The Spiritual Charm of the Winter Char Dham
The Char Dham Yatra — one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Hinduism — traditionally runs from April to October each year, when the Himalayan temples of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath are open to devotees.
However, in recent years, the Winter Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand has gained immense popularity among travelers and devotees who wish to experience the same divine journey during the snowy months. This unique spiritual circuit allows pilgrims to visit the winter abodes (Kapat temples) of the four Dhams — where the deities are worshipped after the main temples close for the season.
🕉️ What Is the Winter Char Dham Yatra?
During the winter, heavy snowfall blocks access to the high-altitude shrines. The presiding deities are ceremoniously moved to their winter seats located in lower altitudes across Uttarakhand.
Here’s where you can visit them during the Winter Char Dham Yatra:
| Summer Shrine | Winter Shrine | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Yamunotri | Kharsali | Near Janki Chatti, Uttarkashi |
| Gangotri | Mukhba | Near Harsil, Uttarkashi |
| Kedarnath | Ukhimath (Omkareshwar Temple) | Rudraprayag district |
| Badrinath | Joshimath (Narsingh Temple) | Chamoli district |
Thus, even when the upper Himalayan temples close in October–November, the divine journey continues in their winter abodes, keeping the spiritual essence alive.
🧭 Suggested Itinerary for Winter Char Dham Yatra
Duration: 7 Nights / 8 Days
Starting Point: Haridwar or Rishikesh
Day 1: Arrival at Haridwar – Evening Ganga Aarti
Day 2: Haridwar to Barkot – Visit Kharsali (Winter Seat of Yamunotri)
Day 3: Barkot to Harsil – Visit Mukhba (Winter Seat of Gangotri)
Day 4: Harsil to Ukhimath – Visit Omkareshwar Temple (Winter Seat of Kedarnath)
Day 5: Ukhimath to Joshimath – Visit Narsingh Temple (Winter Seat of Badrinath)
Day 6: Local sightseeing in Auli or Joshimath (optional snow activities)
Day 7: Drive back to Rishikesh / Haridwar
Day 8: Departure
🚗 How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), well connected to Delhi and major Indian cities.
By Train: Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun are the main railway stations serving the Char Dham route.
By Road: Excellent road connectivity from Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun via NH-58 and NH-94.
🏔️ Best Time for Winter Char Dham Yatra
The Winter Yatra usually begins in November, immediately after the closing of the main temples, and continues until March.
The ideal time to visit is November to February, when the region experiences light to moderate snowfall and the temples are accessible by road.
🏨 Accommodation and Food
Most winter shrines are located near well-developed towns like Ukhimath, Joshimath, Harsil, and Kharsali, where comfortable hotels, guesthouses, and homestays are available.
Discover Uttarakhand, a trusted pilgrimage operator since 1997, offers complete winter Char Dham packages that include transportation, accommodation, and vegetarian meals.
✨ Highlights of the Winter Char Dham Yatra
✅ Experience the serenity of the Himalayas under a blanket of snow
✅ Visit the sacred winter abodes of Char Dham deities
✅ Fewer crowds, peaceful darshan, and quiet meditation spots
✅ Opportunity to explore Auli, Chopta, and Harsil Valley
✅ Perfect blend of spiritual devotion and winter adventure
🙏 Why Choose Discover Uttarakhand
With over two decades of experience, Discover Uttarakhand specialises in organising both traditional and winter Char Dham Yatras. Their local expertise, professional drivers, and trained tour escorts ensure safety, comfort, and divine satisfaction.
Package Highlights:
- Fixed Departure Tours from Haridwar and Rishikesh
- Comfortable Transport (Tempo Traveller / Deluxe Coach)
- All Meals Included (Pure Vegetarian)
- Guided Temple Visits
- 24×7 Assistance
💰 Winter Char Dham Yatra Package 2025–26 (Per Person)
| Package Type | Cost (INR) | Duration | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | ₹16,500 | 8 Days | Hotels, Transport, Meals |
| Deluxe | ₹19,500 | 8 Days | Deluxe Hotels, AC Vehicle, Meals |
| Premium | ₹23,000 | 8 Days | 3-Star Hotels, Guide, Meals |
📞 Contact: +91-9997187178
📧 Email: discoveruttarakhand.mail@gmail.com
📲 Instagram: @discoveruttarakhand
🌐 Website: www.discover-uttarakhand.com
🌺 Final Thoughts
The Winter Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is more than a journey — it’s a serene and soulful experience where faith meets nature’s tranquility. As snow falls over the Himalayan temples, the air fills with chants and the divine glow of the winter deities.
If you’re looking for peace, spirituality, and breathtaking Himalayan beauty, this winter pilgrimage is your path to the divine.
