CHAR DHAM UTTARAKHAND

Gangotri

The Shrine of Gangotri situated at an elevation of Himalayas 3200 mts. above sea-level amidst captivating surroundings is 100 kms. from Uttarkashi. The temple, constructed by the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the 18th century, is situated on the right bank of Bhagirathi. It is visited by thousands of pilgrim every year. A number of Ashrams are located on the other side of Himalayas some of which provide accommodation facilities to the Gangotri visitors.

 Yamunotri
The Shrine of Yamunotri, source of river Yamuna is situated in the direction opposite to Gangotri and the road bifurcates and goes to Yamunotri from Dharasu, a place between Rishikesh and Uttarkashi. Yamunotri can also be visited via Mussoorie and Barkot. Situated at an elevation of 3235 mts. above sea - level, the shrine of Yamunotri is one of the 'Four Dhams' of Uttarakhand. The source of Yamuna lies about one km. ahead at an altitude of about 4421 mts. The approach is extremely difficult and pilgrims therefore offer pooja at temple itself.

Kedarnath
The holiest of Shiva's shrines is likened to gold among base metals so that every pilgrim finds peace here, and it is said that devotees who die here become one with Shiva himself. The temple of Kedarnath, located at a height of 3,581 mts, stand at the head of the Mandakini river, with Kedarnath peak keeping vigil above it. The temple is dedicated to the Sadasiva or invisible form of Shiva, and is represented by a natural rock formation.       

Badrinath
Also known as Vishal Badri, this temple located at the height of 3,133 mts. is the largest Himalayas and most popular of Vishnu pilgrimages among the five Badries. The original temple here is believed to be built by King Pururava and the icon of the lord carved by Vishwakarma, the creator of the gods. The idol was recovered by Adi Shankaracharya from the waters of the nearby  Naradkund and consecrated once more in the temple, restored in the 19th century by the royal houses of Scindia & Holker.