In late April, Hindu pilgrims start flocking to Uttarakhand to begin the legendary Char Dham Yatra. High up in the Garhwal area, these spots mark the divine cradle of Hindu religion, consisting of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. The journey by air and then via a trek is the best and quickest way to complete the Char Dham Yatra. The best location to begin your religious vacation is from the sacred town of Haridwar. Read on to find out more.

Dehradun’s Jolly Grant airport is the closest airport from all the Four Dhams, with abundant nationwide connectivity. Dehradun is situated about 109 km from Kedarnath, 146 km from Badrinath, 114 km from Gangotri and 210 km from Yamunotri. Of late, the trip has been additionally shortened with Char Dham helicopter facility, which organises tours opening from Dehradun. This is the fastest way to complete the Char Dham Yatra.

The bordering railway stations to Badrinath is at Ramnagar, approximately 154 km away, or Kotdwar, which is 146 km away. For improved connectivity and suitability, Haridwar or Rishikesh are more viable options. For Gangotri, the Dehradun Railway Station is the best option, 114 km away. For Yamunotri, similarly Dehradun Railway Station at 172 km and Rishikesh approximately 200 km away are the best options by rail.

Badrinath and Gangotri are easily connected by highways with the rest of the main towns of Uttarakhand. Gangotri is located at the termination of NH 108. For Kedarnath, the road ends at Gaurikund. From this spot, a hike of 14 km takes visitors to the temple. Likewise for Yamunotri, the road journey finishes at Hanuman Chatti and the walk begins. Taxis and busses also ply their way on these routes, from Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun. This is one the best ways to experience the Char Dham Yatra.