Chardham is a pilgrimage circuit in the Indian state of Uttarakhand that comprises four holy shrines – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These four shrines are considered to be the most sacred places in Hinduism and attract millions of devotees every year.
The Chardham Yatra usually starts from the holy town of Haridwar, which is around 200 km from the city of Dehradun. The first shrine on the circuit is Yamunotri, which is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna. The shrine is located at an altitude of around 3,293 meters above sea level and is accessible only on foot. The next stop on the circuit is Gangotri, which is dedicated to the goddess Ganga. The shrine is located at an altitude of around 3,100 meters above sea level and can be reached by road.
The third shrine on the circuit is Kedarnath, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The shrine is located at an altitude of around 3,583 meters above sea level and is accessible only on foot. The final stop on the circuit is Badrinath, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The shrine is located at an altitude of around 3,133 meters above sea level and can be reached by road.
Apart from the four shrines, the Chardham Yatra also offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, dense forests, and gushing rivers. Visitors can also explore the nearby towns of Rishikesh and Haridwar, which are famous for their ancient temples and ashrams.
Overall, the Chardham Yatra is a must-do for those seeking a spiritual and cultural experience in the Himalayas. The pilgrimage circuit offers a unique opportunity to explore the holy shrines and experience the beauty of nature in the region.