Char Dham is a term coined for the four most revered Hindu pilgrimage destinations of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.
According to the Puranas and various Hindu scriptures, the Char Dham Yatra is of very high religious significance. Pilgrims from all around the world brave the severe conditions of landscape and weather to visit the shrines and have a holy darshan of the revered deities.
Badrinath
Badrinath Temple is the abode of Lord Vishnu. It is situated at an altitude of 3130 m at the banks of Alaknanda. In the backdrop, is the Neelkanth mountain peak situated between the twin peaks of Nar and Narayan. The name is derived from wild berries called Badri. Adi Shankarcharya established the idol of Vishnu in the temple. Near the temple is a hot water sulphur spring, Tapt Kund.
Badrinath Factfile
Travelogue: Haridwar to Badrinath
Kedarnath
The temple of Kedarnath dedicated to Lord Shiva is revered and visited by many pilgrims every year. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3580 m amidst the background of snow covered mountain peaks and greenery. The temple is built of large, heavy and evenly cut grey slabs of stones and is considered more than 1000 years old. The temple has a garbha griha where a conical rock formation is situated and a Mandapam for seating of pilgrims and visitors. A large statue of the Nandi Bull is situated outside the temple door. The nearest bus stop is Gaurikund and pilgrims have to trek 14 kms to reach the temple.
Kedarnath Yatra
Temple & Legends of Kedar
The shrine of Gangotri is situated at an elevation of 3200 m surrounded by deodars and pines. The original temple was constructed by the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa. Every year people from all around the world visit this shrine. A number of ashrams and dharamshalas are located on the other side of the river. It is believed that Raja Bhagirath used to worship Shiva on a slab of rock "Bhagirath Shila" situated near the temple. Submerged in the river there is a natural Shivling where, according to mythology, Lord Shiva sat when he received the Goddess Ganga in his matted locks. A days trek takes one to Gaumukh, the source of the mighty Ganges.
