The Char Dham Yatra is a sacred journey that requires careful planning. Whether you’re traveling by road, train, or helicopter, this guide provides all necessary details. Choose the best route, mode of transport, and time to ensure a smooth and spiritual pilgrimage to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is one of India’s most sacred pilgrimages, covering four holy shrines: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, these temples hold deep religious significance. Every year, thousands of devotees embark on this spiritual journey. Here’s a complete guide on how to reach Char Dham Yatra by road, train, and air, along with estimated fares.
1. How to Reach Char Dham Yatra by Road
The Char Dham route is well-connected by roads from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. Pilgrims can either self-drive, hire a taxi, or take a bus to reach each dham.
Major Routes for Char Dham Yatra:
🚘 Haridwar/Rishikesh → Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath
Route & Distance:
| Route | Distance (Approx.) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Haridwar to Yamunotri | 220 km + 6 km trek | 7-8 hrs + 2 hrs |
| Yamunotri to Gangotri | 230 km | 7-8 hrs |
| Gangotri to Kedarnath | 270 km + 18 km trek | 9-10 hrs + 5-6 hrs |
| Kedarnath to Badrinath | 230 km | 7-8 hrs |
| Badrinath to Haridwar | 315 km | 9-10 hrs |
✅ Buses and shared taxis are available from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun to each dham.
✅ Private taxis and tempo travelers can be hired for a more comfortable journey.
✅ Helicopter services are available from Dehradun and Guptkashi.
2. How to Reach Char Dham Yatra by Train
The nearest railway stations for Char Dham Yatra are:
🚆 Haridwar Railway Station (HW) – 215 km from Yamunotri
🚆 Rishikesh Railway Station (RKSH) – 200 km from Yamunotri
🚆 Dehradun Railway Station (DDN) – 175 km from Yamunotri
From these stations, you can take:
✅ Buses and shared cabs to the starting point of the Yatra.
✅ Private taxis for a direct journey to each dham.
3. How to Reach Char Dham Yatra by Air
The nearest airport for Char Dham Yatra is:
✈️ Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED) – 175 km from Yamunotri
From Dehradun, you can:
✅ Hire a taxi to reach Yamunotri (first dham).
✅ Take a bus to Barkot and then trek to Yamunotri.
✅ Book a helicopter service from Dehradun for all four dhams.
Helicopter Services for Char Dham Yatra
🚁 Helicopter packages are available from Dehradun, covering all four dhams in 2–5 days.
🛫 Helicopter Takeoff Point: Sahastradhara Helipad, Dehradun
📍 Landing Points: Kharsali (Yamunotri), Harsil (Gangotri), Guptkashi/Phata (Kedarnath), and Badrinath Helipad
Helicopter Fare: ₹1.7 lakh – ₹2.5 lakh per person for Char Dham (Round Trip).
Fare Table for Char Dham Yatra
| Travel Mode | Route | Approx. Fare (INR) | Time Taken |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (Govt/Private) | Haridwar to Yamunotri | ₹700 – ₹1,500 | 7-8 hrs |
| Taxi (Sedan) | Haridwar to Yamunotri | ₹4,500 – ₹6,000 | 7-8 hrs |
| Taxi (SUV/Innova) | Haridwar to Yamunotri | ₹7,500 – ₹12,000 | 7-8 hrs |
| Train | Delhi to Haridwar | ₹300 – ₹1,500 | 5-6 hrs |
| Flight | Delhi to Dehradun | ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 | 1 hr |
| Helicopter | Dehradun to Char Dham | ₹1.7 – ₹2.5 Lakh | 2-5 days |
Note: Taxi fares vary based on season and vehicle type.
Best Time to Visit Char Dham Yatra
✅ May to June – Best time, pleasant weather.
✅ September to October – Ideal after the monsoon.
⛔ July to August – Heavy rains, landslides risk.
⛔ November to April – Temples closed due to snowfall.
Final Travel Tips for Char Dham Yatra
✅ Book transport and accommodation in advance (especially in peak season).
✅ Carry light woolens even in summer, as temperatures drop at night.
✅ Start early each day to avoid traffic on narrow roads.
✅ Trekking to Kedarnath and Yamunotri requires fitness, so prepare accordingly.
✅ ATM facilities are limited, so carry enough cash.
