Posted by: Sumeet Chopra
Every single Hindu knows the spiritual importance of Chardham but many of us still don’t know Char Dham name and places. Char Dham Yatra signifies a huge divine pilgrimage of Hinduism. And these four places which are known as Char Dham are Rameshwaram, Jaganath-Puri, Badrinath, Kedarnath and Dwarka. The idea of Char Dham was generated by Adi Guru Shankaracharya and he described the 4 Dham as three Vaishnavism sites and one Shaivism site.
Chardham Yatra gives you a spiritual experience of life and it is all about 4 Dham including, Kedarnath, Yamunotri, Badrinath, and Gangotri. And this holy journey of these shrines is called Chota Char Dham. These shrines are nested in lap of Himalayas. When we talk about another circuit, Char Dham Yatra name and places includes Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Rameshwaram, and these four abodes are located in the India’s four directions.
Both circuits are considered essential pilgrimages,
but they cater to different aspects of spiritual and religious practices. If
you are planning to visit these places, book Chardham Yatra Package from
Bangalore, Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad, Haridwar or any part of India or out of
nation.
4 Dham Yatra Name and Places in India
The 4 Dham Yatra in India is famous for its spirituality in Hinduism. And there are two 4 Dham Yatra for pilgrims, one is Chota 4 Dham Yatra which takes devotees to the tour of Uttarakhand. In this Char Dham Yatra Package you will visit the Kedarnath Temple, Yamunotri, Badrinath Temple, and Gangotri. And another one is called Bada 4 Dham Yatra which will take you to the four directions of India. If you opt for Bada 4 Dham Yatra tour package, the tour operator will take you to Badrinath Temple, Dwarka Mandir, Puri Mandir, and Rameshwaram Temple. Continue reading to know more Chardham Yatra Places list, Name and location.
Bada Char Dham Name and Places
The Bada Char Dham name which involves visiting shrines located in the four cardinal directions of India, is a revered pilgrimage. Here is list of Char Dham places list and names with detailed information each sacred place:
1. Badrinath in Uttarakhand
This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and it stands at an elevation of 10,279 feet in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It got its name from a tree called Berry (Badri), which was found here in large numbers. The presence of this tree earned the place the name Badri-Van because Nar-Narayan in the form of Lord Vishnu once made a meditation on this spot as people used to call it. The origin of this temple can be traced back to Mata Lakshmi who, during the penance of Nar- Narayan, took on the form of a Berry tree for purposes of protecting Lord Vishnu from hostile weather conditions.
History
Hindu mythology states that Badrinath became important after Tapasya (meditation) done by Nar-Narayan who was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. In Sanskrit language ‘Badri’ means berries; hence, there were many trees around the region that bore these fruits. As per local legends, that is where Badrika-Van was derived meaning “the forest with berry.” This is exactly where the Badrinath Temple was erected since this is also said to be the exact location where Nar-Narayan had meditated several years earlier. He had been protected by a huge berry tree during his Tapasya.
Mata Lakshmi transformed into a berry trees so that she could protect him against rain and sun light as locals say. After he had completed his tapasya, he proclaimed that people would always use Lakshmi’s name before his own thus earning him or her the name Lakshmi-Narayana
Why Visit
Badrinath is renowned for its spiritual ambiance and scenic beauty. The temple is famous for its black stone idol of Lord Badrinarayan, believed to be self-manifested. Surrounding the temple are natural wonders like the Neelkanth Peak, Charanpaduka, Vasudhara Falls, Bheem Pul, and Brahma Kapal. These sites offer both spiritual solace and breathtaking views.
Opening and Closing Time:
Badrinath opens around the holy eve of Akshaya Tritiya in May and closes on the eve of Bhai Dooj in November.
2. Dwarka in Gujarat
The city is Dwarka, a well-known place of Lord Krishna. It has ancient temples and beautiful beaches. This temple town in Gujarat on the banks of Gomti River is one of the most significant holy places in India. Bada Char Dham Circuit’s leading shrine, it attracts thousands of devotees who come for worship every year to its spiritual depths. In Dwarka, the mixture of reality and mythology creates a spiritually moving experience. There are fascinating stories and sights in this city that will amaze everyone who comes to visit.
History:
Dwarka is associated with Krishna as it was where he lived. Historically called Swaravati or Kushasthali, around 1500 BC, it believed that Lord Krishna had established this golden city. Dwarka has been submerged many times over time and the current city is considered as the seventh reincarnation of original Dwarka.
Why Visit:
It is not just a pilgrimage site but also a place to learn about history and architecture.Dwarkadhish temple constructed by Vajranabha who was also Krishna’s great-grandson is one such attraction point among various others.Beth dwarkanoteworthy for its association with Krishna's life ,and also scenic beaches and bird-watching spots.
Opening and Closing Time:
The Dwarkadhish Temple typically opens from 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM.
3. Puri in Odisha
Puri is one of the most popular and sacred cities in Odisha for Jagannath worship. Puri stands out among other pilgrimage towns for being the only holy location where prominent goddesses such as Lakshmi, Durga, Sati, Parvati and Shakti are worshipped. The Rath Yatra or Chariot Festival is held in Puri where a chariot procession starts from the Jagannath Temple to the Shri Gundicha Temple by covering a distance of 3 km. Furthermore, adding to Puri’s charm is Govardhan Matha; one of the four mathas established by Adi Shankaracharya in different corners of India.
History:
Puri, located in Odisha state has been known for its Jagannath Temple which is dedicated to Krishna. This city was also called Purushottama Kshetra historically. A famous Rath Yatra (chariot festival) is celebrated here where Lord Jagannath’s journey becomes a huge event that attracts thousands of devotees.
Why Visit:
Puri offers visitors both spiritual and natural attractions. While Puri Beach and Chilika Lake provide relaxation areas with picturesque views; the temple of Jagannath serves as a great place for worshipers. In addition, the city’s rich cultural heritage which includes craft work & traditional art makes it even more attractive.
Opening and Closing Time:
The Jagannath Temple opens at 5:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM.
4. Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu
Attracting Lord Shiva’s followers from every corner of the country, Rameshwaram is one of India's most hallowed sites. It lies in the district of Ramanathapuram on Pamban Island and is known for housing the Jyotirlinga in the Ramanathaswamy Temple. The temple located at the southernmost tip of Indian Peninsula on an island that is connected by the Pamban Bridge across Gulf of Mannar.
History
Rameshwaram Temple is a major Hindu pilgrimage center dedicated to both deities, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. As per mythology, this was where lord Rama started his journey to save his wife Sita from demon king Ravana. With support from Hanuman leading Vanara army, Ram performed penance by installing Shiva lingam to seek forgiveness for Brahmahatya (killing a Brahmin). The present temple built in 12th century is believed to enshrine an ancient Lingam used by Ram.
Why Visit
Arriving at Rameshwaram involves discovering places divine and historical. The highlight among them is the Panch-Mukhi Hanuman Temple which has five faces of Hanuman adorned with floating stones used to build Sethu Bandhanam (The Bridge to Lanka). Temple Arch-17th century
Opening and Closing Time:
The Ramanathaswamy Temple is open from 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Chota Char Dham Yatra
The Chota Char Dham places are located in Uttarakhand, is another revered pilgrimage circuit. It consists of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Here’s a closer look at these sacred sites:
1. Kedarnath in Uttarakhand
Kedarnath is also one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in North India, situated high up in the Himalayas and blanketed with snow. Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas whose elevation above mean sea level is at 11,755 feet. It is Gauri Kund that serves as a base camp for this holy shrine trek. Trekkers can either hire a Palki (palanquin) or Pony to do it on their behalf or choose to walk instead of hiring any. During winter, the idol of deity has been shifted to Omkareshwar Temple located in Ukhimath where worshippers continue to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. Kedarnath provides a breath taking spiritual path.
History
Legend has it that after fighting with his relatives in Kurukshetra War, Pandavas went to Varanasi to seek pardon from Lord Shiva. However, Lord Shiva deliberately avoided confronting them by running away and hiding at Guptkashi as a buffalo. As they neared him, Shiva began sinking into ground and Bhima among other Pandavas held onto buffalo’s legs and tail but eventually he disappeared leaving behind only his hump that now forms an object of worship at Kedarnath temple today.
Why Visit?
Kedarnath is one of the most sacred destinations in the region, which is also known as Panch Kedar. They say that the Kedarnath Temple was built by Pandavas and later restored by Adi Shankaracharya. As far as the spiritual atmosphere is concerned, this can be best experienced at Gauri Kund which lies at an altitude of 1982 m.
Vasuki Tal is a tourist attraction for all categories of tourists. It lies at an elevation of 4135 m and on its sides are covered with snow that makes it a great site to visit. Visiting this place will let you see Chaukhamba Peaks from your own eyes too. Being among the most attractive natural wonders, it serves as an ideal destination for adventure lovers due to its imposing hills and lush meadows.
Opening and Closing Time:
The Kedarnath Temple opens in May and closes in November due to heavy snowfall.
2. Badrinath Temple
Badrinath Temple is one of the most revered Hindu temples in India and it is devoted to Lord Vishnu. It lies within Chota Chardham Circuit and it also forms part of Bada ChadDham Circuit, making it a major pilgrimage site. The temple has an idol of Lord Badrinarayan sitting in meditation. In winter, the idol is shifted for worship in Joshimath’s Vasu Dev temple. There is also Mata Murti Temple dedicated to mother of lord badri and next to that Tapt Kund known for its curative spring.
History
What makes Badrinath Dham special is its inclusion into both Chota Chardham as well as Bada Chardham circuits. It is also among Panch Badri temples and 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple has a black stone idol of Lord Vishnu with a height of about 1 meter; it is considered as one among Swyam Vyakta Kshetras or self-manifested deities eight such sites spread across India.
According to legends, the sons of Dharma, Nar and Narayan were searching for a quiet spot in the Himalayas where they could have their hermitage. They discovered four other locations out of Panch Badri including Yog Badri, Dhyan Badri, Bridha Badri and Bhavisya Badri during their quest.
Why Visit?
At every turn, Badrinath brings a mix of enthralling spiritual ambiance and natural beauty which will hold your attention. When called the “Queen of Garhwal”, admire Neelkanth’s impressive snow-capped peaks. This peak is 6,597 meters high and it is a mecca for numerous nature lovers as well as pilgrims. Charan Paduka, an esteemed rock situated approximately two miles from the Badrinath Temple, is also worth visiting. It is said that at Charan Paduka where Lord Vishnu’s footprints are found, one can be rid of life’s difficulties and disturbances according to a myth.
Opening and Closing Time:
The temple opens from May to November and closes during the winter months.
3. Gangotri, Uttarakhand
This serene and picturesque town is located on the banks of Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand. Gangotri is a quiet place with amazing natural landscapes. The temple of goddess Ganga closes during winter when it becomes too cold; hence, Mukba offers her sanctuary until the end of winter.
Gangotri thus has an atmosphere of peace, untouched beauty as well as holy Ganges waters that make it a remarkable place for visitors wishing to heal their souls spiritually and enjoy the nature at its best.
History
According to ancient Hindu mythology, the sacred site of Gangotri is associated with the story about not bringing river Ganga to earth by King Sagar’s grandson Anshuman. The son was Dilip who also failed in this attempt. On the other hand, Bhagirath succeeded in doing all this after meditating from here at Gangotri. After years of devotion, Ganga descended down but she was confined within Lord Shiva’s matted locks. At last however when he saw that Bhagirath would not give up till he brought his plan to fruition; Lord Shiva moved by his determination released Ganga in three stages (one being called Bhagirathi). The rock where King Bhagirath is believed to have meditated is known as ‘Bhagirath Shila,’ situated near Ganga.
Why Visit?
Among the sacred places in Gangotri, which are famous for their religious significance and bountiful natural beauty, this place has a unique appeal. The Tapovan is full of adventure and thrill seekers should not miss visiting it. Tapovan is an excellent camping spot with it’s’ altitude of 4,460 meters and also offers a trekking route that would be adventurous.
The beautiful Shivling peaks embraced by green forests will make the journey unforgettable. Begin your exploration with the Submerged Shivling, a natural rock formation believed to be where Lord Shiva sat to cradle Ganga in his hair. Another wonderful place to visit is Gomukh, the source of river Ganga. The peacefulness of Gomukh makes it an attractive destination for visitors who travel to Gangotri.
Opening and Closing Time:
The temple is open from 6:15 AM to 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
4. Yamunotri in Uttarakhand
Yamunotri, a part of the Chota Chardham pilgrimage in Uttarakhand state, is dedicated to the Yamuna River, which is India’s second holiest river. Located at an elevation of 3,293 meters above sea level, this esteemed temple serves as a major pilgrimage center where devotees come to seek blessings. It was constructed by Maharani Guleria of Jaipur and later rebuilt by Maharana Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. A silver idol of Goddess Yamuna is harbored inside the temple. When Akshaya Tritiya comes around, thousands of people visit this place annually to mark the end of the 4 Dham Yatra. She is regarded as Yama’s twin sister and a daughter to Sun god.
History
The Temple has its history closely associated with Sage Asit Muni who kept on bathing himself in River Ganga even after he grew old. Sensing his difficulty, it is said that Goddess Ganga appeared as Yamuna to help him.
Why Visit?
According to Hindu mythology, Yamunotri holds a unique significance for them. The waters from River Yamuna are believed to purify sins and protect against unnatural deaths. Pilgrims undertake a trek from Janki Chatti in order to access this temple; an experience like no other. According to folklore, Lord Hanuman doused the flames using water from Yamuna at Bandarpoonch after burning down Lanka wallowing into Yamuna river Legend also says that there are glaciers and hot springs near-by which makes it a paradise for environmentalists Passionate views.
Opening and Closing Time:
The temple opens during Akshaya Tritiya in May and closes in November.
Book Char Dham Yatra Pacakges
Char Dham Yatra, whether the Bada Char Dham or Chota Char Dham, represents a journey through sacred sites that offer spiritual fulfilment and a deep connection with the divine. Book Chardham Yatra Package from Bangalore, Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad, Haridwar or other parts of India. Each shrine holds its unique history, significance, and charm, making the pilgrimage a transformative experience for devotees. Whether you seek spiritual solace, historical insights, or natural beauty, the 4 Dham Yatra provides an unparalleled journey through India's spiritual heartland.
