How to Travel from Delhi to Yamunotri and Gangotri: The Char Dham Yatra for 2026 has officially begun. The portals of Uttarakhand's sacred pilgrimage sites—the Yamunotri, Gangotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath temples—have opened their doors to devotees. A massive influx of devotees is currently being witnessed at Kedarnath Dham. Several videos have surfaced showing that, due to the overwhelming crowds, many people are choosing to avoid the Kedarnath pilgrimage this year. In light of this, if you wish to avoid the crowds at Kedarnath but are still planning a journey rich in both religious significance and natural beauty, Yamunotri Dham and Gangotri Dham make for excellent alternatives.

Both of these shrines constitute an integral part of Uttarakhand's Char Dham Yatra, attracting hundreds of thousands of devotees annually who come to offer their prayers. A journey from Delhi to Gangotri and Yamunotri is not merely an act of religious faith; it also offers the exhilarating experience of a magnificent road trip. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to revel in the majestic beauty of the mountains, the soothing murmur of flowing rivers, and the serene tranquility of the surroundings.

However, meticulous planning is essential when traveling through hilly terrain. Without proper information regarding the correct route, schedule, budget, and accommodation options, the journey can prove to be challenging. Therefore, if you are visiting Yamunotri and Gangotri for the first time, please refer to the detailed information provided here to assist you in planning your trip.

Complete 5-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Commencement of the Journey from Delhi
If you are beginning your journey from Delhi, book a bus or train ticket to either Haridwar or Rishikesh. The distance between Delhi and these destinations is approximately 220–240 kilometers. The journey typically takes about 5–6 hours to complete. Upon arrival, you can immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere by witnessing the Ganga Aarti. In Rishikesh, you can visit various temples and the iconic Lakshman Jhula, while in Haridwar, you can pay your respects at the Mansa Devi Temple and the Chandi Devi Temple. If you arrive in the morning, you will have ample time to spend the entire day exploring these sites.

Alternatively, if you wish to continue your onward journey, you can depart from here by 12:00 PM—provided you arrive early in the morning—after taking a brief rest and visiting a few of the nearby key attractions. 

Day 2: Haridwar to Barkot

You may begin your journey on the very same day, or choose to depart the following day after an overnight stay in Haridwar or Rishikesh. From here, Barkot is the next stop—a journey of approximately 180 km that may take 7 to 8 hours to complete. Along the way, you will be treated to beautiful mountain scenery. You can travel by bus, taxi, or—provided you have experience driving in the mountains—by driving yourself. Upon reaching Barkot, settle in for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Barkot to Yamunotri Dham

Now, make the journey from Barkot to Janki Chatti. You can reach this point by taxi or in your own vehicle. The remainder of the journey must be undertaken on foot; it involves a trek of 5–6 km from this point onwards. Services such as horses or *palkis* (palanquins) are also available. If you begin your journey in the morning, it is possible to complete your *darshan* (worship) at Yamunotri Dham and return by evening. It is worth noting that while the surrounding weather may be chilly, the ground within the temple complex remains warm, and you will also find a hot water spring (*kund*) here. After completing your *darshan*, return to Barkot.

Day 4: Barkot to Uttarkashi

After offering prayers at the Yamunotri Temple, prepare to embark on the journey to Gangotri Dham. Following an overnight stay in Barkot, depart for Uttarkashi the next day. The distance between Barkot and Uttarkashi is approximately 100 km. Upon arrival, take some time to explore the local temples and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Stay overnight in Uttarkashi.

Day 5: Uttarkashi to Gangotri Dham

The distance from Uttarkashi to Gangotri is 100 km. Depart from Uttarkashi in the morning. Along the route to Gangotri, you will experience breathtaking natural landscapes and mesmerizing views of the mountains. Upon reaching Gangotri, offer your prayers at the temple; for your return journey, you may choose to stay overnight in either Uttarkashi or Rishikesh.

Budget and Tips
If you plan to visit Gangotri and Yamunotri, the cost per person is likely to range from approximately ₹8,000 to ₹15,000.

The best time to visit is from May to June and during September. Avoid traveling during the monsoon season, as the mountain roads can become hazardous.

If you are driving yourself, exercise caution while navigating the mountain roads.

Carry essential medicines and warm clothing with you, as the weather here can change abruptly.

Book your hotel in advance and undergo a health check-up before embarking on your journey.

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