Vishnu Circuit · 4 stops
Char Dham Yatra
The four sacred Himalayan shrines — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. Completing the Char Dham Yatra is believed to wash away all sins and liberate the soul.
Pilgrimage Stops (4)
Yamunotri
Source of the Yamuna river at 3,293 m. Visit Yamunotri Temple (Goddess Yamuna). 6 km trek from Janki Chatti. Cook rice in the hot springs.
Gangotri
Origin of the Ganges. Visit Gangotri Temple at 3,100 m. Optional trek to Gaumukh glacier (19 km). Take a dip in the ice-cold Bhagirathi.
Kedarnath
1 of the 12 Jyotirlingas at 3,583 m. 16 km trek from Gaurikund (or helicopter). Visit before 3 PM to avoid crowds. Panch Kedar starts here.
Badrinath
Vishnu's abode and 1 of the 108 Divya Desams at 3,133 m. Take a dip in Taptakund hot springs before darshan. Visit nearby Mana village (last Indian village before Tibet).
Planning Tips
- ✦Best time: May to June, September to November (temples close in winter)
- ✦Duration: 10–14 days for the full circuit. Budget extra time for mountain circuits as weather can disrupt plans.
- ✦Book accommodation and transport well in advance for major festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Shravan and Navratri.
- ✦For Himalayan circuits, carry warm clothing year-round — temperatures drop sharply after sunset.
Other Pilgrimage Circuits
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does the Char Dham Yatra take?▾
The Char Dham Yatra typically takes 10–14 days. This can vary depending on your starting city, mode of transport, and how much time you spend at each stop. Plan extra days as a buffer for weather and crowd conditions.
What is the best time to visit for the Char Dham Yatra?▾
The best season for the Char Dham Yatra is May to June, September to November (temples close in winter). Avoid peak festival periods if you prefer quieter darshan.
How do I plan the Char Dham Yatra?▾
Start by booking accommodation at the first stop, then work stop by stop. Book train/bus connections between cities in advance. Carry a copy of this guide, valid ID, and comfortable walking shoes.
Which is the most important stop on the Char Dham Yatra?▾
All 4 stops are considered equally sacred as part of the complete circuit. However, Yamunotri is typically the first stop and sets the spiritual tone for the yatra.