About Char Dham Yatra:
Located atop the snow clad Garhwal
Himalayas the Char Dham sites are 4 of the most iconic and holy pilgrimages of
India. Every devout Hindu from different parts of India as well as the world makes
this holy journey across the 4 prominent Hindu pilgrimage sites that are
located in Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. These holy sites were
created during the 8th century by the iconic and legendary sage,
seer and philosopher Adi Shankaracharya who did this with an aim to spread the
word of Hinduism across the entire subcontinent and evoke a feeling of deep
spiritualism among the masses. However, the creation of all these sites has
interesting history behind them making them even more pious and sacred to the
Hindu crowd. Staunch believers of Hinduism believe strongly that taking this
holy Char Dham Yatra will allow them to attain moksha or salvation which is freedom
from the karmic cycle of birth and rebirth. Apart from the religious and holy
aspect all the Char Dham sites are a nature’s gift to us since each of these
places offers magnificent and awe inspiring views of the surroundings. Being
located on the Himalayan region this place is dotted with several hidden gems
and quaint getaway options where you will definitely have a memorable time and
you will keep coming back for more.
Here are a few places which should
definitely be included during your visit to the Char Dham Yatra:
Must
Visit Places in Kedarnath:
Vasuki
Tal
Sitting at an elevation of 14,200 feet
above sea level this tal is one of the most magnificent high glacial lakes in
India. The clear, glimmering blue waters of the lake is surrounded by the
iconic Chaukhamba peaks that holds the gaze of the travelers in awe. The
religious significance of this place lies in the fact that during the
auspicious eve of Rakshabandhan, lord Vishnu himself takes a bath in its
pristine waters, hence this place is named after the lord. Lining the perimeter
of this lake is a number of Himalayan flowers including Brahmakamal that bloom
and gives the place a soulful aura. This moderately difficult trekking route to
Vasuki Tal is covered in a day from the main Dham shrine of Kedarnath. The
pristine trek is of 8 kms from Kedarnath and 24 kms from the closest road to
Gaurikund.
Shankaracharya
Samadhi
As the name suggests this place is built
in the memory of the great sage Adi Shankaracharya who is credited with the
creation of not only the Chota Char Dham Yatra but also the all India Char Dham
Yatra along with numerous other mathas that pan across the country. It is
believed that Adi Shankaracharya had attained his nirvana at the age of 32 rights
behind the temple at this very site. Located right behind the temple this
Samadhi is a major tourist attraction for the pilgrims of Kedarnath who visit
here as a part of their Char Dham Yatra. Currently there is a natural hot water
spring there that is believed to have been created by the Adi himself. This was
done so with an aim of removing all the mental and physical ailments of the
pilgrims.
Augustmuni
Situated at a distance of 18 kms from
the scenic city of Rudraprayag this town is known for being a religious and an
extremely pious destination which the pilgrims cover during their journey. Sitting
at an elevation of 1000 metres above sea level and filled with picturesque view
on every step, the town is popular for its Augustmuni temple which is built on
the spot where the sage is believed to have meditated for almost a year. Locally
this temple is named as Agasteshwar temple and is houses a few numbers of
detailed and fine carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses. During the auspicious
festival of Baisakhi, the entire town springs to life and vibrancy and plays
host to a large and colorful fair. Not only does this site serves as the base
helipad for helicopter services but it is also used as a spot for fishing in
the holy Mandakini River.
Chandrashila
If you want a touch of adventure to your
holy pilgrimage journey then visiting this scenic spot is your best option. Located
at an elevation of 2,680 metres above sea level using the village of Tungnath
as its base, a trek to the picturesque and scenic spot of Chandrashila and Chopta
can definitely fulfill your need of adventure. Literally meaning ‘moon rock’
the place offers some much needed time to get away from the maddening city
crowd and a chance to get closer to nature. You will be able to gaze at the
distant snow clad peaks of Trisul, Nanda Devi, Bandar pooch and Chaukhamba. This
adventure site also has a religious aspect to it since it is believed that this
is the place where Lord Ram had meditated after killing Ravan while as per
another legend this is the place where moon god had spent time doing penance
here.
Must Visit Places in Badrinath:
Charan
Paduka
Vasudhara
Falls
Located on top of the holy river
Alaknanda at a distance of 9 kms and close to the main Dham shrine of
Badrinath. This place is one of the most enchanting places to go during your
visit to Badrinath Dham. This beautiful cascading waterfall spurts from a
height of 400 feet and at an elevation of almost 122 metres above sea level. The
beauty of this falls cannot be described or expressed in mere words and
visitors say that the beauty and vibrancy of this place cannot be experienced without
having visited there. The beauty of this place is untainted and is a hidden gem
and it is believed that taking a shower here will rid you of all your mental
and physical ailments.
Satopanth
Tal
Surrounded by enchantingly scenic beauty
the clear blue and gleaming water of Satopanth Tal is surrounded by snowcapped
peaks of towering mountains. This high altitude glacial lake is located at a
whopping height of 15,000 feet above sea level this lake holds immense
importance in the hearts of the locals. The local religious belief about this
lake is believed to be that this is the place where the three prime gods of the
world Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh visit and take a bath in its sacred and
pristine waters. This is one of the best places for every adventure lovers and trekking
enthusiasts who make this journey. The lake is in its prime clean condition due
to the fact that there are a number of Himalayan birds who circle the lake from
top and get rid of any garbage or pollutants.
Brahma
Kapal
The Ghat of Brahma Kapal is located on
the banks of the holy river of Alaknanda and is located on the banks of
Badrinath Dham. This is a platform like place where people perform their
penance and other puja rituals like Pind Daan, which mean paying homage to the
souls of ancestors. It is a popular belief that Lord Brahma considers and
resides at Brahma Kapal since as per legends and myths the head of Lord Brahma had
fallen off right at this place. This has become a popular tourist attraction
due to its religious piety and sacredness. Other temples that are located close
to this point are Mata Murthy temple, Sheshnetra temple and even Charanpaduka
temple.
Must Visit Places in Gangotri:
Harsil
This idyllic and charming village town
is located right on the banks of the holy river Bhagirathi which falls on the
way to the holy pilgrimage Yatra of Gangotri. Located at a height of 2,620
metres above sea level and offers some of the magnificent views of the
surroundings which are replete. Every step of the way offers awe inspiring
views of the lush green covering along with some snow clad peaks that surround
this scenic village. During winter months when the Char Dham Yatra sites are
shut down the presiding deity of goddess Ganga is then brought down to Mukhba
village, which is located close to this pristine village. This is the perfect
place to visit if you are looking for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and
bustle of the city.
Kedar
Tal
This clear, blue and pristine high
glacial lake is located at a whopping altitude of 4,750 metres above sea level
among the Garhwal Himalayan region. From Gangotri temple this scenic lake is
located at a distance of 17 kms and is a popular trekking destination among
outdoor adventure enthusiasts. Although the trek is steep and arduous but the
resulting view is impeccable and will hold you in awe. The surrounding snowcapped
peaks of Thalay Sagar can be seen reflecting. The trekking route passes through
thick green forest of Himalayan birches and even rocky trails. On a side not,
make sure you go along with a guide who will make this journey easier for you
and you will not get lost.
Dodital
Located in the charming district of
Uttarkashi at an elevation of 3,024 metres above sea level this freshwater lake
is located after covering a gentle and easy trek. The place is named after the
Himalayan trouts found in the water of this sparkling clear lake. This lake is
an ideal place for everyone seeking to spend an offbeat time here. There are a
number of small, charming and quaint rest stops and cabins which serves as the
stay option for visitors. The lake also holds incredible religious and pious importance
since according to the Hindu legends and mythology this place has been named as
the birthplace for Lord Ganesha. Marking this occasion is a small temple
commemorating this event. This entire place radiates positive energy and an
overall a peaceful vibe.
Dayara
Bugyal
Located at an altitude of 3,950 metres
above sea level this idyllic widespread and lush green meadow is one of the top
choices for trekkers and outdoor enthusiasts. People use this location as their
camping grounds due to its pristine and unmatched beauty. You will be able to
gaze at the beautiful distant snow clad hills and the scenic surroundings. Considered
to be one of the most beautiful meadows of India, this place is visited on a
daily basis by visitors from India as well as abroad. This lush meadow is cuddled
between the Bandarpoonch and white peaks after covering a trekking journey of 7
kms from the base camp of Barsu. The entire trekking route is covered in dense
forest of oak and every step of the way you will be encountering some of the
most charming sites.
Must Visit Places in Yamunotri:
Janki
Chatti
Popular for its range of hot springs and
trekking expeditions, Janki Chatti is believed to be the twin sister of Hanuman
Chatti and serves as the base for your further trek to Yamunotri Dham. Situated
at an altitude of 2,700 metres above sea level this place is a unique location
for relaxation as well as devotion. Surrounded by Scenic Mountain from all the
sides by rolling, thick green mountains this place offers a lot of scope for
travelers and peace seekers. the hot water springs of Janki Chatti are a
popular tourist attraction and pilgrims as well make it a point to visit this
place with an aim of washing away all their physical and mental ailments. This
gorgeous destination is the best place for you to have a fun time with your
family and loved ones.
Saptarishi
Kund
Kharsali
Located at an elevation of 2,675 metres
above sea level, and also known as Khushimath, Kharsali is a secret and
untainted gem of Uttarakhand. This place holds an incredible religious
significance since it serves as the winter abode for the presiding deity of
goddess Yamuna. The beauty of this place is indescribable and words won’t do
justice to what this place really is. With an impressive green cover and snow
clad mountain peaks this quaint hamlet is one of the most idyllic places for
every nature lover. If you are looking for a picnic spot which is dotted with
hot water springs and a series of cascading waterfalls along with a lush green
cover of oaks and conifers complete with rolling green meadows, then Kharsali
village is the place to be. The unmatched beauty and the awe inspiring sights
will make you fall in love with nature all over again.
Barkot
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