Mumbai: The revered Char Dham Yatra 2025 in Uttarakhand, one of India’s holiest pilgrimages, is now in full swing, drawing thousands of devotees from across the country. As the spiritual energy builds and the Himalayan shrines reopen for darshan, many are gearing up to visit Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. To aid pilgrims in making informed travel choices, this guide explores all possible routes — road, rail, and helicopter — along with key tips to enhance your yatra experience.
Most Char Dham yatras commence from Haridwar or Rishikesh, two prominent spiritual gateways well connected to Delhi and other major cities by road and rail. These cities also serve as key registration and facilitation points for the journey, offering car rentals, tour packages, and on-ground assistance.
Travel by Road: Classic Himalayan Pilgrimage
For those who enjoy scenic mountain drives and a slower, reflective journey, the road route remains the most traditional and popular. While the terrain can be challenging and time-consuming, especially during the monsoon season, the journey is also spiritually enriching, with rivers, valleys, and temples lining the route.
Yamunotri: Travel by vehicle to Janki Chatti, followed by a 5 km trek or pony/palanquin ride to the temple.
Gangotri: Easily accessible by road, with picturesque halts at Harsil valley—a tranquil retreat along the way.
Kedarnath: Motorable up to Gaurikund, followed by a steep 16–18 km trek. Pony, palki, and helicopter services are available from Gaurikund.
Badrinath: The most accessible Dham by road; a smooth drive from Joshimath, making it ideal for elderly devotees.
Rail connectivity: Reach base towns
While no direct trains reach the Dhams, pilgrims can travel by train to Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun and then continue their journey by road. These rail hubs are well-connected to cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata and serve as excellent starting points.
Helicopter Yatra: Fast and comfortable
For pilgrims short on time or travelling with seniors, helicopter services offer a luxurious and time-efficient alternative. Operating from Dehradun’s Sahastradhara Helipad, these services make the Char Dham darshan accessible in just a few days.
Yamunotri: Fly to Kharsali Helipad, followed by a 6 km trek or pony ride.
Gangotri: Land at Harsil Helipad, a short drive from the temple.
Kedarnath: Direct helicopter to Kedarnath Helipad, near the temple.
Badrinath: Land at the Badrinath Helipad, within walking distance of the shrine.
This year, helicopter services have been upgraded, with MI-17 helicopters capable of carrying up to 20 passengers. A Do Dham (Kedarnath-Badrinath) helicopter package is available for Rs 1.25 lakh per person (single day), while a three-day luxury package costs around Rs 1.45 lakh, including VIP darshan slots.
Bookings can be made through the official IRCTC portal (heliyatra.irctc.co.in).
Registration and travel tips
The Uttarakhand government has made registration mandatory for all pilgrims. You can register online at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in or via the Tourist Care Uttarakhand app.
Important tips:
Pack for altitude: Carry warm clothing, essential medicines, and sturdy shoes.
Check weather updates: Landslides and rain may impact travel during monsoons.
Helicopter services are weather-dependent and have weight limits—plan accordingly.
Book in advance, especially for helicopter and VIP darshan slots.
With the portals of Kedarnath Dham now open and Badrinath set to welcome devotees from today, May 4, the 2025 Char Dham Yatra has begun in an atmosphere filled with spiritual devotion. Thousands gathered at Kedarnath for the grand opening, marked by Vedic chants and sacred rituals, reinforcing the timeless faith that drives this annual pilgrimage.
As you plan your yatra, choose the route that aligns best with your physical ability, time, and spiritual intention. Whether you take the traditional path on foot or fly above the clouds, the Char Dham Yatra promises not only divine darshan but also a life-changing journey of the soul.
Embark on the Char Dham Yatra 2025 with confidence using this detailed guide. Explore route options from Haridwar and Rishikesh, travel to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath via road, rail, or helicopter, and get updated tips on registration and weather precautions. Travel Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
