Planning the Char Dham Yatra? One of the first questions pilgrims ask is: “How to reach the Char Dham?” Whether you’re starting from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun, this guide explains the Char Dham route map, travel options, and distance between each dham.
This blog is specially made to help you plan your spiritual journey to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath with confidence and ease.
📍 What is Char Dham?
Char Dham refers to the four sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites located in Uttarakhand:
- Yamunotri – Origin of River Yamuna
- Gangotri – Origin of River Ganga
- Kedarnath – Dedicated to Lord Shiva
- Badrinath – Dedicated to Lord Vishnu
These dhams are located in the Garhwal Himalayas and follow a specific clockwise order known as Parikrama.
🧭 Ideal Route of Char Dham Yatra
The traditional Char Dham Yatra begins from Haridwar or Rishikesh, and follows this order:
nginxCopyEditHaridwar → Barkot → Yamunotri → Uttarkashi → Gangotri → Guptkashi → Kedarnath → Badrinath → Rishikesh
| Dham | Base Town | Distance from Haridwar |
|---|---|---|
| Yamunotri | Barkot | 210 km approx. |
| Gangotri | Uttarkashi | 280 km approx. |
| Kedarnath | Guptkashi/Sonprayag | 240 km approx. |
| Badrinath | Joshimath | 320 km approx. |
🛣️ How to Reach Char Dham?
🚉 By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar / Rishikesh / Dehradun
- You can hire a cab or take a bus from these stations to start your Yatra.
✈️ By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
- Helicopter services are available for Kedarnath & Badrinath.
🚘 By Road:
- Well-connected roads from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun to all four Dhams.
- Buses, taxis, and tour operators are easily available.
Tip: Book a trusted travel service like Panchbhoot Yatra for a smooth and safe experience.
🛕 Detailed Route with Stops
1. Haridwar/Rishikesh to Yamunotri
- Via: Haridwar → Barkot → Janki Chatti → Trek to Yamunotri (6 km trek)
2. Yamunotri to Gangotri
- Via: Barkot → Uttarkashi → Gangotri
3. Gangotri to Kedarnath
- Via: Uttarkashi → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Trek to Kedarnath (16–18 km)
4. Kedarnath to Badrinath
- Via: Guptkashi → Joshimath → Badrinath
Important: Roads in hilly areas can be narrow and winding. Avoid traveling at night.
🛩️ Helicopter Services (Optional)
Helicopter bookings are available from:
- Dehradun (Sahastradhara Helipad)
- Phata, Guptkashi, Sirsi
Ideal for senior citizens or those with time limitations.
✅ Essential Travel Tips
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| 🧳 Pack Light | Carry essentials – warm clothes, ID, medicines |
| 📅 Book Early | Hotels and transport get full during peak season |
| 📲 Stay Connected | Keep emergency contacts, power bank, and maps |
| 🔄 Acclimatize | Spend a day at base towns to adjust to altitude |
🙏 Plan with Panchbhoot Yatra – Trusted Companion
We at Panchbhoot Yatra are dedicated to providing safe, spiritual, and customized Char Dham packages. Whether you’re traveling solo or in a group, we handle all your needs.