The Char Dham — comprising Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath — is one of the most revered pilgrimage circuits in India, set amid the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand. These sacred destinations not only hold immense spiritual significance but also captivate visitors with their stunning natural beauty and cultural richness.
1. Yamunotri Temple
Why visit: The source of the Yamuna River, this temple marks the starting point of the Char Dham yatra and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna.
Highlights: – Scenic trek from Janki Chatti – Hot springs (Surya Kund) near the temple – Peaceful Himalayan surroundings
Timing: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (May to October)
Entry: Free
2. Gangotri Temple
Why visit: Dedicated to Goddess Ganga, this temple marks the origin of the Ganges River and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Highlights: – Set beside the Bhagirathi River – Evening aarti is soul-stirring – Gateway to Gaumukh Glacier trek
Timing: 6:15 AM to 2:00 PM; 3:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Entry: Free
3. Kedarnath Temple
Why visit: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath is set dramatically against the backdrop of the Kedarnath range.
Highlights: – 16 km trek from Gaurikund – Shiva temple made of massive stone slabs – Spiritual energy amidst rugged terrain
Timing: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Darshan closed 3:00–5:00 PM)
Entry: Free
4. Badrinath Temple
Why visit: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this grand temple lies between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges beside the Alaknanda River.
Highlights: – Vibrant facade and sacred Tapt Kund – Evening aarti and bhajans – Nearby Mana, the last Indian village
Timing: 4:30 AM to 1:00 PM; 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
5. Gaumukh Glacier
Why visit: The actual source of the Ganges River, Gaumukh is a sacred and scenic trekking destination beyond Gangotri.
Highlights: – Moderate-to-challenging 18 km trek – Glacier shaped like a cow’s mouth – Breathtaking views of Mount Shivling
Timing: May to October (permit required)
Entry: Free; permits approx. ₹150 per person
6. Vasudhara Falls
Why visit: A high-altitude waterfall near Badrinath believed to bless only the pure of heart — reached via a scenic trek.
Highlights: – 5 km trek from Mana village – 400-foot waterfall – Peaceful, lesser-known spiritual spot
Timing: Daytime only
Entry: Free
7. Bhairav Temple (Kedarnath)
Why visit: Dedicated to Bhairavnath, this temple overlooks Kedarnath and is believed to guard the region in winter.
Highlights: – Short uphill hike from Kedarnath – Stunning valley views – Deep spiritual symbolism
Timing: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Free
8. Surya Kund (Yamunotri)
Why visit: A natural hot spring where pilgrims cook rice offerings and take a purifying dip before darshan.
Highlights: – Boiling thermal spring – Ritual bathing area – Scenic temple backdrop
Timing: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
9. Tapt Kund (Badrinath)
Why visit: A natural hot water spring where devotees bathe before entering the Badrinath Temple.
Highlights: – Believed to have healing properties – Segregated bathing areas for men and women – Right beside Alaknanda River
Timing: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
10. Janki Chatti (Base for Yamunotri)
Why visit: The base point for the Yamunotri trek, known for its thermal springs and scenic accommodations.
Highlights: – Comfortable stay before the trek – Pony and palanquin services available – Shops and small temples
Timing: Accessible May to October
Entry: Free
Feature Image:- Photo by Aalsee Balak on Unsplash
