Chardham Yatra from Delhi
Embarking on the sacred Chardham Yatra is a spiritually enriching experience for devotees from all around the world. The Chardham Yatra comprises four sacred shrines in the Indian state of Uttarakhand: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. This guide provides comprehensive information on planning a Chardham Yatra from Delhi, covering essential aspects such as travel routes, itinerary, accommodation, and tips for a successful pilgrimage.
Introduction to Chardham Yatra
Significance of Chardham Yatra
- The Chardham Yatra is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimages, believed to cleanse the soul and attain salvation.
- It involves visiting four holy shrines, each dedicated to a different deity: Yamunotri (Goddess Yamuna), Gangotri (Goddess Ganga), Kedarnath (Lord Shiva), and Badrinath (Lord Vishnu).
Ideal Time to Visit
- The best time to undertake the Chardham Yatra is between April and June and September to November.
- The shrines remain closed during winter due to heavy snowfall and reopen in April or May each year.
Preparing for the Chardham Yatra
Health and Fitness
- Ensure you are physically fit, as the pilgrimage involves trekking and traveling through challenging terrains.
- Consult a doctor and carry necessary medications if you have any health issues.
Essential Items to Pack
- Warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the evenings.
- Comfortable trekking shoes, raincoat, umbrella, and sunglasses.
- Personal identification, cash, and a first-aid kit.
Permits and Registrations
- Pilgrims must register for the Chardham Yatra online or at designated counters.
- Keep a copy of your registration and necessary identification documents.
Chardham Yatra Itinerary from Delhi
Here is the detailed Chardham Yatra route map from Delhi
Day 1: Delhi to Haridwar
- Distance: 230 km
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours
- Start your journey from Delhi and drive to Haridwar, a sacred city on the banks of the Ganges.
- You can also easily book Delhi to Haridwar bus tickets on AbhiBus and travel to Haridwar.
- Check into a hotel and visit Har Ki Pauri for the Ganga Aarti in the evening.
Day 2: Haridwar to Barkot
- Distance: 210 km
- Travel Time: 7-8 hours
- Depart from Haridwar in the early morning and drive to Barkot, a scenic town near Yamunotri.
- Check into a hotel or guesthouse for an overnight stay.
Day 3: Barkot to Yamunotri and Return
- Distance: 36 km drive and 6 km trek (one way)
- Travel Time: 1.5 hours drive and 4-5 hours trek
- Drive to Jankichatti and start your trek to Yamunotri.
- Offer prayers at the Yamunotri Temple and return to Barkot for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Barkot to Uttarkashi
- Distance: 100 km
- Travel Time: 4-5 hours
- Depart from Barkot and drive to Uttarkashi, a town known for the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
- Check into a hotel and visit the temple in the evening.
Day 5: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and Return
- Distance: 100 km (one way)
- Travel Time: 4-5 hours (one way)
- Drive to Gangotri, the origin of the River Ganga.
- Offer prayers at the Gangotri Temple and explore the nearby areas.
- Return to Uttarkashi for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi
- Distance: 220 km
- Travel Time: 8-9 hours
- Depart from Uttarkashi early morning and drive to Guptkashi.
- Check into a hotel or guesthouse for an overnight stay.
Day 7: Guptkashi to Kedarnath
- Distance: 30 km drive and 18 km trek
- Travel Time: 1.5 hours drive and 6-7 hours trek
- Drive to Gaurikund and start your trek to Kedarnath.
- Reach Kedarnath, offer prayers at the Kedarnath Temple, and stay overnight in a guesthouse or tent.
Day 8: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
- Trekking Distance: 18 km
- Travel Time: 6-7 hours
- Trek back to Gaurikund and drive to Guptkashi.
- Check into a hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 9: Guptkashi to Badrinath
- Distance: 200 km
- Travel Time: 7-8 hours
- Depart from Guptkashi and drive to Badrinath.
- Check into a hotel and visit the Badrinath Temple for evening prayers.
Day 10: Badrinath to Rudraprayag
- Distance: 160 km
- Travel Time: 6-7 hours
- After morning prayers at Badrinath Temple, drive to Rudraprayag.
- Check into a hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 11: Rudraprayag to Rishikesh
- Distance: 140 km
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours
- Depart from Rudraprayag and drive to Rishikesh, a spiritual town known for its ashrams and yoga centers.
- Check into a hotel and explore the town.
Day 12: Rishikesh to Delhi
- Distance: 230 km
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours
- Drive back to Delhi, marking the end of your Chardham Yatra.
- You can also easily book bus tickets from Rishikesh to Delhi on AbhiBus and reach back to Delhi.
Accommodation Options of Chardham Yatra from Delhi
Budget Hotels and Guesthouses
- Available in all major stops along the route, including Haridwar, Barkot, Uttarkashi, Guptkashi, and Badrinath.
- Basic amenities such as clean rooms, hot water, and meals are provided.
Dharamshalas and Ashrams
- These are budget-friendly options offering basic accommodations.
- Popular in places like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Badrinath.
Luxury Hotels and Resorts
- Available in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and some parts of the Chardham route.
- Provide comfortable amenities including Wi-Fi, dining, and wellness facilities.
Tips for a Successful Chardham Yatra
Acclimatize to the Altitude
- Spend a day at higher altitudes to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness.
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Respect Local Customs and Traditions
- Dress modestly and follow temple protocols.
- Be respectful towards locals and fellow pilgrims.
Stay Connected
- Mobile connectivity is limited in some areas; inform your family about your itinerary.
- Carry a power bank and necessary charging equipment.
Environmental Responsibility
- Carry reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics.
- Dispose of waste responsibly and keep the environment clean.
Best Route for Chardham Yatra from Delhi
The best route for the Chardham Yatra from Delhi is:
- Delhi to Haridwar: 230 km, 5-6 hours
- Haridwar to Barkot: 210 km, 7-8 hours
- Barkot to Yamunotri: 36 km drive and 6 km trek
- Barkot to Uttarkashi: 100 km, 4-5 hours
- Uttarkashi to Gangotri: 100 km, 4-5 hours
- Uttarkashi to Guptkashi: 220 km, 8-9 hours
- Guptkashi to Kedarnath: 30 km drive and 18 km trek
- Kedarnath to Guptkashi: 18 km trek
- Guptkashi to Badrinath: 200 km, 7-8 hours
- Badrinath to Rudraprayag: 160 km, 6-7 hours
- Rudraprayag to Rishikesh: 140 km, 5-6 hours
- Rishikesh to Delhi: 230 km, 5-6 hours
Chardham Yatra from Delhi 2024 in Low Budget
Planning and Budgeting Tips:
- Travel:
- Use public transport such as buses or shared taxis to reduce costs.
- Book bus tickets on AbhiBus from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh to save on travel expenses.
- Opt for budget tour packages offered by various travel agencies.
- Accommodation:
- Stay in budget hotels, guesthouses, dharamshalas, or ashrams.
- Book accommodations in advance to secure the best rates.
- Meals:
- Eat at local dhabas or community kitchens which provide affordable meals.
- Carry dry snacks, fruits, and reusable water bottles to save on food costs.
- Permits and Registrations:
- Register online to avoid last-minute hassles and extra charges.
- Other Tips:
- Travel in a group to share costs of transportation and accommodation.
- Avoid peak seasons to get better deals on travel and lodging.
How to Plan Kedarnath from Delhi
Travel Options:
- By Train and Road:
- Take a bus or train from Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh.
- From Haridwar/Rishikesh, hire a taxi or take a bus to Guptkashi.
- From Guptkashi, drive to Gaurikund and then trek to Kedarnath.
- By Air and Road:
- Fly from Delhi to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport.
- From Dehradun, hire a taxi or take a bus to Guptkashi.
- From Guptkashi, drive to Gaurikund and then trek to Kedarnath.
Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh by train, overnight stay.
Day 2: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Guptkashi by taxi/bus, overnight stay.
Day 3: Guptkashi to Kedarnath by taxi to Gaurikund and trek, overnight stay in Kedarnath.
Day 4: Kedarnath to Guptkashi by trek and taxi, overnight stay.
Day 5: Guptkashi to Haridwar/Rishikesh by taxi/bus, overnight stay.
Day 6: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Delhi by train.
Conclusion
The Chardham Yatra is a journey of spiritual awakening and physical endurance. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene Himalayan shrines, every step of the pilgrimage offers a unique experience. Proper planning, preparation, and respect for the sacredness of the journey ensure a fulfilling and memorable Chardham Yatra. Whether you are seeking spiritual solace or an adventure in the lap of nature, the Chardham Yatra from Delhi promises a transformative experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
