The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most revered pilgrimages in Hinduism, taking devotees through the spiritual heart of the Himalayas. The journey covers four sacred shrines — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath — each with profound mythological significance.

The Char Dham Yatra 2025 will begin on April 30th, 2025 with the opening of Yamunotri and Gangotri temples. Kedarnath will open on May 2nd, followed by Badrinath on May 4th. This sacred pilgrimage not only purifies the soul but also connects devotees to timeless legends, divine energy, and the majestic beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Yamunotri – The Source of Goddess Yamuna

Located in the western Garhwal Himalayas, Yamunotri is the origin of the holy River Yamuna. According to legend, the goddess Yamuna is the daughter of Surya (the Sun God) and the sister of Yama (the God of Death). Bathing in her waters is believed to cleanse all sins and grant longevity. The temple, established by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal, is the starting point of the Char Dham Yatra.

Gangotri – The Birthplace of the Ganges

Gangotri marks the origin of the River Ganga, worshipped as the holiest river in Hinduism. Legend says that Goddess Ganga descended to earth from the heavens to purify the ashes of King Bhagirath's ancestors, flowing through Lord Shiva’s locks to soften her fall. The Gangotri Temple was built in the 18th century and stands as a powerful symbol of purity and devotion.

Kedarnath – The Sacred Jyotirlinga of Shiva

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath is nestled in the lap of the Himalayas at 3,583 meters. It is believed that the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings here to atone for their sins after the Mahabharata. The ancient stone temple, accessible only by trek, is a marvel of endurance and devotion amidst snow-clad peaks.

Badrinath – Abode of Lord Vishnu

Situated between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges, Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Badri incarnation. Adi Shankaracharya re-established the temple in the 8th century to revive Hinduism. It is believed that Vishnu meditated here under a Badri tree. The temple is part of both the Char Dham (pan-India) and the Chhota Char Dham circuits.

"The Char Dham Yatra is not just a pilgrimage — it is a divine quest that brings the soul closer to moksha (liberation) and the heart closer to the divine."

Swami Avyayananda, Himalayan Monk

Every year, thousands of pilgrims brave the rugged terrain, harsh weather, and altitude to seek blessings and experience divine energy. Char Dham Yatra 2025 is a call for spiritual renewal and divine grace amidst the serene beauty of Uttarakhand.