A Step-by-Step Travel Guide for Pilgrims
Introduction
Planning a Char Dham Yatra but unsure how to reach there? Whether you’re coming from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or Bangalore, this blog will help you with complete details on how to reach Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath — the four sacred dhams located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand.
From roadways to railways and flights to helicopters, here’s everything you need to know.
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Main Entry Points for Char Dham
Before reaching the dhams, pilgrims generally arrive at one of these major entry cities:
Haridwar – Sacred city with direct bus, taxi, and train connectivity
Rishikesh – Ideal for adventure and spiritual seekers
Dehradun – Good airport and train connectivity
Delhi – Major starting point for most pilgrims
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Travel Routes for Each Dham
1. Yamunotri
Base Town: Janki Chatti
Nearest Railway: Dehradun or Haridwar
Trek Distance: 5-6 km from Janki Chatti
Route:
Haridwar → Barkot → Hanuman Chatti → Janki Chatti → Trek to Yamunotri
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2. Gangotri
Base Town: Gangotri (motorable)
Nearest Railway: Haridwar
No trek required
Route:
Haridwar → Uttarkashi → Harsil → Gangotri
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3. Kedarnath
Base Town: Gaurikund
Nearest Railway: Haridwar
Trek Distance: 16–18 km from Gaurikund
Route:
Haridwar → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Trek to Kedarnath
Optional: Helicopter service from Phata, Guptkashi or Sersi
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4. Badrinath
Base Town: Badrinath (motorable)
Nearest Railway: Haridwar
No trek required
Route:
Haridwar → Rudraprayag → Joshimath → Badrinath
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How to Reach Char Dham by Transport Modes
By Air
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Flights available from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc.
Helicopter services available for Kedarnath & Badrinath
By Train
Nearest Stations: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun
Direct trains from Delhi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, etc.
By Road
Government and private buses from Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh
Taxis and shared cabs available for all base towns
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Helicopter Booking Tips (Optional)
Book online via heliservices.uk.gov.in
Carry photo ID and health declaration
Reach helipad location 1 hour before flight
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Travel Tip for Beginners
Break your journey into parts to avoid fatigue
Hire a local guide or travel with registered groups
Always check weather updates before moving to higher dhams
Carry essential medications and warm clothes
Final Thoughts
The Char Dham Yatra is a once-in-a-lifetime journey, and reaching it has become easier with better roads, air options, and digital registration. Choose your route, pack wisely, and let this spiritual adventure elevate your soul.
> Need help planning your trip or want to join a group retreat?
Connect with us @panchbhootyatra for Char Dham spiritual wellness retreats.
How to Reach Char Dham Yatra from Different Parts of India
