About Char Dham
The Char Dham, or “Four Abodes,” is a set of four sacred pilgrimage sites in India that hold immense significance in Hinduism. These holy shrines are located in the picturesque Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, and undertaking a journey to visit them is believed to cleanse the soul and help attain salvation (moksha). The Char Dham circuit includes:
1. Yamunotri
- Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, the Yamunotri temple marks the source of the Yamuna River.
- Situated at an altitude of 3,293 meters, the site is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including glaciers and thermal springs like the Surya Kund.
- Pilgrims often take a dip in the hot springs as a spiritual ritual.
2. Gangotri
- The Gangotri temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, the sacred river Ganges.
- Located at an elevation of 3,100 meters, it is believed to be the origin of the Ganges River (though the actual glacier source, Gaumukh, is further upstream).
- The temple and nearby landmarks like Bhagirath Shila celebrate the mythology of Ganga’s descent to Earth.
3. Kedarnath
- One of the 12 Jyotirlingas (divine representations of Lord Shiva), Kedarnath is a revered temple located at an altitude of 3,583 meters.
- Surrounded by snow-clad peaks, the temple is believed to have been established by the Pandavas and later revived by Adi Shankaracharya.
- It is accessible after a challenging trek, making it a site of both physical and spiritual endurance.
4. Badrinath
- Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Badrinath temple is one of the holiest shrines in India.
- Situated at 3,300 meters, it lies on the banks of the Alaknanda River, surrounded by the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges.
- The idol of Lord Vishnu in a meditative posture is central to the temple’s devotion.
Char Dham Yatra
The pilgrimage typically follows this sequence: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. The journey begins from the towns of Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun, serving as gateways to the Himalayas.
This sacred journey attracts millions of devotees annually and combines spiritual fulfillment with the exploration of breathtaking natural landscapes.
CHILDREN POLICY
- Child below 5 yrs. complimentary.
- Child 5-10 yrs. without extra bed meals cost important to pay.
- Above 10 yrs / Extra adult with an extra bed sharing room (charge extra bed with meals).
- Hotels are very strict with the child policy. Please carry the age proof so that it can be produced if asked by hotel.
