Char Dham Yatra by helicopter from Dehradun is a spiritual journey that takes you through some of the most breathtaking and sacred places in India. This experience is something that will leave a lasting impression and is a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual solace and a connection with nature. Uttarakhand is a highly popular tourist spot, both in India and internationally. A significant portion of these tourists comes to Uttarakhand specifically for the Chardham Yatra. The Chardham Yatra is typically organized as a pre-booked package, which includes all these sacred sites and other significant places in Uttarakhand.
Char Dham Yatra Opening Dates
● Yamunotri Temple: 22th April 2023
● Gangotri Temple: 22th April 2023
● Kedarnath Temple: 25th April 2023
● Badrinath Temple: 27th April 2023
Char Dham Yatra Closing Dates (Tentative)
● Yamunotri Temple: 14 November 2023
● Gangotri Temple: 13 November 2023
● Kedarnath Temple: 14 November 2023
● Badrinath Temple: 21 November 2023
Char Dham Yatra From Dehradun Itinerary
Traditionally, the Char Dham Yatra Package begins from the west to the east, starting from Yamunotri, then moving to Gangotri, and finally reaching Kedarnath and Badrinath. The Holy Ganga originates from Gangotri, while the Yamuna River starts its journey from Yamunotri. These locations, perched atop the majestic Himalayas, bestow blessings upon the pilgrims.
● Day 0: Arrival in Dehradun
Welcome to Dehradun! Upon your arrival at Dehradun airport or railway station, our knowledgeable driver cum guide will greet you and escort you to our luxurious hotel for a complimentary stay. Enjoy a leisurely day, unwind after the smooth check-in process, and rest comfortably in preparation for an exciting day ahead. In the evening, our team will conduct a tour briefing for the passengers, providing them with duffel bags to carry only essential items on the trip – there will be a specific weight limit for the belongings.
● Day 1: Dehradun - Kharsali - Yamunotri
The coordinator will accompany you to the state government helipad on Sahastradhara Road, Dehradun, from where the journey to Yamunotri will begin. Leave your hotel early and maintain your energy throughout this spiritual Chardham yatra. Upon reaching Kharsali (Yamunotri), our handlers will warmly welcome you. They will unload your luggage and escort you to the hotel.
Enjoy a fresh breakfast before beginning a 5 km trek to the Yamunotri temple for darshan in a Palki. After this divine visit, you will return to the hotel by lunchtime. Have a satisfying meal and take some time to relax. In the evening, you can explore the nearby ancient Shani Temple. Spend the night at your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
● Day 2: Kharsali - Harsil - Gangotri
Today, we will head to the most beautiful valleys in the state: Harsil near Gangotri. Upon landing at Jhalla, passengers will be escorted to Harsil village and checked into a comfortable hotel. Our handlers will assist you in reaching a luxurious hotel near Harsil. Start your day with an early morning breakfast, and then head to Gangotri temple for VIP darshan in a cab, which is 20 km away from the hotel.
Prepare yourself for the high altitude and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Gangotri Dham. During your stay, enjoy essential amenities and leisure facilities, including premium accommodation with ensuite washrooms, vegetarian cuisine, short walks, and local sightseeing in the unexplored valley. Your second day of the Chardham Yatra concludes with a freshly prepared dinner and an evening bonfire before a peaceful sleep. Be prepared for an early start the next day as you continue your journey to Kedarnath.
● Day 3: Harsil - Kedarnath - Sersi/Guptkashi
Upon your arrival at the Guptkashi/Sersi/Phata base helipad from Gangotri, you will switch helicopters and fly to Kedarnath, a short 6-10 minute flight from the base helipads. Please be prepared for a potential wait time (10 minutes to 3 hours) during the helicopter change due to shuttle slots, weather conditions, or technical reasons.
After reaching the Kedar-top Helipad, our handlers will accompany you for VIP Darshans at the Kedarnath Temple. Your accommodation will be arranged at the Kedar Basecamp. After the darshans, we will transfer you from the Kedarnath helipad back to Guptkashi/Phata/Sersi Helipad.
● Day 4: Sersi / Guptkashi - Badrinath
On the fourth day of your Chardham itinerary, you will be heading to Badrinath. This journey will offer you breathtaking views of deep valleys and the majestic Himalayas along the way. Reach the charming city of Narayan, Badrinath. Upon arrival at Badrinath helipad, our handlers will escort you to the hotel where you can enjoy your breakfast or lunch. Afterwards, visit the Badrinath temple and have VIP darshans. Following your darshans, explore Mana Village, Vyas Gufa, and the origin point of the Saraswati River. This day ends with a comfortable stay and a delicious dinner at your hotel.
● Day 5: Badrinath - Dehradun
In the morning, after enjoying a wholesome breakfast, offer your prayers at the Badri Narayan temple. Board the helicopter with positive vibes and cherished memories of your Chardham Yatra. Upon arrival at Dehradun, we will collect your luggage from the hotel and drop you off at the airport, railway station, or bus stand according to your departure schedule. The tour concludes once you are safely dropped off at your departure point. Next time, book our Char Dham Yatra Package from Haridwar by Helicopter for a different flavour in this sacred journey.
Things to Remember
Best Time for Char Dham Yatra
The Chardham Yatra season typically begins in April/May and continues until October. Therefore, the ideal time to go for the Chardham Yatra is before July or after September. You should avoid the monsoon season due to slippery roads, landslides, and potential disruptions, which could negatively impact your overall experience.
Preparation for the Yatra
● Monitor your physical fitness at least a month before the journey begins.
● Book your accommodations in advance due to a huge crowd of pilgrims. Or, opt for our Chardham packages offered for a seamless travel experience.
● Consider planning your visit to the Chardham destinations during the monsoon season to avoid potential landslides and ensure a safer journey.
What to Pack
● Pack warm clothing, especially during the colder nights in October/November.
● Carry a raincoat, flashlight, and umbrella in case of rain.
● Protect your skin with moisturizer, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
● Ensure you have a first aid kit with essentials such as cough tablets, antiseptic creams, painkillers, and cold and fever medicines.
● If you have prescribed medications, bring them along, as they might not be readily available in remote areas.
● Pack extra batteries for your camera, considering the limited electricity supply in remote locations.
During the Char Dham Yatra –
● Follow the temple rules: Remove your shoes and cover your head with a scarf when entering the temples.
● Boost your energy during the yatra by carrying energy drinks, dry fruits, dark chocolates, glucose, and candies.
● Respect local customs regarding photography; ask for permission if it's not explicitly allowed to avoid hurting sentiments.
● Refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food and alcohol during the tour.
● Drink packaged or boiled water to ensure safety.
● If you need assistance with your luggage, hire a registered pony or porter and avoid carrying heavy loads yourself.
● Do not ignore warning signs and avoid walking or relaxing in restricted areas; there are no shortcuts on the route.
● Listen to your body during the yatra. If you feel unwell or fatigued, prioritize your health. Continue the journey only if you are fit and healthy. Your well-being is paramount.
The Significance of the Four Holy Sites
Each of the four holy locations is dedicated to a specific deity. Yamunotri is revered for Goddess Yamuna, believed to protect pilgrims on their way to the risky heights of the Rawai Valley. Devotees believe that bathing in the sacred waters of the Yamuna ensures protection from untimely death. Gangotri is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and overlooks the River Bhagirathi, also known as the River Ganga.
According to legend, the self-punishment of King Bhagirath brought Ganga down to earth from heaven. Kedarnath, located near the source of the holy river Mandakini, is home to Lord Shiva. It is considered the northernmost Jyotirlinga and is situated amidst the snowy mountains. Finally, Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located on the banks of the Alaknanda River. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu meditated here while his wife Lakshmi transformed into a berry tree (Badri) to provide him shade.
This spiritual journey was initiated by the famous Hindu philosopher and reformer Adi Shankaracharya during the 8th century with the aim of reviving the Hindu religion. Today, thousands of devotees from all around the world participate in this sacred yatra to seek eternal bliss and spiritual fulfilment. During this challenging journey, you will realize the importance of the Chardham Yatra.
Conclusion
Our Chardham Yatra Package covers everything from transportation to accommodation and meals for each pilgrim. Tour operators not only function as business owners but also work alongside the pilgrims and assist them in every possible way to ensure a stress-free trip. When it comes to our package cost, it is always reasonable and affordable.
Well, before setting sail on this journey, pilgrims must prepare themselves physically and mentally to face the physical and mental challenges posed by the Himalayan trails. The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most accessible yet demanding treks. The trails in the state are usually bustling with activity, especially during the summer months. Do not worry, the majestic mountains provide strength to pilgrims. This is how every pilgrim completes this challenging feat.
