Your First Chardham Yatra Made Simple
If you’re dreaming of the Chardham Yatra Itinerary in 2025 but feel overwhelmed as a beginner, you’re not alone! This sacred pilgrimage to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath in Uttarakhand is a spiritual journey of a lifetime. But with high altitudes, unpredictable weather, and long travel days, it can seem daunting if you’ve never done it before. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with a simple, beginner-friendly 10-day itinerary for 2025 that balances travel, rest, and devotion. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or on a budget, this guide will help you plan every step. Let’s dive in!
Why Chardham Yatra in 2025?
The Chardham Yatra usually runs from April/May to October/November, depending on weather and temple opening dates (announced annually). For 2025, expect the season to kick off around late April or early May—perfect timing for pleasant weather and manageable crowds if you plan early. As a beginner, starting your journey from Haridwar or Rishikesh (key base points) makes logistics easier. Ready? Here’s your day-by-day plan! We also provide the best Chardham Yatra package at low cost.
10-Day Chardham Yatra Itinerary for Beginners in 2025
Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar – The Gateway to Divinity
- What to Do: Land in Haridwar (by train, bus, or flight via Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, 40 km away). Check into a budget guesthouse or hotel near the Ganges.
- Key Activity: Attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri in the evening—it’s a soul-stirring experience to kick off your yatra.
- Beginner Tip: Rest well and hydrate. Stock up on essentials like warm clothes, a raincoat, and snacks for the road ahead.
- Distance: None yet—just settling in!
Day 2: Haridwar to Barkot (via Yamunotri Base)
- Travel: Drive 210 km (7-8 hours) to Barkot, a small town en route to Yamunotri.
- What to Expect: Winding hill roads and stunning views of the Garhwal Himalayas. You’ll pass Mussoorie, so keep your camera ready!
- Stay: Overnight in Barkot at a guesthouse (basic but cozy options available).
- Beginner Tip: Start early (6 AM) to avoid traffic. Pack light motion sickness meds if you’re new to hill drives.
Day 3: Barkot to Yamunotri and Back
- Travel: Drive 36 km to Jankichatti (1.5 hours), then trek or hire a pony/palki for the 6 km to Yamunotri Temple (3-4 hours one way).
- What to Do: Visit the temple, take a dip in the Surya Kund hot springs (optional), and offer prayers to Goddess Yamuna.
- Beginner Tip: The trek is moderate—go slow, wear comfy shoes, and carry water. Return to Barkot by evening for rest.
- Distance Covered: 84 km (driving) + 12 km (trekking).
Day 4: Barkot to Uttarkashi (Gangotri Base)
- Travel: Drive 100 km (4-5 hours) to Uttarkashi, the staging point for Gangotri.
- What to Do: Relax or explore local sights like Vishwanath Temple if time permits.
- Stay: Overnight in Uttarkashi.
- Beginner Tip: Acclimatize here—the altitude starts creeping up (1,150 m).
Day 5: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and Back
- Travel: Drive 100 km to Gangotri (3-4 hours), visit the temple, and return to Uttarkashi.
- What to Do: Pray at the Gangotri Temple, marvel at the Bhagirathi River’s origin, and soak in the serene vibes.
- Beginner Tip: Roads can be bumpy—brace for a long day. Wear layers as it gets chilly (3,100 m altitude).
- Distance Covered: 200 km round trip.
Day 6: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi (Kedarnath Base)
- Travel: Drive 210 km (8-9 hours) to Guptkashi, a peaceful stop before Kedarnath.
- What to Expect: Long but scenic drive through pine forests and mountain villages.
- Stay: Overnight in Guptkashi.
- Beginner Tip: Rest up—this is your prep day for the big Kedarnath trek!
Day 7: Guptkashi to Kedarnath
- Travel: Drive 30 km to Sonprayag, then trek 16 km (6-8 hours) or take a helicopter (10-15 mins) to Kedarnath.
- What to Do: Visit the Kedarnath Temple, one of Lord Shiva’s 12 Jyotirlingas, at 3,583 m.
- Stay: Basic guesthouses or tents near the temple.
- Beginner Tip: Book helicopter tickets early if trekking feels tough. Carry a stick and warm clothes—nights are cold!
Day 8: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
- Travel: Trek or fly back to Sonprayag, then drive to Guptkashi (5-6 hours total).
- What to Do: Rest and reflect on the spiritual high of Kedarnath.
- Beginner Tip: Start descent early to avoid fatigue.
Day 9: Guptkashi to Badrinath
- Travel: Drive 190 km (7-8 hours) to Badrinath.
- What to Do: Visit the Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and relax in the Tapt Kund hot springs.
- Stay: Overnight in Badrinath.
- Beginner Tip: Altitude here is 3,300 m—move slowly to avoid breathlessness.
Day 10: Badrinath to Haridwar
- Travel: Drive 320 km (10-12 hours) back to Haridwar.
- What to Expect: Long day, but you’ll feel accomplished completing all four dhams!
- Beginner Tip: Break the journey with a stop in Rudraprayag if needed.
Essential Tips for Chardham Yatra Beginners in 2025
- Physical Prep: Start light walking 2-3 months before—those treks aren’t a joke!
- Packing List: Warm jacket, rain gear, sturdy shoes, first-aid kit, and dry fruits for energy.
- Permits: Register online for the yatra (check Uttarakhand tourism site closer to 2025 for updates).
- Budget: Expect ₹15,000-25,000 per person (excluding helicopter costs) for a basic trip.
- Best Time: May-June or September-October for milder weather and fewer crowds.
Conclusion: Ready for Your Spiritual Adventure?
At Epic Yatra, The Chardham Yatra Itinerary in 2025 is more than a trip—it’s a journey to cleanse your soul and connect with the divine. As a beginner, this 10-day itinerary keeps things manageable, with enough rest and flexibility. Start planning now, book your stays early, and get ready for an unforgettable pilgrimage. Have questions or need more tips? Drop a comment below—I’d love to help! Book our Chardham yatra package