Winter Chardham Yatra Package

What Is Winter Char Dham Yatra?

Winter Char Dham Yatra is a special pilgrimage in Uttarakhand that is undertaken when the main Char Dham temples of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri are closed.

The idols from these temples are ceremonially shifted to their winter seats in Joshimath, Ukhimath, Mukhba, and Kharsali, respectively.

These places are situated at a relatively lower altitude than the original Chardham locations, and aren't affected as much by the heavy snowfall.

Winter Seats of Char Dham Temples

Because of the heavy snowfall in the winter months, the main Char Dham shrines are closed and transferred to the following temples, where they are worshipped for the entirety of the winter:

• Badrinath → Narsingh Temple, Joshimath
• Kedarnath → Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath
• Gangotri → Mukhimath, Mukhba Village
• Yamunotri → Yamuna Temple, Kharsali

Significance of Winter Seats

Nar Singh Temple, Joshimath

This is considered the protective shrine of Lord Badrinath during the winter season. All the rituals and prayers that are performed at the Badrinath Temple, are also performed here. It's believed that the weakening of the deity's arm signifies the end of Kaliyug.

Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath

This is the winter seat of Kedarnath. Same priestly lineage follows the Puja and Abhishek here. Kedarnath-related festivals are also celebrated here.

Mukhimath, Mukhba Village

This is the winter seat of Goddess Ganga. Throughout the winter, ancient traditions of Ganga Puja are performed here. The sacred Mukhba Village is itself very closely associated with the earthly journey of Ganga.

Yamuna Temple, Kharsali

Goddess Yamuna is worshipped here during the winter months. Praying at Kharsali temple is believed to bring longevity and freedom from untimely death. Pilgrims see it as a great opportunity to connect with the goddess amidst the serene landscapes.

Winter Char Dham Seats Opening and Closing Dates

Winter Char Dham Yatra Registration

The winter Char Dham Yatra Registration is not required. It is only mandatory for the main Char Dham Yatra. The winter seats of the deities can be visited without the formal Yatra pass or biometric registration.

However, you can still do registration if you wish. You will receive SMS alerts regarding local weather and even road status.

To register, simply visit the official Uttarakhand tourism website. Keep your Aadhaar Card handy and a phone number to verify the OTP.

Why Choose a Winter Char Dham Yatra Package?

A Winter Char Dham Yatra offers you a unique experience, something different from the summer pilgrimage. Here is why you should consider going on this sacred trip:

Continuity of Worship

With the transfer of the idol to their winter seats, the daily puja, Aarti, and rituals continue without interruption. You get to connect with the divine in the cold season too.

Same Spiritual Significance

It is said that visiting the winter seats has the same religious merit as visiting the main shrines in summer.

Peaceful and Crowd-Free Darshan

The winter Chardham temples are not as crowded as the main ones. You get to enjoy a peaceful Darshan. With fewer pilgrims, you can focus deeply on the spirituality of your journey.

More Affordable

Both accommodation and transport cost way less than the original Chardham Yatra. This offers you a budget-friendly pilgrimage.

Great for Senior Citizens

The winter seats are located at lower altitudes. This implies fewer problems like altitude sickness, lack of oxygen, etc. Plus, it require no trekking. This makes the trip very easy for the elderly devotees.

Serene Himalayan Beauty

The valleys of Uttarakhand are washed in a peaceful glow that you won't witness in the peak season of the main Yatra. Therefore it's worth going on this pilgrimage, at least once.

Winter Char Dham Yatra Route Map

Here is the route map for the winter Char Dham Yatra:

Winter Char Dham Distance Chart

Here are the segment-wise distance chart and travel duration:

In summary, the total distance of this pilgrimage is about 1,150 km and will take a total time of around 7-10 days to cover it in its entirety.

Best Time for Winter Char Dham Yatra

The best time for the winter Char Dham Yatra is from December to February. The roads are easily accessible and make for a comfortable trip. The temperature, on the other hand, swings from 0°C to 10°C. However, the temperature might drop below -5°C at night.

You might also encounter heavy snowfall during January and February, especially in Yamunotri, Kharsali, and Mukhimath.

Weather Conditions during Winter Char Dham

Winter Char Dham Yatra Package Cost

The cost of winter Char Dham Yatra Package is INR 35,000. In this 9-day trip, we'll cover your accommodation, meals, and all the transfers. In addition, you'll also get VIP Darshan passes.

To ensure a safe journey in the hills, ChardhamTour also provides you with a private cab with experienced driver.

You can also customise the package as per your liking. Give us a call now to know more!

Accommodation Options during Winter Char Dham Yatra

Where to Stay?

Yamunotri (Kharsali): Some of the best options to stay are cottages near Kharsali. GMVN guesthouses are also a great option.

Omkareshwar (Ukhimath): You can find quality options near the Omkareshwar Temple itself.

Nar Singh (Joshimath): You can find both mid-range and premium hotels here.

Mukhimath (Mukhba): You can find good options near the Uttarkashi or Harsil region. These are the best base towns for winter.

What to Expect in Winter Stays?

Room Heating Availability

Basic hotels and guesthouses do not come with any central heating system. However, some might provide you with heater or a blower and charge you on a per-night basis.

GMVN Rest Houses will offer you basic heating arrangements in select rooms. More often than not, they will provide you with a warm, thick blanket.

Power Supply Limitations

Power cuts are common in the winter months. However, some hotels might have a generator. It depends on the lodge, so do ask about it before booking.

Bedding and Insulation

Most stays have wooden interiors, which naturally retain warmth. In addition, the lodges also provide you with heavy woollen blankets and thick mattresses.

Hot Water Availability

Many lodges have geysers for providing hot water. You can also request a hot water bucket.

What to Pack for Winter Char Dham Yatra?

Road Conditions for Winter Chardham Yatra

Road Challenges of Winter Yatra

There are a few road challenges that you should prepare yourself for:

• Snow and Ice: Even the open roads can be covered with snow. And this makes the route slippery. So beware of that.
• Black Ice: Black ice can develop on tarmac on nights that are especially cold. This makes the driving risky.
• Slow Snow Clearance: Expect delays in travelling on roads. Smaller passages are cleared way after the major routes are snowploughed.
• Weather Changes: Winter storms can suddenly arise, which can cause road blockages and long delays.

Impact of Snow

• As snow accumulates, it can cover roads and hide sharp turns & edges of the road.
• Due to the snow, the vehicles might skid more.
• Road conditions can worsen a lot overnight due to sub-zero temperatures.
• Snow-covered stretches reduce the driving speed.
• Road closures are common due to snowfall.

Driving Precautions

• Drive at a slow speed and make sure you maintain a sufficient distance from other vehicles.
• Use vehicles that have good ground clearance, such as SUVs like Mahindra Scorpio, Mahindra Bolero, Toyota Innova Crysta, Tata Safari, etc.
• Travel only during daytime.
• Don't take sharp turns on icy or snowy roads.

Travel Tips

Here is some travel advice for your Yatra in the cold season:

• Plan your trip in the window of December–February. This is the best time to cover this pilgrimage.
• Prepare for the cold weather, especially in Kharsali and Mukhba.
• Travel in daytime only, as at night there could be dense fog and icy roads.
• Wear shoes that are insulated and provide good skid resistance.
• Carry with you heavy woollens.
• Hire only experienced hill drivers who are well-versed with the winter routes.
• Keep dry snacks and energy bars handy with you.
• Travel in a sturdy SUV with good ground clearance.
• Book your hotels in advance, as in the winter season, accommodation is limited.
• Carry personal medicines and also carry a first-aid box.
• Walk at a comfortable pace and avoid exertion.

Book the Winter Chardham Yatra Package!