For pilgrims preparing to set out on the Chardham Yatra, the wait is finally over. Today, the auspicious festival of Akshaya Tritiya, marks the start of the sacred pilgrimage. Yamunotri Dham’s doors will open at 11:50 AM today, while Gangotri Dham’s will open at 10:30 AM. Devotees can begin accessing Kedarnath Dham at 7:00 AM on Friday, May 2, 2025. Badrinath Dham’s doors will also open on Sunday, May 4, 2025.
Over the next six months, pilgrims will be able to travel to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath starting today. One of the most revered pilgrimages in the world is the Chardham Yatra. Every one of the four shrines honours a distinct divinity. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Lord Vishnu is the object of devotion at Badrinath. Yamunotri is devoted to the Goddess Yamuna, whereas Gangotri commemorates the Goddess Ganga.
Doors to Yamunotri and Gangotri Open Today
The entrances to Gangotri Dham and Yamunotri Dham will open at 10:30 and 11:50 AM, respectively, on this auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya. On May 2, 2025, at 7:00 AM, Kedarnath will open to worshippers, and on May 4, 2025, Badrinath will follow.
Special Security Measures for the Yatra of Chardham
Special security measures have been put in place for the yatra this year. Along the way, more police officers have been sent in. The Yatra route has been separated into 26 sectors, 7 zones, and 2 super zones for security reasons. Inspectors, Deputy Superintendents of Police, and Additional Superintendents of Police are among the officers assigned. About 850 members of the PAC, fire department, SDRF, Home Guard, and PRD have been deployed in addition to the police.
How Can I Get to the Yatra in Chardham?
The Chardham Yatra can be done by road or by helicopter, and it usually starts in either Haridwar or Dehradun.
- By Road: Haridwar, Delhi, Rishikesh, or Dehradun are the starting points for the yatra. The nearest significant rail connection to these sacred locations is Haridwar Railway Station. Haridwar has excellent rail and road connections to Delhi and other large cities. The temples can be reached by both private and state-run buses.
- By Helicopter: Dehradun is the starting point for helicopter services. Kharsali, which is roughly 6 km from Yamunotri, is reached by helicopter. Harsil is 25 kilometres from the temple and has the closest helipad for Gangotri. There are other helipads close to Badrinath and Kedarnath.
What to Carry During the Chardham Yatra
- Because the Kedarnath path and others require a lot of trekking, be emotionally and physically prepared.
- Keep ready-to-eat meals, energy bars, chocolates, drinks, and packed food on hand.
- Since flip-flops and sandals are inappropriate for mountain trails, wear hiking or robust footwear.
- Because nights in Uttarakhand’s high-altitude regions can be chilly, women should dress in salwar, trousers or trousers rather than sarees. A medical kit is necessary.
- If a pilgrim needs help, don’t be afraid to use the palanquins that are available.
Spiritual Significance of the Chardham Yatra
Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath are four holy sanctuaries in the Himalayas that receive millions of visitors each year as part of the Chardham Yatra.
Yamunotri: This is where the pilgrimage to the Goddess Yamuna starts. The temple was first constructed by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal and is 6 miles from Janki Chatti.
Gangotri: Dedicated to the Ganga River, this second stop is 3,048 meters above sea level and is highly respected by people who reverence the holy river.
Kedarnath: The third shrine, which is encircled by the Himalayas and stands at 3,584 meters, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple was supposedly first established by the Pandavas and then rebuilt by Adi Shankaracharya.
Badrinath: The last destination, devoted to Lord Vishnu, is home to a 3.3-meter-tall statue of Badrinarayan made of black stone that is thought to have originated in the Vedic period.
