Made up your mind to take the journey to moksha? Already looking for Char Dham Packages? Then this is the perfect time for you to check out some important travel tips related to Char Dham.
The trip to complete spiritual enlightenment is not an easy one. It is paved with challenging treks, rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. However, the right planning and travel tips can make this trip a cakewalk. Centuries ago, when the Char Dham Yatra was established, people used to rarely be able to make it and even if they did make it they would find it impossible to come back. However, with the changing times and the introduction of technology and new modes of transportation, Char Dham Yatra has now become a lot easier but not too easy.
Due to the remote locations and high elevation of the temples of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri, it is important to be well prepared. Here are some travel tips for Char Dham Yatra to make it more comfortable for the pilgrims:
Pack the Right Kind of Clothing
The Char Dham Temples are located on high elevation of Garhwal Himalayas in Devbhoomi, Uttarakhand. The first thing that every traveller should do is to pack the right kind of clothing. Instead of packing lots of t-shirts and jeans, it is wise to pack the clothes with functionality. This means that you should pack a good number of thermal inners, various layers and sweaters. However, remember to pack just the essential clothes that you will definitely be needing. Here are some things that you must definitely pack: Puff Jacket, Woollen Muffler, Woollen Socks, Ear Muffs, Thermal Layer, Fleece Jacket, fleece lower and gloves. Avoid packing any fancy clothing as it will just occupy space and you will definitely not be needing it.
Keep Yourself Warm like This
The temperature on the hills drops drastically once the sun starts to set. Doesn’t matter if it is the summer or the winter months, nighttime on the hills is always very cold and chilly. Since you cannot rely on an electric heater or any other source of electrical equipment to keep you warm, you can carry portable heat packs that can at least keep your toes and fingers hot. It is easily available on Amazon and can be bought at a reasonable rate. You can also carry a rubber water bottle with you and ask any Dhaba Wala to provide you with hot water that will keep you warm and snuggly inside your blanket.
Book the Right Char Dham Package
Once you have made up your mind to head out to the holy Char Dham Yatra then the first thing that should be done is to book yourself the best Char Dham Yatra Package. On searching for a 4 Dham Yatra Package you will be bombarded with numerous different types of package deals so how will you filter out the good ones from the bad? The best way of doing this is to go to the company website and check out the testimonials and reviews left by the previous travellers and clients. Another way of doing this is to choose a package and speak to the travel manager of the company. There are several packages available to cater to the needs and budgets of different types of travellers. All you have to do is filter out the good ones from the bad ones.
Don’t Forget To Pack Medication
On the quest to find moksha you need to be in the best of your physical health, especially if you are choosing to travel to Char Dham by road. Prior to the commencement of the journey, it is a good idea to work out like going for regular walks or doing yoga exercises, to keep your health in check since you will be tackling extreme weather and demographic conditions. During the yatra, it is a great idea to keep a safe box of medication with you. Some medicines to keep a check on vomiting while going uphill the winding roads include Vomistop and Avomine. Other medications include Calpol, Dolo 650, Pain Killers, Moov, Aspirin, Antibiotics, Bandages, Bandaids, Bottle of Dettol and crepe bandage with cotton.
Keep Cash
Although Char Dham Temples are very famous and are visited by lakhs of pilgrims throughout the duration of their opening, bear in mind that these temples are located in extremely remote locations where services like phone connectivity and internet availability are negligible. Online banking, UPI payments and ATM services are not readily available. Do not rely on ATM machines for withdrawing cash later on as you may not find one. It is always wise to keep cash with you instead of relying on card payments since most of the services like accommodation and hotels only accept cash payments.
The Right Kind of Shoes
Often overlooked, the right kind of shoes for the pilgrimage can make a world of difference. Invest in the right kind of shoes, even if you are traveling to Char Dham by Helicopter. The terrain is jagged and very rocky that can easily tear away your sandals or weak quality footwear. Also, your feet will be much warmer and more comfortable when it is comfortably snuggled in a good pair of walking shoes that offers sole and heel support. This way you will not get tired easily and your feet will thank you.
Rain Gear Is a Necessity
I have said this before and I will say this again, the weather conditions on the hills cannot be predicted any day of the week. If it is sunny now it can turn into a full-fledged rain shower the next moment. Make sure to pack an umbrella or rain gear just in case you encounter heavy showers on your way. This is also because if you are en route to any of the temples there are very few shelter options available and you don’t want to fall sick.
Road Travel Tips
The majority of the pilgrims choose to travel to Char Dham by Road mainly because it is budget-friendly. Make sure you know the way by observing the map and talking to the driver beforehand. If you have motion sickness then take anti-motion sickness medication 15-20 minutes before the starting time of the trip. Limit yourself from drinking a lot of water since there are limited washrooms available en route. Keep a small garbage bag along with you to keep the waste packets of snacks that you may be eating instead of just casually throwing them outside. Be a smart traveller, not an ignorant one and protect the environment.
These are some travel tips to keep in mind while packing for the Chardham Yatra or while travelling also. These will help in keeping you safe, comfortable and always prepared to tackle any uncertain situation.
