Planning for Char dham yatra in Uttarakhand and worried for the places to cover during your yatra. Here is a list of the top 12 places to visit during the Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand, which you can refer to before going for your yatra. Read this article to know more.
Uttarakhand is well known as dev bhoomi, as this is a house of thousands of temples and sacred places. Out of these temples, yatra to char dham, which includes visits to Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri temples, is the most sacred and well known in Uttarakhand. In addition to the sacred journey, this is also known for the divine beauty it offers to the travelers. Every year, thousands of pilgrims visit this place to seek blessings from the Lord and admire the beauty of Mother Nature. If you are on this page, it means you are also planning for char dham yatra in the near future. Let's dive deep into this topic and explore the top 12 places to visit during your char dham yatra.
One of the most famous and tempting waterfalls of this region is Kempty Falls waterfall, falling from a height of 40 feet, creating a scenic view that is a treat to the travelers. It is situated at a distance of 48.5 km from Dehradun and just 16 km from Mussorie and is en route to Char dham yatra. The falls are divided into two main streams, which merge into a sparkling pool at the base. The water of this waterfall falls with such force that it creates a misty spray, adding an ethereal quality to the surroundings. The sound of a waterfall in the lush green forest with a pindrop environment creates a delightful experience for the travelers. Winding roads to Kempty Waterfall with beautyful landscape and terrace farming is a treat for the travelers.
Located in the scenic town of Guptkashi, Uttarakhand, Vishwanath Temple also known as Guptkashi temple is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here in the form of "Vishwanath" or "lord of the universe." As per the mythological story, it is said that thi is the place where lord siva had stayed after coming from Kashi which is also known as Varanashi to avoid Pandavas. It is the place where he meditated for longer period. It is one of the most loved attraction on the route of char dham yatra.
Known for its large apple orchards scattered throughout the valley with beautiful landscape, Harsil is one of the most favorite places to visit during the Char Dham Yatra for the pilgrims. Located at a distance of 215 km from Dehradun and about 25 km from Gangotri temple. This is a hidden gem of Uttarakhand, which is surrounded by high mountain peaks fully coved in snow and is blessed with lush green forest, wide medows, and crystal clear water of the Bhagirathi river, meandering all along the Harsil valley. The pleasant aroma of ripe apples in the serene environment will calm you and make you fall in love with Mother Nature.
Gangotri Temple is one of the significant temples of the Char Dham Yatra, which is dedicated to Maa Ganga. As per the holy scriptures, it is said that this is the place where Ganga touched the earth for the for the first time after Lord Shiva released her from his hair lock. But do you know the original origin of the river Ganga is at Gaumukh, which means "mouth of cow"? It is located at a distance of 18 km from Gangotri temple. It makes a part of the famous Gangotri Gaumukh Tapovan trek. Trekking to Gaumukh Tapovan from Gangotri is the best way to explore nature in its purest form. So if you are a young traveler, then it could be the best place to visit during your Char Dham Yatra.
Also Read:- Places to visit near Kedarnath Temple
Another integral part of the Char Dham Yatra is the Omkareshwar temple of Ukhimath in Uttarakhand, where Lord Shiva is being worshipped in the form of Omkareshwar. It is a winter seat of Lord Shiva at Kedarnath temple. Every year, millions of devotees visit this place to offer their prayers to the gods and admire the beauty of this temple and location. They also take part in multiple festivals and celebrations organized in this temple. This temple remains most popular during the winter season when Kedarnath temple gets inaccessible and devotees can offer their prayers to Lord Kedar here at Omkareshwar temple.
The Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple is a sacred haven in Uttarakhand, offering a profound spiritual experience and serving as a vital link in the Char Dham pilgrimage. Its connection to Lord Shiva, combined with its role as the winter seat of Kedarnath, makes it a cherished destination for devotees and travelers. A visit to this revered shrine provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in divine worship and explore the rich traditions of the region
One of the most amazing temples in Uttarakhand is Dhari Devi Temple. Located in the midst of the Alaknanda River, Dhari Devi Temple is known as the protector of Char Dham temples. This temple is known for controlling the flow and water level at the Alaknanda River. As per the locals, the flood of 2013 occurred in this region due to the government's initiative to create a dam on the Alaknanda river by placing the Dhari Devi temple at some other location. It has a great belief in locals. In addition to its spiritual significance, Dhari Devi Temple is known for it's beautiful architecture and beautiful landscape, so if you are going on the Char Dham Yatra, it's a must-visit place, and you can't afford to miss it.
Do you know that Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati got married in Uttarakhand? Yes, it's right. They got married at the Triyuginarayan temple, which is located just a distance of 19 km from Sonprayag, which is the base point of the Kedarnath Yatra. It is known as the Triyuginarayan temple as it is standing and telling the story of the first love marriage on this earth since three yugas. It is also known as the Akhand Dhuni temple due to the perpetual fire in its compound, which is believed to have been live since the mairrage ceremony of dieties. It is also gaining popularity as the favorite mairage spot now a days. If you are on a char dham yatra, don't forget to visit here and feel the serenity of this place. You can also get married here or just visit here to offer prayer and admire the beauty of this place.
Well known as the "Switserland of India," Chota is a scenic village located en route to Char Dham Yatra. It's famous as a beautiful hill station and well known for the amazing view, especially during the winter season. If you are on a char dham yatra, don't forget to witness the paradise on earth. In addition to visiting Chopta, you can also go to Tungnath temple, which is well known as the heaviest Shiva temple and is a part of the Panch Kedar circuit. It is located at a distance of 3.5 km from Chopta, which is a trekking route and well known as tungnath trek, and trails will take you through dense forest and lush green medows. From the summit of this trek, you will get to witness some of the heaviest peaks of the Himalayan ranges and deep valley.
If you are on Char Dham Yatar or just visiting Kedarnath Temple, visiting Bhariavnath Temple is a must. It is said that your yatra will remain incomplete without visiting this temple. Lord Bhariavnath is considered the ferocious form of Lord Shiva and the protector of Kedar Valley. It is located at a distance of just 400 meters from the Tungnath temple and is a visitors delight as it provides a bird's-eye view for the travelers with a scenic view all around. All those who visit this place offer mustard oil to the diety, so don't forget to take one with you.
If you are a regular trekker or an adventure enthusiast, then you can visit Vasuki Tal, which is located at a distance of 8 km from the Kedarnath temple. This lake is located at a height of 14200 feet above sea level and known for it's scenic view, especially the grand view of Chaukhambha Peak. It also has some mythological stories and got its name as Vasuki, "name of the snake in the neck of Lord Shiva," due to its shape being similar to a snake. It is also said that one can also spot Vasuki in the close vicinity of this lake. It's also believed that Lord Vishnu takes a bath in this pond every year on the occasion of Rakhsa Bandhan before going to Maa Parvati for the ceremony. Whatever the story of this location, it's very beautiful and worth visiting this place. So if you have time, then do visit this place.
Well known as the first village of India, Mana village is another most famous place to visit during the char dham yatra. Located at an altitude of 10500 feet above sea level, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. In fact, it is just at a distance of 5 km from the Badrinath temple. This scenic village is on the India-Tibetan border and was an integral part of the Silk Route. It is also said that this is the same route that was taken by the Pandavas for heaven. Taking photos with maggi and tea in hand and a beautiful view in the background is the main attraction of this place. So, don't forget to have a beautiful picture of this place in your gallery.
Last but not least, Panch Prayags, which include Dev Prayag, Rudraprayag, Karnapryag, Nandra Prayag, and Vishnu Prayag, are the center of attraction on the Char Dham Yatra. These are the confluences that finally create the Ganga at Devprayag. All these pyayags are enroute to Char Dham Yatra and are a must-visit place on the Char Dham Yatra route. The scenic view and beauty all along these confluences are so serene that it will give you a relaxing and fulfilling experience of your char dham yatra.
You’ll find that this journey is about much more than visiting temples; it’s a soulful experience filled with awe-inspiring sights and moments of deep spiritual connection. Each of these 12 places adds its own magic—from the soothing presence of Vishwanath Temple to the serene beauty of Harsil Valley and the powerful energy at Panch Prayags. The landscapes, stories, and divine presence along the way have likely left a lasting impact, offering you a renewed sense of peace and gratitude.
With the blessings of the gods and the beauty of Uttarakhand etched in your heart, may this journey stay with you as a reminder of nature’s majesty and the power of faith. Cherish these memories, and let them continue to inspire and uplift you long after you leave Devbhoomi.
Oh, you'll love this! Besides the four main temples, there are some incredible spots like Kempty Falls near Mussoorie and the gorgeous Harsil Valley with its apple orchards. Trust me, the waterfalls and orchards are a welcome break from all the temple climbing!
Definitely! It's India's last village on the Tibet border, just 5km from Badrinath. The best part? You can grab a hot cup of Maggi while sitting at what they call "India's last tea shop" - it's become quite a thing among travelers to take photos there with the mountains in the background
You're in luck! Check out the Gangotri-Tapovan trek - it takes you to Gaumukh, which is actually where the Ganga originates. If you're up for something less intense, the Tungnath trek from Chopta is gorgeous. They call Chopta the "Switzerland of India" - and honestly, when you see those meadows, you'll know why!
This one's fascinating - it's built in the middle of the Alaknanda River! Locals believe it protects all the Char Dham temples. There's an interesting story about the 2013 floods being linked to moving this temple for a dam project. The locals take this temple very seriously.
Look, if you want to do justice to all 12 spots, I'd say give yourself at least 10-12 days. The roads are winding, and trust me, you'll want to stop at places like Panch Prayags (the five river confluences) and spend time just soaking in the views. Plus, the altitude can be tough, so you need time to acclimatize.
Honestly, yes. While places like Vishwanath Temple and Kempty Falls are great, if you're pressed for time, focus on the main four dhams and maybe add Triyuginarayan Temple or Mana Village since they're close by. Just don't skip Bhairavnath Temple near Kedarnath - locals say your yatra is incomplete without it!
May-June or September-October are your best bets. The weather's decent, and most places are accessible. Just avoid the monsoon season (July-August) - these mountain roads can get pretty tricky with landslides.
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