Char Dham Yatra Opening Dates 2025: Everything You Need to Know

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Char Dham Yatra Opening Dates
  • Mar 07, 2025
  • Uttarakhand Tours
  • Devesh Tiwari

Char Dham Yatra Opening Dates 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Char Dham Yatra Opening Dates 2025: Everything You Need to Know

The Char Dham Yatra, one of the holiest pilgrimages in India, is set to commence in 2025 with thousands of devotees preparing for their spiritual journey. The yatra covers the four sacred sites of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, nestled in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand. This article provides essential details about the opening dates, starting points, itinerary, things to carry, and important guidelines for a smooth pilgrimage.

Char Dham Yatra Opening & Closing Dates 2025

The official opening and expected closing dates for the Char Dham shrines in 2025 are as follows:

  • Yamunotri Temple – Opens on April 30, 2025, Closes on October 23, 2025
  • Gangotri Temple – Opens on April 30, 2025, Closes on October 22, 2025
  • Kedarnath Temple – Opens on May 2, 2025, Closes on October 23, 2025
  • Badrinath Temple – Opens on May 4, 2025, Closes on November 6, 2025

These dates are based on Hindu Panchang calculations and may be subject to slight modifications. The yatra remains open until the temples close for winter.

Char Dham Yatra - A Spiritual Journey

The Char Dham Yatra is a spiritual journey to four sacred sites in the Hindu religion: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. It is believed that visiting these sites enhances wisdom and spiritual consciousness. Devotees embark on this pilgrimage to seek blessings, purify their souls, and experience divine serenity amidst the majestic Himalayas.

Where to Start the Char Dham Yatra?

The traditional route for the Char Dham Yatra starts from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun, which are well-connected by road, rail, and air. Pilgrims can also begin their journey from Delhi with various tour operators offering packages. The standard sequence followed is Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath, moving from west to east.

Char Dham Yatra Itinerary (12 Days)

Day 1: Arrival at Haridwar / Dehradun and Drive to Barkot

Upon arrival at Haridwar or Dehradun, start your journey towards Barkot. This is a scenic drive through the hills of Uttarakhand. Overnight stay in Barkot.

Day 2: Barkot to Yamunotri and Return

Begin your trek from Janki Chatti (6 km) to Yamunotri, the first Dham. You can hire a pony or palki if needed. After darshan, return to Barkot for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Barkot to Uttarkashi

Drive to Uttarkashi, known for the Vishwanath Temple and scenic landscapes. Rest and prepare for the next day’s journey.

Day 4: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and Return

Travel to Gangotri, the origin of the sacred River Ganga. Attend the aarti at Gangotri Temple, then return to Uttarkashi for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi

A long but picturesque drive to Guptkashi. Here, visit the ancient Vishwanath Temple and Ardhnarishwar Temple before resting for the night.

Day 6: Guptkashi to Kedarnath

Travel to Gaurikund and begin the 16 km trek to Kedarnath. Alternatively, you can opt for a helicopter service. Visit Kedarnath Temple and stay overnight in a lodge or camp.

Day 7: Kedarnath to Guptkashi

After morning darshan at Kedarnath Temple, trek back to Gaurikund and drive to Guptkashi for an overnight stay.

Day 8: Guptkashi to Badrinath

Drive to Badrinath, visiting scenic spots en route. On arrival, perform darshan at Badrinath Temple and explore nearby attractions like Tapt Kund.

Day 9: Badrinath Darshan and Visit Mana Village

Visit Mana Village, the last village before the Indo-Tibet border, and explore the mystical Vasudhara Falls and Vyas Gufa. Overnight stay at Badrinath.

Day 10: Badrinath to Rudraprayag

Drive to Rudraprayag, stopping at sacred confluences along the way. Overnight stay in Rudraprayag.

Day 11: Rudraprayag to Rishikesh/Haridwar

Return to Rishikesh or Haridwar. Attend the famous Ganga Aarti and relax before concluding your journey.

Day 12: Departure from Rishikesh/Haridwar

After breakfast, depart for your onward journey with divine blessings from Char Dham.

Things to Carry for Char Dham Yatra

  • Clothing: Woolen clothes, thermal wear, windcheaters, raincoats
  • Footwear: Comfortable trekking shoes, slippers for rest
  • Essentials: ID proof, medical kit, sunscreen, sunglasses, torch, power bank
  • Food & Water: Dry fruits, energy bars, water bottles
  • Other Gear: Walking stick, backpack, gloves, caps

Important Guidelines for Char Dham Yatra

  1. Health Check-Up: Consult a doctor before embarking on the journey due to high-altitude conditions.
  2. Registration: Mandatory online or offline registration is required for the yatra.
  3. Weather Conditions: Be prepared for sudden weather changes; check updates before travel.
  4. Accommodation Booking: Pre-book hotels, guesthouses, or dharamshalas to avoid last-minute hassle.
  5. Respect Temple Rules: Follow the customs and guidelines at each shrine.
  6. Avoid Plastic Usage: Uttarakhand is an eco-sensitive zone; carry reusable bags and bottles.
  7. Altitude Sickness Precaution: Acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol.
  8. Travel Insurance: It is advisable to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies.
  9. Emergency Contacts: Keep emergency numbers and local guide details handy.
  10. Use Authorized Transport: Only opt for government-approved helicopter services and taxis.

Conclusion

The Char Dham Yatra 2025 is a journey of devotion, endurance, and self-discovery. With the right planning, necessary precautions, and a heart full of faith, devotees can complete this sacred pilgrimage seamlessly. Start your preparation early and embark on a spiritual adventure to the revered Char Dham sites in Uttarakhand.

For bookings and customized Char Dham Yatra packages, feel free to contact Nagarjuna Travels – your trusted pilgrimage tour partner.