Everything about Chardham Yatra

Information for Chardham Yatra

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"Chardham Temples Picture"

"Chardham Yatra Route Map"

Logical Map of Chardham Yatra

Char Dham Yatra Oveview:

Char dham yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages of Hindu religion.In this pilgrimage we visit following temples in the state of uttarakhand in India.

Yamunotr

Gangotri

Kedarnath

Badrinath

(Hence the name: char dham yatra. Char = four , dham = sacred place, yatra = journey )Most of the people usually start this journey from Haridwar. Haridwar city is in uttarakhand. People start journey to char dham from haridwar and come back to haridwar after visiting char dham.Most of the people visit the 4 temples in the order I mentioned above –Haridwar – Yamunotri – Gangotri – Kedarnath -- Badrinath. -- HaridwarImportant: Out of 4 temples above, yamunotri and kedarnath are not accessible by road. You need to trek certain distance. For Yamunotri vehicles only go till janaki chatti and you need to trek 7 kms from Janaki chatti. In case of kedarnath the trek is 14 kms.For Gangotri and Badrinath vehicles go till the temples so no need to trek.The entire journey takes around 9-10 days for most of the people. The entire journey will be in hilly areas only and hence your driver must be comfortable driving in those hilly areas.The char dham temples open from month of May to October only. (Usually temples open on Akshya trirtya which occurs mostly in month of April or May). Most of the people visit temples in May-June time. In October the temples will be closed again for next 6 months.

List of some DO's and DON'Ts during Char Dham Yatra, Safety during Char Dham Yatra

1. Please ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to perform the journey as the Yatra involves trekking at Yamunotri about 6-8 KM, at Kedarnath 14 KM (one way).

2. Do carry sufficient heavy woolens including sweaters, woolen thermal body warmers, trousers, monkey caps, mufflers and any other cold fighting apparel. Other items needed to be carried are wind sheeters, raincoats, sleeping bags, blankets, water proof shoes with sufficient grips, small water proof tents, torch with sufficient batteries and walking sticks. Ladies are advised to avoid sarees. Instead body hugging clothing like Salwar Kamiz, pants, etc is advised.

3. Carry dry eatable stocks with you viz, biscuits, Sugar, Candies, Chocolates, milk powder, assorted dry fruits, honey, lemons and tinned foods and other items suiting your palates. Water bottle, spoons, tumblers, saucers and plates may also be carried. Don’t throw wrappers of chocolates etc. on road or in the forest trek during journey, better to use dustbins if possible otherwise keep it in your pocket and throw when you find dustbin.

4. Registered pony walla, porter, dandy man may only be hired. They are available for prefixed tariffs.

5. Ponies carrying luggage and eatables should remain with you all the time. At no point of time should you get out of touch with them. This is to avoid inconvenience.

6. Move slowly and steadily, as this is an arduous pilgrimage and maintain discipline. Instructions of Yatra officer should be adhered to.

7. Carry sufficient money to pay for your personal expenses.

8. It is advisable to carry your own personal medical kit and First aid box.

9. Alcohol is strictly prohibited

10. Don’t overstrain on steep gradients.

11. Don’t relax at place where warning signs are fixed.

12. Don’t break traffic discipline.

13. Avoid carrying heavy Jewellery during journey.

14. Don’t try to wash hands/ clothes/ bath in the rivers Enroute your Way.

15. “Have a most memorable Char Dham Yatra.”

16. Drink only mineral/RO Water. 1 liter bottle price up to 35 Rs.
17. GMVN (Gadhval Mandal Vikash Nigam) (Government undertaking) has very good / Safe accommodation provider. online booking also available. link. http://www.gmvnl.com/newgmvn/

Travel Tips for Char Dham Yatra:-

1. When asking for directions, speak to shopkeepers, not pedestrians. Check with at least two persons or more.

2. Change of place, climatic conditions and food can lead to throat sore. Gurgle with hot water with pinch of salt to avoid enhancement of infection. Keeps some throat soothing lozenges with you.

3. Food-wise anything that is boiled, cooked or fried is a safer bet than anything cold or raw. So avoid cold salads, raw vegetables, drinks with ice etc.

4. Pack a medical kit with painkillers, antibiotics, cough lozenges and medicines for cold and fever.

5. A small torch is essential equipment as lights can go off at any time.

6. If you are carrying Digital Camera or Handy cam, do carry extra pair of battery, as there is no guarantee if there is electricity for charging you equipment.

7. Do not take pictures if cameras are not allowed in any particular area. Do not play with the sentiments of any particular religion.

8. Always pack a pair of woolen clothes as it is very cold as all the Dhams are situated at high altitude.

9. Carry personal toilet items, they are very useful during the breaks in long journey of Char Dham.

10. Ensure you are physically and mentally fit to perform the journey as the Yatra involves trekking at an altitude of 1,4000ft.

11.         At least a month before the Yatra, it is advisable to start preparatory exercises: Even a brisk walk of about 4 to 5 km per day would be beneficial.
12.     If you go by Taxi or cab ensure that your driver should not be drunken. its more important in Himalaya's dangerous Road. because they are habituated.
13.     If you go by your own car. must be carry service book of vehicle and all India on road breakdown no. ( for Maruti Suzuki 1800 1800 180)

14. Hire only a registered ponywalla or porter. Don't walk far away from ponies carrying luggage.

CharDham Yatra during rainy season (Monsoons):-

1. Pack empty plastic bags to separate soiled and wet clothes from the rest.

2. To prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry. Do not go barefoot.

3. Ensure that your luggage is waterproof.

4. Always carry a raincoat and an umbrella during travel.
5. If possible Please ignore this (Monsoon) season. because of fear of landsliding.

----------Day wise Experience & Information ----------

Day – 1, 28-05-2011 (Ahmedabad to Jaipur ) 654 km, NH No.8.

About Ahmedabad:- Also known as Karnavati is the largest city in Gujarat, India. It is the former capital of Gujarat and is also the judicial capital of Gujarat as the Gujarat High Court has its seat in Ahmedabad. It is also financial capital of Gujarat. It is the fifth largest city and seventh largest metropolitan area of India, with a city population of approximately 5.6 million and metropolitan population of 6.4 million. In 2010, Forbes magazine rated Ahmedabad as the fastest-growing city in India.

About Jaipur: -Also popularly known as the Pink City, is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Founded on 18 November 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber, the city today has a population of more than 3.1 million. Jaipur is one of the finest planned cities of India, located in the semi-desert lands of Rajasthan. The city which once had been the capital of the royalty now is the capital city of Rajasthan. The very structure of Jaipur resembles the taste of the Rajputs and the Royal families. At present, Jaipur is a major business centre with all requisites of a metropolitan city.

I started my journey from Ahmedabad at 6:30am. With my Maruti Suzuki esteem car and reached Jaipur at 10:00pm.There we stayed in Hotel Ashish room no.308.

(Rs. 3000/ Day). All major banks’ ATM was there & all credit/Debit cards was accepted in this hotel. We took dinner in Hotel Ashish, food was really good. After completing our dinner, we planned for further Journey. We had passed day one without any trouble.
"Hotel Aashish Main Gate"

"Hotel Aashish Room Key"

Day – 2 29-05-2011 (Jaipur to Haridwar) 466 Kilometers, NH-8 & NH-58

We had to wake up at 5:00am as our destination "Haridwar" was about 600 km far away. So, we started immediately without wasting a minute. I started my car at 7:00am and reached Haridwar at 11:00pm. We faced problem for accommodation because May, June and July, it’s a pick time. But we found an agent and he had shown two –three hotels and we preferred one hotel near Railway Station (Rs. 1500/Day) and gave 100 Rs. to him as a commission charge. We took dinner in Hotel and went for sleeping.
"Jaipur to Haridwar Road (NH-8)"

Day – 3 30-05-2011 (Haridwar)

About Haridwar: - Is an important pilgrimage city and municipality in the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand, India. The River Ganges, after flowing for 253 kilometres (157 mi) from its source at Gaumukh at the edge of the Gangotri Glacier, enters the Indo-Gangetic Plains of North India for the first time at Haridwar, which gave the city its ancient name, Gangadwára.

Haridwar is regarded as one of the seven holiest places to Hindus. According to the Samudra manthan, Haridwar along with Ujjain, Nasik and Allahabad is one of four sites where drops of Amrit, the elixir of immortality, accidentally spilled over from the pitcher while being carried by the celestial bird Garuda. This is manifested in the Kumbha Mela being celebrated every 3 years in one of the 4 places, and thus every 12 years in Haridwar. Amidst the Kumbha Mela, millions of pilgrims, devotees, and tourists congregate in Haridwar to perform ritualistic bathing on the banks of the river Ganges to wash away their sins to attain Moksha. Brahma Kund, the spot where the Amrit fell, is located at Har ki Pauri (literally, "footsteps of the Lord") and is considered to be the most sacred ghat of Haridwar. Haridwar is the headquarters and the largest city of the district. Today, the city is developing beyond its religious importance, with the fast developing industrial estate of State Industrial Development Corporation of Uttarakhand (SIDCUL), and the close by township of Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited in Ranipur, Uttarakhand as well as its affiliated ancillaries.

Whether Detail:- The Ganges emerges from the mountains to touch the plains. The water in the river Ganges is mostly clear and generally cold, except in the rainy season, during which soil from the upper regions flows down into it.

Temperatures:- Summers: 25 °C - 44 °C , Winters: 6 °C - 24 °C

Today, we woke up at 8:00am and took heavy breakfast, then we went out from the hotel and hired Pedal rickshaw (Rs. 20/Person) for “Har Ki Paudi” and finally we reached “Har Ki Paudi”. There were so many people, taking bath but I got success for finding some place for me and my family and Took bath and some took snaps there. At the First glance, The Ganga was touching. It’s extremely a great enjoyable moment of this journey. As The water was very cold. So we had completed our bath in 1-2 hours. After that we took lunch in Chotiwala’s Restaurant located at “Har Ki Paudi”. The food was really good at reasonable rate. After completing all things, I went to Shakumbhari Automobiles (Maruti Authorized Service Centre) for Tune-up, Washing and Break Check up of my car because I had to go for “Chardham Yatra”, there roads would be very dangers and full with Hills in whole Journey. And none Service Station so it’s a compulsory to check your vehicle it’s an advisable. Shakumbhari Automobiles staff was very co-operative and cleaver. After completing the task, came back to my hotel after having a nap we all went to gather to “Har Ki Paudi” at 05:00pm and attended “Ganga Evening Aarti”, it’s a memorable moment. After that we went to Railway Station for withdraw money but there was some problem on net connectivity so we went to again har ki Paudi because someone told us “there is 2-3 ATMs” then we went and withdrawal, came back to hotel & took dinner. Came back to room and packed luggage. It was already 10:00 pm. Closed eyes and tried to sleep.

Note:- If you want to hire car from Haridwar then lots of tours operator are available . (Near Railway Station), here day wise rent consider. The rent is different depend on Cab, if you want to go with TATA Indica @ 2500 per day, TATA Indigo @ 3000 per day, Chervolet Tavera @ 3500 per day , TOYOTA Innova @ 4000 per day, TOYOTA Fortuner @ 5000 per day.In 2011). For example if you hired TATA Indigo car, for “Chardham” you need to 10 – 12 days then calculation (10 days x 3000 Rs. per day then 30000 Rs.) you have to pay.

Note:-Haridwar is a big city; there is big market you can get easily everything like Branded Digital Camera, Handy cam, Batteries, memory card, Medicines, woolen cloths, handicraft items, etc…..
"Har Ki Paudi" Haridwar

Day-4 31-05-2011 (Haridwar to Barkot) 175 km, NH-123. (Height 6540 Feet)

About Barkot:- Barkot is a town and a nagar panchayat in Uttarkashi District in the state of Uttarakhand, India.

At 4:15 am, I was wakening up by alarm. And got ready quickly, took light breakfast (Tea & biscuits) and loaded luggage in a car and we had started our journey at sharp 6:30am. Today, we must travel 180 Kilometers on hills because after 07:00pm driving is strictly prohibited in Uttarakhand (Chardham Route). So, wasting time is not acceptable. But near to Dehradun, we got very hungry so again took breakfast of PARATHAS at road side DHABA. I did Fueled my car. (I want to suggest you that when you see Fuel outlets, make fuel your car fully because in this route average is very low and few Fuel outlets.) We reached Mussurie at 11:00am and spent some time here. At 11:30am we started for further journey and again took a break at Kempty Fall. We had our lunch. At 01:30pm geared up for Barkot. Mussurie to Barkot the road was pathetic so you can’t drive over 20 kmph and weather was magically changed it was Rain. But thank god Barkot was 20 km away so not an issue finally, we reached Barkot at 06:00pm and easily we got two rooms in GMVN (Gadhwal Mandal Vikash Nigam). It’s a best accommodation in Chardham Yatra. They have own restaurant and generator service. In chardham pilgrim tour, Electricity facility is very poor so generator is Important. At 09:00pm we took Dinner. After that we all sat to gather and made a plan of tracking because People told us, “this is the toughest among the Chardham Yatra and if someone finishes this one, he can do anything easily”. Infect people told that, “this is the toughest among all Holy places in India”. Finally we got ready mentally and physically. We slept at around 11 PM.
"Haridwar to Barkot Road"

"Kempty Fall" Musoorie

"Barkot Road after Musoorie"

Day-5:- 01-06-2011 (Barkot)

Today we woke up at 07:00am, because Barkot to Yamunotri road was blocked. So, whole day we stayed in Barkot. Went to market there was no any ATM, purchased fruits, Torch and Booked a Cab (Mahindra MAXX) for Yamunotri in 3000 Rs. for next day. Because some local people and GMVN’s Staff told me “Yamunotri’s road was very bed” so I obeyed and took a decision and leaved my car at Barkot Hotel. Because I had Maruti Esteem (Sedan type) its ground clearance is very low. So, risk of damaging.

"Tourist Bungalow" Barkot

Day- 6:- 02-06-2011 (Barkot to Yamunotri) 31Kilometers + 7 km trekking, NH 94

About Yamunotri:- is the source of the Yamuna River and the seat of the Goddess Yamuna in Hinduism. It is situated at an altitude of 3,293 meters (10,804 ft) in the Garhwal Himalayas and located approximately 30 kilometers (19 mi) North of Uttarkashi, the headquarters of the Uttarkashi district in the Garhwal Division of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the four sites in India's Chhota Char Dham pilgrimage. The sacred shrine of Yamunotri, source of the river Yamuna, is the westernmost shrine in the Garhwal Himalayas, perched atop a flank of Bandar Poonch Parvat. The chief attraction at Yamunotri is the temple devoted to the Goddess Yamuna and the holy thermal springs at Janki Chatti (7 km. Away).

The actual source, a frozen lake of ice and glacier (Champasar Glacier) located on the Kalind Mountain at a height of 4,421 m above sea level, about 1 km further up, is not frequented generally as it is not accessible; hence the shrine has been located on the foot of the hill. The approach is extremely difficult and pilgrims therefore offer puja at the temple itself.

The temple of Yamuna, on the left bank of the Yamuna, was constructed by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. The deity is made of black marble. The Yamuna, like the Ganges, has been elavated to the status of a divine mother for the Hindus and has been held responsible for nurturing and developing the Indian civilization.

Close to the temple is hot water springs gushing out from the mountain cavities? Surya Kund is the most important kund. Near the Surya Kund there is a shila called Divya Shila, which is worshipped before puja is offered to the deity. Devotees prepare rice and potatoes, tied in muslin cloth, to offer at the shrine by dipping them in these hot water springs. Rice so cooked is taken back home as prasadam. The pujaris of Yamunotri come from the village of Kharsali near Janki Chatti. They are the administrators of the sacred place and perform religious rites. They are well-versed in the Shastras.

Early morning we woke up and got ready approximately at 06:30am. I made a call to our cab driver (09458953228) but he was already come in the hotel parking. Then we start for Yamunotri at 07:00am. We had Reached Janki- chatti at 10:00am and after parking the vehicle in parking area. We are total six persons and two kids but hired only two Houses (PONY) another person started trekking to Yamunotri. It Was Mind blowing view, Very cold and narrow trek. People were rushing; there was no space to walk. But we were determined to complete it in just 2-3 hours. When we started, it was 11:00 am. After 3 Km, we had Alu Paratha, meggi & tea. Then again we started trekking. It was really tough trekking, the trek road was very dirty due to Horses and rainy water. Finally we shown the temple at 02:00pm but before the temple road was jammed by pilgrims so reached to temple at 03:00pm. Finished darshan of “Shree Yamunaji”, Took rice cooked in natural hot water and filled Yamunotri water in bottle, we started our trekking back. It was 04:00 pm when we started and reached back Janki chatti at 06:15 PM. We reached barkot at 08:00pm. We had successfully completed one Dham. Took dinner and we slept at around 11 PM.
"Barkot to Yamunotri Road"

"Barkot to Yamunotri Road"

"Yamunotri Treak Road"

"Yamunotri Temple"

"Suryakund" near to Yamunotri temple

Day-7 :- 03-06-2011 (Barkot to Bhatwari) 105 Kilometers, NH-198

Today we woke up at 06:30am and starts at 08:00am for Bhatwari. After 2 Kilometers of drive Our car’s fuel pipe split due to one big stone met to the fuel pipe at that time car was leaved the speed and I got a smell of petrol, quickly I did a braked a car and checked, I kept some spares of car like Petrol pipes, Electric cables, Fuses, etc…. so repaired my car by myself, check again, then starts for further journey. Took a break near to Dharasu and took our lunch at 12:15 pm. We reached Uttarkashi and bought Mangoes and some Namkeen’s packets. After uttarkashi I had increased car speed at that time 3-4 police men was stopped me they were Speed Detector so I got a memo for over limit speed driving and paid fine 300/- Rs. after completing legal process starts for Bhatwari. After drive 20-25 Kilometers there are one big ashram of “Pilot Baba” it’s a really good ashram as well as temple. Some snap here, at that time one man (Ashram’s Person) came and told “we have good room for staying” but he was forcing so I got smell of cheating then I make your mind up and leave that place quickly. Starts my car and reached Bhatwari at 05:00pm. Again we are lucky because we got room GMVN ( Ghadhwal Mandal Vikash Nigam). At 06:30pm I went to market for purchasing Shaving Kit, Shop, Shampoo, and medicine. Came back to room and played some indoor games like GK Quiz after that finished dinner and seen television. We slept at around 10:00 PM.

"Pailot Baba Ashram" Gangotri Road

"Gangotri Road"

Day-8, 04-06-2011 (Bhatwari to Gangotri to Bhatwari) 48 Kilometers, NH-8.

About Gangotri:- is a town and a Nagar Panchayat (municipality) in Uttarkashi district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is a Hindu pilgrim town on the banks of the river Bhagirathi. It is on the Greater Himalayan Range, at a height of 3,100m.

Today we got up early and drove for Gangotri. The road was medium quality but acceptable. After driving 50-55 Kilometers, we took breakfast in a small Dhaba. The view was awesome. After that we headed for Gangotri, on that route one village “Harshil” is there, it was mind-blowing place (known as India’s Switzerland). There were two helicopters on road side. We stopped at Bhairavghati. There situated BSF headquarter. There is a “Bhairav” temple its Historical place so many people are staying here for Darshan. Gangotri was 15 Kilometers far away from Bhairavghati. The road was very bad after bhairavghati. Finally we reached Gangotri at 11:00am; there was heavy traffic and poor management by police. So, I faced problem for park my car. The temple was 1 to 1.5 Kilometers away from parking. There are really beautiful Hotels for staying. After 1 ½ Kilometers trekking we reached to “Gangotri Temple”. The view was superb. I have no word to explain. We stood in the queue for Darshan. After completing Darshan took snap here and went to bank of Ganga, it’s situated near to temple just walk in distance. We had thought for bath in Ganga but the water was extremely cold so, we changed our idea and just washed Hand and legs but my father wanted to bath so, he had taken holy bath. After that we had done pooja and took lunch (Paratha, Dhosa and Samosa) after completing our lunch came to Bhatwari at 05:00pm. “Two Dham completed”. I seen my car was very dusty due to under construction roads. I had time to wash my car outside & inside both and checked engine oil, Coolant water, break oil, belts, batteries, tires, lights, etc… took dinner at 08:30pm and slept at 10:30pm. Good NightJ.
"GMVN Yatri Nivas" Bhatwadi (Night)

"GMVN Yatri Nivas" Bhatwadi (Day)

"Gangotri Road"

"Bhairovghati" Gangotri Road

"Hotels" Gangotri

"Gangotri Temple"

"Bathing Ghat" Gangotri

Day-9, 05-06-2011 (Bhatwari to Shrinagar) 180Kilometers, NH-98, 108.

Good Morning today we get up at 07:00am, complete our breakfast and drive for Gaurikund via Tehri. Today we misguided about our route so whole day drive and full of tribulations after Tehri there are 3 cross road so we got confusion and asked to local man and they shown typical route. Today I had drive almost 275 Kilometers but we don’t reach Gaurikund. And time was 05:00pm so stayed in Shrinagar. By the way again we got a room (06:00pm) in (GMVN), GMVN of shrinagar was situated on main road, there are lots of people (Sardarji), Hotels, Restaurants, ATMs, so we all filled relax. Shrinagar is a big city entire Chardham Yatra . It was good & Developed city. After taking rest we went to Restaurants, had south Indian food (Onion Dhosa Was Superb). After completing dinner cash withdrawal from ATM (Note: - during Whole trip we were tired by ATM services I want to say that there was a pathetic and Irritable service from Haridwar. There are lots of ATM centers (Punjab National, Corporation Bank, Axis Bank, Bank Of Baroda, HDFC, ICICI, Canera Bank, Dena Bank, State Bank of India) but State Bank of India it’s a far better.) Go to bed at 10:00pm.
"Tehri" Shrinagar Road

"Tehri Power plant " Shrinagar Road

"Shrinagar" City Road

"GMVN" Shrinagar

Day- 10, 06-06-2011 (Shrinagar to Rampur) 95 Kilometers, NH-58,109.

Got up at 07:00am, took heavy breakfast and starts journey at 08:30pm because today had to travel only 95 to 100 Kilometers so not an issue. After 50 Kilometers drive stopped and snaps. On this route one village “Fata” located, if you want go to Kedarnath by Helicopter service then available {(Pawan Hans Helicopter Service) 7200/- per Person for 2 way, they takes 15 – 20 min. for single side that is a good option. But real fun is on trek road} we reached Ramwada at 03:00pm, booked room in GMVN (On Awesome Location). Whether was very cold, Snow filled mountains, Clouds was touching us such a memorable all the thing. Whole day stayed here took dinner at 08:00pm. Go to bed at 10:00pm.

"Kedarnath Road"

"GMVN Canteen " Rampur

"GMVN " Rampur

"Kedarnath Road"

"Pawanhans Helicopter Centre" at Fata Kedarnath Road

Day- 11, 07-06-2011 (Rampur to Kedarnath), 10Kilometers + 14 Kilometers trekking, (Height 11817 Feet)

About Kedarnath:- is a Hindu holy town located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is a nagar panchayat in Rudraprayag district. The most remote of the four Char Dham sites, Kedarnath is located in the Himalayas, about 3584m above sea level near the head of river Mandakini, and is flanked by breathtaking snow-capped peaks. Kedarnath hosts one of the holiest Hindu temples, the Kedarnath Temple, and is a popular destination for Hindu pilgrims from all over the world, being one of the four major sites in India's Chota Char Dham pilgrimage.

Kedarnath is named in honor of King Kedar who ruled in the Satya Yuga. He had a daughter named Vrinda who was a partial incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. She performed austerities for 60000 years. In honour of her, the land is named Vrindavan. However, Kedarnath and its temple exist from the Mahabharata Era when the Pandavas are supposed to have pleased Lord Shiva by doing penance there.

Got up at 06:00am, took breakfast and starts journey at 07:30am. After 3-4 Kilometers drove traffic was jammed for 1-2 hours. We started towards Gaurikund. Normally road was good but up to Gaurikund traffic was heavy so we reached Gaurikund at 11:00am. I wanted to park my car in Gaurikund but parking was full so I requested to authorize person but he was not agreed but when I gave 200 Rs. as a Commission he was ready. I was Parked my car. We walked 2 Kilometers for Pony (Horse) stand. On the way took breakfast (Paratha & Maggi).we had purchased 2 oxygen bottles (Rs.250/ bottle). We hired 6 horses from Govt. prepaid counter. There were thousands of horses, palki, pithu. It was tough to walk there. Horses were pushing us. There was no respect for pedestrians. But "Hosla Buland Tha" and we were committed to reach kedarnath up to evening. After 1.5 Kilometers of riding, we had tea and biscuits. The view was awesome. There was Cold climate. Nice place, nice reason for riding (Darshan of Lord Kedarnath - One of the Jyotiling). We continued. We realized that it was even more difficult. We stopped at Ramwada at around 2:45 pm. for lunch. We Had Paratha, Maggie & tea. We Started at around 3:15 pm. I had given money Rs. 200 to Ponywala for lunch. Till this point we ride 7 Kilometers. That’s half. So, it means 7 more KM was left. After passing 2-3 Kilometers clouds covered us, so I cannot see surrounding me. and rain was started but we already ready with Raincoat, whether was so cold, I was warring about my 2 nephews and my Mother- Father , but I was helpless. At that time I thought next time whenever I come, I will come by Helicopter only. Finally we reached Kedarnath at 04:30pm. This time only we don’t get room in GMVN because of crowd of pilgrims. But I got room in local guest house (Rs. 1000/Day). The pace was very low. We reached Kedarnath Temple at around 6:00pm.there was long queue for Darshan. Whether was extremely cold 2oC, Had beutiful and Soul purifing darshan of Lord Kedarnath. I was lucky to have the darshan for around 10-15 mins. After completing darshan, when we turned back, we could not take our eyes out of the view which was in front of us. Was a Mind blowing, Himalaya with snow full of one complete range just behind the temple? Truly speaking, I dint want to come back from such a beautiful place. It was very cold out there. We took some snaps there and proceeded. Went to our room and took dinner. Go to bed at 10:00pm.

Note-1:- There was a Govt. Prepaid office available. You have 2 options for hiring 1 Govt. 2. Direct. PONY (Horse) @ Rs.1800/-, DANDI (Dolly) @ Rs.4500/-, KANDI (Pithu) @ Rs.3000/- . (All rate for 2 way) Govt. Prepaid service it’s costly in compare of Direct hiring, BUT Govt. Prepaid service it is SAFE rather than direct hiring. Govt. Prepaid is reliable & they also give insurance worth Rs. 200000/- . Once you paid fees in Govt. Prepaid office they give 1 counter to you, after that contact any Ponywala, Dandiwala or kandiwala they submit his ID card to you, if he not given, so leave him immediately another can be ready, if you got confusion contact on Govt. Prepaid counter they will arrange. Ok but they submit his ID card, so you should keep with you both. 1. Receipt 2. ID card. Up to return to Gaurikund.

Note-2:- Oxygen is most required in Kedarnath. kedarnath is situated on 14000 ft from sea level. It’s easily available in medical stores in Gaurikund. If you think it is not necessary, but my advice is bringing with you for precaution. If not required in whole trip then don’t open its seal. After completing Kedarnath darshan return to that store where purchased, they deduct Rs. 50 / Bottle. Out of Rs.250/- (Take invoice of oxygen bottle)
"Instruction Board" At Gaurikund

"Prepaid Counter" Gaurikund

"Gaurikund" Kedarnath Road

"Kedarnath Temple"

"Kedarnath Temple"

"Kedarnath Temple & Market "

"Kedarnath Temple "

"Rate of Pooja's" Kedarnath

Day -12, 08-06-2011 (Kedarnath to Gaurikund to Gopeshwar) 95 Kilometers, NH-109.

About Gopeshwar:- is a town in Chamoli district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is the administrative headquarters of the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand in India. Located 1300 meters above sea level, it is famous for its weather (pleasant most of the year, but very cold in December and January) and its temples.

Got up at 07:00am, took breakfast and starts journey at 08:00am. Today didn’t take bath because electricity was not available and natural water was extremely cold. Changed outfits and went to Pony Stand, our Ponywala was there where we left yesterday. Start riding at 08:30am. Whether was clear. Down steps was tough & horrible rather than up steps. Had stopped at Ramwada at 10:30am, took some snacks and tea. Again starts riding and reached Gaurikund at 11:50am. Give Prepaid receipt and his Identity card to him as per commitment, also gave Rs.200/- as a bonus to Ponywala. After completing all formality with Ponywala starts for Gaurikund Parking when my car was parked. Between the ways return 2 oxygen bottles to medical store, where I purchased. That man Checked invoice and gave Rs. 400/- return back to me. Went to parking and starts for Rampur collect my luggage (ALL GMVN HOTELS provide luggage room in nominal rent Rs. 200/ Day. They give token against your luggage). And start for Gopeshwar. After 50 – 55 Kilometers drove took lunch at 02:00pm. There was Panjabi, Gujarati and South Indian food available. Food was good. We had reached Chopta at 04:00pm. Chopta was superb, situated on top on mountain. If you have hobby of photography then this is a perfect place. We stopped here captured some Photos, already many people was stopped here, in chopta there are good resorts also available. Rant I don’t know perfectly, may be Rs. 3000/- to Rs. 4000/-. After taking sort break start for Gopeshwar. After Chopta roads was lonely and ghastly. {If your vehicle get breakdown no one come for help. “I say (MUST) if possible ignore or skip this route, there is another route available for Badrinath.”}. 5-6 Kilometers far from gopeshwar my car’s Left front wheel met with a big stone, I felled shock on steering wheel but I was getting late so drove continues without stooped, Finally we reached Gopeshwar at 07:00pm. Got room in GMVN (Rs. 1800/day), shifted our luggage. I was came with car and checked I saw suspension parts was damaged. I was shocked because there was no any service station. But I asked to one cad driver and he told me “there is one Maruti Authorized Service Station available”. Then I felled good. I thought next day morning visit to Maruti Authorized Service Station. Gopeshwar was good & prospers city. There was ATM service available. We had Took dinner at 10:00pm & Go to bed at 11:00pm.

"Small Restaurant" Kedarnath

"Chopta" Gopeshwar Road

"Gopeshwar Road"

"Gopeshwar City"

"GMVN" Gopeshwar

Day -13, 09-06-2011 (Gopeshwar)

Got up at 07:00am, taken breakfast and went to Maruti’s Service station and meat to Service supervisor, explained all the things, after listen my complain supervisor was checked my car, after that he told me he was unable for solving my issue because they don’t have Alignment machine, so he gave advised and explained location (Chamoli) for repair my car. After that I went to Chamoli, Chamoli is big city and there was 3-4 big auto garage and all types car parts available here. Repaired my car, came back to hotel (Gopeshwar) at 02:00pm. After taking nap we all went to Shiv Temple, it’s situated in main market, and it’s very old temple and builds up by “Pandavas”. We had seated here for some time, came to hotel. Today we all my missed our house and thought as soon as possible complete this tour and reach to home , We had took dinner and go to bed at 10:00pm.

"Gopeshwar City"

"Shiv Temple" Gopeshwar

Day -14, 10-06-2011 (Gopeshwar-Badrinath) 98 Kilometers, NH. 58. ( Height 10248 Feet )

About Badrinath:- is a Hindu holy town and a nagar panchayat in Chamoli district in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is the most important of the four sites in India's Char Dham pilgrimage. Contents Badrinath is located at 30.73°N 79.48°E.It has an average elevation of 3,415 meters (11,204 feet). It is in the Garhwal hills, on the banks of the Alaknanda River. The town lies between the Nar and Narayana mountain ranges and in the shadow of Nilkantha peak (6,560m). Badrinath is located 301 km north of Rishikesh. From Gaurikund (near Kedarnath) to Badrinath by road is 233 km.

The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun, (317 km). The nearest railway stations are at Haridwar (310 km) and Rishikesh(297 km) and Kotdwar, (327 km) respectively. There are regular buses operating to Badrinath, from New Delhi, Haridwar and Rishikesh. As the roads are very narrow, for your safety it is recommended to travel by all terrain vehicles. Until recently you could not drive here, but now you can drive right up next to the temple. There are many private helicopter service providers who provide services at very marginal rates like Heritage Aviation and many more other service providers

Got up at 06:00pm and get ready, took breakfast, starts for further journey, loaded luggage in car & started. Reached Joshimath at 9:30am but gate was closed, there was Gate System because Joshimath to Badrinath road was very dangers extreme up hills, (Joshimath to Badrinath is toughest road in INDIA). Gate was opened in every 2 hours, so when we reached to Joshimath the Gate was closed, we braked here up to 11:00am, took some snacks & snap here. There was all normal things available including ATM. Finally gate was opened at 11:15am we start ahead to Badrinath. The road & situation was awesome, road was really good in compare of whole Chardham Road. Again we were stuck in a gate in Hanumanchatti for around 30 minutes, after Hanumanchatti road was very danger; you can easily see other vehicle on you. Local people says “ 7 Manjila (7 floor)” snake road there roads in 7 row on one mountain, Hanumanchatti to Badrinath 15 Kilometers, you have to drive this 15 Kilometers in 1st gear because continues heavy hill, if you have normal fear, please leave the vehicle steering, THERE IS NO CHANCE FOR BEGINNER. Here I want to share some tips for drive in Chardham yatra:-

· Don't Worry this is drivable Road just Follow some rule:-

1. Do not drive over 20-25 kmph.

2. Never drive with Alcoholic drinks.

3. Driver keeps his eyes only on The Road.

4. Do not try to put you vehicle in neutral gear.

5. Do not turn off engine.

6. Every turn compulsory make Big & Long Horn.

7. Take care of Tires, Engine Temperature, and Fuel & Door Locks.

8. Keep your vehicle in middle, don't go on road side.

9. Do not halt on the Road. Run Continues but Slow.

10. Do not overtake on Traffic Jam Condition.

11. Do not drive after 07:00 pm in HIMALAYA

12. If any Confusion talk with me krushang.soni@gmail.com

We reached Badrinath at 02:00pm.GMVN was full so, stayed in another hotel, dropped our luggage, got fresh and went to the great Badrivishal Temple. Whether was very cold, everywhere snow filled mountain. There was long line for darshan, we had holy Darshan. Took some snap here, It was soul purifying darshan of the biggest DHAM of this life. We got what we wanted and for what we were travelling. I felt proud of myself. Had dinner, really Badrinath is a well developed Dham in Compare of all Dham, Came back to room. Go to bed at 11:30pm. Hooray CHARDHAM COMPLETED.

"Badrinath Road"

"Hanuman Ji" Hanumanchatti Badrinath Road

"Hanumanchatti Temple" Badrinath Road

My Sweetheart Esteem

"Badrinath Road"

"Temple Road" Badrinath

"Map" Badrinath

"Badrinath Temple"

"Badrinath Temple" night

Day -15, 11-06-2011 (Badrinath to Mana to Badrinath) 5 Kilometers. NH-58

About Mana:- Mana is a village in the district of Chamoli in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is located on the northern terminus of National Route 58; Mana is the last village before the Mana Pass and is 24 kilometers from the border of India and Tibet/China. It has about 180 households and a population of about 600.One can see vyas guha in mana village.

Got up at 07:00am, completed our breakfast and got fresh. Then we went to temple for Pooja after that we came to hotel, Near to temple, around 5 Kilometers, the last village of Indian Territory is present. It’s called as MANA. We stopped there. We Had Maggie as breakfast. Visited Ganesh gupha, Vyash Gupha (Where Vyash ji has written the Veda). The stones lying there are in shape of Papers and looks like those are the Vedas of Hindu Dharma. We went to the last Tea shop of the India and had Tulsi tea. Nice one. Took snaps and went to Saraswati River. From mountain, River Saraswati was coming out, with very high speed. “Kya tej thi nadi maine Unhe pranam kiya” and we started back to hotel. Whole day we stayed in Badrinath and evening, we went to Market for shopping. At 9 o’clock we took dinner (South Indian), food was good. When we came outside from the hotel, the weather was too cold. We came back to room. Go to bed at 11:30pm.
"Information Board" Mana

"Bhima Bridge History" Mana

"Last Indian Tea Shop" Mana

"Bhima Bridge" Mana

"Mana" Himalaya

"Vyas Cave" Mana

"Mana Road"

"Main Gate" Mana

Day -16, 12-06-2011 (Badrinath to Haridwar) 353 Kilometers. NH-58.

Got up at 6:00am and got ready up to 7:30am. We took the 08:00 am gate at Badrinath for the drive back to Joshimath. We reached Joshimath at around 11:30 am. At Joshimath Ropeway service available, which takes people to Auli thru Ropeway (Rs. 500 / Person). But we don’t go there, because we have to reach Haridwar same day. Before Shrinagar traffic was jammed due to land sliding, we seen 2nd time land sliding, after 1-2 hours road was cleaned then we started, reached shrinagar at 5:00pm. Had Hold for tea and snacks, reached Devprayag at 07:30pm. From Devprayag Haridwar was almost 120Kilometers was far, as per the rule after 7:00pm driving not allowed in Himalaya, but in Devprayag, I don’t find any good hotel so desired to reach Haridwar. I seen few cars and buses was going to Haridwar. So starts my car but after 4-5 Kilometers drove police was stopped me and asked about Driving License & car documents, it’s a rutting check up, 1 police man told me “ Night Driving is dangers in Himalaya but if you want to go we are not responsible for any type of problem” I BROKED THE RULES, clean up my car’s front glass, head lights and starts, 1 tempo traveler running ahead, I thought by any how don’t leave this vehicle, 1st time I was drove my car up to 60 Kilometers per hour in whole chardham yatra because Tempo Traveler’s driver was faster…. Finally we reached Rishikesh at 10:30pm. We all filled relax, (Today I proud on myself) took small hold here and got fresh purchased water and snacks packet. Finally we reached HARIDWAR at 11:30pm. Got hotel , go to bed at 00:30am.
"Land sliding" Badrinath to Haridwar Road

"Traffic Jam" Badrinath to Haridwar Road

"Traffic Jam " Badrinath to Haridwar Road

"Land sliding" Badrinath to Haridwar Road

Day -17, 13-06-2011 (Haridwar)

Today, we woke up at 9:00am, and took heavy breakfast, then we went out from the hotel and hired Pedal rickshaw (Rs. 20/Person) for “Har Ki Paudi” and finally we reached “Har Ki Paudi”. Tacked holy bath and some took snaps there. After that we took lunch in Chotiwala’s Restaurant located at “Har Ki Paudi”. The food was really good at reasonable rate. After completing all things, we came back to hotel, me and my brother went to Mansadevi Temple by trekking after completing Darshan we came back to hotel at 03:00pm, took short rest and went to Shantikunj (Gayatri Temple) 8 -9 Kilometers away from Haridwar. Spanned some time here and took snap. Shantikunj is situated on Rishikesh road, Shantikunj is preferable place. Came back to hotel at 07:45pm, packed luggage, took dinner in hotel (Nr. Gujarati Samaj) there was a lots of hotel available, go to bed at 11:00pm.

"Har Ki Paudi" Haridwar

"Bathing In Ganga" Har Ki Paudi Haridwar

"Har Ki Paudi" Haridwar

"Haridwar Main Market"

"View from Mansa Devi Temple" Haridwar

"Har Ki Paudi" Haridwar

Day -18, 14-06-2011 (Haridwar to Jaipur) 470 Kilometers, NH-58,8.

Today, we woke up at 7:00am, and took heavy breakfast and starts for Jaipur. In short the Chardham Yatra was fulfilled. Took lunch near to Modinagar, weather was extremely hot. Passed Delhi at 02:00pm, when we passed Gudgaun at that time weather was changed like storm and heavy rain started, I was faced problem in driving, and road visibility was low, I can’t see my car bonnet clearly. I reached Jaipur at 08:00pm, and got a room in same hotel (Hotel Ashish) unfortunately provided same room to us (Room No. 308), shifted our luggage, took dinner South Indian food, go to bed at 11:30pm.
"Hotel Aashish" Jaipur

"Delhi" Jaipur Road

"Delhi Metro" Jaipur Road

"Delhi" Jaipur Road

"Gurgaon Tall Plazza" Jaipur Road

" Delhi - Jaipur Road"

"Hotel Aashish Room" Jaipur

Day -19, 15-06-2011 (Jaipur to Ahmedabad) 655 Kilometers, NH-8.

Today, we woke up at 5:00am, and took heavy breakfast, took cash from ATM centre near from hotel, starts for our home (Ahmedabad), Took lunch near to Ajmer in small hotel but food was spicy. We Passed Ajmer at 11:00pm. After Beavar I seen one accident of Mahindra Xylo, people was safe but car was damaged. Took halt for tea and snacks at Nathdwar at 05:00pm. Passed Udaipur at 06:30pm, took dinner at Hotel Ashirwad nearby Himmatnagar. finally we reached home (Ahmedabad) at 11:00pm.
" JCB " on Jaipur - Ahmedabad Road