YAMUNOTRI ( The sacred Jewel of Himalayas)

The first stopover for the Char Dham Yatra is the westernmost shrine of Yamunotri in the Garhwal Himalayas.Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, it isperched atop a flank of the Bandar Poonchh peak (3,165 mts. above sea level) and is situated opposite to Gangotri. The shrine attracts devotees in large numbers from April to November. Yamunotri is the source of the revered river Yamuna which originates from the Champasar Glacier lying 1 km ahead ofthe shrine, at an altitude of 4,421 mts . Pilgrims do not frequently visit thesource of the river as it is not easily accessible.
Yamunotri finds a special mention in the Hindu mythology. According to a legend, this secluded hilly spot was the home of an ancient sage, AsitMuni. Among the major attractions of Yamunotri are hot water springs nearby. Devotees prepare rice and potatoes to offer at the shrine, by dipping them in these hot water springs, tied in muslin cloth. The trek to Yamunotri is spectacular, dom inated by a panorama of rugged peaks and dense forests.

HOW TO GET THERE

Airport: Jolly Grant, 196 Kms.from Yamunotri via Dehradun
Railhead: Rishikesh, 219 Kms. &Dehradun, 172 Kms.
Road: Dharasu, 107 Kms.Tehri, 149 Kms.Rishikesh, 213 Kms.& Dehradun, 172 Kms.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Altitude: 3,165 Mts.
Climate Summer: Cool during the day and cool at night
Climate Winter: Snow bound, Touching, sub-zero.
Clothing :April to July: Light woollens
Clothing :Sep to Nov: Heavy woollens
Language: Hindi, Garhwali & English

PRIME SITES

1. LAKHAMANDAL
Past Kempty falls 75 kms. on the Mussoorie-Yammnotri road lies Lakhamandal. Legend has is that theKaurvas made a shelter house and conspired to burn the Pandavas Alive here.

2. SURYAKUND
One of the important thermal springs known for its very high temperature of 190 degree F.Pilgrims cook rice and potatoes here to offer to deity in the temple.

3. DIVYA SHILA
A huge rock piller venerated beforeentering the yamunotri temple.

EXCURSIONS

1. JANKI CHATTI
The thermdl springs here offer a spectacular sight and a refreshing bath for the pilgrims.

2. HANUMAN CHAITI (14 Kms.)
The confluence of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers forms the starting point for the scenic Dodi Tal trek. (Rish ikesh-Barkot-Hanumanchatti-Yamunotri-Hanumanchatti-Darvatop-Dodital-Agora-Uttarkashi-Rishikesh).

Porters, Ponies and Palanquines areavailable for the journey to Yamunotri.Their rates are fixed by District Magistrate before the start of everyYalraseason.

3. RANACHATTI (16 Kms.)
This place is located along the scenic bank or Yamuna. Around 3.5 Kms from Ranachatti lies the breathtakingly
beautiful Lake of 'Bugyal Dhinara', as well as the Temple of 'Shani Maharaj (Someshwar Devta).

4. SYANACHATTI (18 Kms.)
A scenic spot along the bank of river Yamuna that makes a lovely sight enroute the trek up to Yamunotri.

5. CHAMBA (158 Kms.)
A Sylvan spot on way to Tehri that offers an excellent view of the Himalayan peaks. Situated at an altitude of 1,676 mts. above sea level, Chamba is an ideal summer retreat.

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GANGOTRI ( The eternal Gift of Bhagirath's penance )

The picturesque pilgrimage in the hinter lands of the Himalayas is the most sacred spot where Ganga, the stream of life,touched earth forthe first time. According to mythology, Goddess Ganga- the daughter of heaven, manifested herself in the form of a river to absolve the sins of King Bhagirath'spredecessors, following his severe penance of several centuries. Lord Shiva received Ganga into his matted locks to minimise the immense impact of her fall. Shecame to be called Bhagirathiat her legendarysource. Along the right bank of Bhagirathi stands the shrine of Gangotri dedicated to the Goddess. Perched at a height of 3140 mtrs., it was constructed in the early 18th century by a Gorkha Commander, Amar Singh Thapa.
Every year, lakhs of pilgrims throng the sacred temple between April and Novmber. ByNovember end, Gangotri is covered by snow. It is believed that the Goddess retreats to Mukhba, her winter abode (12 Kms. downstream). The physical source of the holy river is at Gaumukh, 19 Kms.further uphill, along the Gangotri Glacier. Several pilgrims trek upto the source to offer prayers either on foot or on ponies. The verdant valleys, dense forests and towering peaks offer excellent trekking and mountaineering opportunities for adventure enthusiasts.

HOW TO GET THERE

Airport: Jolly Grant Dehradun, 266 Kms.
Railhead: Rishikesh, 249 Kms.
Road: Well connected to Rishikesh, Haridwar,Dehradun and Delhi Important Road Distances from Gangotri: Dharasu (129 Kms.), Yamunotri (224 Kms.)Mussoorie (247 Kms.), Tehri (172 Kms.), Ullarkashi (94 Kms.)..

GENERAL INFORMATION

Altitude: 3,140 Mts.
Climate Summer: Cool during the day and cool at night
Climate Winter: Snow bound, Touching, sub-zero.
Clothing :April to July: Light woollens
Clothing :Sep to Nov: Heavy woollens
Language: Hindi, Garhwali & English

PRIME SITES

1. GANGOTRI TEMPLE
This 18th century temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga is located near asacred stone where King Bhagirath worshipped Lord Shiva. Ganga is believed to have touched earth at this spot. According to another legend, Pandavas performed the great 'Deva Yagna' here to atone the deaths of their kinsmen in the epic battle of Mahabharata. The temple is an exquisite 20 ft. high structure made of white granite.

2. SUBMERGED SHIVLING
The natural rock Shivling, submerged in the river, is an amazing sight reinforcing the power of the divine.According to mythology, Lord Shiva sat .this spot to receive the Ganga in his matted locks. The Shivling is visible in the early winters when the water level goes down.

EXCURSIONS

1. NANDANVAN TAPOVAN(25 Kms.)
An arduous trek along the Gangotri Glacier leads to scenic Nandanvanthe base camp of the Bhagirathi peaks, that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Shivling peak. A trek across the snout of the Gangotri Glacier leads to Tapovan known for its beautiful meadows that enci\rcle the base of the Shivling peak.

2. UTTARKASHI (99 Kms.)
An important pilgrimage centre, situated at an elevation of 1,150 mls. above sea level on the bank of river Bhagirathi. Some of the important temples worth visiting are -Vishwanath temple, Ekadash Rudra temple, Gyaneshwar temple and Kuteti Devi temple. Nearby isthe Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. Every year, during
the 'Magh Mela' (January 14), people visit Uttarkashi to take a holy dip in Bhagirathi along with the image of their village deity.

3. GANGNANI (59 Kms.)
Noted for its thermal springs, spectacular views and tranquil surroundings. A small upcoming town Bhatwari, lying 12 Kms.from Gangnani is worth a visit.

4. MANERI(86 Kms.)
The dam across the Bhagirathi and a surrounding lake are worth a visit.

5. DARAYA BUGYAL(93 Kms.)
A breath takingly beautiful meadow, situated at a height of 3,048 mts. above sea level. Bugyal in the local language means 'high altitude meadows'. A motorable road connects Bhatwari (27 Kms. from Uttarkashi) with Raithal village, from.where follows a 6 Kms. long trek to Dayara. Similarly one can go up to the village of Barsu. Barsu is 8 kms. long trek from Dayara Bugyal. From Dayara, can also trek down to Dodi Tal (30 kms.). During winters, Dayara provides excellent skislopes over an area of 28 sq. kms.

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KEDARNATH ( The celestial Jyortirlingam )

Amidst the mountain scapes of the majestic Kedarnath range stands one of the twelve 'Jyotirlingas' of Kedar or Lord Shiva. Lyingat an altitude of 3,581 mts. above sea level on the head of river Mandakini, the shrine of Kedarnath is amongst the hol iest piIgrimage for the Hindus. The origin of the revered temple can be found in the greatepic, Mahabharata.
According to legend, the Pandavas sought the blessings of Lord Shiva to atone their sins after the battle of Mahabharata. Lord Shiva eluded them repeatedly and while fleeing took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull. On being followed, Lord Shiva dived into the ground, leaving behind HIS hump on the surface. This conical protrusion is worshipped as the idol on the shrine. The remaining portions of LordShiva are worshipped at four places - the arms (bahu)at Tungnath, mouth (mukha) at Rudranath, naval (nabhi) at Madmaheshwar and hair (jata) at Kalpeshwar. Together with Kedarnath, these places are known as the Panch Kedar.
The lingam at Kedarnath is pyramidal, unlike its usual form. Astatue of Nandi -the celestial bull stands at the entrance of the temple and exquisitely carved image adorn the interiors ofthe temple. During the winters, the shrine issubmerged in snow and hence is closed. The ideal time to visit is between April to November. One can reach Kedarnath through a 14 kms. long trek from Gaurikund. At Kedarnathpassengerswould get assistancefrom GMVN/ PHHL which would guide them for PriorityOarshanete. As Kedarnathis situated at high Altitude few passengers may require Oxygen, which isavailable at Kedarnath.

HOW TO GET THERE

Airport: Jolly Grant Dehradun, 246 Kms.
Railhead: Rishikesh (299 Kms.), Kotdwar (260 Kms.)
Road:Approachable on foot (14 Kms.) from Gaurikund, which is connected by road 10 Rishikesh, Kotdwar, Dehradun, Haridwar and other important hill stations of Garhwal and kumaon region

GENERAL INFORMATION

Area :3 Sq Kms.
Climate Summer: April-Aug. Cool during the day and cold at night.
Climate Winter: Sep. to Nov. cold during the day and chilly at night.
Rainfall: 1,475 mm.
Clothing :April to July: Light woollens
Clothing :Sep to Nov: Heavy woollens
Language: Hindi, Garhwali & English

PRIME SITES

1. KEDARNATH TEMPLE
The present temple, built in 8th century A.D. by Adi Guru Shankaracharya lies adjacent to the site of an ancient temple built by Pandavas. The walls of the exquisitely architectured temple are embellished with figures of deities and scenes from mythology. The temple has a conical lingam-the main idol, a statue of Nandi-the celestial bull, a 'garbha griha' for worship and a 'mandap' for assemblies of pilgrims and visitors.The temple is believe to be more the 1000 Year old

2. SHANKARACHARAYA SAMADHI
Behind the Kedarnath Temple lies the samadhi or the final resting place of Adi Guru Shankaracharya. It is believed, after establishing the four Dhams in India, he went for his samadhi at an early age of 32 years.

EXCURSIONS

1. CHORABARI- GANDHISAROVAR(2 Kms.)
A small lake from where Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, is believed to have departed to heaven. The
floating ice on the sparkling waters of the lake isa fascinating sight.

2. VASUKI TAL (6 Kms.)
A picturesque lake, 4,135 mts. above sea level is encircled by lofty mountains and offers a commanding view of the Chau khamba peaks.

3. GAURIKUND (14 Kms.)
The trekking base to Kedarnath. A temple dedicated to Gauri and thermal springs of medicinal value are note worthy.

4. SONPRAYAG (19 Kms.)
The confluence of Son Ganga and Mandakini rivers. The road to Triyuginarayan (14 km.) diverts from here.

5. TRIYUGINARA YAN (25 Kms.)
A 5 kms.trek from Sonprayag,it is the mythological venueof the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. An enternal flame, which is said to have been a witness to the marriage, burns in front of the temple even today. It is
14 Kms. from Sonprayag by motor road.

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BADRINATH ( Abode of Lard Vishnu )

Cradled in the twin mountain ranges of Nar and Narayan isthe holiest of the four main shrines, Badrinath along the right bank of the river Alaknada. With the splendid Neelkanth mountains as the backdrop, it is an important destination on the sacred itinerary of every devout Hindu. Once the spot was carpeted with 'badris' or wi Id berries and hence was famous as 'Badri Van'.
The revered shrine is still alive with myriad legends from mythology. Its sanctity is emphasised in the ancient scriptures as "There are many sacred spots of pilgrimage in the heavens, earth and the nether world, but there has been none equal to Badri, nor shall there be". Legend has it, when the Ganga was requested to descend to earth to help the suffering humanity, the earth was unable to withstand the force of its descent. Therefore, the mighty Ganga was split into twelve holy channels. Alaknanda was one of them that later became the abode of LordVishnu or Badrinath.
The temple of Shri Badrinathji on the bank ofthe Alaknanda river, dates back to the Vedic times. Situated at an altitude of 3,133 mts., the present temple is believed to have been built by Adi Guru Shankaracharya - an 8th century's philosopher-saintw, ho also establisheda 'Math' here.Alsoknownas 'Vishal Badri', Badrinath is one of the Panch Badris.The temple remains closed during the winter season and is open from April-May to October November.

HOW TO GET THERE

Airport: Jolly Grant Dehradun, 317 Kms.
Railhead: Rishikesh (300 Kms.), Kotdwar (327 Kms.)
Road:Well connected to Rishikesh, Kotdwar, Dehradun, Haridwar and other important hill stations of Garhwal and kumaon region

GENERAL INFORMATION

Area :3 Sq Kms.
Climate Summer: April-Aug. Cool during the day and cold at night.
Climate Winter: Sep. to Nov. cold during the day and chilly at night.
Rainfall: 1,475 mm.
Clothing :April to July: Light woollens
Clothing :Sep to Nov: Heavy woollens
Language: Hindi, Garhwali & English

PRIME SITES

1. BADRINATH TEMPLE
On the right bank of Alaknanda lies the sacred spot perched at an altitude of 3,133 meters above the sea level. Encircled by a beautiful valley, the lS mtrs. high temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is built in the form of a cone with a small cupola of agilt bull and spire. Built by Adi Guru Shankaracharya the philosopher-saint of the 8th century, the temple has been renovated several times due to damage by avalanches. It's colourful 'Singh Dwara'or the main entrance gate givesita newmodern look.The temple is divided into three partsthe 'garbha griha'orsanctumsanctorum, the 'darshan mandap' where the rituals are conducted and the 'sabha mandap' where devotees assemble. The complex has lS idols. especially attractive is the one metre high image of Badrinath, finely sculpted in black stone. It represents Lord Vishnuina mediativepose.

2. TAPT KUND
Devoteestake a holydip inthe natural thermal springs on the banks of the river Alaknanda, before entering the
Badrinath Temple. The water of the kund is believed to have medicinal properties.

3. NEELKANTH
A pyramidical-shaped snowy peak towering above Badrinath, popularly known as the 'Garhwal Queen'.

4. TAPT KUND
Devoteestake a holydip inthe natural thermal springs on the banks of the river Alaknanda, before entering the
Badrinath Temple. The water of the kund is believed to have medicinal properties.

5. CHARANPADUKA
The footprintsof Lord Vishnu can be seen on a boulder in this beautiful meadow.

6. BRAHMA KAPAL
A flat platform on the bank of river Alaknanda where Hindus perform propitiating rites for their deceased ancestors.

7. SHESHNETRA
A boulder having an impression of the legendary serpent - known as Sheshnag's eye.

EXCURSIONS

1. MATAMURTITEMPLE(3 Kms.)
On the right bank of Alaknanda stands, the temple dedicated to the mother of Sri Badrinath ji.

2. MANA VILLAGE(4 Kms.)
Inhabited by Indo-Mangolian tribe, it is considered to be the last Indian village before Tibet. On this route,nearby are VyasGufa-the rockcave of saint Ved Vyas, the writer of Mahabharata. Bhim Pul - a natural bridge over the Saraswati river and Vashundhara Falls- a 122 mts. high waterfall - all forming an important part of the pilgrimage to Badrinath.

3. ALKAPURl (15 Kms.)
The source of Alaknanda river from the glacier snouts of Bhagirath-Kharak and Satopanth glaciers.

4. SATOPANTH (25 Kms.)
It is a three cornered lake with a circumference of about 1 km., is situated at an elevation of 4,402 mts. above sea level. It is named after the Hindu triad - Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh, who are believed to occupy one corner each of the lake. The trek is hazardous with dramatic landscapes.An experienced guide is advisable. )

5. VALLEYOF FLOWERS (42 Kms.)
An exotic valley in a conical shape lies to the east of Badrinath with river Pushpawati flowing through it. The valley that is presently a national park,is 19 kms. trek from Govindghat. A must-see for all natu re lovers.

6. HEMKUND SAHIB (43 Kms.)
Near the Valley of Flowers is the holy lake Hemkund-an important pilgrimage of the Sikhs and Hindus. Along its shore is the sacred Sikh Shrine where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru unified with God after prolonged meditation. Nearby is the Lakshman Temple where Lakshman - the brother of Lord Rama performed his penance. The reflection of surrounding snow- clad peaks in its placid waters offers a scenic sight.

7. GOVINDGHAT(25 Kms.)
The confluence of Alaknanda and Lakshaman Ganga rivers. It has an imposing Gurudwara named after Guru Gobind Singh.

8. JOSHIMATH(42 Kms.)
The winter home of Shri Badrinathji is situated on the slopes above the confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauliganga. It is one of the four 'maths' established by Adi Guru Shankaracharya.

9. AULI (57 Kms.)
An Ideal ski resort in the Garhwal Himalayas with its slopes comparable to the best in the world. Perched at an
elevation of 2,500-3,050 mts. Auli not only offers a magnificent view of the Himalayan ranges but is a delight for
winter sports enthusiasts.

10. PIPALKOTI (80 Kms.)
Ascenic spot amidst snow-clad peaks.

CHAMOLI (97 Kms.)
From Gopeshwar to Badrinath highway is the tiny mountain retreat that attracts visitors for its verdant landscapes and fresh mountain air. It is 97 kms. from Badrinath.