Best Chardham Yatra Packages in 2024 | char dham tour guidelines details
Country– India, State – Uttrakhand
Top Places to Visit – Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath
Ideal Trip Duration – 3 Nights & 4 Days
Top Attraction –Gangotri Temple, Yamunotri Temple, Kedarnath Temple, Badrinath Temple
Best Time to Visit – Between April Mid – Nov Start
Peak Season – Between December & March
Best Chardham Yatra Package : Uttrakhand Circuit in 2024
The Chardham Yatra Package Tour is a spiritual pilgrimage to the four holy shrines in India – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath, together known as the “Four Dhams”. These shrines are regarded as the most sacred of all Hindu pilgrimage places and are situated in the picturesque state of Uttarakhand. The Chardham Yatra package covers everything from transportation, housing in hotels in Chardham Yatra, and all essential preparations for the pilgrimage.
We tailor the Chardham Yatra package to fit individual requirements and tastes, whether by helicopter or road. The Chardham Yatra tour package is carefully planned for the devotees to make their travel pleasant and memorable. The Chardham Yatra package pricing is also relatively inexpensive compared to other pilgrimage yatras, making it accessible to all.
Often people need clarification on the Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand and the mythical Chardham Yatra of India. Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath are included in the Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand, also known as Chhota Chardham Yatra. The Chardham Yatra has Badrinath, Dwarka, Jagannath and Rameshwaram and is known as the regular Chardham Yatra.
There are two options to visit Chhota Chardham, first by helicopter and second by road. Travelling by helicopter is for those travellers who do not want to travel by road for ten days or for those who are ill and have difficulty walking. Travelling by helicopter is expensive but very comfortable. Travelling by road is very economical, but this journey takes at least ten days and is also difficult due to poor road conditions. We will discuss both options in detail later.
This article will give you a complete overview of the Chota Chardham Yatra Package. Safargenie is a leading tour operator for Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand. If you are planning to visit Chardham, we can provide Chardham Yatra Package at reasonable prices. Reach out to us to book Best Chardham Yatra Package in 2023 and allow us to serve you.
Chota Chardham Yatra Package : Complete Guide
History Of Chardham Yatra
The Chota Chardham Yatra of Uttarakhand has a long history in ancient times. All four shrines of the Chardham Yatra Package, i.e. Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, are said to have been built by the famous Hindu saints Adi Shankaracharya and Guru Gorakshanath.
A pilgrimage to these shrines is believed to purify the soul from all sins and attain salvation. This Chardham Yatra is considered one of the most sacred and essential spiritual journeys for Hindus. In the past, the trip to the Chardham shrines was long and exhausting, with inadequate infrastructure and a lack of suitable housing. However, with the development of improved roads and the building of new hotels and guesthouses, the trip has become more accessible to devotees.
In the recent years we have experienced a substantial increase in the number of visitors and worshipers of Char Dham Tour Packages. In view of the increasing number of pilgrims, the Government of India, local authorities and local businessmen have taken initiative to upgrade the infrastructure and facilities in the temples, which is highly commendable. In the coming times, traveling by road will also become very fun and comfortable.
Significance Of Chardham Yatra
The Chardham Yatra package is a pilgrimage package that includes going to four famous Hindu temples in the Uttarakhand state of India. The temples are Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
The Chardham Yatra is regarded as one of Hinduism’s most essential and promising trips. It is thought that completing the Chardham Yatra will help one obtain moksha or escape from the cycle of birth and death. The temples in the Chardham Yatra are some of Hinduism’s most beloved and important shrines.
Apart from its religious significance, the Chardham Yatra tour Package also bears considerable importance from a tourist perspective because it gives a unique chance to see the beauty and spirituality of India. The pilgrimage is a test of physical and mental strength and a way to clean the soul and get blessings from the gods.
Millions of people from India and beyond visit these four holy shrines yearly. The Chardham Yatra tour package takes you to some of the most beautiful places in the world, which are truly breathtaking.
Best Time to Visit Char Dham Temples
The Chardham circuit in Uttarakhand, which includes the four holy temples of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India.
Every year, millions of spiritual seekers from all over the world travel to these temples hoping to receive blessings and find inner calm. If you are taking the Chardham Yatra Package from Safargenie, it is necessary to know the best time to see all the temples.
Summer (April – June)
Summer season is considered the best to take Chardham Yatra Package which starts in May and lasts till end of June. During summer, the average temperature of Chardham can range from 20 – 35° C. If you plan to take Chardham Yatra Package in summer, it is advisable to carry warm clothes with you because it can get cold in the evening.
Monsoon ( June – September)
Monsoon arrives in Chardham at the end of June which continues till september. During these months, Chardham faces heavy rainfall which can lead to river overflow and there are chances of landslides and floods. Therefore, it is advisable to not travel during these months
Pre Winter Season (September-October)
September and October can be the ideal month to take Chardham Yatra Package. During this time, the weather becomes extremely pleasant and you can enjoy places filled with greenery.
Winter (November – March)
Winter Season starts in Chardham in mid november. Due to extremely cold weather, darshan is stopped during this period. After that, Chardham are opened directly after Akshay Tritiya in April.
During winter months, respected deities are brought to their winter homes. The deities are worshipped during this time at following places :
- Deities of Yamunotri Temple at Yamuna Mandir in Kharsali Village
- Deities of Gangotri Temple at Ganga Mandir in Mukhwa Village
- Deities of Kedarnath Temple at Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath
- Deities of Badrinath Temple at Nar Singh Temple in Joshimath
Opening and Closing Dates of Chardham Temples 2024
The Chardham circuit is challenging, and you must be ready for the journey. The temples are situated at high elevations, and the weather may be unpredictable. It is advisable to pack warm clothes, sturdy shoes, and a decent-quality raincoat. Having enough food and drink is also vital since the Chardham Yatra Package might extend for additional days due to unforeseen difficulties.
The opening and closing dates of the Chardham temples are chosen by the local priests and are based on the Hindu calendar. The temples usually open annually in April or May and shut in October or November, depending on the weather conditions.
Opening Dates of Chardham Yatra
- Yamunotri Temple is the first temple to open in Uttarakhand that opens on Akshaya Tritiya on 10 May 2024
- Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, is the second temple that opens on the same day as Yamunotri Temple i.e 10 May 2024
- Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to lord shiva opens after few days on 10 May 2024
- Badrinath Temple, the most important temple of the circuit opens up 10 May 2024
Closing Dates of Chardham Yatra
- Gangotri Temple closes down on Deepawali.
- Kedarnath Temple and Yamunotri Temple closes on the occasion of Bhai Dooj after three days of Deepawali
- Badrinath Temple closes down on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami.
Opening Dates of Chardham 2023 | Closing Dates (May Vary) |
Yamunotri Temple – 22 April | To be updated soon |
Gangotri Temple – 22 April | To be updated soon |
Kedarnath Temple – 27 April | To be updated soon |
Badrinath temple – 28 April | To be updated soon |
Note: It is also important to remember that the opening and shutting dates of the temples may change from year to year, depending on the weather conditions and other considerations.
How To Do Chardham Yatra
There are two ways to do Chardham Yatra – by road or helicopter. You can choose among these according to your convenience. Let us know the following means for your Chardham Yatra Package.
Chardham Yatra Package By Road
The most traditional and popular method of selecting the Chardham Yatra package is via road. The Chardham yatra typically begins at Haridwar or Rishikesh and covers a distance of around 870 kilometres. The route travels through lovely cities and villages, affording a view of the area’s stunning scenery and rich culture.
The best time to attempt the Chardham Yatra by road is between May and starting of June or September/October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the roads are open and accessible.
However, one should know that Visiting Kedarnath Temple during the monsoon season can be uncertain. When it does rain excessively, it might bring landslides and the likelihood of blockages.
The yatra may be accomplished in ten days, depending on the weather conditions. It is suggested to plan lodging, transport, and darshan (visit to the temple) since the rush during peak season might be high.
Chardham Yatra Package By Helicopter
Another alternative for performing the Chardham Yatra is via helicopter. This kind of travel is especially ideal for older passengers or those with restricted movement. It is also an excellent choice for people who are short on time and wish to finish the yatra in a shorter time frame.
The Chardham Yatra Tour begins at the Dehradun helipad and takes an average of six days to visit the four holy sites, depending on the weather conditions.
If you want to complete the Chardham Yatra by helicopter, the best time is between May/June or September/October. During these months, the weather is fair, and the helicopter service is functioning.
It is crucial to remember that the helicopter service is subject to availability and might be impacted by variables such as weather conditions and mechanical concerns. It is essential to book the service well in advance and to have a backup plan in case the service is unavailable.
Yamunotri
Yamunotri is the prime attraction in the Chardham Yatra Package Tour in Uttarkashi. It is located on the western side of the Garhwal Himalayas.
The Yamunotri temple is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna and is situated at an altitude of 3,293 metres above sea level. The temple is also known for its hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties.
Significance of Yamunotri
Yamunotri is considered the source of the Yamuna River and is the second most sacred river in Hinduism after Ganga. The goddess Yamuna is believed to have the power to purify the soul and bring blessings to devotees.
It is believed that the Yamuna river can wash away the sins of people who will take a bath in it and protect them from an untimely or painful death.
Places to Visit Near Yamunotri
- Yamunotri Temple: The main temple in the area is one of the main sites for pilgrims taking the Chota Chardham Yatra Package.
- Saptarishi Kund: A natural hot water spring located at the base of the Yamunotri temple. It is surrounded by a rare Himalayan flower called Brahma Kamal.
- Surya Kund: A hot water spring located at the base of the Yamunotri temple, known for its medicinal properties, which gives relief to travellers after hectic travelling and cure skin diseases.
- Divya Shila: A strong rock situated near Surya kand. Pilgrims pay homage to this pillar as it has some mythological significance.
- Hanuman Chatti: A small village that is a popular spot for trekking in the region. Travellers frequently visit here to explore nature and the countryside.
- Janaki Chatti: A last village in the region surrounded by mountains from all sides. It is the originating point of the Yamunotri trek with hot water springs. From here, you have to trek 5 km to reach Yamunotri.
- Kharsali: This village is the winter seat of goddess Yamuna, as the Yamunotri temple becomes inaccessible in winter due to heavy snow.
- Shani Dev Temple: It is considered one of the oldest temples of Shani Dev which Pandava of Mahabharata built.
Gangotri
Gangotri is one of the famous pilgrimage sites in Hinduism, which attracts thousands of devotees each year. It is dedicated to the goddess Ganga, who is believed to have descended to earth in the form of a river.
One of the important destinations of our Chardham Yatra Package, the Gangotri temple, is located in the town of Gangotri, on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, which is considered the source of the Ganges River.
Significance of Gangotri
Gangotri is the source of the River Ganges and is considered one of India’s most sacred places. According to mythology, the goddess Ganga came to earth in the form of the River Ganges at Gangotri due to King Bhagiratha’s hard penance for numerous decades.
It is claimed that Lord Shiva released the mighty river from the locks of his hair to reduce its influence on the world, which may have otherwise destroyed the earth. Nepalese General Amar Singh Thapa established the first Gangotri Temple.
Places to Visit Near Gangotri
- Gangotri Temple: The temple is dedicated to the goddess Ganga and is believed to be more than 200 years old. It is located at an altitude of 3,048 metres.
- Kedartal: Also known as Shiva Lake is the highest lake in Uttarakhand. It is considered one of the most beautiful places in the region. It is formed by the melting of the Kedar Glacier.
- Gaumukh Trek: It is one of the most popular trekking destinations in the Garhwal Himalayas. It allows travellers to camp at Himalayan Peaks.
- Harsil: This is a small village located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and offers several trekking trails in the surrounding mountains.
- Tapovan Trek: It is considered the best high-altitude grassland in India and is a Trekking Destination. It is also a seasonal home for several sadhus living in caves, huts, etc.
Kedarnath
Kedarnath is located in the Rudraprayag district in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand and is considered to be one of the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva. The temple is situated at the height of 3,584 metres above sea level.
Kedarnath Temple is not accessible by road; one must trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath temple, which is roughly 22 kilometers. Pony, Palanquin & Helicopter services are also available to reach the temple.
Significance of Kedarnath
It is claimed that after the great Kurukshetra battle, Pandava desired to atone for the crimes of committing fratricide (Gotrahatya) and Brahmanahatya (killing of Brahmins, the priest class) during the conflict. So in the quest for Shiva, they got here. Still, Shiva wished to avoid the Pandavas since he was highly angered by the murders and dishonesty during the Kurukshetra battle and was indifferent to the Pandavas’ petitions. Consequently, he adopted the shape of a bull (Nandi) and hid in the Garhwal area.
When the Pandavas managed to follow and discover him in this place, he sought to vanish by lowering himself head-first into the earth. Bhima (The second brother of Pandava) grasped his tail, making him stand before them and pardon them. The part of Shiva’s body in the shape of Nandi occurs at four different spots, and together, these areas are referred to as Panch Kedar. These Panch Kedar locations include Kedarnath (Hump Portion), Tungnath (Arms), Madhyamaheshwar (Nabhi & Stomach), Rudranath (Face), Kalpeshwar (Hair), and Pashupatinath, Nepal (Head Portion).
The current temple, erected in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya, lies near the site of an ancient temple built by the Pandavas. Kedarnath’s significance is not limited to its religious importance but also its natural beauty. The temple is surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped mountains, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The temple is also home to many rare species of flora and fauna, making it an excellent spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Places to Visit Near Kedarnath
- Kedarnath Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a place that is closely associated with Pandavas.
- Gandhi Sarovar: The Gandhi Sarovar is a beautiful lake at a distance of 3 km from the temple. It is also known as Chorabari Tal or Gandhi Tal. In 1948, some of the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi were immersed here. Hence it was named Gandhi Sarovar.
- The Kedarnath Peak: It is the highest in the region and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It is a challenging peak for climbing lovers; they must be mentally and physically prepared to climb it.
- The Vasuki Tal: It is another high glacial lake in Kedarnath Uttarakhand. It is also believed Lord Vishnu took a bath in this lake on Raksha Bandhan.
- Guptkashi: This town is located on the route of Kedarnath. It has some important ancient temples like Vishwanath Temple and Ardhnareshwar Temple.
- Ukhimath: It is the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar. Worship is done at the Omkareshwar Temple when the temple of Kedarnath remains closed in winter.
Read More: Badrinath Kedarnath Tour Package From Delhi
Badrinath
Badrinath is considered an essential holy destination in Chardham Yatra Package and is a must-visit destination for every devotee undertaking the Chardham Yatra.
The temple of Lord Badrinath, a form of the god Vishnu, is the main attraction at the site and is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams, or holy shrines, of Vishnu.
The temple is located in the town of Badrinath, in the Himalayan mountains and surrounded by natural beauty.
Significance of Badrinath
Badrinath is one of the 4 dhams (abodes) of Lord Vishnu and is considered to be one of the most sacred places in India. It is believed that Lord Vishnu appeared as a stone idol in this place, and has been a pilgrimage site for centuries.
The temple of Lord Badrinath is situated on the banks of the Alaknanda River and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Places to Visit Near Badrinath
- Badrinath Temple: It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is also a part of the Char Dhams of India. It is also included in the Chota Char Dham of Uttarakhand. It is one of the most visited holy places in India.
- Tapt Kund: As the name implies, it is a hot water spring situated between Badrinath Shrine & Alaknanda River. The pilgrims take the holy wash in this kund before travelling to Badrinath, as it is known to purify the soul and has medicinal properties.
- Vasudhara Falls: It is a waterfall located in Mana Village, which is 9 km away from Badrinath. It is also believed to be the resting place for the Pandavas.
- Narad Kunda: It is a hot water spring near Badrinath on the recess of the Alaknanda River. It is close to tapt Kund and gets hot water from Gaurishala.
- Mata Murti Temple: It is dedicated to the mother of Lord Badrinath and is located 3 kilometres from the main Badrinath temple on the bank of the Alaknanda River.
- Mana Village: It is the last Indian village that lies close to the Tibetan-Chinese Border. It is located on the bank of the Saraswati River.
- Bhim Pul: Natural bridge built by a rock on the other side of Mana Village. It is believed to be built by Bhim when Pandavas walked across the village.
- Pandukeshwar: This is where the father of Pandavas worshipped Lord Vishnu.
- Charan Paduka: A rock retaining the foot imprint of Lord Vishnu. People believed that Lord Vishnu set his foot for the first time on earth from here.
- Panch Dhara: It is a group of 5 water streams originating in Badrinath named Prahlad Dhara, Kurma Dhara, Bhrigu Dhara, Urvashi Dhara, and Indira Dhara.
- Panch Shila: It is a collection of five stones placed between Tapt Kund & Narad Kund. They are Garud Shila, Nar Shila, Sarsingh Shila, Varah Shila & Markandey Shila.
- Vyas Gufa: It is supposed that Maharishi Ved Vyas composed Mahabharata in this cave with Lord Ganesha. Many other Puranas and Vedas are also composed in the same cave by Maharishi Ved.
These are some places pilgrims can visit near Badrinath during the Chardham Yatra Package. With a wide range of hotel options in Chardham, finding the perfect accommodation for your journey is easy.
Safargenie offers 4 Dham Yatra packages, including the Chardham Yatra package by car, Chardham Yatra Package by helicopter, and the Chardham Yatra package for senior citizens.
We can guide you through the entire process and ensure your journey is smooth and memorable. So, plan your Chardham Yatra Tour package today and embark on a spiritual journey with Safargenie that you will remember for a lifetime.
Read More: Badrinath Kedarnath Tour Package From Delhi
Chhota Chardham Yatra is one of the must-do trips for Hindus. Every Hindu must visit these places once in a lifetime.
Doors of the Temples get opened on Akshaya Tritya (April Mid – May Start) & get closed on Kartik Purnima (Oct Mid – Nov Start), so this holy Chardham Yatra can be done during this period but one has to book the Chardham Yatra Package well in advance to avoid the last-minute rush.
We start taking bookings for the next season from the month Oct – Nov previous years. So, to get your best deals & grab your discounts you must book early.
We expertise ourselves in conducting Chardham Yatra Package by Helicopter & operate Charted Helicopters for conducting Chardham Yatra Package. Some of our popular Chardham Yatra Packages by Helicopter is as below.
Choose Your Best Chardham Yatra Package in 2024
FAQs -Frequently Asked Questions
In Chhota Chardham Yatra Package four Dham which are covered are Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath.
As per Hindu mythology, it is believed that after the Kurukshetra war was over, Pandavs trekked on these routes in search of Lord Shiva to seek his forgiveness for killing their own brothers & Brahmins. Yamunotri – Deity is the goddess Yamuna. Gangotri – Deity is the goddess Ganga. Kedarnath – Deity is goddess Lord Shiva. Badrinath – Deity is goddess Lord Vishnu.
Doors of the Temples get opened on Akshaya Tritya (April Mid – May Start) & get closed on Kartik Purnima (Oct Mid – Nov Start), so this holy Chardham Yatra can be done during this period but one has to book the Chardham Yatra Package well in advance to avoid the last-minute rush.
Find below the list of essential items you must carry along with you on the Chardham Yatra Package.
- Valid ID Proof – You must carry your valid ID proof (Passport / Voter ID / Aadhar Card / Driving Licence), which may be required at many places.
- Regular Medicines – If you are on regular medication like diabetes, BP, or any such thing, you must not forget to carry these. Note – If you have any serious medical conditions, please share with us so that we can advise you properly OR can plan your trip accordingly.
- Personal Woollen Clothing – Temp will be very cold at places during Chardham Yatra, hence you are advised to carry good quality woolen clothes along with you.
- Water Bottles – To keep yourself hydrated during the trip, you must carry this.
- Food Items – Carry Biscuits, dry fruits, chocolate, or such things. So, that you can regain energy during your long hours of walk and trekking.
- Trekking Shoes – During yatra you have to trek in certain sections, so you must have good comfortable shoes to make your journey easy.
- Umbrella – To protect yourself from sudden rain.
- Rain Coat – This will be required in case of heavy rain.
Yes, need to pre-book your Chardham Yatra Package to avoid hassles/inconvenience during the tour. Also, registration is required before you commence your Yatra, which is taken care by us once you are done with your booking through us.
Luxury hotels are available only at the plains i.e Haridwar & Dehradun & some part of the Yatra Route. But, because of the extreme conditions at most of the places basic hotel facilities only available. However, we always try to provide the best services to our guests & hence choose the best available hotels at each place we are providing stay.
In all our “Fixed Departure Tours” we provide all meals, but for individual tours, we offer only breakfast at the hotel. However, other meals can also be included on request from the traveler.
Food Vegetarian foods are available throughout the Yatra route along with light snacks. We provide complete meals (pure veg) which are freshly & hygienically prepared every time before they are served in all our Fixed Departure Tours.
Yes, ATMs are available at places, but they are very crowded, so you are advised to carry a sufficient amount of cash which may be needed during your Yatra in case of emergency. However, cards & digital payments are also acceptable at places in this route.
Yes, we do conduct Chardham Yatra Package by Helicopter along with by road.
No, Chardham Yatra Package by Helicopter is conduct Ex-Dehradun. So, the guest has to reach Dehradun to take this package.
You can reach Dehradun by Flight / Train / Bus. All these transport modes are available.
Temples are very closely located to the helipad, i.e within walking distance. However, a pony OR palanquin can also be taken to reach the temple.