Delhi to Char Dham Yatra (Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri & Yamunotri) – 12 Days Travel Guide
Introduction
The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimage journeys in India. Located in the beautiful Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, the four holy shrines—Yamunotri Temple, Gangotri Temple, Kedarnath Temple, and Badrinath Temple—attract millions of devotees every year.
A 12-day Char Dham Yatra from Delhi offers a perfect opportunity to seek spiritual blessings while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, sacred rivers, ancient temples, and peaceful mountain landscapes.
Day 1: Delhi to Haridwar
Begin your journey from Delhi and travel to Haridwar, approximately 220 km away. After checking into your hotel, visit the famous Har Ki Pauri and attend the evening Ganga Aarti.
Highlights
- Har Ki Pauri
- Ganga Aarti
- Local Markets
Overnight stay in Haridwar.
Day 2: Haridwar to Barkot
Travel towards Barkot, the gateway to Yamunotri. The route passes through scenic mountains, rivers, and forests.
Highlights
- Beautiful Himalayan views
- Kempty Falls (optional stop)
Overnight stay in Barkot.
Day 3: Yamunotri Darshan
Drive to Janki Chatti and begin the trek to Yamunotri Temple.
Places to Visit
- Yamunotri Temple
- Surya Kund
- Divya Shila
After darshan, return to Barkot.
Overnight stay in Barkot.
Day 4: Barkot to Uttarkashi
Travel to Uttarkashi, one of the most important pilgrimage towns in Uttarakhand.
Attractions
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Bhagirathi River
Overnight stay in Uttarkashi.
Day 5: Gangotri Darshan
Drive to Gangotri Temple, the sacred source region of the River Ganga.
Highlights
- Gangotri Temple
- Bhagirath Shila
- Scenic Himalayan Landscapes
Return to Uttarkashi.
Overnight stay in Uttarkashi.
Day 6: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi
Travel to Guptkashi, an important stop before Kedarnath.
Highlights
- Mandakini River views
- Vishwanath Temple
Overnight stay in Guptkashi.
Day 7: Guptkashi to Kedarnath
Drive to Sonprayag and reach Gaurikund. Begin the trek to Kedarnath Temple (approximately 16–18 km).
Highlights
- Kedarnath Trek
- Snow-covered peaks
- Spiritual atmosphere
Overnight stay near Kedarnath.
Day 8: Kedarnath Darshan and Return
Early morning darshan at Kedarnath Temple.
Major Attraction
- Kedarnath Temple
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath is considered among the holiest temples in Hinduism.
After darshan, trek back to Gaurikund and return to Guptkashi.
Overnight stay in Guptkashi.
Day 9: Guptkashi to Badrinath
Travel towards Badrinath through beautiful mountain roads and river valleys.
En Route Attractions
- Rudraprayag
- Karnaprayag
- Nandaprayag
Arrive in Badrinath and attend evening prayers.
Overnight stay in Badrinath.
Day 10: Badrinath Darshan
Visit the sacred Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Places to Visit
- Badrinath Temple
- Tapt Kund
- Mana Village
- Vyas Gufa
- Bhim Pul
Mana Village is recognized as one of the last villages before the India-Tibet border.
Overnight stay in Badrinath.
Day 11: Badrinath to Rishikesh
Travel to Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World.
Attractions
- Ram Jhula
- Laxman Jhula
- Ganga River
- Evening Aarti
Overnight stay in Rishikesh.
Day 12: Rishikesh to Delhi
After breakfast, begin your return journey to Delhi.
The 12-day Char Dham pilgrimage concludes with spiritual fulfillment, unforgettable memories, and blessings from the sacred shrines of the Himalayas.
Best Time for Char Dham Yatra
May to June
- Pleasant weather
- Ideal for pilgrimage
September to October
- Clear skies
- Beautiful mountain views
