YAMUNOTRI
The first stopover for the char dham yatra is the weaternmost shrine of yamunotri in the Garhwal Himalayas.Dedicated to goddess yamuna,it is perched atop a flank of the Bandar poonchh peak (3165Mts.above sea lavel) and is situated opposite to gangotri.The shrine attracts devotees in large numbers from may to October.
Yamunotri is the source of the revered river yamuna which originates from the champasar glacier lying 1 Km ahead of the shring, at analtitude of 4421met. Pilgrims do not frequently visit the source of the river as it is not easily accessible.
Yamunotri finds a special mention in the Hindu mythology.According to a legend, this secluded hill spot was the home of an ancient sage Asit Muni.
Among the major attractions yamunotri are hot water springs nearby. Devotees prepare rice and potatoes to offer at the shrtne, by dipping them in these hot water springs, tied in muslin cloth.
The trek to yamunotri is spectacular, dominated by a panorama of rugged peaks and dense forests.
ACCESSIBILITY
AIRPORT : Jolly grant,196kms. From yamunotri via Dehradun.
Railhead : Rishikaesh,213kms.&Dehradun,172kms
Road : Dharasu,107kms.Tehri149. Rishikesh,213kms. & Dehradun,172kms.
From Rishikesh, a 213kms. Journey by road takes one to Hanuman-chatti from here, the remaining 13kms. Trek is covered on foot or onponies. Palanquins and porters are also available on hire.
ACCOMMODATION
Dharamshalas and Jankichatti Tourist Rest House offer a comfortable stay.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Altitude :3165mts.
Climate : Summer- Cool during the day and cold at night
Winter- snow bound. Touching sub zero.
Clothing :April to July- Light woolens.
Sept. to Nov- Heavy woolens.
Language :Hindi, Gaehwali & English.
PRIME SITES
Yamunotri temple
The main temple is dedicated to Goddess yamuna. The present temple was built by maharani guleria of jaipur in the iate nineteenth century. Only destroyed by an earthquake, it has been rebuilt. A holy dip in the nearby tank filled by hot springs
Surya kund
One of the important thermal springs known for its very high temperature of 1900 E pilgrims cook rice and potatoes here to offer to the deity in the temple.
Divya shila
A huge rock pillar venerated before entering the yamunotri temple.
Jankichatti(5kms)
The thermal springs here offer a spectacular sight and a refreshing bath for the pilgrims.
Hanumanchatti(13kms.)
The confluence of hanuman Ganga and yamuna rivers form the starting point for the scenic Dodi tal trek. Porters, Ponies and Palanquins are available for the journey to yamunotri. Their rates are fixed by District Magistrate before the start of every Yatra season.
Sayanachatti(18kns.)
A scenic spot along the banks of river Yamuna that makes a lovely sight enroute the trek upto Yamunotri.
Chamba(158kms.)
A sylvan spot on way to Tehri that offers an excellent view of the Himalayan peaks. Situated at an altitude of 1676mts. Chamba is an ideal summer retreat.
GANGOTRI
THE ETERNAL GIFT OF BHAGIRATH`S PENANCE
The picturesque pilgirimage in the hinterlands of Himalayas is most sacred spot where Ganga , the stream of life, touched earth for the first time.
According to mythology, Goddess Ganga-the daughter of heaven, manifested herself in the from of a river to absolve the sine of king bhagirath`s predecessors, following his severe penance of several centuries. Lord Shiva received into his matted locks to minimise impact of her fall. She came to be called Bhagirathi at her legendary source.
Along the right bank of Bhagirathi stands the shrine of Gangotri dedicated to the Goddess. Perched at a height of 3042mts,it was constructed in the early 18th century by a Ghokha commander, Amar singh thapa. Every year, lakhs of pilgrims throng the sacred temple between May and October.
By November, Gangotri is covered by snow.itis believed that the Goddess retreats to Mukhba her winter abode (12kms downstream)
The physical source of the holy river is at Gaumukh, 18kms.further uphill, along the Gangotry Glacier. Several pilgrime trek upto the source to offer prayers either on foot or on ponies.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Altitude : 3042mts.
Climate : Summer- Cool during the day and cold at night
Winter- Snow –bound. Touching sub zrro.
Clothing : Summer- Light woolen
Winter-Very heavy woolen.
Language: Hindi, Garhwali& English.
Season : April to November.
ACCESSIBILITY
AIRPORT : jolly grant, Dehradun 226kms.
RAILHEAD :Rishikesh, 249kms
ROAD : well connected to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dheradun and Delhi
Important road distances:
Dharasu(129kms), yamunotri (224kms), mussoorie(247kms), tehri(172kms).
ACCOMMODATION
A number of ashrams along the banks of bhagirathi, tourist Rest Home, PWD inspection house, forest rest house are available. Dharamshalas, Gust House and convenient accommodation.
EATING OUT
Only local eating places (dhabas) are available Non-vegetarian food and aicohhlic drinks are prohibited in Gangotri.
PRIME SITES
The 18th century temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga is located near a sacred 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 20ft. high structure made of white granite.
Submerged Shivling:
The natural rock shivling, submerged in the river, is an amazing sight reinforcing the power of mythology, Lord Shiva encircle the base of the shivling peak.
EXCURSIONS
Nandanvan Tapovan (6kms.)
An arduous trek along Gangotri Glacier leads to scenic Nandanvan the base camp for the Bhagirathi peaks, that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Shivling peak. A trek across the snout of Gangotri Glacier leads to Tapovan known for its beautiful meadows that encircle the base of the Shivling peak.
Uttarkashi(99kms.)
An important pilgrimage centre, situated at an elevation of 1,150mts 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 is the Nehru institute of Mountainaeering
Kedar tal(18kms.)
An enchanting lake, 4425 mts. Above sea level against the splendid backdrop of mighty Thalaiyasagar peak. Accessible through a rough mountain trail, it is the base camp for trekking to surrounding peaks. The trak to Kedartal needs a local guide.
Gaumukh(18kms.)
The snout of the Gangotri Glacier and the source of the Bhagirathi river. Pilgrims trek upto the sacred spot on foot or on ponies to take a holy dip in the ice-cold water.
Bhairon Ghati(10kms.)
Situated towards uttarkashi, it is known for the temple of Bhairav Nath
Hardil(28kms.)
Located in the mountain district of uttarkashi is the sylvan hamlet (2620 met. above sea level),knownfor scenic landscapes and delicious apples. Sat tal or seven lakes, nearby(2kms.)are a not-to-be missed attraction. Maneri(86kms.)
The dam across the Bhagirathi and a surrounding lake are worth a visit.
Dayara Bugyal(93kms.)
A breathtakingly beautiful meadow situated at a height of 3048kts. Above sea level. A motorable road connects Bhatwari (27kms.from utttarkashi) with Raithal village, from where follows a 6kms. long trek to Dayara. The famous Sheshnag temple enroute
Dodi tal(123kms.)
A sparkling lake at an elevation of2286 mts. surrounded by dense forests. The famous Himalayan trouts are found in abundance in the lake. Permit for fishing can be obtained from the divisional Forest Officer, Uttarkashi. A beautiful camping site, a forests rest house and a log cabin are along the lake.
Nachiketa tal(131kms.)
A pleasant trek through lush green forests leads to this peaceful retreat. A small temple along the lake and lovely surroundings are an attraction.
Thari(173kms)
Lying at the confluence of Bhagirathi and Bhilangna rivers is the former capital of Tehri Garhwal principality. It is the site of giant hydel project.
Narendranagar(239kms.)
The new capital of erstwhile tehri state, offers a magnificent view of the Ganga valley of Rishikesh
KEDARNATH
Amidst the dramatic mountains capes of the majestic Kedarnath range stands one of the twelve jyotirlingas of kedar or Lord shiva. Lying at an altitude of 3584mts. on the head of river Mandakini, the shrine of Kedarnath is amongst the holiest pilgrimages for the Hindus.
The origin of the revered temple can be found in the great epic-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, HE dived into the ground, leaving behind HIS hump on the surface. This conical protrusion is worshipped as the idol in the shrine.
The remaining portions of Lord Shiva are worshipped at four other places –the arms (bahu) at Tungnath, mouth (mukh) at Rudranath, navel (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. A statue of Nandi the celestial bull stands at the entrance of the temple and exquisitely carved images adorn the interiors of the temple.
During the winters, the shrine is submerged in snow and hence is closed. The ideal time to visit is between May to October.
Kedarnath is reached through a 14kms. long trek from Gaurikund.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Area : 3sq.km
Climate : Winter Sep to Nov cold during the day and chilly at night.
Summer May to August-Cool during the day and cold at night.
Rainfall : 1475mm.
Best season : May to October except monsoon.
Clothing : Summer- Light woolen .
Winter-Very heavy woolen
English Language :Hindi, Gaehwali &.
ACCESSIBILITY
Airport: jolly grant, Dehradun (251kms.)
Railhead: Rishikesh (234kms.), Kotdwar(260kms.)
Road: Approachable on foot from Gaurikund, which is connected by road to Rishikesh, Kotdwar, Dehradun, Haridawar and other important hill station of Garhwal and Kumaon region.
ACCOMMODATION
Dharamshalas, Ashrams, Cottages and Tourist Rest House offer a comfortable stay.
PRIME SITES
The present temple, built in 8th century A.D. by Adi Guru Shankaracharya lies adjacent to 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 grah’ for worship and a ‘mandap’ for assemblies of pilgrims and visitors. The temple is believed to be more than 1000 years old.
Shankaracharya Samadhi
Behind the Kedarnath Temple India
EXCURSIONS:
CHORABARI (GANDHI SAROVAR)(2KMS.)
A small lake from where Yudhishthir, the eldest of the pandavas, is believed to have departed to heaven. The floating ice on the sparkling waters of the lake is a fascinating sight.
Vasuki tal (6kms.)
A picturesque lake, 4135mts. above sea level is encircled by lofty mountains and offers a commanding view of the Chaukhamba peaks.
Gaurikund(14kms.)
The trekking base to kedarnath. A temple dedicated to Gauri and thermal springs of medicinal value are noteworthy.
Sonprayag(20kms.)
The confluence of son Ganga and Mandakini rivers. The road to Triyuginarayan diverts from here.
Triyuginarayan(25kms.)
A 5kms. trek from sonprayag, it is the mythological venue of the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess parvati. An eternal flame, which is said to have been a witness to the marriage, burns in front of the temple even today.
Guptkashi(49kms.)
The temple of Ardhnarishwar
Ukhimath(60kms.)
Winter home of the deity of the Kedarnath temple and the seat of the Rawal of Kedarnath.
Agastyamuni(73kms.)
Famous for the temple dedicated to sage Agastya.
Panch Kedar
The five most important temple of Lord Shiva
Madmaheshwar: (74kms): Located at an altitude of 3289mts. above sea level, 25kms. northeast of Guptkashi. There is motorable road from Guptkashi to Kalimath. The best statue in India of Har Gauri measuring over 1mt. high is found in the Kali temple. The trek from Kalimath to Madmaheshwar is distinguished by scenic mountainscapes. This spot received the belly of Lord Shiva according to the Kedarnath myth.
Tungnath: (90kms.): At an altitude of 3680mts. is the highest Shiva shrine among the Panch Kedars where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of arms. It is easily accessible. Nearest road head: Chopta.
Rudranath: (142kms.): The temple where the face of Lord Shiva is worshipped, lies at an elevation of 2286mts. and is 23kms. from Gopeshwar. 5kms. of the distance is motorable and the rest 18kms. is to be trekked. Wild orchards and picturesque bugyals or high altitude meadows dominate the trek. The temple site provides a fascinating view of surrounding peaks. Anusuya devi Temple
Kalpeshwar: (160kms): Located in the urgam valley at an altitude of 2134mts. above sea level, the temple is a 10kms. trek from Helong-the motorhead on rishikesh-Badrinath route. Here the locks(hair) with head of Lord Shiva are worshipped.
Chandrashila(93kms.)
The chandrashila peak provides a rare view of snow-clad peaks. The rhododendron forests and alpine meadows dominate the trek from Tungnath to handrashila.
Deoria tal(68kms.)
Sari village is the last bus terminus on Chopta- Ukhimath road from where a 2kms. trek leads to Deoia tal. This beautiful lake at an altitude of 2438mts. gives the spectacular reflection of snow capped peaks in the lake water. Ideal spot for angling and bird watching.
BADRINATH
Cradled in the twin mountain ranges of Nar and Narayan in the holiestof the four main shrines, Badrinath along the left bank of river Alaknanda. With the splendid Neelkanth mountain as the backdrop, it is an important destination on the sacred itinerary of every devout Hindu. Once the spot was famous as Badri Van.
The reverd shrine is still alive with myriad legends from mythology. Its sanctity
Is emphasized 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 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 Lord Vishnu or Badrinath.
The temple of Shri Badrinathji
The temple remains closed during the winter seasons and is open from April-May to October- November.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Area : 3sq.km
Climate :
Month Max Temp Min. Temp
April 30 c 00c
May 50 c 00 c
June 14.50 c 5.90 c
July 18.20 c 100 c
August 180 c 10.50 c
September 160 c 8.50 c
October 12.50 c 5.60 c
Nov. 50 c 00 c
Dec-Mar snow bound snow bound
Rainfall : 1460mm.
Clothing : May-Heavy woolens
June- Sept.-light woolens
Oct.-Nov.- Heavy woolens
English Language :Hindi, Gaehwali &.
ACCESSIBILITY
Airport: Jolly Grant(317kms.)
Railhead: Rishikesh (300kms.), kotdwar(327kms.)
Road: Well connected to Rishikesh, haridwar, Dehradun, Kotdwar, and other hill stations of Garhwal and Kumaon regin.
ACCOMMODATION
Dharamshalas and Tourist rest house are available for a comfortable and economical accommodation.
1-Hotel Devlok
2-Yatri Niwas
3-Andhra bhawan
4-Jhun jhunwala cottage
5-Modi bhawan I
6-Modi bhawan II
7-Modi bhawan III
8-Mittal cottage
9-Chand cottage
10-Shankaracharya Sadan
11-Badrish sadan
12-Gujarat bhawan
13-Pilo Dharamshala
14-Kali Kamli Dharamshala
15-Bejoria Dharamshala
16-Mansingh Dharamshala
17-Rishiganga Dharamshala
18-Sadhu bhawan
19-Punjab Sindh Dharamshala
20-Atachi
21-Geeta bhawan
22-Balanand asharam
23-Maharastre bhawan
24-Raghunath asharam
25-Manavakalyan Dharamshala
26-Parmarth Lok
27-Halwasia Dharamshala
28-Birla Dharamshala
29-Dhodwa Dharamshala
30-Cadiya Dharamshala
31-Tantiya Dharamshala
32-Bangar Dharamshala
33-Swaminarayan Dharamshala
34-Bholagiri Dharamshala
35-Jain Dharamshala
36-Jalaram Dharamshala
37-Roopali Dharamshala
38-PWD Inspection House
39-Jai Nigam Rest House
40-Jal Sansthan Rest House
41-Forest Rest House
42-DGBR Rest House
RESTAURANTS
1-Vijaya-Laxmi Restaurant
2-Saket Restaurant
3-Urvashi Restaurant
4-Saveral other Restaurant,
(Liquor and non-vegetarian food are prohibited)
PRIME SITES
Badrinath temple
On the right bank of Alaknanda lies the sacred spot perched at an altitude of 3133mts. above the sea level. Encircled by a beautiful velley, the 15mts. high temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it is built in the form of a cone with a small cupola of a gilt bull and spire. Built by Adi Guru Shankaeacharya- the philosopher- saint of the 8th century, the temple has been renovated by several times due to damage by avalanches. Its colourful ‘Singh Dwara’ or the main entrance gate gives it a new, modern look. The temple is divided into three parts- the ‘garbha griha’ or sanctum sanctoum, ‘darshan mandap’wherw the rituals are conducted and the ‘sabha mandap’ where devotees assemble. The complex has 15 idols. Especially attractive is the one metre high image of Badrinath, finely sculpted in black stone. It represents Lord Vishnu seated in a meditative pose.
Tapt Kund
Devotees take a holy dip in the natural thermal springs on the banks of the river Alaknanda, before entering the Badrinath Temple
Brahma Kapl
A flat platform on the bank of river Alaknanda where Hindu perform propitiating rites for their deceased ancestors.
Shashnetra
A boulder having an impression of the legendary serpant- known as Sheshnag’s eye.
Charanpaduka
The footprints of lord Vishnu can be seen on a boulder in this beautiful meadow.
Neelkanth
A pyramidical-shaped snowy peak towering above Badrinath, popularly known as the ‘Garhwal queen’.
EXCURSIONS
On the right bank of Alaknanda stands the temple dedicated to the mother of Sri Badrinath.
Mana village(4kms.)
Inhabited by Indo-Mangolian tribe, it is considered to be the last Indian village before Tibit on this route. Nearby are Vyas Gufa- the rock cave of saint Ved Vyas, the writer of Mahabharata; Bhim pul –a natural bridge over the saraswati river and Vasundhara Falls-a 122mts high waterfall all forming an important part of the pilgrimage to Badrinath.
Alka Puri(15kms.)
The sourcs of Alaknanda river from the glacier snouts of Bhagirath-Kharak and Satopanth glaciers.
Valley of flowers(42kms)
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 19kms. trek from Govindghat. A must- see for all nature lovers.
Hemkund sahib(43kms.)
Near the valley of Flower lake Hemkund-
Nearby is the Lakshman Temple
The reflection of surrounding snow-clad peaks in its placid waters offers a scenic sight.
Satopanth(25kms.)
A three cornered lake with a circumference of about 1kms. situated at an elevation of 4402mts. 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.
Govindghat(25kms.)
The confluence of Alaknanda and Lakshman Ganga rivers. It has an imposing Gurudwara named after Guru Gobind singh.
Joshimath(44kms.)
The winter home of Shri Badrinath ji is situated on the slopes above the confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauliganga. It is one of the four ‘maths’ established by Adi Guru shankaracharya.
Auli(57kms.)
An ideal Ski resort in the Garhwal Himalayas with its slopes comparable to the best in the world. Perched at an elevation of 2500-3050mts. Auli not only offers a magnificent view pf the Himalayan ranges but is a delight for winter sports enthusiasts.
Pipalkoti(80kms)
A scenic spot amidst snow-clad peaks.
Chamoli(10kms.)
From Gopeshwar on Badrinath highway is the tiny mountain retrea that attracts visitors for its verdant landscapes and fresh mountain air.
Panch Prayag
The five important confluences Deoprayag, Nandprayag, Rudraprayag, Vishnuprayag from the Panch Prayag.
Deoprayag:The confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers. Ancient stone scriptures are found here.
Rudraprayag:The confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini river. The temple of Rudranath
Nandprayag: The confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini river. The Gopalji Temple
Karnaprayag: The confluence of Alaknanda and Pindar rivers with temple of Uma
Vishnuprayag: The confluence of Alaknanda Dhauliganga river. An ancient temple of Lord Vishnu
The old capital of Garhwal, it is an important cultural and educational centre. Places to visit include Kamleshwar and Killkileshwar temple and the Shankar Math.
Panch Badris
Yogadhyan Badri:(24kms.)Located at Pandukeshwar on Rishikesh-Badrinath highway. The image here in a meditative posture, is worshipped at Badrinath. According to the myth, the Pandavas handed over hastinapur to King Parikshit and retred here.
Bhavishya Badri: (69kms.)Located at an elevation of 2744mts. the temple is surrounded by dense forests. Nearby is the picturesque Tapovan valley famous for sulphurous hot springs
Adi badri:(146kms.) 17kms. from Karnaprayag on the Karnaprayag-Ranikhet road, Adi badri has 16 small temples. Seven of them, having fiat roofs, belong to the Gupta period. In the main idol of Lord Vishnu in black stone is enshrined on a raised platform in pyramidal form.
For Any Enquiry / General Information, Please Visit or Feel Free to Contact :-
Web Site: http://www.himadri.in/
E-mail: info@himadri.in Phone: +91-9412084782, +91-5942-232062, +91-5946-284834.
Head Office : “HIMADRI”
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Near Nainital Club, NAINITAL - 263001
Uttrakhand INDIA
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Near Nainital Club, NAINITAL - 263001
Branch: “HIMADRI”
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The Mall Road, NAINITAL - 263001
Uttrakhand INDIA
Near Sher-A-Punjab restaurant
The Mall Road, NAINITAL - 263001
Haldwani Office : “HIMADRI”
12, JANPATH COMPLEX,
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D.D.A. Market, Pitam Pura,
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Noida Office : “HIMADRI”
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