Char Dham Yatra Tour 2025 – 14 Nights/15 Days of Divine Discovery

Welcome to India’s vibrant capital! Meet our Dhyanam India Tours representative for a warm welcome and tour briefing.

Begin your journey with a warm welcome in Delhi, India's bustling capital city. Set out for Haridwar, the gateway to the Char Dham Yatra. En route, enjoy glimpses of India’s changing landscape - from urban sprawls to the rising foothills of the Himalayas. On arrival, check into your hotel and freshen up. In the evening, witness the magical Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri. As oil lamps float on the holy river, the air fills with devotional chants. Legend has it that Haridwar is one of the four places where drops of Amrit fell during the Samudra Manthan, making it spiritually potent. Later, you may visit Mansa Devi Temple or explore the vibrant local markets.

Overnight stay in Haridwar.

Enjoy breakfast and embark on a scenic drive to Barkot. The road winds through Mussoorie and the Kempty Falls, where you may pause for photographs and refreshments. As you ascend, the air turns crisp and the views more spectacular.

Barkot is a serene hill town located along the banks of the Yamuna River and offers sweeping views of snow-capped peaks. This peaceful haven serves as a base for visiting Yamunotri. The next stop is Hanuman-Chatti, a small village famous for cave temples located near the village. On this day, the road goes along the river Yamuna.

Local lore speaks of the Yamuna as a protective sister, and pilgrims often begin their Char Dham with her blessings. Upon arrival, check into your hotel or camp and rest for the day.

Trivia – Mussoorie - The “Queen of the Hills” – Mussoorie earned this nickname for its lush hills, cool climate, and panoramic views of the Doon Valley and the distant snow-clad Himalayas. Renowned author Ruskin Bond has made Mussoorie his home for decades. His presence has given the town a literary charm, and fans often try to spot him at Cambridge Book Depot.

Overnight stay in Barkot.

After an early breakfast, drive to Janki Chatti, the starting point for the trek to Yamunotri. The 6 km walk through rhododendron forests and mountain paths is both enchanting and spiritually uplifting. At Yamunotri, visit the temple dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, one of the most sacred rivers in Hinduism. Take a dip in Surya Kund, a natural hot spring believed to cure ailments. According to legend, Yamunotri was the hermitage of Sage Asit Muni, who bathed daily in both the Ganga and Yamuna. Due to his old age, the Ganga appeared here to bless him. After darshan, return by trek and drive back to Barkot.

Overnight stay in Barkot.

Have breakfast before heading out on a scenic drive to Uttarkashi, a sacred town on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. This route offers stunning views of dense pine forests and mountain ridges. Visit the famous Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Shakti Temple with its unique trishul (trident). It is said to have initially been built by Sage Parashurama the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Uttarkashi is often referred to as the Kashi of the North and has long been a centre of spiritual learning. Legends say this region is blessed by Lord Shiva, who meditated here. The air carries the scent of devotion, and the Bhagirathi flows with grace through the valley.

Overnight stay in Uttarkashi.

After an early breakfast, set off for Gangotri, the origin points of the holy Ganga. On the way, explore the Harshil valley and the hot springs in Ganganani. Geographically, the most sacred river of the Ganges of the Indians begins where the three sacred mountain streams merge - Alaknanda, Mandakini and Bhagirath. They all originate in the glaciers of the Garhwal Himalayas. Gomukh, meaning “cow’s face,” is the source of the Bhagirathi River at the Gangotri Glacier. About 19 km downstream lies Gangotri, where the Ganga Devi idol is enshrined in the temple. The drive through Harsil Valley is enchanting, with pine forests, waterfalls, and the gurgling river guiding your way. On reaching Gangotri, visit the revered Gangotri Temple. Here, it is believed that King Bhagirath meditated for centuries to bring the river Ganga down from the heavens to cleanse his ancestors’ sins. Take a holy dip in the icy waters and experience a peace that feels ancient and vast. After darshan, return to Uttarkashi, absorbing the silence of the valleys.

Trivia - Gangotri: The shrine of Gangotri is situated at an elevation of 3200 m surrounded by deodars and pines.

It is believed that Raja Bhagirath used to worship Shiva on a slab of rock "Bhagirath Shila" situated near the temple. Submerged in the river there is a natural Shivling where, according to mythology, Lord Shiva sat when he received the Goddess Ganga in his matted locks. A day’s trek takes one to Gomukh, the source of the mighty Ganges. Gomukh or the "cow's mouth," is the snout of the Gangotri Glacier and the source of the Bhagirathi River, a primary headstream of the Ganga (Ganges) River. A Hindu holy pilgrimage site, visited by many who visit Gangotri. It is around 20 km away from Gangotri.

Overnight stay in Uttarkashi.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast and set off for Guptkashi, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas. En route, enjoy stunning views of valleys and the Tehri Dam. Guptkashi, meaning “Hidden Kashi,” is where Lord Shiva is believed to have hidden from the Pandavas after the Kurukshetra war. According to legend, Shiva disguised himself as a bull to avoid them, but was recognised by Bhima. As the brothers tried to capture him, he vanished into the earth, reappearing in five forms now worshipped as the Panch Kedar. The town is home to ancient temples and awe-inspiring Himalayan vistas, offering both ancient historical significance and natural splendour.

Overnight stay in Guptkashi.

After an early breakfast, prepare for the sacred journey to Kedarnath, nestled at 11,755 feet amidst snow-clad Himalayan peaks Echoing with the chants of “Har Har Mahadev.” Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, holds immense spiritual weight. Legend says the Pandavas built this temple seeking redemption after the Kurukshetra war.

Trivia - Kedarnath Temple The 1000 years old temple with a carved exterior is located in a courtyard protected by Nandi bull. This spot has great significance in the legendary Mahabharata epic. Inside the main sanctum is one of the 12 naturally formed 'Jyotirlingas' of India. The temple has carved shapes of the Pandavas, and Lord Shiva.

Trivia - Gaurikund, nestled in the Himalayas, is the sacred spot where Goddess Parvati meditated to win Lord Shiva's love. It is also believed to be the place where Lord Ganesha was created. Pilgrims begin their Kedarnath trek here, and the natural hot spring is revered for its healing and purifying properties.

Overnight stay in Kedarnath

Greet the morning light with another darshan at the Kedarnath shrine, where silence speaks volumes. You can explore the Ardhanareshwar Temple, symbolising the unity of Shiva and Shakti Meditating at Kedarnath Temple, surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks and the soft chants of mantras, evokes a deep sense of peace and spiritual awakening. The powerful energy of this ancient Shiva shrine is said to heighten inner clarity and connection. You can also sit quietly by the Mandakini River, soaking in the serene atmosphere of this sacred Himalayan abode. Reflect on the spiritual energy of the past few days as you rest and rejuvenate for the next leg of your journey.

Overnight stay in Kedarnath.

After a wholesome breakfast, you trek back to Gaurikund. Then you have a choice to travel by helicopter or a drive back to Guptkashi. Either way the Himalayas offer views of cascading waterfalls and serene mountain life. If you wish to drive back, stop for chai at a roadside stall and listen to tales of local gods and mountain spirits from friendly pahadi locals Spend the evening at leisure, soaking in the cool air and Himalayan silence.

Overnight stay in Guptkashi.

After breakfast, begin the final ascent to the heavenly abode of Badrinath, one of the most revered Char Dham shrines. The road hugs the Alaknanda River as it snakes through ancient villages and towering cliffs. Upon arrival, take a holy dip in the Tapt Kund, a natural hot spring believed to cleanse sins.

Then, visit the Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and flanked by the twin peaks of Nar and Narayan. Legend says Adi Shankaracharya rediscovered the idol of Badrinarayan here in the 8th century. In the evening, attend the mesmerizing aarti, where the temple glows against the twilight sky like a jewel in the Himalayas.

Trivia - According to ancient legend, Lord Vishnu meditated for thousands of years in the harsh cold of Badrinath. To shield him from the extreme weather, Goddess Lakshmi, his consort, transformed herself into a Badri tree (Indian Jujube). She stood over him as a protective canopy, giving the place its name - Badrinath, meaning Lord of the Berry Tree. This divine tale symbolizes devotion, selflessness, and the sacred bond between nature and the divine. Even today, the serene setting of Badrinath amidst snow-clad peaks and the Alaknanda River is said to echo this cosmic love and protection.

Overnight stay in Badrinath.

Start the day with an early darshan at the Badrinath shrine followed by breakfast. Today is dedicated to exploring the spiritual and natural wonders around this holy town. Visit Mana Village, the last Indian village before the Tibet border, known for its rustic beauty and mythological landmarks. See Vyas Gufa, where sage Vyas is believed to have composed the Mahabharata, and the Bhim Pul, a natural rock bridge over the Saraswati River. The mystical tales and natural marvels make this day both culturally rich and visually stunning. Enjoy the serenity of the region as the crisp mountain air and devotional chants wrap you in peace.

Overnight stay in Badrinath.

After breakfast, bid farewell to Badrinath and descend to Rudraprayag, a sacred town at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. The journey is scenic and soulful, with every river bend telling tales of sages and gods. Rudraprayag is named after Lord Shiva, who is believed to have appeared here in his Rudra avatar. Visit the Rudranath Temple, and if time permits, the Koteswar Mahadev Cave Temple tucked along the riverside. The sound of the merging rivers is both thunderous and soothing - a symbol of union and transition. This is the perfect place to reflect on your spiritual journey so far.

Overnight stay in Rudraprayag.

Begin your morning with breakfast and drive to Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World. The journey continues along the banks of the Ganga, offering glimpses of river rafting, forested ghats, and sadhus meditating by the water. On arrival, visit the iconic Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula bridges.

Trivia - Rishikesh, known as the Gateway to the Himalayas, serves as the starting point for many sacred pilgrimages, including the Char Dham Yatra. This spiritual town gained global recognition when The Beatles stayed at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram in 1968, composing over 40 songs and drawing international attention. Today, it continues to inspire seekers worldwide as the World Yoga Capital, hosting the renowned International Yoga Festival that attracts practitioners from over 100 countries each year.

You can then have a relaxed evening to yourself.

Overnight stay in Rishikesh.

After breakfast, begin another wonderful day in Rishikesh. We explore the Beatles Ashram, where the band once found spiritual solace.

We will also visit one of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh, Parmarth Niketan, it is nothing less than a spiritual haven that is attended annually by thousands who seek rejuvenation. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ghat, a beautiful farewell to the sacred river that has accompanied you throughout your yatra. The flames, the chants, the river - it all comes together like a grand finale.

You can reflect on the pilgrimage - each Dham offering a divine whisper, each road a sacred thread in the spiritual tapestry of India. Carry home not just pictures, but a heart full of blessings, mantras, mountain silence, and moments of pure divine existence.

Overnight stay Rishikesh

After breakfast, begin your final leg of the journey back to Delhi. The landscapes slowly transition from hills to plains, yet the essence of the Himalayas lingers in your soul. Arrive in Delhi by evening, where you can reflect on the pilgrimage - each Dham offering a divine whisper, each road a sacred thread in the spiritual tapestry of India. Carry home not just pictures, but a heart full of blessings, mantras, mountain silence, and moments of pure transcendence.

Drop at Airport or please let us know about your extension tour.