What is chota Char Dham Yatra in India?

Chota Char Dham Yatra or Sacred Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand

The Chota Char Dham Yatra is a pilgrimage tour in the Indian state of Uttarakhand that includes four important Hindu temples: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These four temples are believed to be the abode of four Hindu deities, and the yatra is considered a very important and holy pilgrimage for Hindus.

The Chota Char Dham Yatra typically starts from the holy town of Haridwar and covers a distance of approximately 1,600 km over a period of 10-12 days. The yatra is usually undertaken during the months of April to November, as these are the months when the weather is favorable.

Kedarnath & Badrinath Dham

The first stop of the yatra is Yamunotri, which is believed to be the source of the Yamuna river. The temple here is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. The second stop is Gangotri, which is believed to be the source of the Ganga river. The temple here is dedicated to Goddess Ganga. The third stop is Kedarnath, which is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The temple here is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is located at a height of 3,583 meters. The last stop of the yatra is Badrinath, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple here is located at a height of 3,133 meters.

The Chota Char Dham Yatra is considered a very important pilgrimage for Hindus and is believed to bring great spiritual benefits to those who undertake it. It is also a very scenic and beautiful journey, with stunning views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscapes.

The Sacred Chardham yatra in Uttarakhand refers to a pilgrimage to four holy shrines located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand - Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

The Chardham yatra is considered as one of the most sacred and revered pilgrimage in Hinduism, as it is believed that undertaking this yatra can cleanse one's sins and bring salvation.

The yatra typically starts from the holy town of Haridwar, and from there, devotees travel to the four shrines in a fixed sequence.

Yamunotri & Gangotri Dham

Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna river and is home to the Yamunotri Temple. Gangotri, on the other hand, is the origin of the Ganges river and houses the Gangotri Temple. Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Badrinath Temple, located in the town of Badrinath, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

The Chardham yatra is typically undertaken from May to November, and attracts millions of devotees from all over the country every year. The yatra is considered a challenging journey due to the mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather, but it is a deeply fulfilling and spiritual experience for those who undertake it.