Uttarakhand · North India
Four sacred Himalayan shrines
Uttarakhand's Char Dham pilgrimage links Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath across four Himalayan valleys. The circuit combines sacred river origins and ancient temple traditions with demanding mountain roads, cold weather and high-altitude walking.
Best time to visit
Top attractions
- Yamunotri Temple
- Gangotri Temple
- Kedarnath Temple
- Badrinath Temple
- Mana village
- Bhim Pul
How to reach
- By air: Jolly Grant Airport is about 25 km from Rishikesh, a common starting point for the circuit.
- By rail: Haridwar and Yog Nagari Rishikesh are the principal rail gateways, approximately 20 km apart by road.
- By road: From Rishikesh, Gangotri is roughly 270 km, Badrinath 295 km and Sonprayag about 210 km; Yamunotri requires road travel to Janki Chatti followed by a trek.
Local food to try
- Mandua roti
- Aloo ke gutke
- Chainsoo
- Kafuli
- Jhangora kheer
Things to do
Good to know
When does the Char Dham yatra operate?+
The shrines usually open in April or May and close around October or November; dates are announced annually. May-June and September-October are popular, while monsoon landslides can disrupt travel.
How many days are needed?+
Allow ten to twelve days from Haridwar or Rishikesh for the full road circuit, with extra buffer days for weather and rest.
Is registration required?+
Yes. Complete the Uttarakhand government yatra registration and check current health, route and visitor-management requirements before departure.
How demanding is the pilgrimage?+
Kedarnath is around 3,580 m and involves a long uphill trek; Yamunotri also requires walking. Acclimatise gradually, seek medical advice for existing conditions and avoid travelling through severe-weather warnings.
Journeys here