Chardham Yatra is one of the most popular pilgrimage tours in India and for good reason. The tour takes you on a journey to four holy shrines nestled in the Himalayan range of Uttarakhand, which are collectively known as the Chardham. These shrines are Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, and are considered to be the holiest places in India. In this blog post, we will be exploring the wonders of the Chardham Yatra Tour, particularly Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
Gangotri: The Origin of River Ganga
Gangotri, the first stop of the Chardham Yatra, is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It is the origin of the holy River Ganga, which is not just a river but a symbol of purity and divinity in Hinduism. The shrine of Gangotri is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and is situated at an elevation of 3,042 meters above sea level.
To reach Gangotri, one has to trek for around 18 kilometers from the town of Gangotri. The trek itself is a surreal experience, as snow-capped peaks, lush green forests, and glistening streams will surround you. As you reach the shrine, you will be greeted by the serene sound of the Bhagirathi River, which is a tributary of the River Ganga.
Yamunotri: The Source of the River Yamuna
The next stop on the Chardham Yatra Tour is Yamunotri, which is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It is the source of the River Yamuna, which is also considered to be a holy river in Hinduism. The shrine of Yamunotri is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna and is situated at an elevation of 3,293 meters above sea level.
To reach Yamunotri, one has to trek for around 6 kilometers from the town of Janki Chatti. The trek is a bit challenging, as it involves steep climbs and rocky terrain. However, the view from the top is breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks, lush green forests, and the sound of the Yamuna River in the background.
Apart from the shrines, both Gangotri and Yamunotri have several other attractions that are worth exploring. Gangotri has a beautiful temple complex, with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various mythological stories. There are also several hot water springs in Gangotri, which are believed to have medicinal properties.
Similarly, Yamunotri has several natural hot water springs, which are a popular attraction among tourists. The trek from Janki Chatti to Yamunotri passes through several picturesque villages, where you can experience the local culture and lifestyle of the people.
In conclusion, the Chardham Yatra Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that everyone should undertake. The journey takes you on a spiritual and cultural exploration of the Himalayan range, where you can witness the beauty and divinity of nature. Gangotri and Yamunotri are just two of the several wonders that this tour has to offer, and each stop is a unique experience in itself. So pack your bags, put on your trekking shoes, and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime.
