Explore CharDham Yatra: A Journey of Spiritual Awakening

Introduction

CharDham Tour Package: Start the Chardham Yatra to go on a special spiritual trip through the beautiful hills of Uttarakhand. This yatra takes you to the holy shrines at Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Each place has its own story in Hindu myths and is known for its past. The trip brings both devotees who look to get blessings and travelers who come to see the natural beauty. For those who want spiritual comfort or want to learn about India’s old traditions, this pilgrimage gives something good to remember and feel deep inside.

CharDham Yatra Itinerary: Your Journey to the Four Holy Shrines

DAY 1: Delhi – Haridwar

• Depart from Delhi in the afternoon.
• Arrive in Haridwar by evening.
• Explore Har Ki Pauri and attend the Ganga Aarti in the evening.
• Overnight stay in Haridwar.

DAY 2: Haridwar – Barkot

• Distance: 180 km | Travel time: 6–7 hours
• After breakfast, depart for Barkot
• En route, visit Kempty Falls in Mussoorie
• Arrive in Barkot and check in to your hotel
• Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Barkot

DAY 3: Barkot – Yamunotri – Barkot

• Distance: 36 km (drive) + 6 km (trek one way)
• Travel time: 1.5 hours (drive) + 5–6 hours (trek round trip)
• After an early breakfast, drive to Jankichatti/Phoolchatti
• Begin the 6 km trek to Yamunotri (one way)
• After darshan, return to Barkot for an overnight stay.

DAY 4: Barkot – Uttarakashi

• Distance: 85 km | Travel time: 4–5 hours
• After breakfast, drive to Uttarkashi
• En route, visit the Prakateshwar Cave
• Arrive in Uttarkashi and check in to your hotel
• Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple
• Dinner and overnight stay in Uttarkashi

DAY 5: Uttarakashi – Gangotri – Uttarakashi

• Distance: 100 km (one way) | Travel time: 4–5 hours (one way)
• After an early breakfast, drive to Gangotri
• Perform darshan and pooja at the Gangotri Temple
• Drive back to Uttarkashi
• Dinner and overnight stay in Uttarkashi

DAY 6: Uttarakashi – Sonprayag

• Distance: 220 km | Travel time: 8–9 hours
• After breakfast, drive to Sonprayag
• Arrive in Sonprayag and check in to your hotel
• Rest and prepare for the Kedarnath trek
• Dinner and overnight stay in Sonprayag

DAY 7: Sonprayag – Gaurikund – Kedarnath

• Distance: 5 km (drive) + 18 km (trek one way)
• Travel time: 0.5 hour (drive) + 7–8 hours (trek one way)
• After an early breakfast, drive to Gaurikund
• Begin the 18 km trek to Kedarnath
• Arrive in Kedarnath and check in to your pre-booked accommodation
• Attend the evening darshan at Kedarnath Temple
• Overnight stay in Kedarnath

DAY 8: Kedarnath – Gaurikund – Sonprayag

• Distance: 18 km (trek) + 5 km (drive)
• Travel Time: Approximately 5–6 hours (trek) + 0.5 hour (drive)
• After morning darshan at the Kedarnath Temple, trek back to Gaurikund.
• Continue your onward journey to Sonprayag.
• Enjoy dinner and spend the night in Sonprayag.

DAY 9: sonprayag – Badrinath – pipalkoti

• After early breakfast, drive to Badrinath.
• Perform darshan at Badrinath Temple.
• Explore Mana village, the last village before the Indo-Tibetan border.
• Return to Pipalkoti.
• Dinner and overnight stay in Pipalkoti.

DAY 10: Departure

DEPART TO DELHI

• After an early breakfast, begin your return journey to Delhi.
• En route visit:
  • Dhari Devi Temple – A revered guardian goddess of Uttarakhand.
  • Devprayag Sangam – The sacred confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers forming the Ganga.
  • Continue towards Rishikesh.
  • Optional visit to Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula, or Triveni Ghat (if time permits).
  • Proceed to Delhi, arriving by late evening.

Understanding the CharDham Yatra: An Overview

The Char Dham pilgrimage is a special journey in India. It includes four holy places found in Uttarakhand Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. They are also called “Chota Char Dham.” Adi Shankaracharya started this spiritual path in the 8th century. Many people see the Char Dham as the way to reach salvation or Moksha. The Yatra is said to clean the soul. People do it to get closer to ultimate peace. Each dham is special and each one honors a different god. They all offer their own magic.

These holy sites bring thousands of pilgrims and travelers every year. People come not just for religious reasons but also to see the natural beauty around the Himalayas. The dues to the dham, the hike, and the journey give you amazing views and strong spiritual feelings. Whether you bathe in holy rivers or walk through the old temples, the Char Dham trek helps you feel close to your faith, past, the land, and all the people who come there.

Historical and Spiritual Significance

The Char Dham Yatra is an important and old pilgrimage that means a lot in the history and beliefs of the Hindu faith. The yatra was started by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. He was one of the key people who wanted to help people come closer to god. This dham yatra covers four shrines that are for Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, the goddess Ganga, and the goddess Yamuna. Each one shows a different side of Hindu belief.

There are also special sites called Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. For example, Kedarnath is a place where many people say Shiva has shown his true form. The badrinath shrine is where Lord Vishnu is worshipped in a deep and peaceful way. It gives people who come a chance to find peace and ask for his blessings. The dham temples were built with great skill. Their fine carvings can be seen today, even in the tough weather of the Himalayas.

So many pilgrims come here to make their soul pure. They want to say sorry for their mistakes and get rid of their past wrongs. This yatra is a mix of faith, devotion, and traveling into the history and stories of India. For many Hindus, it is a dream to do this journey, even if only once in

The Four Sacred Dhams Explained (Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath)

Each sacred Dham is important in the Char Dham pilgrimage. Yamunotri is the place where the Yamuna starts. Here, pilgrims ask for blessings from the sister of Yama. Gangotri is where the Ganga or Ganges begins. Devotees go there to experience the spirit of Goddess Ganga. Kedarnath has the famous Kedarnath Temple and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Many people visit it, looking for spiritual peace. Badrinath is connected with Lord Vishnu. It draws countless pilgrims who want peace and devotion in the Himalayas. Each Dham offers a special way for people to feel close to the goddess, to Lord Shiva, to Lord Vishnu, and to the holy rivers during their Char Dham pilgrimage.

Best Time to Embark on the Char Dham Yatra

Picking the best time for the Char Dham Yatra can help you have a smooth and good trip. Most people like to visit from April to October. During these months, the weather is better, and you can see the Himalayas without trouble. In the summer, it is great for trekking and darshan since the snow melts. That makes more routes open and safe to go.

Months like June and September have good weather too, with not many people around. In the winter, the dham places close because it gets very cold. So if you plan your dham yatra during these months, you will get the most out of your Char Dham trip. It’s a safe way to enjoy darshan in the Himalayas.

Seasonal Weather Insights

The Himalayas have different weather changes when people go on the Char Dham Yatra. Early in the day, it’s cold. As the day moves on, it gets warmer. This makes walking and trekking pleasant in the afternoon. In summer, you can see more sunlight. It makes the valleys calm and nice.

Season	Temperature Range	Features
Winter (Nov-Mar)	Below 0°F	Snow can block roads and some places close
Summer (Apr-Jun)	25-40°F	Good time for trekking and darshan in the yatra
Monsoon (Jul-Sep)	15-25°F	Sometimes it rains. Walkways can get slippery

During the monsoon, it’s important to be careful while trekking in these hills. In winter, it is best not to trek at all. Always be ready for the weather before you start your dham yatra in the Himalayas. This will help keep your char dham journey safe and happy.

Ideal Months for Pilgrimage

The months of April, July, September, and October are good times for the char dham yatra. The weather is comfortable, and the temples are open. April is the start, and it has nice temperatures.

In July, you can go and see the valleys of flowers. September comes after some light rain, and now you can see great views. October is the last month for the yatra. This month is best if you are a devotee looking for peace and calm.

Planning your dham trip by picking the right month helps you enjoy your time there. This also helps you stay away from bad weather.

Now, let’s find out how to get ready for this big and life-changing journey.

Essential Preparations for First-Time Pilgrims

If this is your first time going on the Char Dham Yatra, good preparation is very important. The use of a Chardham Yatra package makes planning much easier. It comes with set plans for your trip and easy places to stay at night.

For this yatra, you have to get your papers ready and pack the things you need. Every pilgrim has to be ready to walk a lot and deal with different weather. This dham yatra is not just about travel. It is about faith and strong will. Good planning helps make your Char Dham experience better.

Documents and Permits Required

Besides having a lot of excitement, you will need some important paperwork to finish your Char Dham pilgrimage:

• Registration: This is needed when you visit Kedarnath and Gangotri. People often start this at Haridwar.
• Permits: You must get these if you plan to trek in places like Gangotri Glacier or Yamunotri.
• Government-issued ID: You have to show proof of who you are at some places, like Dehradun or Janki Chatti.

People usually check these documents at roadblocks for your safety and to help everyone travel with no problems. Always look at the local rules before you start your dham journey.

Now, let’s get ready for the char dham trip and check what to pack for this special time.

Packing Checklist and Travel Essentials

Packing well makes your Char Dham Yatra easy and helps you avoid stress. You should bring:

• Good trekking shoes so you can walk on tough paths.
• Warm woolen clothes since it gets very cold in the Himalayan mornings.
• A light backpack for your things.
• A small first aid kit to help if you get hurt while trekking.
• Snacks with lots of calories, like trail mix, to give you energy while you go.

If you be organized with your packing, you will be ready for all the trekking and visiting the dham places. This way, you can enjoy your trip to the char dham.

Next, find out how to start your yatra with travel routes and easy tips for new pilgrims.

Why Should You Embark on the Char Dham Yatra in 2025?

The Char Dham Yatra in 2025 will be a special spiritual journey for many. This year, up-to-date travel help is making things better for everyone. The deep traditions people follow there bring a fresh feeling. Going to these temples gives you great religious significance. It helps you remember the cycle of life and wash away bad actions.

There are also unique updates in 2025. New, simple ways to sign up and extra safety steps make the dham yatra easier to get to. Whether you want blessings or wish to see the tall peaks, this sacred pilgrimage brings together nature and faith that will amaze you. People come here for the char dham yatra and leave with peace that lasts.

Spiritual Importance

The spiritual significance of the Char Dham comes from its link to deities like Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and the goddess Ganga. People visit these temples to clean away sins and ask for forgiveness from the divine.

For example, visitors at Kedarnath Temple, which is for Lord Shiva, feel strength and protection when they pray. At Gangotri Dham, those who come are blessed by goddess Ganga and feel pure, which shows heavenly care. Badrinath Temple, which is for Lord Vishnu, gives people support and helps to guide them as they walk on their spiritual path.

Discover the divine charm of Gangotri – click here for a complete Gangotri travel guide

These shrines are more than just buildings. They stand for a higher goal in life, helping people connect their souls to higher energies. When people go to all four places, they go through a personal change, getting help from old traditions and wisdom.

Unique 2025 Highlights and Updates

The CharDham Yatra 2025 will start on April 30th. This day is also Akshay Tritiya, and the temple priests announced it. Each dham or shrine will open on its own date: Gangotri and Yamunotri open on April 30th, Kedarnath on May 2nd, and Badrinath on May 4th. The closing will happen between October and early November.

Some new things about the dham yatra in 2025 are there. Now, everyone must register to join the char dham yatra. This helps with tracking and keeps everyone safe. There are also better facilities for trekking, which help people who visit places like Kedarnath because the land can be rough. Shuttle services are now there too, so it is easier to get to the remote areas.

You can now use the comprehensive Char Dham travel guide. This guide gives route maps, shares local customs, and gives handy advice for those who are new to this journey. All these changes will make this vive, fulfilling, and smooth char dham travel trip an even more meaningful spiritual experience for all.

How to Begin Your Char Dham Yatra: A Beginner’s Guide

Starting this spiritual journey means you need to get ready first. Pick the dates you want to travel, between April and October. This time is best because the weather is good for trekking in the Himalayas. Plan your itinerary well. Make sure each dham visit gives you enough time to look around, take part in rituals, and have darshan at famous shrines like Kedarnath Temple and Badrinath Temple. You can book dham tour packages to help with your travel and stay. This way, you get a smooth and easy experience that lets you focus on devotion.

Selecting the Right Route and Mode of Transport

Choosing the best way for your Char Dham Yatra means you need to think about the road and how easy it is to get to each place. There are many routes that take you to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. You should pick how you want to travel based on what makes you feel comfortable and what you know. Some people like to trek, while some people take taxis or buses. It all depends on where you want to go during the dham yatra.

An early morning drive on the beautiful roads in Uttarakhand can really make your char dham trip better. If you want everything planned out for you, checking dham tour packages is a good idea. These packages often have set plans that help you see each dham without any trouble. Looking through different tour packages can help you enjoy your yatra and make good use of your time.

Accommodation and Food Options Along the Yatra

There are many places to stay for pilgrims on the Char Dham Yatra. You can find both cheap guesthouses and nice hotels. This means people can pick one that fits their budget and what they like. These places to stay are often close to the Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath temples. This makes it easy for devotees to spend the night and visit the dham shrines without any trouble.

You will get many food options along the Char Dham Yatra. Local places offer Uttarakhand food, and you can also find simple vegetarian meals. Trekkers and other pilgrims can buy packed food as well. Eating local food during the dham yatra keeps the body healthy and adds to the spiritual experience as people enjoy the taste of Uttarakhand.

Experience the Divine Journey with Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter

If you’re seeking a faster, more comfortable, and spiritually enriching way to complete the pilgrimage, the Char Dham Yatra by helicopter offers the ideal solution. This premium travel experience allows you to cover all four sacred shrines — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath — in just 2 to 5 days, compared to the traditional 10–12-day road journey.

Helicopter services are especially popular among senior citizens, physically challenged pilgrims, and those with time constraints. Not only does it eliminate long road journeys and strenuous treks, but it also provides a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas from the sky. Imagine flying over snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and sacred rivers, all while embarking on a deeply spiritual journey.

Many travel operators and state tourism bodies offer Char Dham helicopter packages that include VIP darshan, luxury stays, meals, and ground transfers. The most common departure points are Dehradun and Haridwar, making it easy for travelers from across India to connect to the journey.

This mode of pilgrimage ensures safety, saves time, and adds a touch of comfort and grandeur to your religious journey. Whether you’re traveling with family, accompanying elderly parents, or simply want a serene and hassle-free experience, opting for the Char Dham Yatra by helicopter is a smart and rewarding choice.

Begin Your Spiritual Journey with Char Dham Yatra from Delhi

For pilgrims and spiritual seekers beginning their journey from the capital, the Char Dham Yatra from Delhi is a popular and well-connected route to explore the four sacred shrines — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. This route not only offers the convenience of direct road and rail connectivity but also provides multiple options in terms of duration, budget, and travel style.

To make the pilgrimage easier and more organized, various travel operators offer comprehensive Char Dham tour packages from Delhi. These packages typically include transportation, meals, hotel accommodation, VIP darshan, and even guide assistance — ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling experience. Whether you’re looking for an affordable group yatra, a deluxe private tour, or even a helicopter option, you can find a Char Dham tour package that suits your preferences and schedule.

Choosing a Char Dham Yatra from Delhi not only saves you time in planning logistics but also allows you to focus on the divine energy and natural beauty that make this pilgrimage truly life-changing.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the Char Dham Yatra

Beginning this special pilgrimage means you need good planning and a strong heart full of devotion. To start, you should make a simple and useful itinerary. You must register for your trip at places like Yamunotri and Kedarnath. It is also smart to book your stay ahead of time along the way. You will find many choices for where to sleep, such as guesthouses and dharamshalas, which fit different budgets. Next, get ready for the trek. Some parts, like the route to Gangotri, can be tough. Walking in the Himalayas will test your body but it also lifts your soul. Every step you take brings you closer to a deep meaning on this pilgrimage.

Step 1: Planning Your Itinerary and Registration

Starting the Char Dham Yatra needs good planning for a smooth and special pilgrimage. First, decide on your travel dates and the route you want to go. The dham yatra is best from April to October, as most places are open then. Make sure to register online. This helps you get entry to important shrines like Kedarnath and Badrinath without any delay. You can also reach out to tour operators for more help. They offer dham tour packages that fit different needs, making the char dham trip easier for all. Focus on your devotion during the pilgrimage. It is also good to keep your itinerary a bit flexible, so you can have extra time for those unexpected and special moments at the dham.

Step 2: Journey to Yamunotri – The Origin of the Yamuna

Starting the journey to Yamunotri Dham, people see stunning views and feel a deep peace. This place is found at the foot of the Himalayas, and it is where the Yamuna River starts. Many people know Yamuna as the sister of Yama.

Pilgrims and other devotees usually begin their trek from Janki Chatti. As they walk, they feel how quiet and calm it is all around them. The pine trees smell good in the air. Many come, hoping to wake up something spiritual in themselves as they go.

The trek ends with darshan at the Yamunotri Temple. When people reach the temple, their devotion is very clear. It is a special moment and place, full of faith, for all those who visit Yamunotri dham.

Step 3: Trekking to Gangotri – The Source of the Ganges

Trekking to Gangotri gives pilgrims the chance to feel the holy spirit of the Ganges. The yatra starts in the pretty village of Harsil, where you can see green trees next to high mountains. The trek is not too hard, but it takes devotees through beautiful places, like Surya Kund and rocky paths with a lot of colorful plants that grow there. When you come to the big Gangotri Temple, you will feel lord shiva and goddess ganga all around. This temple is a key part of the char dham yatra. Many people go there during their dham yatra to pray at this special spot. The air and its beauty make the gangotri trek a must-do for anyone looking to get closer to the goddess, the ganga, or the story of char dham and its holy dham sites.

Step 4: Pilgrimage to Kedarnath – The Abode of Shiva

Kedarnath sits high up in the Himalayas. It is known as one of the most holy shrines in India and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. If you want to go to the Kedarnath temple, you must start at Gaurikund. From there, you will take a trek through the mountains. The views on this trek are truly amazing. Many pilgrims travel here every year to visit this sacred place. The Kedarnath temple is special. It is one of the jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, which makes it even more important for people on their dham yatra or Char Dham Yatra. When you are in Kedarnath, you will feel a lot of devotion. This feeling becomes even stronger during the Ganga aarti. During this time, many devotees gather near the ganga to show their love and respect to the divine. Going to Kedarnath during your Char Dham yatra is something you must do if you want a true dham experience in India.

Step 5: Visiting Badrinath – The Home of Vishnu

Badrinath is a place full of devotion. It is found in the beautiful Himalayas and is special for Lord Vishnu. This dham brings many pilgrims and devotees to a journey they will remember. The main place to see here is the Badrinath Temple. Many people come to get blessings from Lord Vishnu, as he is said to look after those who come to see him. You can also see the local culture, join in the different rituals at the temple, and feel the peace all around. The trip ends with darshan. This is when you feel the presence of the divine through each ritual.

Spiritual Experiences and Rituals During the Yatra

Going on the Char Dham Yatra brings the real feeling of being close to the divine. Pilgrims join aarti ceremonies at Kedarnath Temple and Badrinath Temple. In doing this, they feel a deep connection with Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Many take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganga and Yamuna to feel clean and renewed. Going to early morning aarti and taking part in puja at places like Yamunotri Dham makes devotion strong and helps people understand old practices better. These moments in kedarnath, badrinath, and yamunotri give everyone a true spiritual journey, helping them be part of a special pilgrimage full of devotion.

Participating in Aartis and Pujas

Taking part in aartis and pujas during the Char Dham Yatra makes the spiritual feeling stronger. Each of these rituals has deep roots in old traditions. They invite devotees to feel closer to powerful, divine energies. When you join the morning aarti at Kedarnath Temple or Badrinath Temple, you feel positive energy that lifts your heart. It is nice to share these moments with other pilgrims. The lively Ganga aarti helps everyone feel like they are part of a bigger group. Doing these things does not just help to grow your faith. It also gives you time to think and feel linked to the gods that are honored at these shrines. During the dham yatra, rituals like these connect people to Kedarnath, Badrinath, and the holy river Ganga in a special way.

Ritual Bathing in Sacred Rivers

Taking a dip in the holy rivers during the Char Dham Yatra is seen as a special way to feel close to the divine. Many pilgrims go to Yamunotri and Gangotri. Here, they take a bath in the water as a sign of devotion and to feel pure. People believe that water from these places comes with the blessings of Goddess Ganga and the touch of the Himalayas. This water helps wipe away sins and bring peace. These moments help people feel more connected on the dham yatra. They also make the yatra more meaningful, leaving pilgrims with a sense of peace and new energy.

For verified information, route updates, and trusted packages, check out this official guide to the Char Dham Yatra

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Char Dham Yatra

1. What is the Char Dham Yatra?
The Char Dham Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage in Uttarakhand that covers four holy temples: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These shrines are considered highly revered in Hinduism and are visited in a specific sequence.

2. When does the Char Dham Yatra begin and end?
The Yatra usually begins in April or May and ends in October or November, depending on the opening and closing dates of the temples, which are based on the Hindu calendar and weather conditions.

3. What is the correct order to visit the Char Dham temples?
The traditional order is:
Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath
This order follows the west-to-east direction and is considered spiritually significant.

4. Is registration mandatory for Char Dham Yatra?
Yes, registration is compulsory for all pilgrims. It can be done online through the Uttarakhand Tourism website or at designated registration counters en route.

5. How long does the complete Char Dham Yatra take?
The full Yatra usually takes 10 to 12 days by road. If opting for a helicopter tour, it can be completed in 2 to 5 days, depending on the package.

6. Can senior citizens or people with health issues go on the Char Dham Yatra?
Yes, but it is advised that they undergo a full medical check-up before starting. Helicopter services are suitable for those who cannot manage trekking.

7. Are helicopter services available for the Yatra?
Yes, helicopter services are available, especially for Kedarnath, and can also be booked as part of complete Char Dham Yatra packages.

8. What are the road conditions like during the Yatra?
Roads are mostly motorable but can be narrow, steep, and prone to landslides, especially during the monsoon season (July to August). Always check weather and road updates before traveling.

9. Can I take my personal vehicle for the Yatra?
Yes, private cars are allowed. However, ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and suitable for mountainous terrain. Hiring a local driver is recommended for safety.

10. Is it safe to travel during the monsoon season?
No, it is generally not safe to travel during peak monsoon due to landslides and slippery roads. The best time is May–June and September–October.

11. Are hotels and guesthouses available at all Char Dham locations?
Yes, accommodation options ranging from budget dharamshalas to deluxe hotels are available at or near each dham and at all major stopovers.

12. Is vegetarian food easily available during the Yatra?
Yes, only pure vegetarian food is served throughout the Char Dham route, as it is a religious and sacred zone.

13. Are medical facilities available on the route?
Basic medical facilities, dispensaries, and first aid are available. It’s important to carry a personal medical kit and essential medicines, especially if you have health conditions.

14. Are toilets and washrooms available during the journey and treks?
Yes, but facilities are basic and limited, especially on trekking paths like Kedarnath and Yamunotri. Use public restrooms at halting points or carry essential toiletries.

15. Is mobile network available during the Yatra?
Network availability is limited in higher altitudes. BSNL and Jio offer the best coverage in most areas. Carry a power bank for emergencies.

16. Do I need a guide, or can I travel independently?
You can travel independently, but hiring a local guide or joining a Char Dham tour package is highly recommended for convenience, safety, and spiritual understanding.

17. Can children go on the Char Dham Yatra?
Yes, but it is best to avoid very young children due to the high altitude and physical exertion involved. Make sure to consult a pediatrician and pack warm clothes and medicines.

18. What should I pack for the Char Dham Yatra?
Carry warm clothes, rain gear, trekking shoes, ID proof, flashlight, power bank, personal medicines, and dry snacks. Pack light but be fully prepared for changing weather.

19. What are the temple opening and closing dates in 2025?
Exact dates vary each year, based on Hindu Panchang. In 2025, expected openings:
Yamunotri & Gangotri: April 30
Kedarnath: May 2
Badrinath: May 4
Temples usually close around Diwali (late October/early November).

20. Do I need special permits for trekking to Kedarnath or Yamunotri?
No permits are required, but you must complete online registration and be physically fit for trekking. Kedarnath trek is around 16–18 km, and Yamunotri trek is 6–7 km.