sdhospitality

Slide 1 Heading
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing elit dolor
Click Here
Slide 2 Heading
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing elit dolor
Click Here
Slide 3 Heading
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing elit dolor
Click Here
Previous slide
Next slide

About Char Dham Yatra 2024

Uttarakhand is known as Dev Bhoomi (Land of Gods), as it is the land of great pilgrimages, sacred temples and places, which attracts millions of pilgrims and spiritual seekers to get enlightenment. The pilgrimage of 4 Dhams located in Garhwal region are considered the most sacred places in India: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.

These four ancient temples also marks the spiritual source of four sacred rivers as well: River Yamuna (Yamunotri), River Ganga or Ganges (Gangotri), River Mandakini (Kedarnath) and River Alaknanda (Badrinath).

Why Char Dhams

Char Dhams are the famous four holy places of Hindu Pilgrimages, which are nestled among the lofty peaks of Himalayas in Uttarakhand. This hindu pilgrimage Char Dham circuit consists of four sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. All these locations are believed to be highly sacred by the Hindu religion. It is the ultimate desire of every Hindu to visit the holy shrines at least once in life time to attain salvation (Moksha).

Why one should do Sacred Pilgrimage Yatras?
According to Hinduism the Pilgrimage tirthayatra (Teerth Yatra), is one of the five duties of every Hindu, along with Dharma, Worship, Sanskaras and Observing religious festivals. A pilgrimage is an exercise in willpower, humility and faith, when the devotee travels to often difficult locations, leaving his problems at the feet of the Deity and forgetting everything but God.

A pilgrimage is an intimate experience, a direct connection between the seeker and the sacred. A devotee goes on pilgrimage to see holy men and women, to worship at holy shrines, to have darshan of Deities abiding in ancient sanctums. A pilgrim journeys to see God have a life-changing, bliss-engendering, karma-eradicating contact with the Divine.

About Char Dham Temples

The great Hindu philosopher and reformer Adi Shankaracharya initiated the 4 Dham Yatra in an attempt to revive the Hindu religion during the 8th century. Now, thousands of devotees from all around the world become the part of it.

2024 Opening/Closing Dates of Char Dham

CharDham Helicopter Services

Dehradun-Yamunotri-Gangotri-Kedarnath-Badrinath

Uttarakhand, also known as Devbhoomi or the Land of Gods, is home to numerous temples and welcome devotees all year round. In Hindi, ‘char’ means four and ‘dham’ refers to religious destinations. Char Dham Yatra is one of the most famous pilgrimage tours in India. Char Dham Yatra covers four major Hindu temples- Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. It is believed that this yatra provides blessings from the God and a chance to attain salvation. If you are planning to start your Char Dham Yatra from your chosen location (i.e Domestic or International), the best time to plan your tour is from May to November. You can also see the scenic attractions on the way to Char Dham such as small valleys, waterfalls, mountain ranges, and ancient temples. Our Char Dham
2024 packages we provide all the necessary arrangements for your pilgrimage tour. We will provide you with a perfect itinerary and guide you during the entire duration of your tour. We also provide you with comfortable accommodation, meals, and transportation facilities. If you book a Char Dham Yatra package from us, we make sure that you have a safe and comfortable journey
that you will cherish for a long time

The tour Commences with pick up from Dehradun airport or Railway station one day prior to the
Chardham Yatra departure, followed by drop to the hotel. In the evening, our team will brief the
guests about the entire Chardham Yatra which will be conducted at 20:30Hrs. Duffle bag will be
provided during the tour briefing in which necessary luggage will have to be packed by the
passengers (Maximum 05Kg per person will be permitted). The overnight stay at Dehradun with
dinner awaits you.
Note: Our staff will take the body weight of each pilgrim during the tour briefing; hence
kindly ensure youattend the same.

06:00 Departure Sahastradhara helipad, Dehradun 06:30 Arrival Kharsali helipad, Yamunotri
The auspicious chardham Yatra will begin from the sahastradhara helipad, Dehradun. Guests will
check out from the hotel at the designated time, our representative will pick them up and transport
themto Sahastra Dhara Helipad.
Our ground Personnel will warmly greet the guests and assist them in settling into the waiting
lounge. Where, they will receive the Pre-Flight instructions before being boarded into the
helicopter.
Upon arrival at kharsali guests are welcomed by ground staff and transfer to yamunotri temple by
palkis/ Pony. This trek from helipad to temple is 6 kms and return trip by palki takes about 5 hours.
After Darshan return back to Helipad. Overnight stay atKharsali

06:35 Departure Kharsali helipad, Yamunotri
07:00 Arrival Harsil Helipad

Guests are expected to check out from the hotel at the designated time and will board the helicopter
from Kharsali helipad. Arrive at the Harsil helipad , Gangotri within an estimated time. Harsil is one
of the most beautiful and picturesque valleys in Uttarakhand. Some people also call it mini
Switzerland. Gangotri temple is about 22 kms from Harsil helipad and the drive by car takes 50
minutes.
It is advisable that passengers leave straight for temple from helipad. Our ground staff will assist
the passengers with darshan at Gangotri temple. After return from temple passengers can take
lunch in resort and thereafter relax and have campfire in the evening. It is recommended to visit the
nearby village for an evening walk and buy pure wool stuff (sweaters, shawls n mufflers) made by
local tribal womenfolk.

07:30 Departure Harsil Helipad
08:10 Arrival Kedarnath helipad

Guests are advised to check out from their hotel at the designated time, and will arrive at Harsil
helipad. From there they will fly towards the Guptkashi. Guests will be ferried to kedarnath dham
from Guptkashi in helicopter shuttle. The helicopter will land at Kedarnath helipad which is at a
distance of 500 meters from the temple. Our ground staff will be there to assist you for VIP darshan.
It takes approximately 2 hours for darshan and helicopter shuttle takes around 10 minutes one way.
After Darshan Guests will be ferried back to Guptkashi and will be transferred by road to their hotel.
Night halt will be at Guptkashi or Kedarnath.


NOTE: Night halt at Kedarnath on triple and quad sharing basis on direct payment basis.
The quality of accommodation available at Kedarnath Dham is just above average so
passengers should not have very highexpectations.

08:30 Departure Kedarnath / Guptkashi helipad
09:00 Arrival Badrinath helipad

After breakfast, guest will check out from Guptkashi hotel and will be transferred to Guptkashi
helipad. From there they will fly towards the Badrinath Dham. After arrival at Badrinath helipad
passengers can check-in at Hotel which is Near to the temple. Our ground staff will assist the
passengers in taking darshan at the temple.
A visit to Mana village in evening is highly recommended as this is the first village after international
border with China.

09:05 Departure Badrinath helipad
10:00 Arrival Sahastradhara helipad, Dehradun

Early Morning ready for Special Abhishek Puja (at your own cost) at Badrinath temple is the
highlight of this entire yatra. It starts sharp at 4.30 am in the morning and lasts for 2 hours.
Passengers will get an opportunity to sit inside the temple and have darshan of the shringar of the
deity from very close quarters. After darshan return back to hotel have breakfast and fly for
Dehradun. On arrival at Dehradun helipad you will transfer to Airport / Railway station. Here
Helicopter tour ends here with happy memories to be cherished forever

Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra Package

Geographical Location

Kedarnath sits in the Garhwal Himalayan range, near the Chorabari Glacier, which is the source of the Mandakini River. The surrounding snow-clad peaks, including the majestic Kedarnath peak, offer a stunning backdrop to the temple. Due to its high altitude, the region remains snow-covered in winter, and the temple is accessible only from late April to early November.

Spiritual Significance

The Kedarnath Temple holds immense spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, the temple was built by the Pandavas to seek forgiveness from Shiva after the Kurukshetra war. The lingam inside the temple is in the shape of a natural rock formation, believed to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas (divine representations of Shiva).

Accessibility

  1. Trekking Route: Traditionally, devotees start their journey to Kedarnath from Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the trek. The trek to the temple is around 16 to 18 kilometers uphill through rugged mountainous terrain.

  2. Helicopter Services: For those unable to undertake the strenuous trek, helicopter services are available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi, making the journey more accessible to elderly pilgrims or those with time constraints.

Best Time to Visit

The temple is open for pilgrims between April and November, after which it closes for the winter due to heavy snowfall. The best time to visit is from May to June and September to October, when the weather is moderate and pleasant. During the monsoon months (July to August), landslides and heavy rains make travel challenging.

Major Attractions Around Kedarnath

  1. Bhairavnath Temple: Located near Kedarnath, this temple is dedicated to Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva. It is believed to protect the region during the temple’s winter closure.
  2. Vasuki Tal: A high-altitude lake located about 8 km from Kedarnath, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
  3. Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar): A serene lake about 3.5 km from Kedarnath, it is an ideal spot for trekkers and nature lovers.

Travel Tips

  • Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to carry warm clothes and acclimatize to the environment before starting the trek.
  • It is essential to be physically fit for the trek, as it can be quite challenging for some.
  • Medical facilities are limited, so carrying personal medication is recommended.

Kedarnath is a unique blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and adventure, attracting both pilgrims and trekkers alike.

Location and Geography

  • Altitude: Badrinath is situated at an elevation of 3,300 meters (10,826 feet) above sea level on the banks of the Alaknanda River. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is part of the Garhwal Himalayan region.
  • Climate: Due to its high altitude, Badrinath experiences cold weather year-round. The best time to visit is from May to October, as the temple is closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.

 

Spiritual Significance

Badrinath is one of the four main pilgrimage sites in the Char Dham circuit, alongside Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. It is also a part of the Panch Badri (five Badris) temples dedicated to Vishnu. According to Hindu mythology, the temple was established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 9th century to revive Hinduism.

The Badrinath Temple enshrines Lord Vishnu in the form of Badrinarayan, depicted as a meditative yogi. It is believed that Lord Vishnu meditated in Badrinath for thousands of years. The temple’s black stone idol of Badrinarayan is considered one of the eight swayam vyakta kshetras (self-manifested statues of Vishnu).

How to Reach Badrinath

  • By Road: Badrinath is accessible via road and is well-connected to major towns like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. The nearest major city is Rishikesh, about 300 km away. Regular bus services and private taxis are available from Haridwar and Dehradun.

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located around 311 km from Badrinath.

  • By Train: The closest railway station is at Rishikesh, approximately 295 km away.

Major Attractions in Badrinath

  1. Tapt Kund: This is a hot spring located near the temple where pilgrims take a dip before entering the temple. The water is believed to have medicinal properties and is considered sacred.

  2. Mana Village: The last village on the Indian side before the Tibetan border, located about 3 km from Badrinath. It is known for its scenic beauty and mythological significance, as it is believed to be the home of the Pandavas during their journey to heaven.

  3. Vyas Gufa: A cave where the sage Ved Vyasa is said to have composed the Mahabharata.

  4. Charan Paduka: A rock believed to bear the footprints of Lord Vishnu. It is a popular trekking spot with breathtaking views of the surrounding valley.

Special Pilgrimage Events

  • Mata Murti Ka Mela: A festival celebrated in Badrinath to honor the mother of Lord Narayan.
  • Badri-Kedar Festival: A religious and cultural festival that spans across Badrinath and Kedarnath, attracting a large number of devotees and tourists.

Travel Tips

  • Due to the high altitude, visitors are advised to acclimatize before visiting.
  • Carry warm clothes even during the summer months as temperatures can drop sharply at night.
  • Since the temple is located in a remote area, medical facilities are limited, so it’s important to carry necessary medications.

Badrinath offers not just a spiritual experience but also a chance to immerse oneself in the pristine beauty of the Himalayas. Whether you are seeking religious fulfillment or a serene environment, it is a destination that appeals to both pilgrims and nature lovers.

Gangotri is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India and a part of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. Located in the Uttarkashi district, Gangotri is considered the origin of the sacred River Ganga (the Ganges), one of the holiest rivers in Hinduism. The town is situated at an elevation of 3,100 meters (10,200 feet), offering a stunning landscape with snow-covered peaks, lush forests, and spiritual energy.

Spiritual Significance

Gangotri holds immense religious importance as it marks the spot where Ganga, the river goddess, descended to Earth. According to Hindu mythology, King Bhagirath performed rigorous penance at this location to bring the Ganga down from the heavens to cleanse the ashes of his ancestors and liberate their souls. It is believed that Lord Shiva caught the river in his matted locks to reduce the impact of her fall, and from there, the river began its journey on Earth.

The Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, is the main shrine in the town. It was built by a Gorkha commander named Amar Singh Thapa in the early 19th century. The temple stands along the banks of the Bhagirathi River (the name of the Ganga before it is joined by other rivers downstream).

How to Reach Gangotri

  • By Road: Gangotri is accessible via road from major cities like Rishikesh (approx. 270 km) and Dehradun (about 250 km). Regular buses and taxis ply from these cities to Gangotri, especially during the yatra season.

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located around 250 km away.

  • By Train: The closest railway station is at Rishikesh, which is approximately 230 km from Gangotri. From there, travelers can take buses or taxis to reach the town.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gangotri is between April and June, and again from September to November. The temple remains open only during these months. The town experiences heavy snowfall in winter, and the temple is closed from November to April due to extreme weather conditions. During the winter, the idol of Goddess Ganga is shifted to Mukhba Village, near Harsil.

Major Attractions in and Around Gangotri

  1. Gangotri Glacier (Gomukh): The Gangotri Glacier, the actual source of the Bhagirathi River, is located about 18 km from Gangotri, at Gomukh. It is a popular trekking destination for pilgrims and adventure enthusiasts.

  2. Submerged Shivling: A natural rock formation resembling a Shiva lingam, submerged in the river, is visible only during the winter months when water levels drop. It is believed that Lord Shiva sat here to receive the Ganga on his head.

  3. Bhojbasa: Situated en route to Gomukh, Bhojbasa offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is the last campsite for trekkers on their way to Gomukh.

  4. Tapovan and Nandanvan: These are high-altitude meadows near the Gangotri Glacier, offering scenic trekking routes for more experienced trekkers. Tapovan is known for its expansive views of the Shivling Peak and other towering mountains.

  5. Harsil: About 25 km from Gangotri, Harsil is a serene and picturesque valley known for its apple orchards, dense deodar forests, and scenic beauty. It serves as an excellent place for nature lovers and those looking to relax before heading to the temple.

Travel Tips

  • Acclimatization: Since Gangotri is located at a high altitude, it’s important to acclimatize to the environment to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Trekking: If you’re planning to trek to Gomukh, it is advisable to be physically fit, carry essential gear, and travel in groups. Permits are required from the Forest Department in Uttarkashi for trekking to Gomukh.
  • Warm Clothing: Even in summer, temperatures can drop sharply, especially at night, so warm clothing is a must.

Gangotri offers both spiritual fulfillment and the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Himalayas. Whether you’re seeking divine blessings or simply want to explore the natural landscape, Gangotri provides a perfect blend of serenity and adventure.