Embark on a spiritual journey to Char Dham with kausalya trip packages. Making advance bookings a nd reservations is always considered wiser. Because you need to have deeper knowledge about the each detail. For some it might be just a holiday, but memories that will last a lifetime. Our experiential package takes lead in fulfilling your spiritual cravings, desires and definitely gives a thumbs up to some adventure on the way. With Char Dham yatra packages available from all major cities such as Delhi, Haridwar, Chennai, Pune, Cochin, Kerala, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore , Ahmedabad , Bhopal, Jaipur, bhubaneswar, visakhapatnam, lucknow, and patna is very well connected and makes your trip pithing budget and hassle free. Experience the scintillating myths associated with this Yatra, which will make you dive in immense religious significance. Of Course the climb is steep, it will leave you breathless but it has a calming and invigorating effect which will give break from your monotonous lifestyle.
Key highlights of chardham Yatra apart from circuit:
- Mussoorie & kempty falls
- Kashi Vishwanath temple
- Gangani hot water springs
- Harsil valley
- Kalimath temple
- Ultimate temple
- Chopta
- Shankaracharya math
- Mana village
- Auli
Best time to explore and experience Chardham circuit:
Uttarakhand is surrounded by majestic snow clad peaks. And it’s very definite that weather is very unpredictable in mountains. It’s because of high altitude, the weather conditions keep fluctuating every moment. It has a great natural backdrop with snow capped Himalayan ranges as well as miles of green pastures. It is one of the most exhilarating, fulfilling treks in India. Chardham Yatra isn’t just for faint hearts, neither the treks around it. But, it’s full of rugged and rough terrains and climbing it is not an easy job. But, the rejuvenating Himalayan air, trekking, unexplored trails and snow capped Himalayan peaks will definitely satiate your soul with immense happiness and joy. That's why there is also the best time to visit and find the correct information. The best time to visit Chardham Yatra is from April to June mid, the weather is relatively pleasant to climb. and you will not have unwanted delays and can have a comfortable journey. But from July to September you better avoid the journey as the area is highly prone to the landslides because of heavenly rain and sometimes flooding too. From October onwards till march last week the sting of winter chills are pretty unbearable.
Also, you need to keep the dates of the opening of the temples in your mind. It usually opens on Akshay Tritya day every year. And then the losing days of the temples are on Diwali day. It is also known for its victory over evil from good.
Where to go in Chardham Yatra circuit:
In Yamunotri :
Yamunotri is considered as one of the most sacred and revered places among Hindus at the altitude of 10,804 ft. It is surrounded by majestic Garhwal Himalayan peaks covered in snow and the flowing Yamuna River makes it appear more pristine than ever.
It is majorly famous for its Champasar Glacier which is located on the Kalind Mountain at a height of 4,421 m above sea level and its not easily accessible too, hot springs at Janki Chatti and Yamuna temple. Yamunotri has got all sorts of mythological importance. the story of Yamuna itself, this place has many references to Mahabharata.
These days it’s not just a pilgrimage but these days it’s becoming more in demand because of many places around it is worth exploring. And above all, this also acts as a base for many treks in this region. Yamunotri is known as the home for Goddess Yamuna. And it's a common belief that if someone has offered prayers to the idol, taken a dip in the holy waters and eaten the given Prasad then only they will be Able to free from their sins to reach heaven. This river has also been mentioned in Mahabharata, which says that Yamuna is one of the 7 tributaries of Ganga and drinking it water will resolve their sins. The temple is usually opened on the day of Akshaya Tritiya, the is around April – May for the visit by pilgrims and closes on Diwali day during October – November.
Treks and places you must go on if you are an adventure freak, when you are in yamunotri (Key highlights of Yamunotri) :
1. Raithal village
2. Barsu village
3. Uttarkashi
4. Hanuman Chatti
5. Janki Chatti
6. Kharsali
7. Barkot
8. Dayara Bugyal
Local food you must try in Yamunotri:
The Garhwal range of the gigantic and majestic snow capped Himalayas welcomes you for some nerve wrecking adventure and local delicacies of Uttarakhand. You must try these mouthwatering garhwali special foods. The food not only promises to be delicious but is also healthy.
Try some Phaanu, it is a kind of cake made with a variety of lentils. Also this dish is made in two parts first In the form of pancakes and second in gravy form.
Another is Baadi, a regional culinary gem. It’s potato fry with fried red chilies, coriander leaves, and other local spices. This recipe has an homely comforting flavor that makes it a popular street food in Almora, especially during winters.
Aloo ke gutke, this dish has medicinal benefits such as it helps in the circulation of the blood in zero degree temperature. And It is made up with some raw spices like garlic, cumin, and coriander and it is made in both boiled and crushed form. Whatever you wish to eat.
Chain soup, it is one of the must try here. It can only be found here. It is served in the big hotels and also on the roadside dhabas. This dish is prepared from black lentils and black grains. These grains are roasted for some earthy taste.
In Gangotri:
It is one of the main religious places among the four Char Dham pilgrimage circuits. Gangotri is situated in Uttarkashi, and is known for the sanctity of Goddess Ganga. It is perched at an altitude of 3042 metres. Actually, the river Ganga originates from the Gangotri glacier and is known as Bhagirathi. Also, the name Ganga picks up later on after the river passes Devprayag and merges into the river Alaknanda. Its’ one the most highly photographed confluence. Also, because of some myths and religious significance Vegan food dominates the culture and is available in the local food joints or dhabas. Non-vegetarian food and alcoholic drinks are strictly prohibited. Make sure to buy some hand made woollen from Gangotri Village, souvenirs and mementos to take back home.
Treks and places you must go on if you are an adventure freak, when you are in Gangotri:
1. Bhagirathi glacier
2. Dodi Tal
3. Kedar tal
4. Gangotri Temple
5. Gangotri National Park
6. Auden's Col trek
7. Gaumukh-Tapovan trek
8. Kedartal Patangini Pass Trek
9. jogin advanced base camp
10. Kalindi Khal trek
Local food you must try in Gangotri:
the vegan food rules here! Without any doubt the Tourism in Gangotri is very flourishing. And even local people made lots of efforts to accommodate the multitude of visitors thronging to this holy place every year. The road is lined with numerous eateries which serves strictly vegetarian food in respect for the sanctity of this place. And these are the food you must try out here.
Pahasu mixture, energy booster of Gangotri. It is made up with the basic ingredients of this dish are the mountain redish and potatoes. both are boiled and crushed. After this, they are fried with some raw spices like garlic, cumin, and coriander.
Black magic, prepared from black lentils and black grains. These grains are roasted on a makeshift burner then they grind it using a stone. After that spices are added into the ground material prepared and then it is cooked. This dish is eaten in the company of other local vegetables having rich gravy. It is so popular that it is served in the big hotels as well as the roadside dhabas.
In Badrinath:
it is Located in the Chamoli district in Uttarakhand at the height of 3,133 meters. It is known for the abode of Lord Vishnu, one of the holiest of the holy shrines of Char Dham pilgrimage in India. Badrinath Dham is easily accessible by road. And the Badrinath temple is also accessible through hiking or walking. Around 3 km from Badrinath is the village of Mana, which is one of the last villages before the boundary of India ends and that of Tibet begins. Also, the sacred shrine has visiting hours from 4 am to 10 pm. The backdrop of snowy mountain peaks, calmly flowing Alaknanda River and incredible landscapes create the perfect background for some adventure too.
Badrinath is a lifetime experience. In numerous buckets, from different places across the world. It is perched in the lap of the Himalayas. To be precise, the snow capped ranges between Nar and Narayana established in the magnificent district of Chamoli. The holy Alaknanda river flows from the one side of the temple, which is definitely one to the attractions for both adventure seekers and pilgrims. This place offers some incredible views as it is surrounded by the beauty of the snow capped garhwal Himalayan peaks through the year. You can indulge yourself in buying some souvenirs and click some postcard worthy photographs. Some of them are:
Vasundhara Falls is a waterfall located in Mana Village, 9km from Badrinath. The fall meets with the Alaknanda river at an altitude of 12,000 feet. It is believed to have been the resting place of the Pandavas. At a height of 6507mts witness the serene beauty of neelkanth badrinath.
Treks and places you must go on if you are an adventure freak, when you are in Badrinath:
1. Badrinath Temple.
2. Vasudhara falls
3. Narad kund
4. Trek to Satopanth
5. Valley of flowers and Hemkund Sahib
6. Mana village
7. Charanpaduka
Local food you must try in Badrinath:
Garhwal Himalayas are known for its warm hospitality. In terms of culture, traditions, stunning landscapes and of course, food. Food is the most core part of anywhere and everywhere. Especially during peak pilgrimage seasons travellers and tourists are majorly concerned about good food and hygienic restaurants around. Again, it strictly prohibits the selling of eggs, meat, non-vegetarian foods and alcohol. Here are a few of the things which you must try.
Such as Kaafuli, it is made up of Fresh leaves and is boiled and mashed and then cooked in a variety of spices along with rice powder. The dish is nor just tasty but also healthy.
Chaunsu is prepared from black lentils by roasting them before grinding.
Arsa, this irresistible sweet which simply melts into one’s mouth. Singori, this sweet dish is prepared by cooking kneaded khoya, mixed with sugar. Its a traditional sweet which makes your trip successful. Jhangora ki Kheer, is a local dessert prepared by cooking rice in milk. In the Garhwal region, the preparation replaces rice with jhangora (millet).
In Kedarnath:
Kedarnath, the only place where you can witness the beauty of Garhwal Himalayas. It’s one of the four pilgrimage places in chardham Yatra. You can capture some scenic views of the cotton candy clouds, the different shades of green, numerous eye catching waterfalls, glaciers and peace. Large number of devotees swarm to this place every single year, because of its religious significance. But now a days, not just pilgrims, this place has grown the interest in adventure seekers too. This region is blessed with enchanting flora and fauna, and you can cover the entire region within a day. Also, for adventure lovers this place is a charm when Gaurikund becomes the highlight of this Himalayan odyssey.
Enchanting snow capped Himalayas peaks, lush green meadows, flowers spread across The Valley and the fragrance of nature itself let your soul splurge. Also, finding accommodation is not such a difficult task here. There are many hotel rooms, Ashrams ,cottages and the best part is it’s all affordable. No luxury can be found here except the Himalayan luxury. This adventure will definitely let you go head over heels with a sense of accomplishment.
Also, people going on a pilgrimage must be aware that Kedarnath Temple can only be reached from Gaurikund through a trek. It is no other way. Helicopter option is there but you will miss out the beauty of many splendid isolated locations.
The temple is at an elevation of 11,000-12,000 feet above sea level. And people suffering from people suffering from respiratory or heart diseases might end up facing health issues. pilgrims are allowed to trek to Kedarnath between 4am to 1:30pm.
Treks and places you must go on if you are an adventure freak, when you are in Kedarnath:
1. Gandhi Sarovar
2. Phata
3. Sonprayag
4. Gaurikund temple
5. Vasuki Tal
6. Shankaracharya samadhi
7. Triyuginarayan temple
8. Bhairavnath Temple
9. Kedarnath Temple
10. Rudra ave Kedarnath
Local food you must try in Kedarnath:
Try your hands on some local Garhwali and Kumaoni cuisines with authentic taste and preparation. Just a bite in your mouth a you can feel the outburst of typical uttrakhandi flavour. Also the Garhwali dishes are rich in nutrient factor and hold a high value of health benefits due to the maximum usage of various herbs, lentils, cereals and pulses. So here are some of the must try options.
Thechwani , main ingredient is mountain radish root and mountain potato. And it is made with some local spices. And it can be eaten along with rice and bread.
Kode ki roti, This is a special Garhwali Roti prepared with the help of a local grain which grows in large quantities on the hills and which also holds various health benefits too such as it is rich in iron and fibre.
Bhatt ki Churkani, The dish is a very rich source of protein and fibre altogether. It is prepared with locally grown black soya bean, blended with rice to make a thick paste. Surely an example of health and taste both.
Dubuk, It is a kind of Dal gravy, prepared with the help of either Arhar, Gahat. It is usually prepared on big events and some special occasions. The stock of pulses then grinded to turn into a really fine paste by including some rice flour.
Extra yet important tips for your Chardham trip:
1. Do not carry heavy baggage. As we know that it's a high altitude trek, make sure to carry light baggage.
2. Make sure to carry warm yet lightweight clothes to protect yourself for the frozen and chilled air. Carry some good and warm jackets, scarfs, socks, good beanies to protect yourself from head to toe.
3. It is highly recommended to carry enough medicines especially during the trip. You must also carry medicines for stomach problems, vomiting, sprays as well.
4. Carry energy bars, protein bars, dry fruits, chocolates, wafers, biscuits to eat at regular intervals.
5. Carrying a water bottle is must and above all make sure to keep yourself hydrated.
6. you should wear good and strong boots. Make sure to wear something that is not slippery, as you will have to walk in the snow. Wear something comfortable and strong, as you will have to walk for long hours.
7. extra camera batteries are essential too because it’s once in a lifetime adventure and capturing memories are the must.
Accessible routes for experiencing the Himalayan ecstasy of Chardham Yatra:
By Air (flights and helicopters):
This is the major information which is mentioned on the itinerary. There are two domestic airports in Uttarakhand that are connected to major cities in the country. One of them is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun which is also the transit hub to most destinations in Uttarakhand. Dehradun lies at about 109kms from Kedarnath, 146kms from Badrinath, 114kms from Gangotri and 210kms from Yamunotri. It also provides you with direct flights to and from Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai and Chennai. The fastest way to reach Dehradun is by taking a flight from the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi which transports you to Dehradun in approximately 45 minutes to an hour. If you are travelling internationally, we advise you to take a direct flight to Delhi once you reach airport, you can avail of the bus services at the cheapest that will take you to places such as Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun. Also, you could hire a private cab or taxi right outside the airport. Another domestic airport in Uttarakhand is the Pantnagar Airport which connects you to nearby major hill stations in Kumaon such as Nainital, Bhimtal, Ranikhet, Almora, Jim Corbett National Park and Bareilly. The distance from Pantnagar Airport to Jim Corbett National Park is approximately 120 kilometres. It is highly advised to make reservations before hand and to book your tickets as well, especially if you are travelling in the peak season. You can choose between SpiceJet, Air India and IndiGo to make your way to Uttarakhand.
By Helicopter:
helicopter yatra will vary from 02 Days/01 Night to 06 Days/05 Nights and the cost will depend upon the duration of the trip and also the amenities provided by the tour company. While a 2 Day tour will be quick-paced, packing a visit to all destinations within 2 days. The 6 Day tour will offer a leisurely journey covering all four pilgrim spots at a luxurious pace. The journey commences from the Sahastradhara helipad in Dehradun and the helicopter takes off quite early in the morning so be sure to reach the helipad well in time.
By Railways (trains):
Major cities are connected to Uttarakhand and some of its hill stations by rail. Badrinath is at Ramnagar or Kotdwar, located 146 kms away. Whereas Dehradun is most viable to make your way to Gangotri. Trains to Dehradun make their way to and from Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. Some of the major trains serving Uttarakhand are Jan Shatabdi Express, Dehradun Express, Doon Express and Nanda Devi Express. Some important junctions of this location are Haridwar, Dehradun, Rishikesh, Nainital, Kotdwar, Kathgodam, Pauri and Udham Singh Nagar. As compared to other regions in India, travelling to Uttarakhand is easier when you are in the North and it takes around a day. The Uttarakhand Railway Department currently comprises almost 16 different stations connecting Uttarakhand with other important Indian cities.
By Roadways (buses):
This is the most basic route of Chardham, Delhi-Haridwar-Barkot-Yamunotri-Uttarkashi-Gangotri-Guptakashi-Kedarnath-Badrinath-Rishikesh-Delhi. 1000 state buses run in and out of Uttarakhand facilitated by the Uttarakhand Transport Corporation. Some of the major tourist destinations such as Haridwar and Rishikesh are connected to Delhi by National Highway 34 and National Highway 7 passing through Dehradun with Badrinath on the way. While the easiest way to reach Yamunotri is via Dehradun and Barkot you can also get direct buses from Delhi to Rishikesh, from where your pilgrimage will commence. Buses are available till the last motorable road in Kedarnath and Gaurikund. From there, you must trek to the Kedarnath temple. Highways 309 and 109 link Nainital, Almora and Jim Corbett National Park.
Some of the important guidelines for Chardham Yatra:
1. Badrinath Temple will be opened on 18th may 2021 at 4:15 am and closing date is 19 nov 3:35pm.
2. COVID-19 test is conducted and found as negative then only pilgrims will be allowed to visit the shrine.
3. Yatra E-Pass is compulsory for all pilgrims, applying through Uttarakhand Char Dham Devasthanam Management Board official website.
4. During the Corona period, only 1800 in Badrinath Dham, 900 in Kedarnath Dham, 600 in Gangotri and 450 in Yamunotri devotees will be able to visit per day.
5. The Ministry has taken up separate programme for connectivity Improvement for Char-Dham in Uttarakhand. Out of total 53 civil works covering the entire length of 889 km under Chardham project, 40 civil works of total project cost amounting to Rs. 9474 crore in a length of 673 km have been sanctioned. 34 works in a length of 604 km amounting to Rs. 7923 cr. have been awarded out of which 30 works amounting to Rs. 7679 cr. in length of 589 km are ongoing and 78 km length has been completed till March 2019 and 2 works amounting to Rs. 141 cr. in a length of 1.1 km have been completed. In the remaining 2 works, the appointed dated is yet to be given.