Char Dham Tour
Duration: 13 Nights /14 Days

Day 01: Arrive Delhi International Airport
Arrive Delhi international airport. Assistance on arrival. Transfer to Hotel. Check in hotel. Overnight at hotel in Delhi.

Day 02: Delhi Sightseeing
Proceed for full day Guide city tour of Delhi. Visit Old Delhi & New Delhi: Places of interests are: India Gate, President House, Parliament (Drive Pass) – Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Raj Ghat, Gandhi Smiriti, Humayun Tomb, Qutab Minar, Lotus Temple, Overnight at hotel in Delhi.

Day 03: Delhi - Haridwar (By Road) (HT: 314 MTS.)
Breakfast at hotel.  Later proceed/drive to Haridwar (220 KMS/6 Hrs). Arrive Haridwar. Check in hotel. Evening proceed for Ganga Aarti at Har-ki-Podi. Overnight in Haridwar.
Sleep well next morning get ready for Char Dham Tour- Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath

Haridwar, lying at the feet of Shiva's hills, i.e., Shivaliks, in the Haridwar district of Uttaranchal Pradesh, is a doorway. Suryavanshi prince Bhagirath performed penance here to salvage the souls of his ancestors who had perished due to the curse of sage Kapila. The penance was answered and the river Ganga trickled forth forms Lord Shiva's locks and its bountiful water revived the sixty thousand sons of king Sagara. In the traditional of Bhagirath, devout Hindus stand in the sacred waters here, praying for salvation of their departed elder. It is doorway to the sources of the Ganga and the Yamuna, 3000 to 4500 meters up into the snowy ranges of the central Himalayas.
Har ki Pauri: It is also known as Brahmakund and it is believed to be the place where divine nectar fell from the pitcher. It is the site for the famous Kumbh Mela which is celebrated in 12 years. Large number of devotees comes especially to Haridwar to take a holy dip in the Ganga River. At twilight, when evening aarti is performed the reflection of the golden diyas that keep floating on the river offers an enchanting view of the ghat to the visitors. This sacred Ghat was built by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhatrihari, who is said to have meditated on the banks of Ganga in Haridwar.

Chandi Devi Temple: Situated on the top of the Neel Parvat, Chandi Temple was built in 1929 by Suchat Singh, the King of Kashmir. The temple can be reached after a 3km trek from Chandi Ghat. The main statue of Chandi Devi Temple is said to be established by the Adi Shankaracharya in 8th century. Cable car has also been introduced upto Chandi Devi Temple.

Day 04: Haridwar- Barkot (225 km / 7 hrs) - HT: 1352 MTS.
Pick Up From Your Place Of Stay, Registration Of Chardham Yatra & Drive To Barkot via Mussoorie (Hill station). We also visit Kempty Falls after crossing Mussoorie and finally reach Barkot in the evening. On arrival we check-in the Campsite, just 1 km ahead of Barkot town on the Yamunotri road. Evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight stay at the Camp.

Barkot is known for its scenic natural beauty. Located at the confluence of Yamuna and tons rivers. At an elevation of over 4,000 ft, apple orchards ringed by the Himalayan range.  Barkot offers panoramic views of the snowcapped mountains of Bandar Poonch. Barkot is an important stopover en route to Yamunotri and Gangotri, among the four Char Dham Pilgrimages.
Weather - Generally pleasant in summer, the temperature ranges from 25-30 degree Celsius, Winter: The Days are pleasantly cool but the nights are cold,temp ranges from 10 deg to 05 deg.

Day 05: Barkot- Yamunotri- Barkot (Drive 37 km, trek 14 km return trip) HT: 3291 MTS.
After an early breakfast we leave for an excursion to Yamunotri. We drive to Jankichatti /Phool Chatti via Hanuman Chatti. From Phool Chatti we start our 7 km trek and reach Yamunotri. Either by walk or by horse or by Doli at own cost. The trek passes through lush green valley, a profusion of conifers, rhododendrons, cacti and several species of Himalayan shrubs.

At Yamunotri, to start our sacred pilgrimage, we pray at the temple situated on the banks of River Yamuna and also take a holy Achman (blessing by holy water).  One can cook rice by packing it in a cloth and dipping it in the hot water of the hot kund. Pilgrims take this cooked rice home as "Prasad". Here near the temple "Pooja" can be offered to Divya Shila, After taking bath in Jamunabai Kund's warn water and having "Darshan" of pious "Yamunaji" returning to Jankichatti/Phool Chatti and drive back to our Camp. Dinner and Overnight stay at the Camp.

 Yamunotri, the western most shrine of the Char Dhams, is dominated by Banderpunch (6,361 m). Yamunotri is the source of the river Yamuna, the twin sister of Varna, the Lord of Death. Yamuna is also the daughter of Surya the Sun. The actual source of the river originates from Champasar Glacier 1 km a head of the shrine, at an altitude of 4,321 mts.
Yamunotri Temple: Maharani Gularia of Jaipur built the temple in the 19th Century. It was destroyed twice in the present century and rebuilt again.
Surya Kund: There are a Number of thermal springs in the vicinity of the temple, which flows into numerous pools. The most important of these is Surya Kund.
Divya Shila: A rock pillar, worshipped before entering the Yamunotri Temple.

Day 06: Barkot- Uttarkashi (90 km / 4-5 hrs drive) HT: 1352 MTS.
After breakfast we leave for Uttarkashi, Lunch at restaurant enroute. Arrival At The Hotel at Uttarkashi, Visit “Vishwanath Temple” & Others Check in Hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at the Hotel. 

Uttarkashi is home to a number of ashrams and temples and also to the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. The name of the town reflects its similarity to and location (as north of) the city of Kashi (Varanasi). Similar to Varanasi, town of Uttarkashi is situated on the Ganges, lies next to a hill named Varun Parvat, on confluence of two rivers Varuna and Asi, has a ghat called Manikarnika Ghat and has a temple dedicated to Shiva (Kashi Vishwanath) in the center of the town.
Vishwanath Temple - Vishwanath temple is one of the oldest Shiva temples in Northern India. Re-constructed in 1857 by Maharani Khaneti Devi of Tehri State in the ancient architectural style. It is situated at the heart of the town. A massive iron trident, symbolic of divine mother’s, is erected and worshiped from time immemorial at the temple complex. Ganeshji, Sakshi Gopal, Markandeya Rishi’s small shrines are also part of the temple complex. Akhand Jyoti as well as Akhand Abhishek, special aarti at morning and evening are offered. As per Skunda Puran, Uttarkashi is known as ‘Saumya Varanasi’, the abode of Lord Shiva in Kaliyug and counted as one of the twelve Jyotirlinga.
Shakti Temple - Right in front of the Vishwanath temple is Shakti temple. It has a big ‘Trishul’ of about 6 meters in height and a circumference of 90 cms. at bottom. Though there are different views about the making of this, the upper part of it seems to be made up of iron and the lower one is of copper. As per the epics this Shakti was thrown on the devils by the Goddess Durga(Shakti), hence it gets its name. Since then this Shakti is erected over here 

Day 07: Uttarkashi- Gangotri- Uttarkashi (100 km one way drive/ HT: 3048 MTS)
Early morning drive to Gangotri, enroute at Gangnani take a holy dip in Garam Kund, further drive to Gangotri via beautiful Harsil Valley. Harsil is famous for its nature beauty and for the majestic views of the Deodar trees, and mountains. On arrival Pooja in the sacred River Ganges, also called “Bhagirathi” at its origin. Perform Pooja (prayers) and after that relax for some time in the lovely surroundings. Come back to the Camp in the afternoon to relax in the bright sunshine and some of breathtaking views of the beautiful valley & River Bhagirathi. Dinner and overnight stay at the Hotel. 
Gangotri Temple: The temple, constructed by the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the 18th Century, is situated on the right bank of Bhagirathi.
Submerged Shivling: Submerged in the river, this natural rock Shivling is the place where, according to mythology Lord Shiva sat when he received the Ganga in his matted lock. It is visible in winter months when water level decreases.
Kedar Ganga Sangam: Around 100 Yards from the Ganga Temple flows the river Kedar Ganga. Starting from the Kedar Valle, this river meets the Bhagirathi on its left bank.

Day 08: Uttarkashi- Guptkashi (240km / 9 - 10 hrs drive) HT: 1319 MTS.
After a very early breakfast leave for the longest journey of the trip on the road. We will stop at Srinagar (Garhwal) for Lunch. After lunch we restart our journey and for the first time see the beautiful river “Mandakini” and drive along with it and reach Guptakashi late in the evening. On arrival check-in the Camp located 2 kms out of Guptakashi towards Gaurikund. Evening at leisure.  Dinner and overnight stay at the Camp.

The name Gupt Kashi means "Hidden Benares (Varanasi). Mythology describes how when the Pandava brothers were searching for a glimpse of Shiva, Shivji first concealed himself at Gupt Kashi, but later fled from them further up the valley to Kedarnath, where the Pandavas finally got their wish fulfilled. There are more tangible connections as well-the Kedarnath pandas (hereditary pilgrimage priests) live in Gupt Kashi during the winter months, and after the Kedarnath temple closes for the winter, the image of Kedarnath passes through Gupt Kashi on its way to Ukhimath (across the valley), where it stays for the winter.

Day 09: Guptakashi - Phata Helipad (10kms) - Kedarnath – Guptkashi (By Helicopter)
After early breakfast drive to Phata (Helipad), transfer to Kedarnath by Helicopter We arrive at the Holy Shrine. Everyone can go inside Garbha Griha and touch the idol. As Soon As We Arrive Proceed For Pooja (prayers) and Darshan (Holy view of the deity) at the temple at Kedarnath. Soon After we visit Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi Behind The Temple. Soon After Board The Chooper Back To Phata & drive to Guptkashi & Driver To Hotel / Camp.   Dinner and overnight stay at the Hotel / Camp.
Note: After The Disaster in Year 2013 we do not Recommend To  Stay  Over Night At Kedarnath & Local Infrastructure Has Changed A Lot.

Kedarnath: The Kedarnath shrine, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, is a scenic spot situated, against the backdrop of the majestic Kedarnath range. Kedar is another name of Lord Shiva, the protector and the destroyer. According to legend, the Pandavas after having won over the Kaurava in the Kurukshetra war, felt guilty of having killed their own brothers and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for redemption. He eluded them repeatedly and while fleeing took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull. On being followed he dived into the ground, leaving his hump on the surface. The remaining portions of Lord Shiva appeared at four other places and are worshipped there as his manifestations. The arms appeared at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, the belly at Madhmaheshwar and his locks (hair) with head at Kalpeshwar. Kedarnath and the four above-mentioned shrines are treated as Panch Kedar.

Day 10: Guptkashi- Joshimath (Via Chopta) (175 km / 6 - 7 hrs drive)
Morning visit to Triyuginarayan Temple near Sonprayag: 40 Kms from Guptkashi. Triyuginarayan (Trijuginarayan) Temple, where according to Hindu mythology the wedding of God Shiva and Goddess Parvati was solemnized in the presence of Lord Vishnu. An eternal fire, which according to legend never extinguish, is of special interest.

Later we leave for Joshimath via Chopta CHOPTA - MINI SHITZERLAND OF INDIA, one of the most beautiful drives of the whole trip through the thick forest known for medicinal herbs too. En-route visit Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Nandaprayag. We stop at Pipalkoti for Lunch and arrive at the Camp by late afternoon. Evening free in Joshimath. Dinner and overnight stay at the Hotel.

Day 11: Joshimath- Badrinath (55 km drive) HT: 3133 MTS.
After breakfast we drive to the Holy Shrine of Shri Badrinath. En-route visit VishnuPrayag On arrival Pooja (prayers) & Darshan (Holy view of the deity). There are other interesting sightseeing spot like Mana, Vyas Gufa, Maatamoorti, Charanpaduka, Bhimkund and the "Mukh" of the Saraswati River. Just within the three kms of Badrinathjee. Visit Mana (5 Kms from Badrinath), the last village before the China border. . Dinner and overnight stay at the Hotel in Badrinath. 

Badrinath one of the 'Four Dhams' is one of the most celebrated pilgrimage spots of the country and is situated at an elevation of 3,133 meters, guarded on either side by the two mountain ranges known as Nar & Narayan with the towering Neelkanth Peak providing a splendid backdrop. This revered spot was once carpeted with wild berries. Thus the place got the name "Badri van", meaning "forest of berries".
Tapt Kund : Natural thermal springs on the bank of the river Alaknanda, where it is customary to bathe before entering the Badrinath temple.
Narad Kund : A recess in the river, near Tapt Kund, forming a pool from where the Badrinath idol was recovered.
Brahama Kapal : A flat platform on the bank of river Alaknanda. Hindus perform proppitiating rites for their deceased ancestors.
Sheshnetra : 1.5kms. away is a boulder having an impression of the legendary serpent, better known as the Sheshnag's eye.
Charanpaduka : 3kms. Away is a beautiful meadow where the footprint of Lord Vishnu is seen on a boulder.
Mata Murty Temple : Devoted to the mother of Sri Badrinathji. Other important temples include Sesh Netra Temple, Urvashi Temple and Charanpaduka.
Mana Village : Inhabited by an Indo-Mongolian tribe, it is the last Indian village before Tibet.
Vasundhara : As the name suggests, vasundhara is a magnificent water fall. This place is 5 kms. from Badrinath out of which 2 kms. is motorable upto Mana.
Bhim Pul : On the other side of Mana village, a massive rock forming a natural bridge, lies over the roaring Saraswati river. It presents a spectacular view of water thundering down through the narrow passage under the rock and is believed to have been placed there by Bhim, the second eldest among the five Pandava brothers.
Vyas Gufa (cave): Near Mana Village, this is a rock-cave where Ved Vyas is believed to have composed the Mahabharata and the pauranic commentaries.

Day 12: Badrinath- Rudraprayag- Srinagar- Rishikesh.  (310 Kms/ 10 Hrs)
After breakfast early morning drive to Rishikesh. Enroute visit DevaPrayag. Arrive Rishikesh late evening. Overnight at hotel in Rishikesh.

Day 13: Rishikesh- Delhi (By Surface) (240Kms/ 6 Hrs)
Rishikesh Sightseeing. Later Drive to Delhi. Overnight at hotel in Delhi.
Rishikesh, the 'place of sages' is a celebrated spiritual town on the bank of Ganga  and is surrounded by Shivalik range of the Himalayas on three sides. It is said that when Raibhya Rishi did hard penances, God appeared by the name of " Hrishikesh " and this area hence firth came to be known as Rishikesh.
Bharat Mandir: The Bharat Mandir is the oldest temple of Rishikesh, situated near the Jhanda Chowk. Rishi Rabhya did his penance at this holy spot and the place is devoted to Lord Vishnu. A spectacular sacred Shree Yanthra is placed at the inner canopy of the temple. Bharat Mandir celebrates colourful spring festival called 'Basant Panchami'.
Laxman Jhula: Lakshman Jhula is one of the main attraction of Rishikesh. It is 450 ft long hanging bridge on the river Ganga which was built in 1939. According to myths and legends Laksman, brother of Lord Rama crossed Ganga River on a jute rope from this point. The 13 storied temple is located near Lakshman Jhula where the idols of several Gods and Goddesses are kept. The bridge gives a magnificent view of the Ganges, greeting you with the cool breeze from the river.
Ram Jhula: Ram Jhoola connects Swargashram with Shivananda Ashram. Several ashrams are located near Ram Jhoola. Ram Jhoola is bigger than Laxman Jhula and even more picturesque.

Day 14: Depart Delhi
Departure transfer to Delhi International Airport.

***Tour Ends with Happy Memories***

EXTRA HIGHLIGHTS OF THE CHAR DHAM TRIP:
Visit to Chardham Yamunotri,Gangotri, Kedarnath & Sri Badrinath Ji
Visit to Panch Prayag (Deoprayag (Devaprayag), Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Nandaprayag & Vishnuprayag)
Visit to Mussoorie “The Queen of Hills”
Visit to ancient temples of Vishvanath ji & Trijukinarayan
Visit to Chopta “The mini Switzerland of India” 
Visit to Mana village, the last village on Indo-Tibet border.

 
Very important for Char Dham Tour:
Hotel check-in / check-out time is 1200 hrs
Due to the holy land (Uttrakhand), NON-VEGETARIAN FOOD is strictly NOT allowed. The meals served during the tour will be purely vegetarian.
To make guest journey comfortable for specially Char Dham tour it’s recommended to take our specialist guide.
Guest Has To Bear The Cost Increasing Due To Any Force Major / Natural Calamity
Guest Should  Carry Their Travel  Insurance ,  Any Personal  Expenses Are Not  Included In The Cost ( Minral Water , Laundry , Telephone Calls , etc. )
Please keep Warm Cloths Like Jacket , Shawl ,  Caps  etc for this trip
Please Take Care of your personal Medicine if you use any On Regular Basis
Always Try To Have small bags & Light Weight Bags During Travel 
Please have Torch , Thin Towel & Personal Toiletries You May Require During The Trip   
As Its completely High & Tough Hill Drive So Small Things May Occur During The Trip Our Local  Specialised  Driver Will Be With You Please Cooperate with him