Char Dham

Overview

Char Dham, meaning "Four Abodes," refers to the four pilgrimage sites in India that are considered highly sacred by Hindus. These sites include Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, all located in the state of Uttarakhand. Each of these sites is dedicated to a different deity and holds immense religious significance for followers. Pilgrims visit Char Dham to seek blessings, perform rituals, and cleanse themselves of sins. The journey to Char Dham is not only a spiritual experience but also a scenic one, as the sites are surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Himalayas.

Char Dham, India

Char Dham, meaning "four abodes," refers to the four pilgrimage sites in India that are considered sacred by Hindus. These sites are located in the Himalayas and are visited by millions of devotees every year. The Char Dham sites include Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

Yamunotri

Yamunotri is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna and is located in the Garhwal Himalayas. The temple opens in late April or early May and closes on Yama Dwitiya, two days after Diwali. The best time to visit Yamunotri is from May to June and September to October.

Gangotri

Gangotri is dedicated to the goddess Ganga and is located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The temple opens on Akshaya Tritiya in April or May and closes on Diwali. The best time to visit Gangotri is from May to June and September to October.

Kedarnath

Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The temple opens on Akshaya Tritiya in April or May and closes on Bhai Dooj in October or November. The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to October.

Badrinath

Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The temple opens in April or May on Akshaya Tritiya and closes on Diwali. The best time to visit Badrinath is from May to June and September to October.

How to Reach

The nearest airport to Char Dham is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is well connected to major cities in India. The nearest railway station is Haridwar, which is connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. From Dehradun or Haridwar, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Char Dham sites.

Where to Stay

There are several accommodation options available near the Char Dham sites ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some popular places to stay include GMVN Tourist Rest Houses, private hotels, and guesthouses. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak pilgrimage season.

Opening and Closing Time

The temples at Char Dham open early in the morning and close in the evening. The exact opening and closing times may vary depending on the season and specific dates. It is recommended to check the temple timings before visiting.

Experience the spiritual journey of a lifetime by visiting the Char Dham sites in India. These sacred pilgrimage sites offer a unique opportunity to connect with the divine and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Hinduism.