Chardham Yatra Special

DEHRADUN - BARKOT - YAMUNOTRI - UTTARKASHI - GANGOTRI - GUPTKASHI - KEDARNATH - BADRINATH – RUDRAPRAYAG – RISHIKESH- HARIDWAR

Duration

10 Days

Tour Type

Pilgrimage Tour

Group Size

100 persons

Location

India

Overview

The Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand is a sacred pilgrimage that many Hindus aspire to undertake once in their lifetime. This revered journey includes four significant shrines: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Travellers kick off their journey in Dehradun, passing through scenic locations like Barkot and Uttarkashi, where they experience spiritual fulfilment amidst stunning natural beauty.

The pilgrimage features a trek to Yamunotri, where devotees can offer prayers and take a holy dip in thermal springs. Next, the journey continues to Gangotri for a divine experience by the Ganges River. Pilgrims then travel to Kedarnath, home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, before concluding at the celebrated Badrinath Temple.

Each destination is steeped in mythology and surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan vistas, offering visitors a unique blend of spirituality and adventure. The itinerary allows ample time for relaxation, worship, and exploration, making it an enriching experience. As travellers visit these sacred sites and enjoy the serene ambience of the Himalayas, they create lasting memories and deepen their spiritual connection. The Chardham Yatra is truly a journey of faith, beauty, and self-discovery.

Know before you go

Meeting and assistance by our representative, Airport to hotel & vice versa transfers as per the itinerary.
Welcome with garlands on arrival.
Sightseeing services using air-conditioned transport with the driver as per the tour programme.
Accommodation to choose from in standard hotels offering 3-star facilities or superior hotels offering good 4-star facilities or deluxe hotels offering 5-star standard facilities with breakfast in all the places. Double or twin sharing shall be provided as per your preference.
Parking fees, fuel charges, driver allowance are all included.
Services of an English speaking local guide is included only during the sightseeing tour as per the programme.
A small group size of a minimum of 4 people is required for any particular date and in case of fewer numbers on any particular date, we will give you the option of date change or still travel on the same date by paying a slight supplement.
Rates are based on using standard hotels offering 3-star facilities with the option of upgrading to superior and deluxe categories offering 4 star and 5-star facilities respectively at a slight supplement.
All taxes are included.

Itinerary

DAY 01 : ARRIVAL DEHRADUN - BARKOT (210kms, 7-8Hr )

On arrival with meeting and assistance at the Dehradun airport/railway station. Our representative will meet to welcome and escort you and straight drive to Barkot via Mussoorie, en route visit Kempty Fall (Suggestible to have your lunch at Kempty fall as further no good restaurants are available before Barkot). Later drive straight to Barkot, transfer to your Hotel. Overnight stay at Barkot. Barkot is known for its scenic natural beauty. Located at the confluence of Yamuna and tons rivers. At an elevation of over 4,000 ft, apple orchards ringed by the Himalayan range. Barkot offers panoramic views of the snowcapped mountains of Bandar Poonch. Barkot is an important stopover en route to Yamunotri and Gangotri, among the four Char Dham Pilgrimages. Weather - Generally pleasant in summer, the temperature ranges from 25-30 degree Celsius, Winter: The Days are pleasantly cool but the nights are cold, temp ranges from 10 deg to 05 deg.

DAY 02 : BARKOT - YAMUNOTRI - BARKOT {36kms Drive & 6kms Trek (One Side)}

Early morning, Drive to Jankichatti/Phoolchatti, trek start from here to Yamunotri (6kms). Either by walk or by horse or by Doli at own cost. Arr. Yamunotri, One can cook rice by packing it in a cloth and dipping it in the hot water of the hot kund. Pilgrims take this cooked rice home as "Prasad". Here near the temple "Pooja" can be offered to Divya Shila, After taking bath in Jamunabai Kund's warn water and having "Darshan" of pious "Yamunaji" returning to Jankichatti. Return back to Barkot, Overnight stay. Yamunotri Temple: Maharani Gularia of Jaipur built the temple in the 19th Century. It was destroyed twice in the present century and rebuilt again. Surya Kund: There are a Number of thermal springs in the vicinity of the temple, which flows into numerous pools. The most important of these is Surya Kund. Divya Shila: A rock pillar, worshipped before entering the Yamunotri Temple. Weather - In summer the maximun temp is 18 degrees and the minimum is 10 degrees celsius. The days are pleasantly cool but the nights are cold.

DAY 03 : BARKOT - UTTARKASHI (100kms, 4Hrs)

Drive to Uttarkashi. Visit Vishwanath Temple & Others. Check-in Hotel. Rest day at leisure. Night Halt. Uttarkashi is home to a number of ashrams and temples and also to the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. The name of the town reflects its similarity to and location (as north of) the city of Kashi (Varanasi). Similar to Varanasi, town of Uttarkashi is situated on the Ganges, lies next to a hill named Varun Parvat, on the confluence of two rivers Varuna and Asi, has a ghat called Manikarnika Ghat and has a temple dedicated to Shiva (Kashi Vishwanath Temple) in the center of the town. Vishwanath temple - Vishwanath temple is one of the oldest Shiva temples in Northern India. Re-constructed in 1857 by Maharani Khaneti Devi of Tehri State in the ancient architectural style. It is situated at the heart of the town. A massive iron trident, symbolic of divine mothers, is erected and worshiped from time immemorial at the temple complex. Ganeshji, Sakshi Gopal, Markandeya Rishi’s small shrines are also part of the temple complex. Akhand Jyoti as well as Akhand Abhishek, special aarti at the morning and evening are offered. As per Skunda Puran, Uttarkashi is known as ‘Saumya Varanasi’, the abode of Lord Shiva in Kaliyug and counted as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Shakti temple - Right in front of the Vishwanath temple is Shakti temple. It has a big ‘Trishul’ of about 6 meters in height and a circumference of 90 cms. at bottom. Though there are different views about the making of this, the upper part of it seems to be made up of iron and the lower one is of copper. As per the epics this Shakti was thrown on the devils by the Goddess Durga(Shakti), hence it gets its name. Since then this Shakti is erected over here. Weather - Generally hot in summer, the temperature ranges from 30-35 degree Celsius but nights is pleasant, Cold in winters.

DAY 04 : UTTARKASHI - GANGOTRI - UTTARKASHI (100kms, 3-4 Each Side)

Early morning drive to Gangotri, en route at Gangnani, take a holy dip in Garam Kund, further drive to Gangotri via beautiful Harsil Valley. Harsil is famous for its natural beauty and for the majestic views of the Deodar trees, and mountains. On arrival at Shree Gangotri, take a holy dip in the sacred river Ganges which is also called Bhagirathi at its origin. Perform Pooja and Darshan, after that relax for some time in the lovely surroundings. Return back to Uttarkashi. Overnight stay at Uttarkashi. Gangotri Temple: The temple, constructed by the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the 18th Century, is situated on the right bank of Bhagirathi. Submerged Shivling: Submerged in the river, this natural rock Shivling is the place where, according to mythology Lord Shiva sat when he received the Ganga in his matted lock. It is visible in winter months when water level decreases. Kedar Ganga Sangam: Around 100 Yards from the Ganga Temple flows the river Kedar Ganga. Starting from the Kedar Valle, this river meets the Bhagirathi on its left bank.

DAY 05 : UTTARKASHI – GUPTKASHI (220kms, 8-9Hrs)

Drive straight to Guptkashi via Moolgarh & Lambgoan. Enroute you can see the beautiful river Mandakini at Tilwara. The Mandakini river comes from Kedarnath, drive alongside the river to reach Guptakashi. On arrival Check In at the Hotel, evening visit Ardh Narishwar Temple. Overnight stay at the Hotel. The name Gupt Kashi means "Hidden Benares. Mythology describes how when the Pandava brothers were searching for a glimpse of Shiva, Shivji first concealed himself at Gupt Kashi, but later fled from them further up the valley to Kedarnath, where the Pandavas finally got their wish fulfilled. There are more tangible connections as well-the Kedarnath pandas (hereditary pilgrimage priests) live in Gupt Kashi during the winter months, and after the Kedarnath temple closes for the winter, the image of Kedarnath passes through Gupt Kashi on its way to Ukhimath (across the valley), where it stays for the winter. Weather - Generally pleasant in summer, the temperature ranges from 25-30 degree Celsius. Cold in winters.

DAY 06 : GUPTKASHI - KEDARNATH (30kms By Road & 19kms Trek)

After medical check-up proceed to Sonprayag, Trek start from Sonprayag to Kedarnath (3584 mts) by pony / Doli. Tour members should carry personal medicines, heavy woolen, toiletries and clothes for an overnight halt at Kedarnath. Visit Kedarnath Temple. Overnight stay. Kedarnath: The Kedarnath shrine, one of the 12 jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, is a scenic spot situated, against the backdrop of the majestic Kedarnath range. Kedar is another name of Lord Shiva, the protector and the destroyer. According to legend, the Pandavas after having won over the Kaurava in the Kurukshetra war, felt guilty of having killed their own brothers and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for redemption. He eluded them repeatedly and while fleeing took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull. On being followed he dived into the ground, leaving his hump on the surface. The r! emaining portions of Lord Shiva appeared at four other places and are worshipped there as his manifestations. The arms appeared at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, the belly at Madhmaheshwar and his locks (hair) with head at Kalpeshwar. Kedarnath and the four above-mentioned shrines are treated as Panch Kedar.

DAY 07 : KEDARNATH – GUPTKASHI (19kms Down Trek & 30kms/1hrs By Road)

Early morning, after Temple Darshan trek down to Sonprayag. Further drive to Sonprayag. Check in Hotel. Night Halt.

DAY 08 : GUPTKASHI - BADRINATH (215kms, 7Hrs)

Drive to Badrinath via Joshimath. Check-in Hotel. Later at the evening visit Badrinath Temple for Aarti. Overnight stay. Badrinath one of the 'Four Dhams' is one of the most celebrated pilgrimage spots of the country and is situated at an elevation of 3,133 meters, guarded on either side by the two mountain ranges known as Nar & Narayan with the towering Neelkanth Peak providing a splendid backdrop. This revered spot was once carpeted with wild berries. Thus the place got the name "Badri van", meaning "forest of berries". Tapt Kund: Natural thermal springs on the bank of the river Alaknanda, where it is customary to bathe before entering the Badrinath temple. Narad Kund: A recess in the river, near Tapt Kund, forming a pool from where the Badrinath idol was recovered. Brahama Kapal : A flat platform on the bank of river Alaknanda. Hindus perform propitiating rites for their deceased ancestors. Sheshnetra: 1.5kms. away is a boulder having an impression of the legendary serpent, better known as the Sheshnag's eye. Charanpaduka: 3kms. away is a beautiful meadow where the footprint of Lord Vishnu is seen on a boulder. Mata Murty Temple: Devoted to the mother of Sri Badrinathji. Other important temples include Sesh Netra Temple, Urvashi Temple and Charanpaduka. Mana Village: Inhabited by an Indo-Mongolian tribe, it is the last Indian village before Tibet. Vasundhara : As the name suggests, Vasundhara is a magnificent waterfall. This place is 5 km. from Badrinath out of which 2 km. is motorable up to Mana. Bhim Pul : On the other side of Mana village, a massive rock forming a natural bridge, lies over the roaring Saraswati river. It presents a spectacular view of water thundering down through the narrow passage under the rock and is believed to have been placed there by Bhim, the second eldest among the five Pandava brothers. Vyas Gufa (cave) : Near Mana Village, this is a rock-cave where Ved Vyas is believed to have composed the Mahabharata and the pauranic commentaries.

DAY 09 : BADRINATH – RUDRAPRAYAG (160kms) / Kirtinagar (200kms)

Early morning, pilgrims after having a bath in the Taptkund have the Darshan of Badrivishal. Brahamakapal is significant for Pinddan Shraddh of ancestors (Pitrus). There are other interesting sightseeing spot like Mana, Vyas Gufa, Maatamoorti, Charanpaduka, Bhimkund and the "Mukh" of the Saraswati River. Just within the three kms of Badrinathjee. Later drive back to Rudraprayag / Kirtinagar via Joshimath. Check in Hotel. Overnight stay. Joshimath is situated on the slopes above the confluence of the rivers Alaknanda and Dhauliganga. Of the four 'Maths' established by Adi Shankaracharya, Joshimath is the winter seat of Badrinath. The idol is brought down to Joshimath and installed in the temple for people to worship. There are many other temples in the township. The most important is the temple of Nir Singh with the idol of Lord Vishnu. The left arm of this deity is getting destroyed with time and the popular belief holds that the day the arm completely withers Badrinath valley will cease to exist and the Gods will transfer the residence into the neighboring Niti Valley at Bhavishya Badri.

DAY 10 : RUDRAPRAYAG – RISHIKESH- HARIDWAR (160kms/5hr) / Kirtinagar – Rishikesh - Haridwar (135kms/4hrs)

Drive to Rishikesh, the 'place of sages' is a celebrated spiritual town on the bank of Ganga and is surrounded by Shivalik range of the Himalayas on three sides. It is said that when Raibhya Rishi did hard penances, God appeared by the name of " Hrishikesh " and this area hence firth came to be known as Rishikesh. Visit Rishikesh Temples & Sight Seeing – Laxman Jhulla, Ram Jhulla, Triveni Ghat, Bharat Mandir, Shivananda Ashram. In time transfer to Dehradun airport / Haridwar railway station to board flight/train for onward destination.

End of Our Services (Check-in/ Check-out time is 1200 Hrs. at all hotels)

Included/Excluded

Return Airport transfers with Meeting and assistance

Hotel accommodation on twin sharing with breakfast

Airconditioned Transport with driver

One Lunch or dinner with our compliments

Guide services during sightseeing

All taxes, Toll, Parking Charges

Entrance fees to the Monuments

Any items of personal nature like laundry, Tips, Camera fees etc.

Any Domestic or International Airfare

Travel Insurance

Any item not mentioned in Inclusion

Travel Styles

Cultural

Nature & Adventure

Meeting & Assistance

Independent

Activities

Festival & Events

Special Interest

Sightseeing

Facilities

Wifi

Gymnasium

Restaurant

Reception

Room Service

Dinning & Bar

Experiential Options

Activities

FAQs & Important Travel and Package Info

Exclusions

Return international flights, Visas, Insurance and items of personal nature.

Age restrictions

This visit is focused on guests aged 18 years or more seasoned For youngsters and child accompanied by the adults.

Tour occupancy

Minimum number for any tour date is 2 persons travelling together.
For solo travellers a single occupancy room is allocated.

Passport and Visa Requirements

All guests require a visa with a minimum validity of 6 months which should be beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers.
All Guests need visa and same should be applied in advance, do contact us for any assistance you may need.
It is the visitors responsibility to ensure they are holding the correct and current visa for the countries they are visiting.
Important: We suggest to arrange your visa at least 2-8 weeks prior to departure just incase for any delays due to consulate operating hours and processing times.

Travel Insurance

We recommend you purchase travel insurance as soon as possible after purchasing this package.

Health & vaccination

Travellers are advised to check with their local health professional at least 45 days prior to departure, as some vaccinations require 30 days or more to be effective.
Health care such as a doctor’s surgery, dentist and optometrists may not always be accessible on this tour. It is advised that you ensure you have adequate health insurance cover as part of your travel insurance.

Tipping

Tipping or porterages are not included and are entirely on your discretion while on tour.

Fitness requirements

Travellers should have a good level of physical fitness and mobility. They must be able to partake unaided in their chosen activities/package tours/cruise etc. as outlined in the itinerary.

Dietary Requirements

Any dietary necessities should be received by Special Holiday at least 7 days prior your scheduled departure date. Failure to provide these details by this date may result in an inability to cater for your requirements.
By and large Special Holiday tries to cater for your pre booked dietary requirements but please note that on occasion, this may not be possible due to location, lack of availability of ingredients, and other extenuating circumstances. It is always advised to carry supplies with you.

Transfers

All airport and hotel transfers are included in the tour from the day of your arrival as per the package.

Documentation

Any applicable pre trip or tour documentation will be emailed to you prior to travelling. Should you have any queries regarding this please feel free to contact us directly via email at support@specialHolidays.com.

Special Holiday savings

The value and comparative savings have been determined based on published rack rates and the value of inclusions. Please be advised that rack rates may not be reflective of actual rates being charged, dependent on the timing and manner of your booking and therefore are only indicative of the level of saving.

Itinerary amendments & changes

Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers’ feedback as well as updates from our ground operators. Please note that while we operate successful tours in this region throughout the year, some changes may be necessary due to inclement weather, public holidays, common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, and unforeseen circumstances. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route. The order and timing of included activities may also vary from time to time.

Availability

ll Special Holiday trips are available on a request only basis and are subject to availability. Once booked you should receive a payment confirmation and receipt via email, followed by a booking confirmation normally within 48hrs of making a booking, sometimes this can take a little longer subject to supplier delay.
If you have not received your confirmation within 2 business days of payment confirmation please contact us immediately by email at support@specialholidays.com.
In the event that your trip is unavailable for the dates you have chosen we will contact you by telephone to advise the next available dates.

Surcharges

Any prices quoted exclude specific costs/measures which may be introduced at a later stage as a result of Government changes due to COVID-19 health and safety restrictions. Special Holiday will inform its guests of these changes as soon as possible, these additional charges will be passed on by Special Holiday to the guest.

Name change or corrections

Name corrections or corrections may incur a fee.
After bookings are fully paid, any amendment has to be requested in writing and may incur a fee per person plus any additional costs and administrative expenses incurred in arranging the amendment.

Date changes

Date changes perhaps allowed at a slight fees.

Refunds

Kindly refer to our booking conditions for all information on refunds.
SpecialHolidays reserves the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to the website's terms and conditions.

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