What is the history of Chardham? - Epic Yatra

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History of chardham

History of Chardham: A Journey of Deep Hermitage in Uttarakhand

India is a country of historical habit, sacred sites and pilgrimages. The Chardham Yatra is one of the most revered and celebrated pilgrimages that touches the soul. Nestled in the pious circuit of Uttarakhand Himalayas, Chardham not only bestows blessings and redemption but also revive your faith by sacred homage amidst ever stunning nature beauty that will truly indulge all your senses. Millions of devotees travel by road, pony or helicopter each year for this unforgettable trek to the mythical Dham. In this ultimate guide by Epic Yatra, learn about the interesting history of Chardham, its significance to Hinduism and how you can plan for your spiritual pilgrimage in the Himalayas.

What is Chardham Yatra?

Chardham, or “four holy abodes,” are the four main pilgrimage destinations for Hindus in northern India: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. All four are ensconced deep in the verdant, stunningly beautiful Himalayas. They are not just places for worship, but symbolic venues of the journey of a devotee to self-realization and salvation. Mythologically, it is said that the Chardham Yatra purifies the soul and helps in atoning for one’s sins, and therefore a spiritual journey of life.

    1. Chardham is in Uttarakhand.
    2. Comprises Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath.
    3. Located in the beautiful Himalayas.
    4. When to go: May-October.
    5. Travel modes: By road, by pony, by helicopter.
    6. Epic Yatra Ensures Safe and Unforgettable Voyage for You.

Chardham Yatra Package from Haridwar – Ideal for pilgrims starting their journey from Haridwar, covering Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath by road.

Importance and the Spiritual History of Chardham

Venerated for centuries, saints, scholar-kings and faithful have trekked these rugged mountains on Pilgrimage to these four Holy places. The Chardham yatra is so important that it even holds the moniker of “journey of a lifetime.” They each contain varying legends, deity and spiritual promise, but together they represent the path toward ultimate liberation or “moksha.”

Chardham is referred to the holy four pilgrimages in Hindu religion also came out from different scriptural epics describe Char Dham.

These shrines are dedicated to the elements of nature – water (Yamunotri and Gangotri), earth (Kedarnath), air (Badrinath).

Devotees are of the view that bathing on Chardham Yatra absolve them of their sins and take to the path to salvation.

1. Yamunotri – Origin of the Sacred Yamuna

Yamunotri, source of River Yamuna is the first place to visit in Chardham circuit. The pristine waters around them—ski-sloped peaks and green valleys of course—bring peace, a real sense of rebirth. Tourist Pilgrims at Yamunotri Temple The source of the Yamuna lies in this mark of glacier The temple was built by Maharani Gularia of Jaipur in the late 19th century.

Significance: Pouring the holy river waters off their fellow devotees, cleansing them of all hindrance in life.

Attractions: The hot water springs (kund) named Surya Kund are used for cooking special prasad.

Mythology: Legends have it that the Yamuna is Yama, the God of Death’s sister and offering prayers here means a long and healthy life.

Chardham Yatra Package from Delhi – A complete package starting from the capital, with transport, meals, and accommodation included.

2. Gangotri – The Source of Holy Ganga

Following in the Chardham Route is Gangotri – the supreme prolific and loved river of India Ganga takes its source. Goddess Ganga’s white temple, near the bank of the river, is a venerable spot laden with wisdom and sanctity. Below the glacier at a distance of approximately 19 km from Gangotri, the stream is icy and cold.

Significance: A dip in the river here is believed to have cleaned all previous sins and is a passage leading to heaven.

Highlights: Praying at the temple with Aarti ceremonies, treks to Ganga’s source and serenity.

Story: Gorgeous story, the legend of King Bhagirath’s penance and how Ganga came down from heaven to earth.

3. Kedarnath – The Grand Jyotirlinga of Shiva

Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is located in a stunning mountainous landscape with snowy ranges and the river Mandakini flowing alongside. The two story Hindu temple is more than 1000 years old, although it is believed that the Pandavas were the builders of the original temple, and later redone by Adi Shankaracharya on top of the previous site in around 8th century AD. Its vast stonewalls cut through glaciers, resound with millennia-old legends.

Significance: It is believed that a visit to Kedarnath not only makes one fearless, but instils confidence in one’s abilities as Lord Shiva Himself blesses the devotees.

Attractions: Magnificent temple, treks in gorgeous valleys Motif: Helicopter rides for a view from the top of Himalayas.

Story: Pandavas asked for apology from Lord Shiva after the Mahabharata War. Shiv had been alluding them and finally presented himself at Kedarnath, as a bull.

Chardham Yatra Family Package – Specially designed for families with children and elders, offering comfort, safe travel, and relaxed itineraries.

4. Badrinath – The Holy Abode Of Lord Vishnu

The Chardham Yatra ends at Badrinath, which is also known as Badri Vishal. The temple, with its gleaming façade and intricate architecture, overlooks the serene Alakananda River. According to legend, Lord Vishnu once meditated in this place and his consort Goddess Lakshmi gave cover to him as a badri or berry tree.

Importance: Worship here reveals the gates of joy, health and spiritual growth.

Attractions: The multicolored Badrinath Temple, thermal hot springs (Tapt Kund), and natural beauty.

Story: The temple was built as a pilgrimage spot by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century and sees millions visiting it every year.

The Development History of Chardham Yatra

Ancient References

Hindu scriptures refer to the Chardham tradition as “Teerth Yatra” or “pilgrimage to a sacred source.” The venerated saint-political philosopher Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century contributed to the yatra Modern circuit and it is he who resurrected Bharath’s ancient spiritual expedition. He stressed the cyclic movement through the four dhams, and wove them into the pan-Indian dharma model. As leaders and devotees over the centuries constructed and maintained temples, they created safe routes for pilgrims.

Modern Era

The Chardham Yatra is now one of India’s most seamlessly managed pilgrimage circuits. However, with roads and ponies and helicopters available for easy travel ranging from 5 to 80 year old, the government and private players (like Epic Yatra) have released best ways to make the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra convenient and hazard-free. With access made easier than ever in recent years with digital registration, online permits and real-time weather reports.

Best Time to Visit Chardham

The portals of the Chardham shrines are opened during April/May to November/December based on weather condition. The hosts have good weather with blooming flowers and clear sky with panoramic views of mountains.

The best time to go is from May until October, as the heavy snow closes the shrines beyond this time.

During the monsoon, (July–August) landslides and road blocks are possible. Post-monsoons are a good time plan.

How to Travel to Chardham

Fewer troubles to reach Chardham:

  • Via Road: Good connected roads from Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun.
  • By Pony: Riders on ponies cope on rough and hilly rides.
  • By Helicopter: Trekkers can either follow the standard route or use a shortcut by helicopter – if you’re in a hurry or simply unable to trek.

Epic Yatra provides a customized solution for every traveler ensuring safety and convenience.

Epic Yatra – We are one of the best Chardham Yatra organizer

We offers luxurious and comfortable Chardham yatra. Their trips are including transportation, accommodations, permits (if needed), meals and sightseeing traveled by singles and families or groups. With Epic Yatra, pilgrims now have access to the expertise and insights, along with all the required travel safety on their Chardham visit.

1. Personalized sets to fit any taste and budget.

2. Medical assistance and emergency medical care are available at all times of day on the trip.

3. Discounts for groups of pilgrims from groups.

Why is Chardham Yatra opted by millions?

The Chardham Yatra is more of a journey than just being a travel experience in the lap of divinity. Here’s what makes Chardham unique:

Spiritual cleaning: The trek is considered to cleanse pilgrims of the sins they have incurred in past lives and work towards moksha (salvation).

Natural beauty: The beautiful Himalayan scenery fills one with awe and humility.

Culture: An opportunity to participate in time-honored rituals and festivals hundreds of years old.

Fellowship: Metting like minded devotees and enjoying the darshan of the Dham.

Chardham Package by Helicopter – A luxury option for those who want to complete the Yatra quickly and conveniently, with VIP darshan and premium stays.

FAQs About Chardham

Q1: What is Chardham?

Chardham is a trip to the four holy shrines in Uttarakhand – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.

Q2: What are the places in Chardham?

Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

Q3: Where is Chardham located?

In the Himalayas, Uttarakhand, India.

Q4: When is the perfect season to visit?

May to October would be the best time to visit Chardham and one must avoid monsoon.

Q5: How to reach Chardham?

Everything from by road, to on a pony or chopper, when so hired.

Q6: Why do people visit Chardham?

To pray, to seek blessings, to find peace and experience the richest spiritual traditions of India.

Q7: Which is the river that gets sourced from Yamunotri?

River Yamuna.

Q8: What is the name of river start at Gangotri?

River Ganga.

Q9: At Kedarnath which deity is revered?

Lord Shiva.

Q10: At Badrinath, the god worshipped is?

Lord Vishnu.

Conclusion: History of Chardham

Chardham Yatra is not merely a pilgrimage trip; it is an experiential spiritual heritage. Every Dham has its own history, saga and divine benediction on Chardham. With Epic Yatra on your side, your journey is not only secure and worry-free, but also meaningful. Take in the splendor of the Himalayas, soak up the serenity of the Dhams and feel a pilgrimage that lifts your soul. Irrespective of whether you are a first-time pilgrim or an ardent spiritual seeker, it calls out to everyone’s hearts offering peace, discovery of self and the divine touch.

Be in the company of Epic Yatra as you go on this cherished and unforgettable spiritual journey to Uttarakhand’s four sacred shrines—History of Chardham!

Whether you choose the Chardham Yatra Package from Haridwar, the Chardham Yatra Package from Delhi, a peaceful Chardham Yatra Family Package, or an exclusive Chardham Package by Helicopter, Epic Yatra ensures your spiritual journey is comfortable, safe, and deeply fulfilling.