Chardham Yatra is a revered pilgrimage in the Indian Himalayas, attracting thousands of pilgrims every year to the sacred shrines. The tour covers Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath which offers an exhilarating treasure trove. Travellers can also partake in trekking opportunities for adventure lovers looking to discover the breathtaking landscapes beyond these holy sites.
Here’s a proper Char Dham Trekking guide that promises to captivate and challenge even the most seasoned trekkers.
Har ki Dun Trek –
Trek Duration: 7 to 9 days approx.
Famous For: Har ki Dun Valley, Swargarohini Peaks, Rich Biodiversity and Ancient Temples and Villages
Located in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, the Har ki Dun trek is a beautiful hidden gem that offers a panoramic view of the majestic peaks and serene meadows. The Har ki Dun trek starts from the charming village of Sankri and takes you through lush forests, terraced fields and ancient temples. Lying at an altitude of 3,566 meters, this trek provides scenic vistas of Swargarohini and Black Peak. The trekking route is popular for its breathtaking views and rich biodiversity, making it a hot favourite among nature lovers.
Ruinsara Lake Trek –
Trek Duration: 7 to 9 days approx.
Famous For: Ruinsara Lake, Scenic beauty, Biodiversity and Peaceful atmosphere
The Ruinsara Lake Trek is a less-explored path that takes you through enchanting forests and alpine meadows. The trek begins from Sankri and leads you to the pristine Ruinsara Lake, located at an altitude of 3,600 meters. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers a serene and picturesque setting. Ruinsara Lake trek is perfect for those seeking solitude and a chance to experience the unmatched beauty of the Himalayas.
Kedar Tal Trek –
Trek Duration: 8 to 10 days approx.
Famous For: Kedar Tal, Majestic Peaks, Challenging Terrain and Serene Environment
The most challenging Kedar Tal Trek is a bit rewarding and begins from Gangotri. The trek takes you to the beautiful Kedartal, a glacial lake nestled at an altitude of 4,750 meters. Surrounded by towering peaks like Thalay Sagar and Bhrigupanth, the lake offers a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. The trek requires a high level of physical fitness, and the breathtaking views or serene environment make it worthwhile.
Bali Pass Trek –
Trek Duration: 9 to 11 days approx.
Famous For: Bali Pass, Diverse Landscapes, Panoramic Views and cultural experience
For adventure seekers looking for a high-altitude challenge, the Bali Pass Trek is an excellent choice for trekkers. Starting from the village of Sankri, the trek crosses the Bali Pass at an altitude of 4,800 meters and descends into the Yamunotri Valley. The trek offers diverse landscapes, from lush green forests and meadows to barren high-altitude terrain. The charming views of the Bandarpoonch and Swargarohini peaks are spectacular.
Dodital Trek –
Trek Duration: 5 to 7 days approx.
Famous For: Dodital Lake, Scenic Beauty, Wildlife and Serenity
The relatively moderate Dodital Trek begins from the village of Uttarkashi. The trek takes you to Dodital Lake, located at an altitude of 3.307 meters. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, including dense oak and rhododendron forests. This trek offers an incredible opportunity to experience the tranquillity of the Himalayan wilderness and is suitable for trekkers.
Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila Trek –
Trek Duration: 4 to 6 days approx.
Famous For: Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak, Scenic Beauty and Alpine Meadows
Also known as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” Chopta is a famous base point for the Tungnath and Chandrashila trek. The trek begins from Chopta and leads to the Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world at 3,680 meters. As soon as you take a short climb to Chandrashila Peak, you can observe the panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, including Nanda Devi and Trishul.
Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek –
Trek Duration: 6 to 10 days approx.
Famous For: Trekking, Expedition, High Altitude Trek, Camping, Kumaon Trekking
The most adventurous Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek begins from Joshimath and takes you to the base camp of India’s highest peak, Nanda Devi. The trek offers incredible views of Nanda Devi and the surrounding peaks, lush green meadows and ancient forests. The trekking experience lets you explore the high-altitude terrain and experience the grandeur of the Himalayas.
Conclusion –
For adventure lovers, the region around Char Dham offers a diverse range of trekking experiences, each offering its unique charm and challenge. Whether to explore hidden lakes, conquer high-altitude passes, or simply immerse in the serene beauty of the Himalayas, these 7 treks provide a perfect blend of adventure and natural experience. Lace up your hiking boots, pack your gear and embark on a remarkable trip through the scenic landscapes of the Indian Himalayas.