One of the most prominent Hindu pilgrimage sites, Char Dham is visited by numerous pilgrims from every nook and corner of the world. The Char Dham Tourist Circuit takes devotees to four holy sites namely Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, each of which is unique in itself and holds immense sacred values. So, if you are wondering what the religious tourist hotspot has in store for you, then here are the top five places to visit during your Char Dham Yatra:
Yamunotri
Situated at an altitude of 7,834 feet in Garhwal, Yamunotri Dham is situated amidst forested peaks, deep valleys and is home to many temples and shrines. Built in the 19th century, it can be easily accessed from the village of Janki Chatti.
The River Yamuna situated here is backed by the Yamunotri Glacier and considered very sacred. It is also believed that those who take a dip in the river get rid off their sins. One can also find many hot springs near the Yamunotri temple.
Gangotri
The Gangotri Dham is home to the holy Gangotri Temple which was constructed by Amar Singh Thapa, a Gorkha Commander in the 18th century. As per Hindu mythology, it is believed that the rock on the site saved the earth from the havoc the river could have caused after it poured out of Lord Shiva’s locks.
The Gangotri Temple is the source of the holy Ganges River and holds immense significance. The river is also worshipped by many and features healing properties.
Kedarnath
The Kedarnath Dham is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites of India. The Kedarnath Temple located close to the Chorabari Glacier, the source of the Mandakini river, is surrounded by the mighty Himalayan peaks, apple orchards, and deep gorges.
The Kedarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva worships a stone hump dating back to the Mahabharata times. With Kedarnath Yatra Packages, you can explore this sacred pilgrimage site which is close enough to the 8th-century temple of Adi Shankaracharya Ji.
Badrinath
The Badrinath Dham honours Lord Vishnu and is home to the Badrinath Temple, located at the foothills of the Nilkantha peak. Easy to access, Badrinath also features many hot springs that serve as a bathhouse for the visitors and locals alike. The temple as it stands today features stone embedding, elaborate carvings, beautiful columns.
According to beliefs, it is believed that Lord Shiva meditated in Badrinath for many years while Goddess Lakshmi offered him shade in the form of a Badri tree, giving the place its name. Since the Charm Dham Tourist Circuit attracts a lot of pilgrims and devotees, it is best to book your Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra 2022 in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.
Rishikesh:
Popularly known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, Rishikesh is another pilgrimage town in the foothills of the Himalayas. Apart from Being a popular sacred site, the town also attracts adventure seekers for activities like bungee jumping, river rafting, and camping. Those who want to do something anew on their pilgrimage tour can visit Rishikesh an explore the town at their own pace.
Brought together by Shri Adi Shankaracharya Ji in the 8th century, Char Dham is a divine experience in itself for those who wish to embark on a sacred journey. These packages are available from all major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, and others. Moreover, you can also Book Chardham yatra tour packages from Hyderabad and customize your itinerary depending on your travel plan and comfort.