The Char Dham — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath — is the great Himalayan pilgrimage of Uttarakhand. While the shrines are in the Garhwal region, many devotees begin from Kumaon, and a private vehicle with an experienced hill driver makes the long, high-altitude circuit far safer and more comfortable.
Here is how the yatra is usually structured and what to plan for.
The traditional order of the Char Dham
The circuit is traditionally done from west to east: Yamunotri first, then Gangotri, Kedarnath and finally Badrinath. Yamunotri and Kedarnath both involve treks (or pony/palki) from the road-head, while Gangotri and Badrinath are reachable close to the temple.
How many days does it take?
A comfortable full Char Dham from the Kumaon side typically takes around 10–12 days by road, factoring in the Kedarnath and Yamunotri treks and altitude acclimatisation. A shorter Do Dham (Kedarnath + Badrinath) can be done in fewer days if time is tight.
Best season for the yatra
The shrines open around late April/May (Akshaya Tritiya) and close near Diwali. May–June and September–October are the most settled months; the monsoon (July–August) brings real landslide risk on the Garhwal roads, so plan carefully and keep buffer days.
Travelling with a private taxi
A dedicated vehicle and driver means you set the pace, stop for rest and darshan on your terms, and avoid changing transport between shrines. We arrange Innova Crysta and Tempo Traveller vehicles for families and groups, with drivers who know the high mountain roads. Fares are quoted as a fixed, all-inclusive package for the full itinerary — share your dates on WhatsApp for a plan.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start the Char Dham Yatra from Nainital?
Yes. Many pilgrims begin from Kumaon; we arrange a private taxi that covers the transfer to Garhwal and the full four-shrine circuit.
How many days are needed for the Char Dham?
Around 10–12 days for the full circuit by road, including the Kedarnath and Yamunotri treks; a Do Dham is shorter.
When is the best time for the Char Dham?
May–June and September–October are ideal; avoid peak monsoon (July–August) due to landslide risk.