Have you ever seen snow? Big, fluffy white flakes falling from the sky, covering trees, mountains, and roads like a soft blanket? Now, imagine walking through a land where snow never melts, where rivers sparkle like glass, and where ancient temples sit quietly under the watch of giant mountains. Sounds like a fairy tale, right?
Well, this magical place is real—and it’s called the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand
In this fun and easy-to-read blog, we’ll go on a pretend journey to four holy places in the Himalayas. We’ll learn about snow, temples, brave travelers, and even some cool stories from long ago. We’ll also find out where is Kedarnath, how to plan a Kedarnath tour package from Delhi, and a Badrinath tour package from Delhi, all in a way that’s simple and fun!
So, grab your warmest jacket, put on your snow boots, and let’s go on a winter adventure together!
What is the Char Dham Yatra Uttarakhand?
“Char” means “four.” “Dham” means “holy place.” So, Char Dham means Four Holy Places in the northern part of India, in a state called Uttarakhand.
These four places are:
- Yamunotri – Where the Yamuna River begins
- Gangotri – Where the Ganga River starts
- Kedarnath – Home of Lord Shiva
- Badrinath – Home of Lord Vishnu
Millions of people visit these places every year. They walk, ride ponies, take buses, and even fly in helicopters to reach them. It’s not just a trip—it’s a journey of the heart.
But what happens when winter comes?
Char Dham in Winter: Cold, Quiet, and Full of Magic
Winter in the Himalayas is from November to March. During this time, it gets very, very cold. Snow falls every few days, and sometimes the roads get covered so much that cars and buses can’t pass.
Because of this, the Char Dham temples are closed during winter. The priests carry the idols of the gods to safer, warmer places nearby. This special move is called Palki Utsav.
So, you can’t go inside the temples in winter. But guess what? You can still visit the area! And it’s super beautiful.
Imagine:
- Snow-covered mountains that look like giant cupcakes
- Frozen rivers that shine like mirrors
- Pine trees wearing white hats
- Silence all around—no noise, just peace
Even though the temples are closed, the air still feels holy and calm. Many people say it’s the best time to think, pray, and feel close to nature.
Where is Kedarnath?
Where is Kedarnath? It’s in the Himalayas, in a place called Uttarakhand. It’s very high up—so high that if you stand there, you might feel like you’re touching the sky!
Kedarnath is at a height of 3,583 meters above sea level. That’s taller than 1,000 giraffes stacked on top of each other!
To reach Kedarnath, most people start from a place called Gaurikund. From there, it’s a 14-kilometer walk. But don’t worry—you can also ride a pony, sit in a palanquin (a small chair carried by people), or even take a helicopter!
In winter, the temple is closed, but you can still go to Gaurikund or Sonprayag and see the snowy mountains. If the weather is good, you might even take a helicopter ride and see the temple from above—covered in snow like a sugar cube!
A Cool Story: How Kedarnath Was Found
Long, long ago, there were five brothers called the Pandavas. After a big war, they wanted to say sorry to Lord Shiva for all the fighting.
But Lord Shiva was upset. So, he turned into a big buffello and ran into the mountains.
The brothers followed him. When Shiva saw they were catching up, he disappeared into the ground. But his back stayed above the earth—and that’s where the Kedarnath temple was later built!
The other parts of the Buffalo appeared in four other places, making a group called Panch Kedar.
So, Kedarnath is not just a temple—it’s a piece of a real god’s story!
Kedarnath Tour Package from Delhi
Now, let’s talk about how to go there—especially if you live in Delhi!
If you want to visit Kedarnath, you can book a Kedarnath tour package from Delhi. Think of it like a ready-made adventure box! It includes:
- A car or bus to take you there
- A warm hotel to sleep in
- Yummy food to eat
- A friendly guide to help you
- Tickets for helicopter rides (if you want)
- Visits to cool places nearby
Even in winter, some tour packages go to Gaurikund, Sonprayag, and Ukhimath (where Lord Kedarnath stays during winter).
You won’t enter the temple, but you’ll see snow, mountains, and feel the magic of the place.
How to Reach Kedarnath from Delhi?
Here’s how:
- By Air: Fly from Delhi to Dehradun (the nearest airport). Then take a cab to Gaurikund (about 6–8 hours).
- By Train: Take a train to Haridwar or Rishikesh. From there, hire a taxi.
- By Road: You can take a bus or private car from Delhi. The drive takes about 12–14 hours.
In winter, roads may be blocked by snow. Always check the weather before you go!
What to Pack for a Winter Trip?
Going to the Himalayas in winter is like going to the North Pole! ❄️ So, pack smart:
✅ Thick jacket and warm clothes
✅ Woolen cap, gloves, and muffler
✅ Waterproof snow boots
✅ Thermals (special clothes that keep you warm)
✅ Snacks (chocolates, dry fruits, biscuits)
✅ Water bottle (keep it warm)
✅ Camera (to click snow photos!)
✅ Power bank (your phone will get cold!)
And don’t forget: Dress like a snow hero!
Badrinath: The Land of Lord Vishnu
Next stop: Badrinath!
This temple is for Lord Vishnu, who is known as the protector of the universe. He sits here in peace, surrounded by snow and silence.
Where is Badrinath?
Badrinath is also in Uttarakhand, at 3,133 meters above sea level. It’s near a river called Alaknanda, and the view is out of this world!
Just like Kedarnath, the Badrinath temple is closed in winter. The idol is taken to Joshimath, a nearby town, for safety.
But you can still visit Badrinath in winter and see the temple from outside, enjoy the snow, and take amazing photos.
The Legend of Badrinath
Once, Lord Vishnu wanted to meditate in peace. But the sun was too bright! So, a berry tree grew and gave him shade.
Because of this, he became known as Badri-Nath (Lord of the Berry Tree).
It is said that two sages, Nar and Narayan, also meditated here for thousands of years. That’s why this place is so powerful and full of peace.
Even today, when you sit near the temple, you can feel calm and happy—just like Lord Vishnu!
Badrinath Tour Package from Delhi
Want to see Badrinath in winter? You can book a Badrinath tour package from Delhi!
These packages are like magic carpets—they take care of everything for you.
What’s included?
- Travel from Delhi (car, bus, or flight)
- Hotel stay in Joshimath or Pipalkoti
- Breakfast and dinner
- Visit to Badrinath (outside view)
- Sightseeing at cool spots like Tapt Kund (a hot water spring) and Brahma Kapal
- A guide to tell you fun stories
Some packages even combine Badrinath + Kedarnath, so you can see both in one trip!
How to Reach Badrinath from Delhi?
- By Air: Fly to Dehradun, then drive to Badrinath (takes 10–12 hours).
- By Train: Reach Haridwar or Rishikesh, then take a taxi.
- By Road: Direct buses and cabs are available from Delhi.
⚠️ In winter, some roads may be closed. Always confirm before booking!
The Other Two Dhams: Yamunotri and Gangotri
We’ve seen Kedarnath and Badrinath. Now, let’s meet the other two!
Yamunotri – The Start of the Yamuna River
Yamunotri is where the Yamuna River begins. It’s high up in the mountains, and there’s a natural hot spring where priests cook rice and potatoes as offerings.
The food becomes prasad—blessed food that gives good luck!
In winter, the temple is closed, but you can still visit Hanuman Chatti and see the snowy peaks.
Gangotri – Where the Ganga Begins
Gangotri is where the Ganga River starts from a big ice glacier. It’s believed that Goddess Ganga came down from heaven here.
In winter, the temple is closed, but the view of the Gangotri Glacier covered in snow is breathtaking!
How to Reach Each Dham in Winter?
Even though the temples are closed, you can still go near them. Here’s how:
| Yamunotri | Dehradun | Haridwar | Cab to Hanuman Chatti |
| Gangotri | Dehradun | Rishikesh | Drive to Gangotri town |
| Kedarnath | Dehradun | Rishikesh | Cab to Gaurikund |
| Badrinath | Dehradun | Haridwar | Drive to Joshimath |
Note: In heavy snow, some roads may be closed. Always check before you go.
Who Can Go?
- Kids (if healthy and dressed warmly)
- Parents and grandparents (if fit and careful)
- Adventure lovers (for snow views and photos)
- Peace seekers (to feel calm and quiet)
But remember: Winter travel in the mountains is not easy. The air is thin, it’s very cold, and help is far away. So, always go with adults and stay safe.
Best Time to Visit in Winter
The best time to see the Char Dham areas in winter is February to March. Why?
- Snow is still there
- Roads begin to open
- Weather is a little warmer
- Fewer crowds
November and December are very cold and risky. April is when the temples reopen!
Fun Things to Do in Winter
Even if the temples are closed, there’s so much fun:
✅ Take photos of snow mountains
✅ Drink hot tea at a roadside dhaba
✅ See frozen waterfalls
✅ Learn about local people and culture
✅ Visit the winter homes of the gods (like Ukhimath and Joshimath)
And if you’re lucky, you might even see a Himalayan bird with colorful feathers!
Yummy Winter Food to Try
The food in the mountains is simple but super tasty! Try these:
- Bal Mithai – A sweet, chocolate-like treat made with sugar and nuts
- Aloo Ke Gutke – Spicy potatoes with coriander
- Gahat Soup – Warm soup made from lentils
- Hot Ginger Tea – Perfect for cold days!
Eat at local dhabas—they’re cozy and friendly!
Safety Tips for Winter Travel
Traveling in snow is fun, but safety is important! Here’s how to stay safe:
- Wear warm clothes all the time.
- Don’t walk alone—stay with your group.
- Drink warm water—it keeps you healthy.
- Avoid night travel—roads are slippery.
- Carry extra batteries—cold kills phone power fast.
- Respect nature—don’t throw trash.
- Listen to your parents and guide.
And most importantly: Have fun, but be careful!
Sample 5-Day Winter Trip (Delhi to Kedarnath & Badrinath)
Here’s a fun winter plan:
Day 1: Delhi → Dehradun (flight) → Drive to Rishikesh
Day 2: Rishikesh → Sonprayag → Gaurikund (see snow, take photos)
Day 3: Gaurikund → Guptkashi → Drive to Joshimath
Day 4: Joshimath → Badrinath (outside view) → Visit Tapt Kund
Day 5: Return to Rishikesh → Fly to Delhi
This trip gives you a taste of both Kedarnath and Badrinath, with comfort and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Let’s answer some fun questions!
Q1: Can we visit Char Dham in December?
A: The temples are closed, but you can visit nearby areas to see the snow.
Q2: Is it safe for kids to go in winter?
A: Yes, if they are healthy, dressed warmly, and with adults.
Q3: Can we book a Kedarnath tour package from Delhi in winter?
A: Yes! Many packages are available for winter trips.
Q4: Where is Kedarnath?
A: In Uttarakhand, high in the Himalayas, near the Mandakini River.
Q5: Can we get a Badrinath tour package from Delhi?
A: Yes! You can book one that includes travel, stay, and sightseeing.
Q6: Do we need special permission?
A: No, for most areas. But some places may have rules.
Q7: What if it snows too much?
A: Trips may be delayed. Always have a backup plan.
Q8: Can we see the gods’ idols in winter?
A: No, they are moved to winter homes. But you can visit those places!
Q9: Are there hospitals and ATMs?
A: Yes, but very few. Carry cash and medicines.
Q10: Can we trek in winter?
A: Only short walks with guides. Full treks are not safe.
