Chardham FAQs
1. What are the starting and closing dates of the Chardham Yatra in 2024?
The opening dates of Chardham Yatra will be announced on Maha Shivratri of 2024. The tentative dates of the opening of Chardham Mandir are as follows:
a. Gangotri Temple This temple usually opens on the auspicious day of Akshay Tritiya which falls on the 3rd of May in 2024.
b. Yamunotri Temple Like Gangotri, even the Yamunotri temple opens for public devotion from Akshay Tritiya, i.e., the 3rd of May 2024.
c. Kedarnath Temple This temple will be opened to the public from the 7th of May 2024 when the idol of God Kedar will be transported from Ukimath to the main temple.
d. Badrinath Temple The commencement date of Badrinath Temple is usually declared on Basant Panchami and this year it is likely to be opened from 8th May 2024.
All the four dhams of this religious tour are open only for 6 months a year owing to the harsh climatic conditions. The approximate date of closing of these temples this year are as follows:
a. Gangotri Temple – 25th October 2024
b. Yamunotri Temple – 24th October 2024
c. Kedarnath – 24th October 2024
d. Badrinath – 20th November 2024
2. What makes Char Dham Yatra so significant?
3. Can I have a safe tour of Chardham Yatra with Chiku Cab?
4. What is the best and the safest time to embark on this holy Yatra?
5. What challenges are usually faced during a Chardham Yatra journey and how do we overcome them?
The biggest hurdle of touring the Chardham Yatra is the climatic conditions and the terrain. But if you’re prepared beforehand, your tour will be a lot easier. Here are a few tips from Chiku Cab to make your Yatra a comfortable one:
a. Always carry appropriate clothing according to the season. It is advised that you carry warm clothing itself as even the summers in Uttarakhand are a little chilling.
b. In case you have any ailments, it is necessary to keep your tour operator informed in case of emergencies and also do not forget to carry your medicine dosages with you.
c. While in the temple premises always see to it that you follow etiquettes and not hurt the sentiments of other devotees.
d. Also carry dry snacks with you during the whole of your journey.
e. Finally, carry a torch, match-box, candle, and other essentials on your tour.
6. Why one should opt for helicopter services to cover this holy Yatra?
7. What is the documentation needed for this pilgrimage? Are there any specific requirements for an individual to carry during the Chardham Yatra tour?
8. Is the journey safe for senior citizens?
To make the Chardham Yatra of senior citizens a blissful journey, Chiku Cab has tailored made tour for the same. In this tour, we have arranged a doctor on call facility and vehicles with drivers of more than 5 years of experience to drive on this terrain.
9. Is there any issue in finding accommodation at such heights?
After the heavy flooding natural calamity which struck Uttarakhand in 2013, the governing authorities have made accommodation much more convenient to the devotees. Thus, there is no problem as such in finding accommodation at high altitudes during the Chardham Yatra.
10. Can we do Do-Dham yatra by helicopter from Dehradun?
The Do-Dham Yatra of the temples of Badrinath and Kedarnath can be completed with ease by booking helicopter rides from Dehradun. It is a one-day excursion which you can participate in.
11. Is it safe to travel to Kedarnath with Chiku Cab services?
Chiku Cab services offers you the most well-maintained vehicles which are suitable for the Kedarnath terrain along with drivers who have ample experience of driving on such routes, thus, making the Kedarnath Yatra safe to travel with Chiku Cab.
12. How long is Kedarnath & Yamunotri trek?
The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is a total of a distance of 18 kilometres and can be said to be a one-day trek. As far as Yamunotri is concerned the trek from the base point is 7 kilometres apart, approximate half a day of trekking.
13. Is there any helicopter service to Kedarnath?
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has started helicopter services to reach Kedarnath. The fare of these services is fixed by the Government of India on an annual basis.
14.How is the road condition of the Chardham Route?
With the project of Chardham Highway in progress, which consists of two lanes either way of at least 10 metres wide for a single lane, the road route in the Chardham Yatra seems to be pretty safe and secured.
15. Is it to safe travel to Chardham as a solo female traveller?
India is a developing nation and women empowerment is of much significance to it. Also, with police check posts and security for the Chardham Yatra, it is quite safe to travel as a solo female traveller for the Chardham Yatra.
16. Is it allowed to take a 1-7-year-old child for Chardham Yatra?
Although there is no hard or fast rule for the age of a pilgrim to Chardham Yatra, it is suggested that devotees from the age group of 7-65 should carry out this Yatra. Still, in case you are planning to take your child along, make sure that all the necessities of the child, like warm clothing, medicine, etc. are carried and it is advisable to finish the Chardham Yatra only with an experienced tour manager like Chiku Cab.
17. How can I do Chardham Yatra registration?
The simplest way of registering for a Chardham Yatra is by visiting the official website, www.officialchardhamyatra.in and registering yourself. Apart from this, there are various other offline biometric registration offices at Rishikesh, Guptkashi, Haridwar, etc. Do not forget to carry your AADHAR Card along with the registered mobile number while going for registrations.
18. Is it possible to do Chardham Yatra in one day?
If you have enough stamina and no air-sickness, completing the Chardham Yatra is feasible in a day with the aid of Helicopter Services. If you want to make the trip a little more relaxing, then 2 days with helicopter rides are sufficient to complete the Chardham Yatra. If you are travelling on the road and surface, a minimum of 9 to 10 days is required to complete the Chardham Yatra.
19. Are there any special darshan tickets in Char Dham Temples?
Special VIP passes for darshan are available only at the temples of Kedarnath and Badrinath. It can be quite an expensive affair to buy these VIP passes. Such passes are not available at Gangotri or Yamunotri temples.
20. Is Char Dham yatra by Chiku cab possible?
Totally! Chiku Cab is always there to curate a special tour package for you according to your requirements for a Chardham Yatra. The expenses of this tour will depend upon the accommodation you choose along with other amenities like helicopter rides.
21. Does Chiku cab provide Chardham yatra packages?
Yes! Chiku Cab does have special Chardham Yatra packages. For more details, you can call us on 844-844-5504, or e-mail us at info@chikucab.com. For further information visit our website www.chikucab.com
22. Can we visit any Hill-stations on Chardham yatra?
The natural scenic beauty is at its best when you are doing the Chardham Yatra. You can visit hill stations like Auli, Ranikhet, Chopta and many more after you are done taking the blessings from all the four holy shrines.
23. Where to book a helicopter for Kedarnath?
You can do an online or an offline booking for helicopter services to Kedarnath. The helipad where this air journey starts is located at Sitapur, at a distance of around 25 kilometres ahead of Guptkashi.
24. How to reduce the risk of infection of Covid-19 during Chardham Yatra?
Following the basic norms of social distancing, sanitizing frequently and using face masks are the primary precautions you need to take to avoid the risk of COVID 19 infection. Also, see to it that you do not bathe in any kund while visiting the shrines.
25. Is it mandated to carry Covid -19 test report for entering Uttarakhand?
Yes! It is one of the most important documents you need to carry while touring Chardham. It is also advisable that you carry your vaccine certifications as well. Both of these either in hard or soft copy will be good.
26. Is there any possibility of lockdown in Uttarakhand during Chardham Yatra?
As of today, the Government of Uttarakhand has made tourists from other states permissible take the Chardham Yatra this year. In case, the number of patients increases in the state or country, there can be a possibility of yet another lock-down in which you won’t be able to attend the Chardham yatra.
27. What if an in-case lockdown happens and the guests will not be able to come as planned?
In such a situation if you have booked your trip with Chiku Cab you are at an advantage. We will see to it that you are driven to your respective journey endpoints as all our cars and staff hold valid certification to travel during the epidemic.
28. What precautionary measures you are taking for the safety of our guests?
For safety against COVID 19 all our vehicles are sanitized at regular intervals. The vehicle which comes back is given a burnout period of at least a week to prevent the possibility of cross-contamination. During the whole of the journey, all our drivers wear face masks and we even encourage our guests to do the same. And finally, all our drivers are double vaccinated against the COVID 19 virus.
29. When does Chardham Yatra start and end?
The opening dates of Chardham Yatra will be announced on Maha Shivratri of 2024. The tentative dates of the opening of Chardham Mandir are as follows:
a. Gangotri Temple : This temple usually opens on the auspicious day of Akshay Tritiya which falls on the 3rd of May in 2024.
b. Yamunotri Temple : Like Gangotri, even the Yamunotri temple opens for public devotion from Akshay Tritiya, i.e., the 3rd of May 2024.
c. Kedarnath Temple : This temple will be opened to the public from the 7th of May 2024 when the idol of God Kedar will be transported from Ukimath to the main temple.
d. Badrinath Temple : The commencement date of Badrinath Temple is usually declared on Basant Panchami and this year it is likely to be opened from 8th May 2024.
All the four dhams of this religious tour are open only for 6 months a year owing to the harsh climatic conditions. The approximate date of closing of these temples this year are as follows:
a. Gangotri Temple : 25th October 2024
b. Yamunotri Temple : 24th October 2024
c. Kedarnath : 24th October 2024
d. Badrinath : 20th November 2024
30. What is the importance of Chardham Yatra for the Hindus?
According to Hindu mythology and beliefs, it is said that every person should complete the Chardham Yatra at least once during their lifetime. This helps them get eradicated from all the sins they have committed and thus enabling access to the pearly gates post-death.
31. Can you please let us know the darshan timing of the Kedarnath and Badrinath temples?
The Kedarnath temple is functional from 4 am in the morning till 9 pm in the night. While Badrinath temple is open for its devotees from 6 am in the morning till 8 pm in the night.
32. How do I visit the Chardham Yatra circuit and temples?
You can book a tour package of Chardham Yatra with Chiku Cab for a smooth and comfortable journey. We assure you positively of this Yatra and take the utmost efforts to make your Chardham Yatra a memorable and sacred one.
33. What to bring for Chardham Yatra darshan?
The following day-to-day necessity items should be carried on your Chardham Tour:
a. Mobile charger and a power bank
b. Warm Woolen Clothes
c. First Aid Kit and Specific medicines if you take any.
d. A bottle of water
e. Camera
f. A photo identity proof
g. Vaccination Certificate
h. COVID 19 RTPCR latest reports.
34. What is the importance of Chardham for the Hindus?
Completing the Chardham Yatra is of prime significance to the Hindus as it is the eternal way of getting free from the tangle of life after death. It is also believed that once you complete the Chardham Yatra you will be freed from all your sins and thus attain the path of Nirvana.
35. What is the fare of the helicopter from Phata to Kedarnath?
The rate fixed by the Governing authorities from 2021 for the helicopter ride from Phata to Kedarnath is Rs. 2360/- inclusive of all taxes.
36. Where to stay in Gangotri? Are rooms easily available with Chiku Cab, or do we have to book in advance?
As a tour package offered to you, Chiku Cab in advance books the accommodation for you at Gangotri. If you want any special type of accommodation in your budget you can let us know at 844-844-5504 and we will try to figure out a solution for you.
37. Does Chiku Cab provide cab services to Chardham Yatra?
Yes. Chiku Cab primary business is of providing cab services to its client for Chardham Yatras. If needed we can help you with other tour packages which will include your accommodation and food as well.
38. Does Chiku Cab provide safe cab service for Chardham Yatra?
All the drivers of Chiku Cab are reliable and have enough experience to drive in the difficult terrain of the Chardham Yatra. Chiku Cab is known to be one of the safest cab providers en route to Chardham Yatra.
39. What kinds of cab services does Chiku Cab provide for Chardham Yatra?
For a terrain like that of Chardham Yatra the only feasible vehicles are the sturdy ones like an SUV or a Tempo Traveller. As of now, Chiku Cab provides both of these vehicles for your usage according to your need, requirement, and budget.
40. What kinds of foods are available along the Chardham yatra route?
A lot of dhabas are opened now en route to the Chardham Yatra, thus allowing you to relish the local flavours. It is also advisable for you to carry a few dry snacks along with sweets to avoid vomiting and maintain your sugar levels in the hilly areas.
41. What kind of accommodation is provided from Chiku Cab?
Once you book the tour package for Chardham Yatra with Chiku Cab, or executive will get in touch with you to understand your budget and requirement for accommodation. You need not worry, with Chiku Cab we will help you choose the right hotel at the best price possible for your Chardham Yatra.
42. Which Gods are worshipped in the Chardham Yatra?
The Char Dham Yatra consists of four major dhams, namely, Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. The initiation of the Holy river Yamuna is from Yamunotri. Goddess Yamuna is worshipped at Yamunotri. Similarly, the River Ganga has its origin at Gangotri, thus Goddess Ganga is worshipped at Gangotri. Combined together, Gangotri and Yamunotri are the religious places to worship the source of mother earth. Out of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, one of the most worshipped Jyotirlinga is placed at Kedarnath. Thus, Kedarnath becomes a place where Lord Shiva is worshipped. The last Dham in Char Dham Yatra is Badrinath. This Dham is the true religious place to worship Lord Vishnu in the incarnation form of Lord Badrinarayan, one of the 108 Divya Desams according to the Hindu Religious Script. As a whole, Goddess Yamuna, Goddess Ganga, Lord Shiva, and Lord Vishnu are worshipped in the Char DHam Yatra. Book a taxi from Haridwar to the full Chota Char Dham Yatra only with Chiku Cab to get the best of offers in total comfort.
43. Which is the Char Dham in India?
There are basically two Char Dham in India. The original Char Dham is a set of four pilgrimage spots situated across the entire nation of India. Namely, the religious sites are Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Rameswaram. For the convenience of devotees there is also a Chota Char Dham Yatra which can be completed in the state of Uttarakhand which is in the Northern part of India. The Chota Char Dham consists of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
44. How many Char Dham are there in India?
On a broader note, there are two Char Dham in India. The original Char Dham Yatra consisting of Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Rameswaram in the four directions of India and the Chota Char Dham Yatra based in the foothills of the Himalayan Range in the Northern Indian State of Uttarakhand. The Chota Char Dham Yatra consists of the temples of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
45. Who built the Char Dham?
The four temples of Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Rameswaram were formed as the Char Dham Yatra by the renowned eighth – century philosopher and reformist Shankarachyara (also known as Adi Sankara). The Chota Char Dham Yatra too was connected by Adi Sankara for the convenience of the devotees.
46. Who built Kedarnath Temple?
Mythological stories say that the Kedarnath Temple was originally built by the Pandava Brothers, which was restored in its glory by Adi Sankara in the 8th Century A.D. The Kedarnath Temple is believed to be at least 1200 years old and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas which are worshipped by devotees.
47. Where are the Char Dham located?
The main Char Dham, consisting of temples in four directions of the Indian sub-continent, has the temple locations as follows:
Badrinath Temple, Uttarakhand.
Dwarka Temple, Gujarat.
Puri Temple, Odisha.
Rameswaram Temple, Tamil Nadu.
Apart from this, all the four temple locations of the Chota Char Dham are located in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India.
48. What is the name of Char Dham?
The names of the temples worshipped in the original Char Dham yatra are as follows:
Badrinath Temple
Dwarka Temple
Puri Temple
Rameswaram Temple.
The names of the temples worshipped in the Chota Char Dham yatra are:
Yamunotri
Gangotri
Kedarnath
Badrinath
49. Which God is Badrinath?
The temple of Badrinath, worships the idol of Lord Vishnu in the incarnation of Lord Badrinarayana. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams which are worshipped of Lord Vishnu and is the major temple of worship for the Vaishnavites.
50. What comes first Kedarnath or Badrinath?
As per Hindu tradition and mythology, the temple of Kedarnath comes first because, according to legends, Lord Shiva (Kedarnath), provided place for Lord Vishnu (Badrinath), in Dev Bhumi at Uttarakhand. Geographically too, Kedarnath comes first in terms of visiting the temples as Badrinath is situated near the Mana Village, which is supposedly the last village of India in terms of borders.
51. How old is Badrinath Temple?
The cave in which the idol of Lord Badrinath is worshipped is said to be at least 5000 years old. The Garhwal earthquake of 1803 and other natural calamities like avalanche did a lot of damage to the temple. The temple of Badrinath was extended and restored by the Kings of Jaipur. The restoration process started in the late 1870s and were completed by the time the First World War was over.
52. Which God is in Rameswaram Temple?
Lord Shiva is worshipped in the Rameswaram Temple. It is believed that one of the 12 Jyotirling of Lord Shiva is the Shivling which is placed at the Rameswaram Temple. Along with Lord Shiva, the temple is also said to be associated with Lord Vishnu and Lord Rama.
53. What is the cost of Char Dham Yatra?
The cost of Char Dham Yatra totally depends on the way you wish to complete it in and the duration you wish to spend there. You can tour the Char Dham Yatra by helicopters as well as by rental taxis from Chiku Cab. Apart from travelling, the other expenses you need to keep in mind are the costing of a lodge/hotel and also the food costing.
54. Which is at more height Badrinath or Kedarnath?
While the Badrinath temple is located at a distance on 3133 metres above sea-level, the temple of Kedarnath is built at an altitude of 3584 metres. Thus, Kedarnath is a greater height than Badrinath. It is also said that the Shivling at Kedarnath is the highest located Jyotirling all over.
55. Who named Kedarnath?
According to a mythological fable, Nar Narayan had requested Lord Shiva to stay at Kedarnath and make this place as his permanent abode. He had also requested Lord Shiva to erect a Jyoutling here for the welfare of the entire humanity. Granting the wish of Nar Narayana, Lord Shiva stayed in that place and is now known as Kedarnath. Other names with which Lord Shiva is renowned here is Kedareshwara and Lord of Kedar Khand, a.k.a., Kedar Baba.
56. What is the real story of Kedarnath?
According to mythological legend, the Pandava brothers are the ones who built the original Kedarnath Temple after the epic war of Mahabharat. It is believed that after the war, the Pandava brothers wanted to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva for killing their Kaurav brothers and also for all the other sin. But, at this point of time, Lord Shiva didn’t wish to meet them and thus disguised himself as a bull and hid in the mountains of Guptkashi. Bheem, one of the Pandava brothers spotted an unusual bull and was sure that it was Lord Shiva, but could only get hold of the tail of that bull, before it disappeared. Post this, Lord Shiva in the form of Nandi appeared in five different forms at five different places:
The hump at Kedarnath
The face at Rudranath
Arms at Tungnath
Navel and Stomach at Madhyamaheshwar
Hair Locks at Kalpeshwar
Collectively, these five placesa re known as Panch Kedar.
57. What is special in Kedarnath?
The Kedarnath Temple majestically stands at around 3580 metres and is encompassed by the Garhwal Himalayan range. Kedarnath Temple is one of the temples to be visited during the Chota Char Dham Yatra and is considered to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The Kedarnath Temple is also said to be one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams (the most powerful Shiva temples in the world). This temple is also the main temple amongst the Panch Kedar Yatra.
58. In which state does Kedarnath lie?
Kedarnath lies in the northern state of India named Uttarakhand. To go more precisely, the Kedarnath Temple is located on the Chandranath Parbat in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand and is built at a height of approximately 3580 metres above the sea-level.
59. How can I do Char Dham Yatra?
Completing the Char Dham Yatra does require a lot of sacrifices on comfort. But, with current trends, the Chota Char Dham Yatra can be easily completed with the help of a helicopter ride in a bare minimum of 6 days. Traditionally, the Char Dham Yatra was transverses through walking, trekking, and rental taxis, which is still a popular option. There are decent hotel and lodging facilities near all the temples of the Char Dham Yatra.
60. Who destroyed Badrinath Temple?
The earthquake of 1803, along with other natural calamities like avalanche, did destroy the temple of Badrinath considerably. Post these situations, the King of the Garhwal Empire took up the task of expanding and recreating the Badrinath Temple in the latter half of the 18th century. The reconstruction of the Badrinath temple was finished during the rule of Jaipur Kings somewhere just before the First World War ended.
61. Is Char Dham Yatra difficult?
If pondered over a serious note, Char Dham Yatra is indeed a difficult and one of the toughest yatra that you can ever take. It is not only because of the climatic conditions but also one requires a lot of determination and will power to complete the treks on the way to these temples. But, with growing technology you can complete the Char Dham Yatra pretty easily by helicopter rides if and only if the climatic conditions are suitable.
62. Who built the Gangotri Temple?
Situated on the left of the river Bhagirathi, the Gangotri Temple was built by the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the 18th century. This temple is beautifully located amidst the pine and deodar trees. The Gangotri temple also is very near to the Bhagirath Shila, the stone where King Bhagirathi had worshipped Lord Shiva. Dedicated to the Goddess Ganga, the priests of the Gangotri Temple belong to the village of Mukhwa. It is a ritual that water should be carried from the river Ganga to Lord Shiva as it contains nectar which reduces the soreness of the throat caused due to the gulping of poison.
63. What is the importance of Char Dham Yatra?
The Char Dham Yatra, which constitutes of 4 pilgrimage places of Badrinath, Puri, Dwarka, and Rameswaram has high importance in the Hindu Religion. It is believed that every Hindu should at least once in their lifetime complete this Yatra in order to obtain salvation (moksha) and get welcomed at the gates of heaven. The Chota Char Dham Yatra of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath too has similar importance.
64. Which Dham should we visit first?
Yamunotri Dham, named after the Goddess Yamuna, is the first Dham en route the yatra. A bath in the holy waters of Yamuna River is said to cleanse one of all sins and protect from untimely death. Gangotri Dham, the second temple that falls on the Chota Char Dham circuit, is the birthplace of the holy river Ganga. Kedarnath, known as the land of Lord Shiva, has the highest locatedJjyotirling. Situated on the banks of Mandakini River, the view of this temple against its snowy backdrop is resplendent. Badrinath, named after Lord Badri (Vishnu), is located along the banks of Alaknanda River. Also, part of the bigger Char Dham circuit, it stands beautifully on Garhwal Hill, rearing its golden head and fluttering its red flags with Godly presence.
65. Which River flows in Badrinath?
Badrinath is situated in the Kumaun Himalayas along a headstream of the Ganga River, at an elevation of about 10,000 feet (3,000 metres). It is located along the twin mountain ranges of Nar and Narayan on the left bank of Alakananda River.
66. Which temple is closed for 6 months a year?
Due to harsh weather conditions, all the four temples of Chota Char Dham, namely, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath are closed for 6 months a year during the winter seasons. All these for temples are not accesssible owing to the heavy snowfall that occurs in this region.
67. Why Badrinath is called Vishal?
Goddess Lakshmi, the wife of Lord Vishnu, protected him in the form of the Badri tree during his meditation. Pleased by the devotion of Goddes Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu named the place as Badrika Ashram. Hence Lord Vishnu was called the “Badri Vishal” as a large Beri/jujube and Lord Vishnu as “Badrinath” lord/husband of Badri.
68. Which is more difficult – Kedarnath or Vaishno Devi?
It is extremely difficult to say which trek is tougher – Kedarnath or Vaishno Devi! Both these treks have their own challenges in a different way. On one hand the Kedarnath Trek is at a higher altitude while on the other hand the Vaishno Devi trek is longer when compared in distance. With strong will power, determination, and fitness preparations, you can start the treks at either of these pilgrimage spots with ease.
69. What is the oxygen level at Kedarnath?
In a normal condition, the human body needs 87% of oxygen in the atmospheric level. Unfortunately, at Kedarnath the oxygen level is just 57% making it hard for the pilgrims to breather during the trek. The most observed symptoms of lack of oxygen during trekking is fainting, restlessness, and cardiac arrest.
70. Which mobile network is best in Char Dham yatra?
The safest and the most reliable mobile network in the Char Dham Yatra is BSNL. It is suggested that you carry a BSNL sim card during your treks of the Char Dham Yatra.
71. How many rivers are there in Kedarnath?
The river Mandakini, which is the most important river coming down from the slopes of Kedarnath peak, joins the Alaknanda at Rudraprayag. The river actually originates from the springs fed by melting snow of Charabari glacier about one km above Kedarnath temple.
72. Why is Kedarnath so powerful?
Kedarnath is considered the most important and special Shrines of Lord Shiva because of his presence in the shape of a pyramid. The deity presiding in the temple is more powerful and praying him is believed to fulfill all your desires and relieves you from sins and evil forces.
73. Can a 3-year old child go to Kedarnath?
It is not suggested to take a three year old child to Kedarnath. The main reasons are the lack of medical facilities, unpredictable weather, and stooping oxygen levels at the top. Still if you wish to carry your child it would be advisable to take the Char Dham Yatra with the help of a helicopter.
74. Can I go to Kedarnath in December?
One cannot visit the Kedarnath Temple during the month of December, as at that time, the Kedarnath Temple is closed and the weather is extremely harsh making it unhabitable for survival. But, to get blessings, you can visit the Ukhimath, where the statue of Lord Shiva is kept for the entire 6 months of winter.
75. What is Ganga called at Gangotri?
The Gangotri Temple is the biggest temple of worshipping Goddess Ganga. The river Ganga originates at Gaumukh. Gaumukh, is situated at the foot of the Gangotri glacier. River Ganga is known as river Bhagirathi here. It gets the name of Ganga at Devprayag where the river Bhagirathi merges with the Alaknanda River.
76. Why do Hindus go to Badrinath?
The Char Dham Yatra is considered as a must visited pilgrimage tour in order to get salvation. Every year, more than 2 Lac tourists visit these holy shrines. In Hindu mythology, it is believed that the prehistoric Hindu philosopher Shri Adi Shankaracharya coined the term ‘Char Dham’. The literal meaning of this term is four abodes of God or Holy Destinations. These four shrines are in the region that is famous for the captivating mountains surrounded by a thick layer of snow and unadulterated atmosphere. In India, the Hindus believe that the Char Dham tour opens the gates of salvation by washing away all their sins. It is also believed that this journey must be undertaken at least once in a lifetime. These four shrines have a great significance and place in Hindu mythology. According to this mythology, Shri Adi Shankaracharya acquired freedom from reincarnation in the Shri Badrinath Dham. The doorway to the Yatra is Yamunotri. Next destination is the renowned Gangotri shrine. Thereafter the pilgrim has to visit Shri Kedarnath Dham and finally Shri Badrinath Dham. After completing the Char Dham pilgrimage tour, the pilgrim achieves an absolute serenity of the mind.
77. Why did Pandavas build Kedarnath?
It is said that after the Mahabharata war ended, the Pandavas were full of remorse at having lost thousands to the violence. They handed over the kingdom's reins to grandson Parikshit and started for Varanasi to seek Lord Shiva's pardon. Not interested in meeting them, Shivji leaves Varanasi/Benaras/Kashi and heads for the Himalayas in the form of a Bull (Nandi, the Bull). He reappears in Guptakashi as the bull and the Pandavas reach there. Shiva escapes again and this time reappears as the bull in five different parts of India as 5 different parts of the bull's body: the face at Rudranath, arms at Tungnath, navel and stomach at Madhyamaheshwar, the locks at Kalpeshwar and the hump at Kedarnath. The powerful Pandava - Bhima - is said to have grabbed the bull's tail, forcing him to appear before them and forgive them. The Pandava brothers then built the first temple at Kedarnath. These 5 places where the bull had appeared in parts after diving underground are known as the Panch (5) Kedar. Situated in a region of Glacial activity, the temple is said to have been under snow for 400 years. The signs of glacial assault are still there on the walls, say geologists. The temple was miraculously saved by a BhimShila (massive boulder) that rolled down the mountains during the horrific cloudburst and natural calamity in June 2013. It is said Baba Bhairo Nath saves the temple.
78. Why is Kedarnath Temple closed in the winters?
The winters at Kedarnath are extremely harsh and there are a lot of possibilities of landslides and other natural calamities. To avoid any danger to the devotees, the gates of the Kedarnath Temple are closed for 6 months a year, I.e., during the winter months.
79. Is oxygen required at Kedarnath?
Until and unless the devotees are physically fit and without any ailments, one need not carry any oxygen while travelling to Kedarnath.
80. Can heart patients visit Kedarnath?
Heart patients, especially the CHD patients are advised not to travel to any elevations above 4500 metres above the sea-level owing to severe hypoxia at such altitudes. The risk assessment of CHD patients at altitudes should always consider a possible absence of medical support and that cardiovascular events may turn out into tragedies.
81. Is Kedarnath safe for senior citizens?
Aged people can undertake the journey to Kedarnath if they are physically active. From Gaurikundh, the journey is 14 km trekking and one can take a helicopter or a pony to reach the temple. Kedarnath is 10,000 feet above sea level and some people may have breathing problems at the high altitudes. Otherwise, there is no issue about the place and one must visit the Kedarnath Jyotirling once in their life time.
82. How old is Rameswaram Shivling?
The Shivling in Rameswaram according to mythological legends, was erected by Lord Rama during his effort to go to Lanka. Another story which pops up apart from Ramayana is that the Rameswaram Shivling is said to be one of the 12 Jyotirling of Lord Shiva. Thus, the age of the Shivling is hard to be predicted. But it can be safely said that the temple of Rameswaram was built around 1380 to 1410 CE.