The Chardham Yatra is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimages in India. Every year, thousands of devotees visit the four sacred shrines located in Uttarakhand. These holy temples are Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, situated in the beautiful Garhwal Himalayas.
This Chardham Yatra Guide 2026 will help you plan your journey easily, whether you are traveling by road or opting for a helicopter tour.
What is Chardham Yatra?
The Chardham Yatra is a spiritual journey to four holy temples:
- Yamunotri – Origin of the Yamuna River
- Gangotri – Source of the Ganga River
- Kedarnath – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva
- Badrinath – Sacred temple of Lord Vishnu
According to Hindu beliefs, completing the Chardham Yatra helps devotees attain peace, purity, and spiritual growth.
Best Time to Visit Chardham Yatra
The Chardham Yatra season usually starts in April or May and continues till October or early November.
✅ Best Months to Visit
- May
- June
- September
- October
❌ Months to Avoid
- July and August due to heavy rainfall and landslides
Winter months are not suitable as all temples remain closed because of heavy snowfall.
Chardham Yatra Route Order (Traditional Sequence)
The recommended and traditional route order is:
- Yamunotri
- Gangotri
- Kedarnath
- Badrinath
Following this order makes the journey smoother and is considered spiritually significant.
How to Reach Chardham Yatra
🚗 Chardham Yatra by Road
Most pilgrims begin their journey from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun. From there, taxis, buses, and tempo travelers are available.
Road travel is budget-friendly but requires good physical stamina due to long travel hours.
🚁 Chardham Yatra by Helicopter
The Chardham Helicopter Yatra is ideal for:
- Senior citizens
- Busy travelers
- Families seeking comfort
Helicopter tours usually cover all four dhams in 4 to 6 days and include VIP darshan, accommodation, meals, and transfers.
Chardham Yatra Registration (Mandatory)
All pilgrims must complete Chardham Yatra registration before starting the journey.
- Online registration through Uttarakhand Tourism
- Offline registration at government counters
Carry a valid photo ID during the entire yatra.
Accommodation & Food Facilities
- Budget hotels, guesthouses, and dharamshalas are available
- Helicopter packages include premium accommodation
- Only pure vegetarian food is served near temples
Advance booking is strongly recommended during peak season.
Important Travel Tips for Chardham Yatra
- Carry warm clothes even during summer
- Wear comfortable walking or trekking shoes
- Keep medicines and a basic first-aid kit
- Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion
- Follow local administration and weather updates
Senior citizens should consult a doctor before planning the trip.
Why Book a Chardham Yatra Tour Package?
Booking a Chardham Yatra tour package ensures:
- Stress-free travel planning
- Experienced drivers and local support
- Fixed itinerary and accommodation
- Emergency assistance during the journey
Both road packages and helicopter packages are available as per budget and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Chardham Yatra difficult?
Road travel can be tiring due to hilly terrain. Helicopter yatra is the easiest and safest option.
How many days are required?
- Road Yatra: 9–12 days
- Helicopter Yatra: 4–6 days
Is Chardham Yatra safe?
Yes, with proper planning and official registration, the yatra is safe.