What is Do Dham Yatra? A Complete Guide

Do Dham Yatra Introduction

The Do Dham Yatra is one of the most popular pilgrimages in India, where thousands of people visit every year. This sacred journey involves visiting two of the four Char Dham sites, usually Kedarnath and Badrinath, in the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand. People undertake this pilgrimage for divine blessings and inner peace.

In Hinduism the Char Dham sites are very sacred and Do Dham Yatra is a good option for those who cannot do the entire Char Dham circuit. The Yatra not only nourishes your spiritual self but also lets you see breathtaking landscapes, ancient temples and serene rivers.

Do Dham Yatra Significance

Kedarnath - The Sacred Abode of Lord Shiva

Kedarnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the holiest temples in India. Located at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level, the temple is surrounded by the snow capped peaks of Garhwal Himalayas. According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas from Mahabharata sought the blessings of Lord Shiva here to absolve themselves of their sins after the Kurukshetra war.

Key Points:

• Trekking Route: 16 km from Gaurikund

• Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October

• Main Attractions: Bhairavnath Temple, Vasuki Tal, Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar)

Badrinath - The Sacred Vishnu Temple

Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is another important pilgrimage site. Located at an elevation of 3,133 meters, it is one of the 108 Divya Desams revered by Vaishnavites. According to legends, Lord Vishnu meditated here for thousands of years and Goddess Lakshmi provided him shade in the form of a Badri tree, hence the name.Bhairavnath Temple, Vasuki Tal, Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar)

Best Time to Go to Do Dham Yatra

The best time to visit Do Dham Yatra is between May to October, as the temples are closed during winters due to heavy snowfall. May-June and September-October are the best months to visit, before and after monsoons respectively.

Avoid visiting during peak monsoon (July-August) as landslides and roadblocks are common in Himalayas.

How to Reach Do Dham Yatra Places

By Air

• Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun).

• Helicopter services are available from Dehradun to Kedarnath and Badrinath.

By Train

• Nearest railway station is Haridwar (for Badrinath) and Rishikesh (for Kedarnath).

• From here buses and taxis are available to base points.

By Road

• Well connected roads to Gaurikund (Kedarnath base) and Joshimath (Badrinath base).

• Bus and taxi services from Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun.

Do Dham Yatra Route Map

A typical Do Dham Yatra itinerary will be like this:

1. Haridwar/Rishikesh to Guptkashi (220 km)

2. Guptkashi to Gaurikund (Drive - 30 km) & Trek to Kedarnath (16 km)

3. Kedarnath to Guptkashi (Return via trek and drive)

4. Guptkashi to Badrinath (200 km)

5. Badrinath to Haridwar/Rishikesh (320 km)

Many devotees opt for helicopter services for hassle free experience and to avoid long treks and road journeys.

Accommodation Options During Do Dham Yatra

You can find various accommodation options from budget lodges to luxury hotels near both temples. GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) offers good guesthouses and dormitories for pilgrims.* Kedarnath Stay: Lodges, GMVN camps, Dharamshalas

• Badrinath Stay: Hotels, guesthouses and ashrams

Book your accommodations in advance during peak season to avoid last minute hassles.

Other Essentials for Do Dham Yatra

• Physical Fitness: You should be physically fit as the Yatra involves trekking in high altitude areas.

• Clothing: Carry warm clothes, waterproof jackets, gloves and trekking shoes.

• Travel Permits: Get necessary permits and check official Uttarakhand Tourism website for updates.

• Medicines: Carry essential medicines, altitude sickness tablets, pain relievers and personal medicines.

• Weather Check: Always check the weather before you travel.

Final Words

Do Dham Yatra is not just a pilgrimage but an experience that gives you spiritual happiness and adventure. Whether you want divine blessings or a journey through beautiful landscapes, this Yatra is a must for every devotee. Plan well, be physically prepared and have faith and this journey will be wonderful for you