The Chardham Yatra from Haridwar is one of the most sacred journeys for Hindus and a dream trip for many spiritual travellers. The Yatra covers four holy shrines nestled in the beautiful Himalayas of Uttarakhand: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Each dham has its unique charm, history, and significance. But before starting this divine journey, it’s important to understand the route properly, so you can travel smoothly and safely.
In this blog, we’ll explain the complete Chardham Yatra from Haridwar route in a simple way. This guide is useful whether you’re going on your own or planning through a trusted service like 4dhamyatra, which helps travellers by arranging comfortable transport, hotels, and even helps with kedarnath booking.
Let’s start the journey step by step.
Why Start Chardham Yatra from Haridwar?
Haridwar is known as the ‘Gateway to God’. It is well-connected by road, train, and even flight (from nearby Dehradun). Most pilgrims prefer starting the Chardham Yatra from Haridwar because:
- Haridwar has good transport facilities.
- It's spiritually significant, so many people like to begin their journey after taking a holy dip in the Ganga.
- From here, the route to all four dhams becomes systematic and easier.
Ideal Travel Plan & Route
The traditional order of Chardham Yatra from Haridwar is:
- Yamunotri
- Gangotri
- Kedarnath
- Badrinath
This sequence is followed as it moves from west to east, which is considered auspicious.
Let’s explore the route in detail.
Step 1: Haridwar to Yamunotri
Haridwar → Barkot → Yamunotri
- Distance: Around 220 km to Barkot
- Travel time: Around 7-8 hours by road
- Stay: Barkot or nearby
From Barkot, you drive to Janki Chatti (about 45 km). From Janki Chatti, you need to trek about 6 km to reach Yamunotri Temple. Many people hire ponies or palkis if they cannot trek. This first leg of the Chardham Yatra from Haridwar is both scenic and peaceful, passing through Mussoorie and Kempty Falls.
Step 2: Yamunotri to Gangotri
Barkot → Uttarkashi → Gangotri
- Distance: About 180 km
- Travel time: Around 6-7 hours
After returning to Barkot, your journey continues towards Uttarkashi, which is a major town and a good place to stay overnight. From Uttarkashi, it’s around 100 km to Gangotri Temple.
Gangotri is located on the banks of the holy Bhagirathi River. The drive takes you through beautiful valleys and mountain roads, making this part of the Chardham Yatra from Haridwar very memorable.
Step 3: Gangotri to Kedarnath
Uttarkashi → Guptkashi/Sonprayag → Kedarnath
- Distance: Around 250-270 km to Sonprayag
- Travel time: Around 9-10 hours
This is the longest stretch in the Chardham Yatra from Haridwar, so it’s usually done over two days. Most pilgrims stay in Guptkashi or Sonprayag. From Sonprayag, you go to Gaurikund by local vehicle (about 5 km).
From Gaurikund, there’s a 16 km trek to Kedarnath Temple. You can trek on foot, or choose ponies, palkis, or helicopter services (with advance kedarnath booking to save time). The sight of Kedarnath Temple against the snow-covered mountains is unforgettable.
Step 4: Kedarnath to Badrinath
Guptkashi → Joshimath → Badrinath
- Distance: Around 200 km
- Travel time: About 7-8 hours
After darshan in Kedarnath, you return to Guptkashi and drive towards Joshimath, a beautiful town that also serves as the base for the Auli ski resort. From Joshimath, it’s about 45 km to Badrinath Temple.
Badrinath is the last dham of the Chardham Yatra from Haridwar. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located on the banks of the Alaknanda River. After darshan here, many pilgrims also visit nearby places like Mana village (the last village of India) and the famous Tapt Kund.
Best Time to Do Chardham Yatra
The Chardham Yatra from Haridwar generally opens in late April or early May and continues till October or early November, depending on weather conditions. The best months are May, June, and September when the weather is pleasant. July and August see heavy rains, which can cause roadblocks.
For Kedarnath, it's a good idea to do kedarnath booking for helicopter or accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
Tips for Smooth Chardham Yatra from Haridwar
- Start early each day to avoid traffic and reach your next stop on time.
- Carry warm clothes even in summer; weather changes fast in the mountains.
- Drink bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach problems.
- Keep some cash, as ATMs may not always work in remote areas.
- Travel insurance is a wise option.
If you’re not familiar with mountain driving or managing hotel bookings, you can plan the Chardham Yatra from Haridwar with travel experts. At 4dhamyatra, for instance, travellers get help with accommodation, transport, meals, and even guide services, which makes the journey peaceful and hassle-free.
Why a Planned Route Matters
Many people don’t realise the importance of following the traditional route. Doing Yamunotri and Gangotri first helps your body adjust to the altitude gradually, which is safer. Also, local traditions suggest this order is spiritually more rewarding. Following the proper route keeps your Chardham Yatra from Haridwar organised and less tiring.
Final Thoughts
The Chardham Yatra from Haridwar is more than a journey; it’s a spiritual experience that brings inner peace and a sense of fulfilment. Knowing the complete route makes it easier to plan, reduces surprises, and helps you focus on devotion instead of logistics.
Whether you travel on your own or take help from experts like 4dhamyatra, the real joy of this yatra is in experiencing the natural beauty, ancient temples, and the warmth of local people. Prepare well, travel safely, and may your Chardham Yatra from Haridwar be truly divine!
