Char Dham Yatra Itinerary 2026 — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath
The Char Dham Yatra is the holiest pilgrimage circuit in the Garhwal Himalayas — four sacred shrines (Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath) set amid soaring peaks, glaciers and the sources of India’s most revered rivers. Beyond its deep spiritual significance, it’s a journey of breathtaking mountain scenery. This 10–11 day itinerary covers the classic clockwise circuit from Haridwar/Rishikesh, with transport notes (including the treks and helicopter options) for each leg.
When to go & how to reach
The yatra runs roughly late April/May to October/November (the shrines close for winter); avoid the peak monsoon (July–August) for landslide risk. Start from Haridwar or Rishikesh (rail/air via Dehradun), then travel by private car/shared taxi (🚗) on winding mountain roads. Registration/booking for the yatra is required — arrange it in advance.
Day 1 — Haridwar/Rishikesh 🛬
Arrive, attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri (Haridwar) or Triveni Ghat (Rishikesh), and rest before the long drives ahead.
Days 2–3 — Yamunotri 🚗 + trek 🥾
Drive to Barkot, then to Janki Chatti. The Yamunotri shrine (source of the Yamuna) involves a roughly 5–6 km trek (🥾) each way (ponies/palanquins available). Visit the temple and the hot springs at Surya Kund, then return.
Days 4–5 — Gangotri 🚗
Drive via Uttarkashi to Gangotri (motorable to the temple), the source shrine of the Ganga, set by the rushing Bhagirathi. Spend time at the temple and riverside before continuing.
Days 6–7 — Kedarnath 🚗 + trek/helicopter 🚁
Drive to Sonprayag/Gaurikund. Kedarnath requires a strenuous 16 km trek (🥾) from Gaurikund, or a helicopter (🚁) from nearby helipads (Phata/Sersi/Guptkashi) — book early in season. The Shiva temple, set against snow peaks, is the emotional high point of the yatra. Overnight near Kedarnath or back at Guptkashi.
Days 8–9 — Badrinath 🚗
Drive via Joshimath to Badrinath (motorable), the Vishnu shrine near the Tibet border. Visit the temple and the nearby Mana village (the “last village in India”), Vasudhara Falls and the Saraswati river. The high scenery here is stunning.
Days 10–11 — Return 🚗🛫
Begin the long descent back toward Rishikesh/Haridwar (a full day’s drive), with an optional stop. Depart the next morning. Many travellers add a night’s buffer for weather and road delays.
Transport summary
The circuit is overwhelmingly by private car on slow mountain roads — distances are short but times long. Yamunotri and Kedarnath require treks (with pony/palanquin options); Kedarnath also offers helicopter shuttles that save a hard day. Build buffer days for weather. A registered operator simplifies permits, helicopter booking and logistics.
What it costs & tips
Costs vary widely with helicopter use and comfort level; budget pilgrims do it on shared transport and dharamshalas/guesthouses, while helicopter packages cost considerably more. Acclimatise and pace yourself — shrines sit at high altitude; consult a doctor if you have heart/respiratory conditions. Carry warm and waterproof layers, sturdy shoes, basic medicines, ID and cash (ATMs are sparse). Complete the mandatory yatra registration, and check road/weather conditions daily.
Frequently asked questions
How many days for Char Dham? About 10–11 days by road from Haridwar; helicopter tours compress it to a few days.
Is it physically hard? Yes in parts — Kedarnath and Yamunotri involve treks and altitude; prepare accordingly.
When does it open? Roughly late April/May to October/November, weather permitting.
Build your own version: use the Trip Planner and Trip Cost Calculator, and see more itineraries.
Last updated: June 2026. Prices, permits, fares and rules change — confirm on official sources before you travel.
