1. Haridwar & Rishikesh
Haridwar is the traditional gateway to Char Dham. Don’t miss the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, held every evening as priests release rows of flickering diyas on the river. Nearby, the Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi cable‑car temples offer panoramic views of the city and river.
Rishikesh, just 25 km away, is famed as the “Yoga Capital of the World.” Visit Triveni Ghat for its serene Aarti, stroll across the Laxman and Ram Jhulas, and—if time permits—explore the Beatles Ashram and try white‑water rafting on the Ganges.
2. Yamunotri Circuit
En route to Yamunotri, stop at Hanuman Chatti to bathe in the Sulphur‑rich hot spring “Surya Kund.” The 5 km trek to the temple winds through oak and rhododendron forests, with snow‑capped views above. Before rounding off, explore the quaint village of Kharsali, where traditional Garhwali homestays offer an authentic cultural break.
3. Gangotri Circuit
From Gangotri, take a short detour to Bhatwari and Uttarkashi—historic towns known for trout farms and timber markets. The Gangotri Temple, set against a backdrop of glaciers, is the source of the Ganges. On clear days, the surrounding peaks (e.g., Shivling, Bhagirathi) provide breathtaking photo opportunities.
4. Kedarnath Circuit
Guptkashi is the base town before the final approach to Kedarnath. Visit the ancient Vishwanath Temple and the Bhairavnath Shrine here. From Gaurikund, the trek begins: a 16 km ascent through terraced villages, waterfalls, and rhododendron groves. For less‑mobile pilgrims, helicopter services lift you to Kedarnath’s helipad, from which a short walk leads to the 8th‑century Jyotirlinga shrine.
5. Badrinath Circuit
Joshimath serves as the gateway to Badrinath. Explore the Narsingh Temple and take the Auli ropeway for sweeping Himalayan vistas. On the drive, stop at Vishnuprayag, where Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers meet. Near Badrinath, visit Mana Village, India’s last settlement before the Tibet border, and the Vyas Gufa where sage Vyas is said to have composed the Mahabharata.
6. Optional Side Excursions
-
Valley of Flowers & Hemkund Sahib: A UNESCO site, this alpine meadow bursts into color each monsoon. The adjacent Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara sits at 4,329 m, reached by a 6 km trek from Govindghat.
-
Auli: Known for world‑class skiing in winter and wildflower meadows in summer. The Auli ropeway is one of Asia’s longest cable cars.
-
Pipalkoti & Karnaprayag: Scenic river‑confluence points ideal for photography and short hikes.
Tips for Side Visits
-
Acclimatize: Spend rest days at Uttarkashi or Joshimath to adjust to altitude.
-
Permits & Seasons: Road access to certain Dham shrines is seasonal (April–November). Plan side treks (Valley of Flowers, Auli) accordingly.
-
Local Homestays: For an authentic experience, book village homestays in Kharsali or Mana.