9 must-visit places near the Char Dham route you shouldn't miss
The Char Dham Yatra is not just about visiting temples; it's also about experiencing the divine beauty of Uttarakhand. Here are nine nearby places that will add adventure, peace, and wonder to your journey.Every year, lakhs of devotees from across India participate in the sacred Char Dham Yatra, visiting Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These four shrines are nestled in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand, offering not only spiritual elevation but also breathtaking natural scenery.advertisementBut did you know that the Char Dham road also runs through or near some equally interesting but lesser-known destinations?
From serene lakes and picturesque hill stations to sacred caves and ancient temples, numerous gems remain just off the beaten Char Dham path. Including a few of these side trips in your travel itinerary can enhance your whole yatra experience—particularly if you're looking for both pilgrimage and discovery.Here are 9 must-visit places near the Char Dham route that deserve a spot on your itinerary:1. Harsil (Near Gangotri)A quiet valley surrounded by mountains and pine trees, Harsil is just 25 km from Gangotri. It is perfect for peace seekers and offers stunning river views, apple orchards, and a fresh mountain breeze.Mana Village (Near Badrinath)The last village of India, Mana, is just 3 km away from Badrinath. Famous for Vyas Gufa, Bheem Pul, and its breathtaking scenery. The mythological traditions have it that the Pandavas traveled via this place when they went to heaven.advertisement2. Triyuginarayan Temple (Near Kedarnath)Situated approximately 13 km from Sonprayag, here Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are said to have exchanged their marriage vows. A flame here is said to have been burning for centuries, representing their holy union.3. GuptkashiGuptkashi, on the way to Kedarnath, has the Vishwanath Temple and Ardhnareshwar Temple. The town is sacred and provides a more peaceful, less touristy atmosphere for meditation.4. Pandukeshwar (Between Joshimath and Badrinath)This tiny village is said to have been established by King Pandu, father of the Pandavas. It boasts two ancient temples, Yog Dhyan Badri and Vasudeva Temple, that remain open even when Badrinath remains shut during winter.5. Kalimath (Near Guptkashi)One of the 108 Shakti Peeths, Kalimath is situated on the banks of the Saraswati River. The temple is of Goddess Kali, and the idol is worshipped once a year during Navratri.6. Auli (Near Joshimath)Renowned for skiing and panoramic Himalayan views, Auli is just a short drive away from Joshimath, which lies en route to Badrinath. It's ideal for people who seek a break full of adventure and nature.7. Gaurikund (Base of Kedarnath Trek)This serves as the beginning of the Kedarnath trek and also has mythological significance. It is said that Goddess Parvati meditated here to marry Lord Shiva. There is also a hot water spring present here.advertisement8. JoshimathThis is the main halt for travellers proceeding to Badrinath and Auli. It is also one of the four maths (spiritual centres) founded by Adi Shankaracharya and is of immense spiritual significance.The Char Dham Yatra is India's most holy pilgrimage, but the experience can be made all the richer when supplemented with nearby gems like Harsil, Mana, and Auli. They provide peace, natural scenery, and ancient spirituality. So if you're booking a Char Dham Yatra this year, do think about extending your journey slightly—you won't be disappointed.Disclaimer:The travel information provided here is according to present known paths and cultural cues. Tourists are requested to verify weather, road status, and temple hours before going. A few sites could be closed during winter or for local reasons.
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