The concept of Char Dham dates back to the 8th century, when the great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya established these four shrines as the pinnacle of Hindu pilgrimage. Each Dham represents a facet of the divine: Yamunotri (Goddess Yamuna), Gangotri (Goddess Ganga), Kedarnath (Lord Shiva), and Badrinath (Lord Vishnu). Completing all four, it is believed, cleanses karma and leads the soul toward moksha (liberation).
1. Yamunotri
Perched at 3,293 meters, Yamunotri is the source of the Yamuna River. A 6 km trek from Hanuman Chatti (or a gentle pony ride) traverses oak forests and alpine meadows. Pilgrims bathe in the sulfur‑rich Surya Kund hot springs before offering prayers at the simple yet powerful Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna.
2. Gangotri
Gangotri, at 3,100 meters, marks the origin of the sacred Ganges. The modern temple faces the Gaumukh glacier, from which the Bhagirathi River emerges. The journey from Uttarkashi to Gangotri unfolds through verdant valleys, pine forests, and quaint villages. Devotees perform Ganga Aarti on the temple’s stone ghats, invoking purity and devotion.
3. Kedarnath
Home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva, Kedarnath Temple sits at 3,583 meters amidst towering peaks. Accessible via a demanding 16 km trek from Gaurikund—or by helicopter for those with limited mobility—the ancient stone shrine offers both spiritual solace and breathtaking Himalayan panoramas. Nearby, the Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi invites quiet reflection on his teachings.
4. Badrinath
Badrinath, at 3,133 meters on the banks of the Alaknanda River, completes the Yatra. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, its colorful, intricate temple welcomes pilgrims who bathe in the Tapt Kund hot springs believed to bestow health. A short drive from the temple leads to Mana Village, India’s last frontier before Tibet, and the myth‑steeped Vyas Gufa.