Char Dham Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India. This pilgrimage is a visit to four major temples of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath located in the beautiful mountains of Uttarakhand. These pilgrimages have special significance in Hinduism and it is believed that visiting here destroys sins and leads to salvation. Every year lakhs of people undertake this journey, whether the path is difficult or the weather is bad, their faith remains unwavering.
The journey begins from Yamunotri. Then Gangotri, after that Kedarnath and finally Badrinath. All these Dhams are situated in the lap of the Himalayas and the natural beauty here gives peace to the mind. These four Dhams are located in Uttarakhand. Char Dham Yatra is a religious journey. This journey purifies the soul and gives inner peace to the mind. This journey will be remembered throughout your life and creates a deep connection with God.
1. Yamunotri
Yamunotri Dham is located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand state. It is the first stop of the Char Dham Yatra. This place is considered to be the origin of the holy Yamuna river and Yamuna river is worshipped here. In Hinduism, Yamuna river is considered to be the goddess who removes sins. Yamunotri Dham is located at a height of about 3293 meters above sea level and to reach here, devotees have to climb a difficult 6 kilometers.
This route passes through beautiful hills. The idol of Yamuna Mata in the main temple is made of black stone. This temple was built in the 19th century. There is Surya Kund near the temple which is a hot water source. In this Kund, prasad is made by drinking Sajlu rice. Coming here, you will feel immense peace and happiness.
2. Gangotri
Gangotri Dham is located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. This is the second Dham among the four Dhams and is known as the origin place of the holy river Ganges. In Gangotri, the Ganges is known as Bhagirathi River. Gangotri Dham is at an altitude of about 3100 meters above sea level. The Gangotri temple pictured here was built in the 18th century. It is completely made of white stones. In summer, millions of devotees come here and worship Mother Ganga.
Gaumukh is about 19 kilometers away from Gangotri temple. The river Ganges flows from here. Many devotees also go to Gaumukh by walking. In Gangotri, one experiences the divine presence of crystal clear water, high mountains and peaceful environment. Here the mind, soul and body get a different kind of peace.
3. Kedarnath
Kedarnath Dham is located in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand and is the third and most sacred and difficult name among the four Dhams. This Dham is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in Hinduism. Kedarnath temple is situated at a height of about 3583 meters above sea level and to reach here, devotees have to walk about 16 to 18 kilometers from Gaurikund.
This journey is difficult but the faith of the devotees makes it easy. It is believed that after the war in Mahabharata, the Pandavas came to Lord Shiva to seek salvation of their sins. Lord Shiva absolved them of their sins and started living in Kedarnath and later gave birth to the same. Kedarnath temple is an ancient miraculous temple made of stones.
4. Badrinath
Badrinath Dham is located in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and it is the last and most important Dham of the Char Dham Yatra. This holy Dham is dedicated to Badrinarayan in the form of Lord Vishnu. Badrinath Dham is located at an altitude of about 3133 meters above sea level and is known as a divine place nestled in the lap of Narayan Parvat.
Situated on the banks of a river called Alaknanda, this temple is open to devotees from May to November every year. The main gate of Badrinath temple is decorated with bright colors and a grand style idol of Lord Vishnu is installed in the temple. The journey here makes the soul feel purity, peace and connection with God.
