Chardham Yatra Places to Visit
Chardham is one of the holy places in India, which is a set of four most religious destinations in India. They are Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri Dham, and Yamunotri. It is believed that visiting Chardham Yatra will remove all your sins that you have done and give you moksha from the cycle of birth and rebirth. Chardham Yatra is known for its deep spirituality and alluring beauty that gives you some peaceful moments with yourself in the charming beauty of the Himalayas covered with snow. Other than these temples, there are some other Chardham yatra places to explore.
Chardham yatra is a peaceful journey between the mountains covered with snow, but this journey requires a lot of physical strength as well as mental strength. So, to explore the spiritual journey with ease, we recommend you book the Chardham tour package by helicopter from Dehradun.
If you want to explore this beautiful journey, don’t miss these Chardham yatra places to visit during your trip. But before exploring these places, know the best time to visit Chardham Yatra so that you can enjoy it to the fullest. Furthermore, You can also book the Chardham Yatra Package from Mumbai and take a direct flight from Dehradun after completing your yatra by helicopter or bus and taxi services.
- 5 Nights/ 6 Days
Package Price
₹ 2,10,000
Per Person (Exclusive of Taxes)
- Same-Day
- 3N / 4D
Package Starting from
₹ 1,25,000 - ₹ 1,45,000
Per Person (Inclusive of Taxes)
- 9 Night / 10 Days
Package Price
₹ 59,100
(Per Person + Taxes)
Chardham Yatra Places to Visit during Yamunotri Yatra
1. Surya Kund
Surya Kund, which is situated near the main temple, is one of the major attractions. It is a place. All tourists stop here to pay respect to the sun, which is the father of Yamuna. Surya Kund is a thermal hot water spring whose temperature is 88 degrees, and it has some medicinal properties that give relief to travellers after hectic travelling and cure skin diseases and joint problems after taking a dip in this water.
2. Saptrishi Kund
This Saptrishi kund is situated 10 km away from the Yamunotri temple. It is surrounded by Brahma kamal, which is a rare Himalayan flower. This Saptrishi kund is named after the seven great rishis who performed penance and yoga here. This kund was spotted with the help of a travel guide as this lake is situated in a remote area. You will get to see the alluring view here. Saptrrishi Kund is a must-visit place in Chardham Yatra.
3. Divya Shilla
Situated near Surya Kund, Divya Shilla is a strong rock pillar. Before entering the Yamunotri temple, people will pay homage to this pillar. This place has a mythological significance.
Chardham Yatra Places to Visit during Gangotri Yatra
4. Harsil
Harsil is one of the main preserved gems of the Himalayas, located within walking distance of just 25 minutes from the Gangotri temple. It is surrounded by tall, lush green trees and snowbound peaks. Accommodation is also available in Harsil, and the idol of the goddess Ganga is brought here to the temple after the main gate of Gangotri is closed. This is one of the famous tourist places to visit Chardham Yatra.
5. Jalmagna shivling
It is believed that this is where lord shiva held the river Ganga in his matted locks before flowing. This Shivling or idol of lord Shiva has half-submerged inside the clear water during the time of summer when the sea level rises too much. If you want a different experience, then definitely visit this Jalmagna Shivling.
6. Gangotri National Park
Gangotri National Park, situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttrakhand, is one of India’s most popular high-altitude wildlife sanctuaries. It is the third-largest wildlife sanctuary in Uttrakhand. Its habitat consists of alpine meadows, glaciers, and coniferous forests. This national park is home to a vast collection of flora and fauna. One of the major attractions of this national park is the Gurmukh glaciers, which are the origin place of the river Ganga. Gangotri National Park is one of the Chardham yatra places to visit during your Journey.
7. Guptkashi and Uttarkashi
Guptkashi is situated in the Northern Himalayan belt within the Mandakini Himalayan valley, famous for the Vishwanath temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Uttarkashi has a lot of temples and ashrams and is the home of the national mountaineering institute. It is known as the “Kashi of the north.” You can also visit the Kashi Vishwanath temple here, which is very popular among devotees. Stay here for a day and explore the attractions of Uttarkashi.
The best way to reach Gangotri Dham is to take a route via Haridwar, Dehradun, or Rishikesh by riding on the best-suited mode of travel – Road, Train, or Helicopter and visit the most sacred sight of Goddess Ganga.
Chardham Yatra Places to visit during Kedarnath Yatra
8. Gandhi Sarovar/ Chorabari Tal
Gandhi Sarovar is named after Mahatma Gandhi when his ashes of him were immersed here. It is situated 4 km away from the Kedarnath temple at an altitude of 3,900 meters above sea level. This small lake holds crystal clear water, and it is believed that the lord Shiva has imparted his knowledge of yoga to Saptrishis. The trek of Gandhi Sarovar is beautiful and comfortable through the grassy fields. You get to see the beautiful Madhu Ganga waterfall on the route. Here, you get to see the beautiful view of the Himalayas covered with snow. Gandhi Sarovar is a wonderful Chardham yatra place. There are several ways to Reach Kedarnath: by Road, by Train, or by Air.
9. Vasuki Tal
This lake is situated 5 km away from Kedarnath, and the altitude is 4,328 meters above sea level. Vasuki Tal is one of the most fantastic trekking destinations for adventure lovers. The crystal clear, glimmering melting water from the mountains nearby drains into this lake, giving you the most stunning view. Vasuki Tal is named after his shape, which resembles the snake Vasuki, which is coiled around the neck of lord Shiva. A fantastic view of Chaukhamba peaks has been seen from Vasuki Lake.
Also, Check the best time to visit Kedarnath Yatra is in the summer months of May & June and September & October (the beginning of winter).
Chardham Yatra Places to visit during Badrinath Yatra
Badrinath Dham is located in a small town in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand. The place is beautifully nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas on the banks of the River Alaknanda. If you want to reach Badrinath, you can avail of any option by Road, Rail, or Air. The best time to visit Chardham Yatra is in the months of May and June and September to November. Make sure to book your Yatra Package before ending the booking date.
10. Bheem Pul
It is built over the Saraswati River and situated in the Mana village, which is the last village in India. This pul is named after one of the Pandava brothers, Bheem, who made this bridge for his loving wife, Draupadi, who was unable to cross the river. Bheem decided to fill the gap, and then he made this pul with the help of mountain rock near it. Bheem Pul is one of the prime tourist locations near Badrinath. Bheem Pul is among the Unusual Chardham Yatra places to Visit.
11. Vasudhara falls
If you want to experience the true spirituality of Badrinath, then you should definitely visit here. It falls from an incredible height of 400 feet. This journey opens from the second week of May to October and November. Vasudhara Falls is an astonishing trek for anyone who is in search of adventure in your spiritual yatra. This fall is 9 km away from the temple and offers a fantastic view of majestic mountains.
12. Valley of flowers
Valley of Flowers is Located near Badrinath Temple. This valley of flowers is a must-visit destination to explore if you have any time on your journey to Chardham Yatra by helicopter in 2025. The Valley of Flowers is visited during the summertime from May to July, and some people also visit Hemkund Sahib from here. Valley of Flowers is one of the most beautiful places to visit on Chardham Yatra.
13. Auli
Located near Joshimath en route to Badrinath Dham, Auli is one of the beautiful hill stations at a height of 2,500 meters, where a lot of winter games have been played. You will see a magnificent view of Mana Parvat, Kamat and Nanda Devi from here. People from foreign countries who are professional skiers visit here to enjoy the thrill of the slopes. Auli is a beautiful Chardham yatra place to visit.
Other Chardham Yatra Places to Visit
Chardham Yatra Places
| Mana Village | Brahma Kapal |
| Nilkantha Peak | Badrinath Temple |
| Alkapuri | Sunset Point |
| Tapt Kund | Kalimath |
| Yog Dhyan Badri | Sonprayag |
| Triyugi Narayan Temple | Kedarnath temple |
| Bhairavnath Temple | Kedarnath Peak |
| Madhyamaheshwar Temple | Nandanvan |
| Nilkantha Peak | Yamunotri Temple |
| Barkot | Divya Shila |
| Gangnani | Bali Pass Trek |
| Janki Chatti | Rudraprayag |
| Gaurikund | Kanch Mahal |
| Deoria Tal | Kharchakund |
| Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi | Chandrapuri |
| Anusuya Devi Temple | Tapovan |
| Nelong Valley | Bali Pass Trek |
| Hanuman Chatti | Hemkund Sahib |
You can also check out the package of Do Dham Yatra by Helicopter if you want to travel to Kedarnath & Badrinath. LIH.travel provide Yatra on the same day and the 2 Nights and 3 days option for the tour. For someone who is interested in travelling by road, LIH Travel provides you with a Chardham Yatra package from Haridwar for 10 days and 9 nights.
Locals Food to Try During Chardham Yatra
As you will travel through Uttarakhand Towns, you will find simple and warm meals that taste like home. Most of the food is cooked fresh using local ingredients and gives strength during the long yatra. From hot Rotis to Pahari Dal to their local sweets. Below are some popular foods you must try while visiting Chardham Yatra.
- Aloo ke Gutke
Aloo ke Gutke is a local potato dish made in every corner of the Garhwal region. Potatoes are boiled and then fried in mustard oil, with red chilies and a special seed called jakhya. That jakhya crackle is something different once tasted, not forgotten. The dish is dry, spicy, and full of mountain flavour. Usually eaten with roti or rice. No fancy masala, no heavy gravy. Just pure pahadi taste. After a long journey or darshan, when hunger kicks in, this simple food feels rich. Many locals believe this dish gives energy and keeps the body warm.
- Jhangora ki Kheer
This sweet dish comes from the hills and is often served in ashrams or local homes. Jhangora is a small millet grain, found mostly in Uttarakhand. It’s boiled in milk until soft, then sweetened with jaggery or sugar, and flavoured with cardamom. Some places add dry fruits, others keep it plain. But the taste always feels soft and peaceful. In that cold weather, just having a little kheer felt nice. It didn’t feel heavy at all, and while travelling, that matters a lot.
- Chainsoo
Chainsoo looks like a simple dal, but the taste is deep and earthy. Made from roasted urad dal, this dish is thick, smoky, and full of strength. The dal is dry-roasted till it smells nutty, then ground and slow-cooked in mustard oil with very few spices. The colour turns dark, almost black, but the flavour is rich. Usually eaten with rice, it is often made in small mountain homes. It keeps the body warm and gives lasting energy, which helps during long walks. Chainsoo doesn’t look fancy, but it fills the stomach and heart both.
- Kandali ka Saag
This dish is made from a wild plant found in the higher hills. Locals call it Kandali. Touching the leaves can sting, but once cooked, it becomes soft and full of health. It is made with garlic, salt, and mustard oil. The taste is slightly bitter but natural, like forest greens. Usually eaten with mandua roti or rice, it is not served in restaurants, but in village homes or small stalls near Mana or Joshimath.
- Mandua Ki Roti
In the mountains, people still eat Mandua roti. It looks a bit dark and has a rough feel outside, but inside it stays soft. The taste is slightly nutty. Locals usually eat it with ghee or simple sabzi like aloo ke gutke. This kind of roti keeps the stomach full and gives warmth, which really helps in cold weather. It’s not fancy, but it gives strength, and that’s what matters most in high places.
- Phaanu
Phaanu is something people in Garhwal make. They soak different dals at night, and in the morning cook it slowly with garlic, haldi, hing that kind of thing. The smell itself feels homely. It gets thick, but soft, not like regular dal. They eat it with rice, mostly. It doesn’t feel heavy but keeps you full. In cold weather, one plate of this and rice just feels enough.
Essential Tips for Elderly and Families Doing the Chardham Yatra
Chardham Yatra feels peaceful for the soul. But the journey is not easy. There’s a lot of walking, the air gets thin, weather turns cold, and days feel long. Still, people go with faith in their heart. That’s what keeps them strong through the ups and downs. It’s not just travel, it’s something that connects the body, mind, and prayers. Some moments feel tiring, but most feel sacred. Even simple steps feel special when taken on this path. Many elderly people dream of visiting these dhams once in their lifetime. With proper care, simple planning, and local wisdom, the yatra becomes not just easy, but memorable.
- Start Preparing the Body and Mind Early
Many older people do not travel regularly, so the sudden change in climate and long distance can affect them quickly. That’s why it’s best to begin simple exercise at home a few weeks before the yatra. Local doctors are available at a few places, but still, personal care is better. Packing a small warm shawl or jacket is good, even during summer, as hill weather can change suddenly. Preparing the mind is also important.
- Travel in the Right Season Only
The time of yatra matters more than anything else. Harsh rain, strong cold, or roadblocks can be risky. That’s why many locals suggest travelling just after the dham opens or before it closes when crowds are less, and the sky stays mostly clear. In heavy monsoon months, landslides can happen.
- Keep Luggage Light but Useful
Carrying heavy bags can turn the trip into stress. Many try to pack everything, but that’s not needed. A small bag with only what is required is best. Warm shawl, one torch, water bottle, some biscuits or dry fruits, medicine pouch, cotton towel, and ID card that’s enough. Footwear should be soft but strong, with grip. In temples like Kedarnath or Yamunotri, walking is needed. A good stick or walking aid can reduce pressure on knees.
Mythological Stories Connected to These Chardham Places
Kedarnath – Where Lord Shiva Hid
Long ago, after the war of Mahabharata, the Pandavas wanted to ask Lord Shiva for forgiveness. But Shiva was upset with the war and turned into a bull to hide. He disappeared into the land at Kedarnath. Bhim caught just his hump, and it is still worshipped there. This holy place stands quietly between snowy peaks. Elders say that only those who are truly called by Shiva can reach here. The temple’s history, its calm silence, and powerful energy make it one of the most emotional stops among the Chardham Yatra.
Badrinath – Vishnu’s Deep Meditation
Badrinath is where Lord Vishnu did long meditation in the cold mountains. It is said that Goddess Lakshmi turned into a tree to protect him from the cold wind. That’s how the place got the name Badrinath Lord of the Badri tree. The Alaknanda river flows near the temple, adding more beauty and holiness to the place. People believe that a darshan here washes away old sins. With snow-capped peaks all around and a peaceful temple at the centre.
Gangotri – Where Ganga Came to Earth
Gangotri is the place where river Ganga first touched the earth. King Bhagirath prayed for many years so that his ancestors’ souls could find peace. Ganga agreed but came with great force, so Lord Shiva caught her in his hair and gently let her down. That soft stream became the Bhagirathi river. Even today, people bow at Bhagirath Shila where the king meditated. The icy air, flowing water, and temple bells all carry that same ancient feeling.
Yamunotri – The Kind River Sister
Yamunotri is where river Yamuna starts her journey. She is believed to be the sister of Yama, the god of death. It is said that praying to Yamuna protects from untimely death. Sage Asit Muni once lived here and bathed in both Ganga and Yamuna. When he became too old to travel to Ganga, a stream of Ganga appeared beside Yamuna for him. The temple near the hot spring feels warm even in cold weather. Yamunotri’s soft beauty and loving energy make it a peaceful stop.
FAQs of Chardham Yatra Places
Q. What are the 4 Dham Yatra places in Uttarakhand?
Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath are the Chardham Yatra Places in Uttarakhand.
Q. How many days does it take to complete Char Dham Yatra?
The complete yatra will take you 11 to 12 days.
Q. Which month is better to visit Char Dham yatra?
The best time to visit Char Dham Yatra is from May to June and September to October.
Q. Which month is less crowded in Kedarnath?
Winter Season (October-March).
Q. What is the dress code for Kedarnath?
There is no strict dress code for this temple, but it is advised to dress modestly.
Q. Where can I book a helicopter for the Chardham Yatra?
You can book a helicopter from LIH Travel Agency, which is the best travel agency in India for Chardham Yatra.
Other Chardham Packages
Chardham Yatra Travel Guide
Hello, I’m Himanshu Mendiratta
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