Badrinath and Kedarnath are two of the holiest places in India that every Hindu dreams of visiting at least once. These sacred sites are in high-altitude areas, where unpredictable weather can make travel challenging. Pilgrims who prefer not to trek through the Himalayan terrain can choose helicopter services. The Do Dham helicopter tour offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Those traveling by road or air should plan their itinerary in advance to make the most of their spiritual journey. Keeping a few key points in mind can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free visit to the Do Dham destinations.
How to Plan
1. Plan Your Itinerary
First, decide how you want to travel to the Do Dham sites. You can choose a helicopter journey or go by road. The Badrinath package by helicopter is expensive, so consider your budget before selecting this option. After deciding, select a reliable tour operator or a well-known travel agency to help plan your pilgrimage. They will arrange your itinerary and provide the necessary guidance for a safe and smooth journey. With the support of experts specializing in the Badrinath Kedarnath Yatra, you won’t have to worry about small details.
2. Book in Advance
Make reservations early, especially during peak season, to avoid last-minute hassles. Ensure that accommodation, transport, and helicopter services are booked if needed.
3. Prepare a Packing Checklist
Before starting the Do Dham Yatra, create a checklist of essential items. Carry a first-aid kit, medicines, warm clothes, snacks, and toiletries to stay prepared.
Best Time for Badrinath Kedarnath Yatra
The best time for the Badrinath Kedarnath Yatra is during summer and winter. The months of May to June and September to October are ideal, as the weather is cool and pleasant. Monsoon season should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides, which can make travel difficult. Due to extreme weather and other challenges, the temples of Kedarnath and Badrinath remain open for only six months.
During winter, Lord Badri’s idol is moved to Narasimha Temple in Joshimath, while Lord Shiva’s idol is shifted to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.
Registration Process for Badrinath Kedarnath Yatra
- Registration is required before starting the pilgrimage, and a registration slip must be shown at the beginning of the journey.
- Online registration can be done on the official website of the Uttarakhand Char Dham Devasthanam Management Board.
- For offline registration, visit centers at Rishikesh bus stand, Haridwar railway station, Guptkashi, Phata, Govind Ghat, Sonprayag, or Joshimath with valid photo identity proof.
Kedarnath Badrinath Yatra by Helicopter
For those planning to visit Kedarnath Badrinath by helicopter, the journey begins in Dehradun. Helicopter services operate from Jolly Grant Airport, allowing pilgrims to reach both temples in about six hours and return to Dehradun after the Darshan. This is the most convenient way to visit these sacred places.
The cost of the Kedarnath Badrinath Yatra by helicopter from Dehradun ranges between ₹80,000 and ₹95,000 per person, depending on the season. The price usually includes VIP Darshan and several other facilities.
Kedarnath Badrinath Yatra by Road
Several shared jeeps, local buses, and private bus services run between Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Badrinath. Rishikesh has the nearest railway station, where travelers can rent a car to reach Badrinath or take a bus. Those comfortable driving in hilly areas can also use a private vehicle, as the roads are well-built and smooth.
Accommodation Choices
- Around Kedarnath: Several accommodation options are available near Kedarnath. Hotels can be found in places like Rudraprayag, Gaurikund, and Sonprayag. However, hotels are not available close to Kedarnath Temple. Staying in Kedarnath is only possible in camps or tented accommodations.
- In Rudraprayag: Many hotels, lodges, Dharamshalas, and resorts are available in Rudraprayag. It is best to book a hotel in advance, as the area gets extremely crowded during peak pilgrimage season, making it difficult to find a place on the same day.
Things to Remember
- Pack Woolen Clothes: Badrinath and Kedarnath are at high altitudes and have a cold climate throughout the year. Carry warm woolen clothes such as thermals, windcheaters, sweaters, jackets, winter caps, sturdy footwear, and gloves.
- Carry Enough Cash: Most cafes, eateries, hotels, and restaurants along the route to Badrinath and Kedarnath do not accept cards, mobile wallets, or digital payments. It is important to carry enough cash for the journey.
- Book Hotels in Advance: Booking hotels early helps avoid last-minute hassles and ensures a comfortable stay.
- Keep Essential Medicines: The journey to Badrinath and Kedarnath involves traveling on winding mountain roads with rapid altitude gain. This can cause dizziness, nausea, and lightheadedness. Acute mountain sickness is common at high altitudes, with symptoms like headaches, stomach cramps, weakness, and shortness of breath. Carry necessary medicines, including those for altitude sickness, fever, cold, pain relief, antiseptic creams, antibiotics, cough lozenges, and iodine.
Conclusion
The Badrinath Kedarnath Yatra is a life-changing journey that brings you closer to the divine and helps you seek salvation. If you are planning the Yatra, make sure to plan your itinerary, complete the registration process, and pack enough woolen clothes and medicines. If organizing the trip on your own seems challenging, you can seek help from tour operators who specialize in the Do Dham Yatra. Whether traveling by road or helicopter, always follow safety guidelines to ensure a secure and smooth journey.
