Some Important Safety Tips for You to Plan Chardham Yatra 2013

[Subrato Mukherji]

Chardham Yatra is an auspicious journey that takes you to the land of Gods, Uttarakhand. In late April, when the snow clears off, pilgrims start planning their way to this spiritual journey. Tourists start flocking to the ancient temples known as Chardham, where they believe that all their sins get washed off in the holy rivers of Yamuna at Yamunotri, Ganga at Gangotri, Mandakini at Kedarnath and Alakananda at Badrinath. Hindus believe this yatra to be most auspicious to retain Salvation or Moksha. Some important tips that should be kept in mind while planning a tour to Chardham.

• Plan where to start from. The Chardham yatra starts from the East, following an anti clockwise direction. Visit Yamunotri first and continue your journey to Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.

• Travel during the prescribed season or month. The best time to plan a tour to Chota Chardham is during the last months of April to Mid October. Seek advice before you plan the trip. During the Monsoon season, it is safe not to conduct the Badrinath yatra as the area experiences heavy flood and landslides.

• While you are on the way to Chardham, do not forget that alcohols and non vegetarian food are strictly prohibited there. So don’t take the chance to carry them.

• Although self managed tours appears to be economical for the devotees. However it is advisable to go for a guided tour, arranged by an expert travel agent for your own safety.

• Appoint a skilled driver to drive on high mountain roads. Drive slowly and ask him to be very cautious on the way to Badrinath as little carelessness can cause a massive damage.

• Kedarnath is the toughest destination, so it becomes impossible for old, sick and handicapped people to reach there. Then it is advised that you should book a helicopter for kedarnath.

• Carry first aid box and all medical essentials such as iodex, volini gel, and bandage, and painkiller tablet, antiseptic ointment, prescribed medicines if you are a B.P patient to avoid any type of mishappenings while you are travelling.

• Travel light. Do not carry unnecessary luggage unless it is required. However, do not forget to pack warm clothes as the area experiences freezing temperature.

• Book hotel in Chardham in advance to avoid messing up in terms of accommodation as soon as you reach the place.

• Do not forget to carry some money in advance. Do not rely on credit cards and carry some cash money in your pocket.

• Carry cameras to capture the beautiful moments of your journey.

 

Keeping in mind these safety tips, you can enjoy this religious Chardham tour 2013 to the fullest.