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Top Places to Visit During Char Dham Yatra When Starting From Rishikesh

Char Dham Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India, and Rishikesh is considered the ideal starting point for this divine journey. Surrounded by mountains, blessed by the Ganga, and enriched with spiritual energy, Rishikesh offers a perfect beginning to a journey that covers Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. When you plan your pilgrimage with Anmol Yatra Uttarakhand, you not only explore the Char Dham temples but also witness several beautiful, culturally rich and spiritually uplifting destinations along the way.

This guide highlights the top places you must visit during your Char Dham Yatra when starting from Rishikesh. Each destination adds depth, peace and meaning to your sacred journey.

Rishikesh – The Spiritual Gateway to the Char Dham

Rishikesh is not just the starting point of Char Dham Yatra; it is a spiritual landmark that prepares pilgrims for a peaceful and divine experience ahead. The city is famous for its ancient temples, iconic bridges, ashrams and mesmerizing Ganga Aarti.

Popular places to visit in Rishikesh before starting the yatra include:

• Triveni Ghat

• Ram Jhula

• Lakshman Jhula

• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

• Parmarth Niketan Ashram

• Bharat Mandir

Pilgrims often spend a few hours or even a full day here before beginning their journey with Anmol Yatra Uttarakhand.

Barkot – Scenic Himalayan Gateway to Yamunotri

As you leave Rishikesh and proceed toward Yamunotri, Barkot becomes the first major stop. Surrounded by dense forests and snow-covered peaks, this quiet hill town offers a calm environment for pilgrims.

Key attractions in Barkot include:

• Beautiful mountain views of Bandarpoonch Range

• Picturesque apple orchards

• Yamuna River viewpoints

• Adventure activity zones for river rafting (optional before Yatra starts)

Barkot is known for offering the perfect combination of relaxation and natural beauty before the trek to Yamunotri begins.

Janki Chatti – Start Point of the Yamunotri Trek

Janki Chatti is where most pilgrims begin their trek to Yamunotri Temple. Located around 6 km from the main shrine, the village is surrounded by hot springs, serene landscapes and small market areas that serve pilgrims.

Places to explore in Janki Chatti:

• Natural hot water springs

• Trek routes with scenic waterfalls

• Traditional Garhwali food stalls

This region gives pilgrims a refreshing experience before reaching the sacred Yamunotri Temple.

Yamunotri Temple – The Source of Goddess Yamuna

The very first Dham of the pilgrimage, Yamunotri Temple, sits amidst majestic mountains and glaciers. The journey to this shrine is as divine as the destination itself.

Important spots to visit near Yamunotri:

• Surya Kund (natural hot water spring)

• Divya Shila (a sacred stone near the temple entrance)

• Yamunotri Glacier viewpoints

Pilgrims often take a dip in the thermal springs before offering prayers at the temple. Anmol Yatra Uttarakhand ensures smooth arrangements for the entire Yamunotri experience.

Uttarkashi – Land of Shiva and Gateway to Gangotri

On the way to Gangotri, Uttarkashi is a major spiritual town filled with ancient temples and breathtaking Himalayan views. It is also known for being a center for yoga, meditation and mountaineering expeditions.

Top places to visit in Uttarkashi:

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple

• Shakti Temple

• Nehru Institute of Mountaineering

• Maneri Dam

• Kuteti Devi Temple

The town holds historical and religious significance, making it a valuable stop during the Char Dham Yatra.

Harsil – The Mini Switzerland of India

Harsil is one of the most beautiful valleys in Uttarakhand, known for its lush greenery, apple orchards, crystal-clear rivers and peaceful environment. Pilgrims traveling with Anmol Yatra Uttarakhand enjoy a refreshing stay here during the Gangotri route.

Major attractions in Harsil include:

• Bhagirathi River viewpoint

• Dharali village

• Mukhba Village (winter home of Goddess Ganga)

• Beautiful scenic trails

The natural charm of Harsil makes it a memorable stop in the entire Char Dham circuit.

Gangotri Temple – The Origin of River Ganga

Gangotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and is located at an altitude of 3,100 meters. The pristine surroundings and divine atmosphere make it one of the most cherished destinations of the pilgrimage.

Important places near Gangotri:

• Gauri Kund

• Pandav Gufa

• Surya Kund waterfall

• Bhagirath Shila

Pilgrims believe that visiting Gangotri cleanses the soul and purifies the mind, preparing them for the journey ahead.

Guptkashi – Land of Spiritual Mystery

Before heading toward Kedarnath, Guptkashi serves as a significant stop due to its mythological importance. The town is known for its ancient temples and mesmerizing landscapes.

Popular places in Guptkashi:

• Vishwanath Temple

• Ardhanarishwar Temple

• Manikarnika Kund

• Panoramic views of Chaukhamba peaks

The town has deep connections to the stories of Lord Shiva and the Pandavas, making it a spiritually rich destination.

Gaurikund – Start of the Kedarnath Trek

Gaurikund is an important pilgrimage site and the base point for the Kedarnath trek. According to mythology, Goddess Parvati performed penance here to win Lord Shiva’s heart.

Places to visit in Gaurikund:

• Gauri Kund hot water lake

• Gaurikund Temple

• Scenic trek routes

The village marks the beginning of the emotional and spiritually intense journey to Kedarnath.

Kedarnath Temple – Abode of Lord Shiva

Kedarnath is one of the most revered Shiva temples in the world. Surrounded by snow-clad peaks and serene valleys, the temple offers a rare spiritual energy.

Nearby spots include:

• Bhairav Temple

• Chorabari Lake

• Kedarnath Trek viewpoints

• Vasuki Tal (for experienced trekkers)

The divine atmosphere of Kedarnath leaves a lasting impact on every pilgrim.

Joshimath – Winter Home of Lord Badri

On the way to Badrinath, Joshimath is an important spiritual and scenic destination. It is also the winter seat of the Badrinath deity.

Places to explore:

• Narsingh Temple

• Kalpavriksha

• Ropeway to Auli

• Local markets

Joshimath is filled with mythological stories and Himalayan charm.

Badrinath Temple – The Final Dham of the Yatra

Badrinath, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is the last Dham of the Char Dham Yatra. The colorful temple, the flowing Alaknanda River and the majestic Neelkanth Peak make the entire region divine.

Top places near Badrinath:

• Mana Village (India’s last village)

• Vyas Gufa

• Bheem Pul

• Tapt Kund hot spring

• Saraswati River origin

Visiting Badrinath completes the Char Dham circuit and fills the heart with peace.

Conclusion

Starting Char Dham Yatra from Rishikesh opens up a journey filled with devotion, scenic beauty and spiritual transformation. With Anmol Yatra Uttarakhand, pilgrims enjoy a comfortable, safe and well-guided experience throughout the route. Each destination along the Char Dham path holds unique cultural, historical and spiritual significance, making your pilgrimage unforgettable and deeply meaningful.