Char Dham Yatra

Located high in the snow covered Himalayas in the amazingly beautiful state of Uttranchal, are the four most sacred places of worship for the Hindus. Yamunotri, Gangotri, Sri Kedarnathji and Sri Badrinathji known as 'Char Dham' are the important centers of believe of Hindu devotees.

Since the ancient times saints, sages and pilgrims are coming on the Char Dham Yatra, to wash away all their sins and to attain the final enlightenment. One can also find the mention of these divine places in ancient scriptures and Vedas.

An overview of the char dhams:

Sri Badrinath Ji:

The most holiest of all the four destinations, Badrinath Ji is the heavenly abode of Lord Vishnu, located on the foothills of the Nar-Narayan Parvat with Neelkanth mountains at the back, on the left bank of Alaknanda river. Badrinath temple got its name from 'Badri Van' or the forest of wild berries. Around two centuries ago Garhwal Kings renovated the temple structure that was initially constructed by Adi Shankaracharaya, the philosopher-saint of the 8th century. This temple is also known as 'Vishal Badri' the most prominent among the 'Panch Badris'( whose temples are also located nearby).

Sri Kedarnath Ji:

Situated at a height of 3584 meters, Kedarnath Ji is one of the twelve holy 'Jyotirlingas' of Lord Shiva. Every year Hindu worshipers from all the world visit Kedarnath temple, that is built on the banks of Mandakini river. The history of this dham goes back to the time of the 'Pandavas' who came here in search of Shiva (who disguised as a bull), to wash away their sins after the battle of 'Mahabharata'. Today the pilgrims coming here worship the rare part of the bull.

Gangotri:

Gangotri is the origin place of Ganga ( the most sacred river for Hindus). According to legends King Bhagirath, after much tapsaya brought down the Ganga to earth from heaven. Since then people believe that taking a dip in this river will wash away all your pride and guilt.

Yamunotri:

The Yamunotri temple dedicated to Goddess Yamuna (sister of Yama) is situated on the beautiful location of 'Bandar Poonch Parvat'. This temple was constructed by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal on the left bank of the river. There is a hot water spring in the temple vicinity that is believed to have curing powers. Many kunds are also located near the temple where people offer puja.

So to feel a different spiritual world of India plan a religious Char Dham Yatra.