land of Gods. In Hindi, char Dham means, “char” means four and “Dham” means religious destination.
All four temples are situated at high altitudes and remain closed for six months every year. In summer, they remain open in April or May and Closed in October or November.
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What is the opening time of Char Dham Yatra 2024?
On 26 January 2024, on the occasion of Basant Panchami, official news of the opening date of Char Dham Yatra 2024 was released by the temple committee. Here is the opening and closing time of all four scared temples-
Gangotri Temple
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Opening Date: 10th May 2024
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Closing date: 12th November 2024 (Tentative)
Yamunotri Temple
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Opening Date: 10th May 2024
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Closing date: 12th November 2024 (Tentative)
Kedarnath Temple
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Opening Date: 12th May 2024
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Closing date: 14th November 2024 (Tentative)
Badrinath Temple
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Opening Date: 12th May 2024
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Closing date: 21st November 2024 (Tentative)
The opening date is based on the holy eve of Akshaya Tritiya and the closing date is based on the holy eve of Vijay Dashmi or Dussehra.
Char Dham Yatra Opening Dates for 2024 are:
The Dates for Char Dham Yatra 2024 have been announced, be ready for this spiritual tour:
| Char Dham Temple | Opening Dates |
|---|---|
| Yamunotri Temple | 10 May 2024 at 7:00 AM |
| Gangotri Temple | 10 May 2024 |
| Kedarnath Temple | 10 May 2024 at 07:00 AM |
| Badrinath Temple | 12 May 2024 at 06:00 AM |
Char Dham Yatra Closing Date 2024:
| Char Dham Temple | Closing Dates |
|---|---|
| Yamunotri Temple | 03 November 2024 |
| Gangotri Temple | 03 November 2024 |
| Kedarnath Temple | 02 November 2024 |
| Badrinath Temple | 09 November 2024 |
History of Chardham Yatra:-
Well, there is no trace of actual history. However, it is believed that the tradition of Char Dham Yatra was started by the great reformer and philosopher Shankaracharya, also known as Adi Sankara. The Char Dham Yatra is believed to date back about 1200 years and until the mid-1200s it was known as Chota Char Dham. According to Hindu mythology, the Char Dham sites hold immense significance and are linked to various deities and mythological events. Yamunotri, the source of the Yamuna River, is linked to the goddess Yamuna. Gangotri, the source of the Ganges River, is associated with the goddess Ganga. Kedarnath, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, holds the legend of Lord Shiva granting salvation to the Pandavas. Badrinath, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is believed to be the place where he meditated. The history of each temple is traced back many decades.
The Best Time To Do Char Dham Yatra:-
The best time to embark on the Char Dham Yatra largely depends on the opening and closing dates of the temples, as well as the prevailing weather conditions in the region. Typically, the pilgrimage season spans from late April to November, with two main periods standing out as ideal times for the journey:
1. Summer Season (Late April to Mid-June):
During late April to June, the weather in the Char Dham region is generally pleasant. Mild temperatures and clear skies prevail, making it conducive for travel. The roads leading to the temples are usually open, ensuring easier accessibility for pilgrims. This period offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience for undertaking the pilgrimage without encountering extreme weather conditions.
2. Post-Monsoon (August to November):
Following the monsoon season, from August to November, the atmosphere becomes cleaner, and the skies regain their clarity. The weather during this period is typically delightful, with mild temperatures and clear skies. Pilgrims can embark on their journey without facing harsh weather conditions, making it another favorable time for the Char Dham Yatra.
It’s important to note that the monsoon season, occurring from July to August, is not recommended for the Char Dham Yatra due to heavy rainfall, landslides, and challenging travel conditions in the region. Additionally, the pilgrimage sites are generally closed during the winter months (November to April) due to heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions.
Before planning your visit, it’s advisable to check with the local authorities or the respective temple committees for the most up-to-date information regarding the opening and closing dates of the Char Dham temples. Additionally, ensure that you are well-prepared for varying temperatures and altitudes by carrying appropriate clothing and essentials for a safe and comfortable pilgrimage experience.
About Char Dham Yatra:-
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Yamunotri
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Gangotri
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Kedarnath
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Badrinath
Yamunotri:
It is the first stop of the sacred Char Dham Yatra. It is revered as the source of the holy river Yamuna. It is situated in the serene beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It is not just a physical journey, it is a spiritual journey for seeking purification, penance, and blessings from the divine.
The Yamunotri journey begins from the town of Hanuman Chatti, which is the base camp of this pilgrim site. Visitors have to trek about 6 km to reach the Yamunotri temple. The 6km trek is full of dense forests, gushing streams and snow-capped peaks. It gives a beautiful experience.
The main highlight of the Yamunotri pilgrimage is a sacred temple dedicated to the Goddess Yamuna. It was built in the 19th century by the Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. Every Year pilgrims from around the world come here to offer prayer, perform rituals and seek blessings. In addition, it is also traditional to take a dip in the holy water of the Yamuna River to wash off the sins and purify the soul. Another famous ritual at Yamunotri is to cook rice or potatoes in the natural hot water spring known as Surya Kund. It is a magical spot at the Yamunotri. The water is so hot that it cooks the prasad. Apart from the Yamunotri temple, other sacred sites are the ancient Shani Temple, Janki Chatti, etc.
Gangotri:
Gangotri is the second stop on the Char Dham Yatra. It is also situated in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. After Yamuntri, pilgrims visit Gangotri. It is a source of the sacred river Ganges known as Ganga Mata and Mother Ganges. The journey of Gangotri starts from the town of Uttarkashi and the route is covered by the natural beauty of Garhwal Himalayas, lush green valleys and gushing rivers.
The main highlight of the Gangotri pilgrimage is the sacred Gangotri temple dedicated to the Goddess Ganga. This temple was built in the 18th century by Amar Singh Thapa, who was a Gorkha commander. This temple is situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. Every year thousands of pilgrims visit the Gangotri temple to perform rituals devote prayer and seek blessing followed by a purity dive in the holy water of the Ganga river. One of the most attractive things on the Gangotri journey is the Ganga River, which is performed every evening at the bank of the Bhagirathi River. Several lamps are lit, hymns are sung and prayers are offered to the goddess Ganga by the thousands of pilgrims together. It is a very divine atmosphere. Apart from the Gangotri temple, Gaumukh Glacier is also a pilgrim site to visit.
Kedarnath:
In Charm Dham Yatra, Kedarnath is the third stop stop. It is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is one of the holiest and most revered pilgrimage destinations of Hindus. Every year, thousands of visitors come here whether they are on Char Dham yatra or not. It is a temple dedicated to the Lord Shiva. The journey of Kedarnath starts from the town of Gaurikund. A challenging trek of approximately 16 km is required to reach the Kedarnath temple. Well, the trek is full of stunning views of valleys, snow peaks, rivers and beautiful landscapes.
The main highlight of Kedarnath journey is the sacred Kedarnath Temple. It is situated at an altitude of 3583 meters above sea level. It is built by the Pandavas of the Mahabharata. It is an ancient temple surrounded by the Kedar Dome and Kedar Parvat. As said, Kedarnath temple and trek is open for six months. It remains closed for six months in winter due to extreme cold and snow. The Kedarnath trek is not easy. It is difficult because of the high altitude, unpredictable weather conditions and rugged terrain. It is a challenging journey physically or mentally to cover. Pilgrims must undertake the trek with caution like proper acclimatization and carry essential supplies like food, water and warm clothing. Although Kedarnath trekking is well maintained, it has resting shelter and medical facilities, still, it is advised to keep cautious because the climate is unpredictable here.
Badrinath:
Badrinath, is the last spot to complete Char Dham Yatra. It is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Badrinath holds immense significance and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is one of the holiest and most revered pilgrimage sites in the Char Dham Yatra. The journey of Badrinath starts from the town of Joshimath. The way to Badrinath is full of winding roads, the beauty of the Himalayas, towering peaks, lush green valleys and many more.
The main highlight of the Badrinath pilgrimage is the Badrinath Temple. It is located at an altitude of 3133 meters above sea level. It is believed to have been built in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya. It is an ancient temple with an architectural marvel with carvings and sculptures. It is believed to be devoted to Lord Vishnu as the Badrinath grants salvation and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. One of the most revered rituals at Badrinath is the daily darshan of the deity, where visitors line up to catch the sight of lord Badrinarayan. This temple is also open for six months only during the summer season. Thousands of pilgrims across the whole world come here and devote their prayers and seek blessings. Apart from the Badrinath temple, the Tapt Kund is famous. It is also a natural hot water spring situated near the temple. It is believed that it holds medical properties. The Mana village is also a famous spot near Badrinath temple because it is the last village on the Indian Border and holds mythological significance that the Pandavas stayed here during their exile. Badrinath Char Dham Yatra is a sacred journey, but challenging.
Conclusion
In Hindu belief, everyone should do Char Dham Yatra once in their life. The journey of Char Dham shrines-Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, connect you with the divine, seek blessing and experience spiritual renewal. It is also believed that it cleanses your sins and purifies the soul. Offering prayer to the char dham deities may fulfil your wishes and desires. It is a journey of faith and devotion which you should do with your loved ones. The trekking and spiritual practices involved in the Char Dham Yatra contribute to physical fitness and mental well-being. It is a transformative journey that everyone should do to enrich the mind, body, and soul