As the Name itself suggests… “Char Dham” means four sacred abodes – is a set of four pilgrimage sites in India according to Hindu Mythology. They include Yamunotri Temple, Gangotri Temple, Shri Kedarnathji Temple, Shri Badrinathji Temple – all of them are located in the beautiful state of Uttarakhand in India.
Hindus believe that visiting these sites is of divine importance for them and therefore want to visit the sacred shrines at least once in a lifetime.

When Should you go for a Char Dham Yatra ?

The Char Dham pilgrimage destinations are accessible only for six months during the year i.e from May to October or the beginning of November. These pilgrimage destinations are inaccessible during other parts of the year due to snowfall. It is advisable to avoid Monsoon months due to unpredictable probability of landslides. So it is advisable to make your travel plans in May – June or post-monsoon months i.e September to October or November beginning. In fact, you can always check the opening and closing dates of Char Dham temples.

Do I need a Medical Fitness Certificate on my Char Dham Yatra ?

There have been too many casualties and pilgrims suffering from chronic ailments have passed away during the yatra – mainly due to higher altitudes of Badrinath and Kedarnath. In order to lower the number of casualties and make the trip safer for many, these restrictions have been put into place when asked.

These checks are mainly for every pilgrim above 50 years of age who will have to undergo a medical test and present the medical certificate to the authorities when asked. Medical Certificates can be obtained from Sonprayag or Guptakashi.

There are medical camps available at regular intervals with well-trained doctors to take care of the medical needs of pilgrims by the Health Department of Uttarakhand government.

Health Care prior to Char Dham Yatra Visit for Physical fitness.

To ensure Physical fitness prior to Char Dham Yatra, one should get engaged in various cardio activities like brisk walking, climbing stairs etc to train the body to be fit for the various hilly treks there.

For pilgrims who who want to do char dham yatra by helicopter – medical certificates will not be required. But you would need to follow Biometric registration procedure.

What is Biometric Registration procedure ?

One needs to get Yatra Permit before a CharDham Yatra – compulsary for all pilgrims. Details of documents needed for registration include – Document of Phone Number (proof) and ID card like Aadhar Card, Voter ID Card, PAN Card Number, Driving Licence or passport. There are 2 options for Biometric Registration.

• Online Mode
• Offline Mode

For Offline Mode you can get your biometric registration done at the available registration centers along the route for Char Dham Yatra. Toll free number for registration inquiry : 18001804145

For Online Mode you need to follow following steps :

• Visit http://onlinechardhamyatra.in – This is the official website for Char Dham Biometric registration.
• Select Register Option
• Fill in the correct details as given below in the registration page and click on Register

Checklist of things to carry along/ take care on Char Dham Yatra

• Drink natural water from some clean natural source or packed mineral water.
• Carry your own Medical kit and first aid box although medical facilities are available throught out.
• Carry dryfruits , energy drinks and packed food items in case of emergency.
• Carry Woollens – thermals, pull overs, wind cheaters, raincoats, blankets, warm gloves etc.
• Carry good quality Walking Shoes.
• Carry Candles and Torch with good number of batteries .
• Always carry a note with your personal details like name, address, name of people accompanying you with their phone numbers etc
  in your pocket / carry bag.
• Carry Mosquito Repellent, Odomos along.
• Carry Sunscreen , sunglasses , hat etc
• Carry a BSNL Number if possible – it works in the entire trip.
• Walking stick is also recommended.
• Naptheline or Kapoor balls can be kept in handkerchief during lack of oxygen – it helps.
• Avoid eating anywhere stop at neat and hygienic restaurant or place for lunch.
• Always be in group or with your fellow travelers during the entire Yatra.
• During the Yatra keep required cash with you as have limited ATM’s and are on main points.
• Dont carry expensive jewellery along with you.
• Regularly keep in touch with your travel agent or with your family – keep them updated about your journey proceedings.