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Chardham Yatra 2026: Why does Chardham Yatra start from Haridwar only? Know the stories of all the Dhams
Sanjeev Kumar | April 21, 2026 5:23 PM CST

Chardham Yatra 2026Image Credit source: PTI

Chardham Yatra Significance: The conch shell has been blown for Chardham Yatra 2026. With the opening of the doors of Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya on 19th April, there is a flood of faith. According to tradition, the doors of Baba Kedarnath will be opened for devotees on 22nd April and Lord Badrivishal on 23rd April. But have you ever wondered why this holy journey always starts from Haridwar? And what is the religious importance of these four Dhams? Come, let us know in detail.

Why does Chardham Yatra start from Haridwar only?

In Hindu religion, Haridwar is called the gate of the gods. It is believed that the entrance to the holy pilgrimage site of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand begins from here. This city is situated on the banks of river Ganga and by taking bath here a person becomes free from his sins. Therefore, before leaving for the Chardham Yatra, devotees purify themselves by taking a bath in the Ganga in Haridwar. There is also a religious belief that without starting the journey from Haridwar Chardham Yatra Is considered incomplete. This is the reason why this tradition has been going on for centuries.

Story of Gangotri Dham

Gangotri Dham is considered to be the origin place of Mother Ganga. According to the legend, King Bhagiratha performed severe penance for the salvation of his ancestors. Pleased with his penance, Mother Ganga descended from heaven to earth. It is believed that the actual origin of Ganga is from Gaumukh Glacier, but Mother Ganga is worshiped in Gangotri Dham only.

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Story of Yamunotri Dham

Yamunotri Dham is considered to be the origin place of Mother Yamuna. According to religious belief, Yamuna is the daughter of Sun God and Sangya and is the sister of Yamraj. It is said that by taking bath in Yamunotri, the fear of death ends and the person gets freedom from untimely death.

Story of Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath Dham is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. According to the legend, after the Mahabharata war, Pandavas went to seek refuge in Shiva to get salvation from their sins. Lord Shiva got angry with them and took the form of a bull and hid here. Later, when the Pandavas recognized him, Lord Shiva appeared to them and established himself here in the form of Jyotirlinga.

Story of Badrinath Dham

Badrinath Dham is dedicated to Lord Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Lord Vishnu was doing penance here, then Goddess Lakshmi took the form of Badri (wild plum) tree to save him from the cold. For this reason this place was named Badrinath. It is also believed that by visiting here one attains salvation.

Why is Chardham Yatra considered special?

Chardham Yatra is not only a religious journey, but is considered a path to spiritual purification and salvation. Gangotri (Water), Yamunotri (Shakti), Kedarnath (Shiva) and Badrinath (Vishnu) represent the four important elements of life. Every year lakhs of devotees undertake this difficult but sacred journey and experience spiritual peace.

Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.

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