Things to Do in Chardham Yatra

Char Dham essentially highlights the existence of four holy locations. Starting in Uttarakhand, it is one of the most significant spiritual pilgrimages for Hindus. While looking for a Chardham Yatra Package, you not only consider doing the primary Dhams Darshan but also seek other attractions to take in the splendor of nature or activities to fully enjoy the trip. The Garhwal Himalayas, woodlands, and holy rivers provide an atmospheric setting for the journey’s gorgeous shrines and religious sites. Every location in Uttarakhand has a lot of natural beauty; therefore travelling here tends to be more inspiring and unforgettable.

However, due to time constraints and a demanding schedule that prevents you from exploring far off from the usual tourist attractions, you must retrace your steps in your hunt for new things to accomplish. This blog is the solution to this dilemma since it provides you with some suggestions for exploring other imposing and sacred attractions along the way, as well as some adventurous activities and things to do. Here is our selection of the top Char Dham Yatra activities to help you make the most of your trip. Let’s have a look!

1. Temple Visits At Char Dham

Visits to the temples at Yamunotri, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Kedarnath are perhaps the most significant aspects of the Char Dham Yatra. Each year, thousands of local and foreign tourists travel across the globe to complete this holy pilgrimage, paying their respects and prayers as they travel through different holy sites.

2. Take Part In The Religious Ceremonies

To feel the spiritual core of the tour, take holy dips in sacred rivers such as the Yamuna and Ganga.  In Haridwar, after sunset, the revered “Ganga Aarti” ceremony is performed on the shores of the “Har Ki Pauri.” Vedic music and prayers provide a mystical and tranquil atmosphere. The Ganga River is then flooded with tens of thousands of lit Diyas, producing an unforgettable aesthetic and spiritual experience that is a must-do activity.

3. Discover Local Culture And Traditions

Interact with people and engage yourself in the region’s rich culture and customs. If you travel during a festive season, you may learn about local folklore, see cultural dances and music performances, and take part in local festivals and other religious ceremonies. Don’t forget to sample the cuisine and browse for gifts made of regional crafts.

4. Take A Religious Plunge Into Hot Springs

On their Charm Dham Yatra, travellers will come across several historic hot springs, all of which are wonderful and must be visited at least once. One of the most well-known hot springs, Surya Kund, is situated in Yamunotri Temple. The Tapt and Narad Kund are located in Badrinath, in contrast. The English name for Tapt Kund is “the boiling well”. At a temperature of roughly 45°C, the hot water of the Kund emerges from the earth. People go here to benefit from the relaxing effects of the hot waters. Most tourists visit these historic, natural hot springs before going into the major temples because they are respected for having healing effects.

5. Discover Surrounding Attractions

In addition to the temples, the area has several additional worthwhile destinations. You may go to Joshimath, a scenic town close to Badrinath, or the historic town of Uttarkashi, both of which are close to Gangotri. These locations provide fascinating cultural experiences and breathtaking natural scenery. You can also visit Hemkund Sahib, which is a well-known Sikh pilgrimage place. The neighboring Gurudwara (Sikh temple) and this high-altitude lake are thought to be connected to Guru Gobind Singh. Although difficult, the hike to Hemkund Sahib is worthwhile since it provides spectacular views of the mountains in the area.

6. Explore The Magnificent Waterfalls

Nature lovers would enjoy the Char Dham Yatra. Visitors will get the chance to explore some of the Char Dhams’ most stunning waterfalls along the tour. Vasudhara Falls, which plunges from a height of 122 meters, is situated near Badrinath on the shores of the Alaknanda River. On the route to Yamunotri, Kempty Falls creates a picturesque background. It is well-known as Mussoorie’s top picnic location. The Surya Kund Falls are situated about half a km ahead of the well-known Gangotri temple, creating a magnificent scene.

7. Photography

Nature enthusiasts might not be able to resist taking pictures or making videos of the magnificent lofty snow-covered peaks, babbling rivers and springs, and lush emerald green forest covers that form a mesmerizing heavenly image worthy of being captured on camera reels. It seems like Nature and the profound spirituality that permeates the entire region are in perfect harmony.

8. Explore Wildlife

Wildlife enthusiasts will have great fun in the Chardham region as well. The Nanda Devi Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarakhand’s Chimoli district is a genuine treasure trove of some of the rarest types of wild animals. You will experience the most incredible pleasure and excitement of your life as you are awed at the sight of rare enough animals like the Himalayan bear, musk deer, snow leopards, etc. Even bird watchers may have a nice time in the area by spotting some uncommonly beautiful birds like Snow Pegasus, Himalayan Golden Eagle, and Snow Cock, among others.

9. Trekking

Thousands of visitors make the long trip to the Char Dhams with a deep sense of faith. The paths travelled are both physically challenging and breathtakingly scenic, all in the name of offering a humble prayer of gratefulness. Other than Badrinath and Gangotri, the only way to get to Yamunotri and Kedarnath is on foot. If travellers have the stamina, this may be a life-changing event. It is a great idea to hike there, but it might be intimidating for novice hikers.

10. Other Adventurous Activities

Apart from trekking, the Uttarakhand Chardham region offers plenty of opportunities for adventure enthusiasts to pursue their passion and state it to the utmost. The main adventure sports that provide enthusiasts with an adequate adrenaline rush are skiing, river rafting, and paragliding. Auli, which is close to Badrinath Dham, draws numerous skiers from all over the world and is well known as the nation’s skiing capital.

Paragliding is a recreational flying activity that is popular among enthusiasts. It’s currently gaining popularity in India. Visitors to Chardham frequently engage in this activity in Bedini Bugyal, which is situated on the Uttarkashi Gangotri Road. Rafting, a popular sport in Uttarakhand, is anticipated by many tourists traveling to Chardhams, particularly at Barkot.

Conclusion

Fun and adventure start the moment one enters the breathtakingly mountainous state of Uttarakhand. Regardless of the reason for their visit, this state assures all of its tourists of having a good time and making lifelong memories. Tourists from all over the world are drawn to the Chardham trip. All kinds of adventurous activities may be carried out in this area because of Chardhams’ placement and geographic location.

In other words, the Chardham Yatra is jam-packed with excitement and enjoyment. It’s an excellent approach to take in nature at its finest. To truly experience adventure, it is necessary to say goodbye to modern comforts and continue the journey by trekking, hiking, and camping in nature.

Always remember to plan your vacation well in advance, taking into account the weather and the ideal time of year to visit each place. For a safe and enjoyable trip, be careful to review any travel advice or regulations given by the authorities.

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Char Dham Yatra

Q1. What To Do After Completing Char Dham Yatra?

Ans. People take a dip in holy water and perform yagna at home. You can also invite your friends and relatives to participate in the rituals.

Q2. How Should You Do Char Dham Yatra?

Ans. It is said that Char Dham Yatra should be done in a clockwise direction. People start from Yamunotri and then proceed to Gangotri, then Kedarnath and Badrinath.

Q3. What Documents I Should Carry On Char Dham Yatra?

Ans. You should keep your valid ID proof like an Aadhaar Card or Voter ID and its photocopy when you are on Char Dham Yatra.

Q4. Which Shaktipeeth Is Near Kedarnath?

Ans. Kalimath is enroute to Kedarnath. This temple is dedicated to Devi Kali that resides here with the goddess Lakshmi and goddess Saraswati.

Q5. When Is The Right Time To Plan Char Dham Yatra?

Ans. Char Dham Yatra begins on Akshay Tritya and ends on Bhai Dooj (2 days after Diwali). However, the best time for Char Dham Yatra is considered during the month of May and June.