Travel Tips for Char Dham Yatra

• While you are in the Chardham region, do keep in mind that alcohol or non-vegetarian food is not permitted and you have to abide by it.
• While you visit mythological sites, shrines and temples, you should remove your shoes and cover your head with a piece of cloth before entering the premises.
• At all the chardham destinations, there are a number of restaurants and hotels and you can find one fitting in with your budget, regardless of which background you come from.
• When asking for directions, speak to shopkeepers, not pedestrians. Check with at least two persons or more.
• Change of place, climatic conditions and food can lead to throat sore. Gurgle with hot water with pinch of salt to avoid enhancement of infection. Keep some throat soothing lozenges with you.
• Food-wise anything that is boiled, cooked or fried is a safer bet than anything cold or raw. So avoid cold salads, raw vegetables, drinks with ice etc.
• Pack a medical kit with painkillers, antibiotics, cough lozenges and medicines for cold and fever.
• A small torch is essential equipment as lights can go off at any time.
• If you are carrying Digital Camera or Handy cam, do carry extra pair of battery, as there is no guarantee if there is electricity for charging you equipment.
• Do not take pictures if cameras are not allowed in any particular area. Do not play with the sentiments of any particular religion.
• Always pack a pair of woolen clothes as it is very cold as all the Dhams are situated at high altitude.
• Carry personal toilet items, they are very useful during the breaks in long journey of Char Dham.
• Ensure you are physically and mentally fit to perform the journey as the Yatra involves trekking at an altitude of 1,4000ft.
• At least a month before the Yatra, it is advisable to start preparatory exercises: Even a brisk walk of about 4 to 5 km per day would be beneficial.
• Hire only a registered ponywalla or porter. Don't walk far away from ponies carrying luggage.
• As per Hindu traditions, a Chardham yatra should be undertaken from west to east : Yamunotri - Gangotri - Kedarnath - Badrinath.

Essentials for Tour

• Woolen Cap
• Woolen Gloves
• Raincoat/Umbrella
• Sweater/Pullover
• Wind Cheater
• One Bed Sheet
• Canvas Shoes
• Woolen Socks - two pairs
• Torch with extra pairs of Battery

Medical Essentials

• Iodex / Volini Gel
• Vicks Ointment for cold
• Painkiller tablet
• Sunglasses
• Moisturizer, Body Lotion or Cold Cream
• Bandage
• Anticeptic Ointment
• Doctor prescribed medicine if you have B.P problem