In the basic sense, Char Dham expresses the presence of four holy destinations. It is one of the most religiously significant pilgrimages for Hindus, starting from Uttarakhand. The journey is aided by stunning temples and religious points, all in the background of the Garhwal Himalayas, forests, and sacred rivers. With an abundance of nature present in every part of Uttarakhand, a journey through this area tends to become more uplifting and memorable. Here's our list of how to make the most of your visit, with the top things to do on your Char Dham Yatra.

Arguably the main thing to do on the Char Dham Yatra is to visit respectively, the Yamunotri, Badrinath, Gangotri and Kedarnath temples. Lakhs of local and international visitors travel far and wide each year to complete this holy pilgrimage, offering their prayers and respect as they move from one holy location to another. Apart from the Char Dhams, there are a host of other smaller, yet equally charming temples along the way. This includes the Mansa and Chandi Devi temples (Haridwar), Shakti and Vishwanath temples (Uttarkashi) and Omkareshwar Temple (Ukhimath).

The ancient hot water springs that visitors will encounter on their Charm Dham Yatra are thoroughly enjoyable and must be experienced at least once. Surya Kund is one of the most famous hot water springs, located at the Yamunotri Temple. It is named after Surya (Sun God), father of Goddess Yamuna. Badrinath is home to both the Tapt and Narad Kund. They are ancient, natural hot water springs said to contain medicinal properties, frequented by most visitors before entering the main shrines.

With their faith strong, lakhs of tourists trek far and wide to the Char Dhams. The routes taken are physically demanding and startlingly beautiful, and all to offer a small prayer of gratitude. Other than Badrinath and Gangotri, Yamunotri and Kedarnath can only be reached on foot, making a life-changing experience and one that is strongly recommended if visitors have the mettle.

The Char Dham Yatra is a delight for trekkers and nature lovers. The journey will involve visitors getting the opportunity to visit some of the most gorgeous and awe-inspiring waterfalls across the Char Dhams. Vasundhara Falls is located on the banks of the Alkananda River, close to Badrinath, falling from a height of 122 metres. Kempty Falls comes on the way to Yamunotri, creating a magical backdrop. It is popularly known to be the best picnic spot in Mussoorie. Suryakund Falls are located approximately half a km ahead of the famouse Gangotri temple, making for a truly picturesque setup.

The holy ‘Ganga Aarti’ ceremony is done on the banks of ‘Har ki Pauri’ in Haridwar post sunset. Vedic songs and prayers create for a magical and peaceful experience. The Ganga River is then filled with tens of thousands of lighted Diyas, creating a truly unique visual and spiritual moment, which is a must-do activity. 

The glacier acts as the birthplace of the River Ganges, resembling the face of a cow, it is therefore known as Gomukh. It is thought that the hike to Gangotri is unfinished without bathing at this glacier. The views of this glacier are breath taking and hordes of curious visitors tend to return to this spot on the Char Dham Yatra.

It is famously known as the miniature Switzerland of Garhwal, doubling up as the start of the trek to Tungnath. Visiting Chopta includes stunning views of the impressive Himalayan range encompassing Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi and Trishul.

The unspoiled jewel of Uttarakhand, Harsil offers multiple spots for sightseeing, from the Gushing River Bhagirathi to the healthy and quiet atmosphere and chirping of birds being the major draw. The route continues towards the Gangotri Shrine, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Submerged Shivling, Gomukh Glacier and Bhagirath Shila.