Embarking on the Char Dham Yatra from Delhi involves traveling to the starting point of the pilgrimage circuit, typically Haridwar or Rishikesh, and then proceeding to the four sacred sites of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go to Char Dham Yatra from Delhi:
1. **Travel to Haridwar or Rishikesh**: The most common starting point for the Char Dham Yatra is Haridwar or Rishikesh, both of which are well-connected to Delhi by road and rail. You can reach Haridwar or Rishikesh from Delhi by:
– **Train**: Several trains operate between Delhi and Haridwar or Rishikesh. The journey takes around 4-6 hours depending on the train you choose. You can book tickets online through the Indian Railways website or at the railway station.
– **Road**: Haridwar and Rishikesh are approximately 200-250 kilometers away from Delhi, and the journey by road takes around 5-7 hours, depending on traffic conditions. You can hire a taxi, take a bus, or drive your own vehicle to reach these destinations.
2. **Arrive in Haridwar or Rishikesh**: Upon reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh, take some time to rest and prepare for the Char Dham Yatra. Both Haridwar and Rishikesh offer a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets.
3. **Proceed to Yamunotri**: The first stop of the Char Dham Yatra is Yamunotri, the source of the Yamuna River. From Haridwar or Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep/bus to Hanuman Chatti, the base camp for Yamunotri. From Hanuman Chatti, you can trek or take a pony/palki ride to reach Yamunotri temple.
4. **Visit Gangotri**: After Yamunotri, proceed to Gangotri, the origin of the Ganges River. You can return to Haridwar or Rishikesh and then take a taxi or bus to Gangotri, or you can opt for a pre-arranged tour package that includes transportation.
5. **Head to Kedarnath**: The next destination is Kedarnath, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and one of the Char Dhams. You can reach Kedarnath by road from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Sonprayag, and then trek, ride a pony, or take a helicopter to reach Kedarnath temple.
6. **Conclude at Badrinath**: The final stop of the Char Dham Yatra is Badrinath, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. From Kedarnath, return to Haridwar or Rishikesh and then proceed to Badrinath by road. Badrinath is accessible by road and offers various accommodation options for pilgrims.
7. **Return to Delhi**: After visiting all four sacred sites of the Char Dham circuit, return to Delhi by train or road, depending on your preference and schedule.
Before embarking on the Char Dham Yatra, ensure you have all necessary permits, tickets, and accommodations booked in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons. Additionally, be prepared for variable weather conditions and challenging terrain, and consult with local authorities or tour operators for any updates or advisories regarding the pilgrimage route.