The Char Dham Yatra takes you from the plains of Haridwar to temples above 3,000 metres. Pack for four seasons, but keep your bag light – you will be climbing.
Clothing
- Thermal inner wear (two sets)
- A fleece or down jacket, plus a waterproof rain jacket
- Woollen cap, gloves and socks
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip – not new ones
Health & comfort
- Your regular medicines, with prescriptions
- Basic first-aid kit and any medicines your doctor suggests for altitude
- Sunscreen, lip balm and sunglasses – the sun is strong at altitude
- A reusable water bottle and dry snacks
Documents
Carry the original ID used for your yatra registration and a printed copy of the registration. Mobile networks can be patchy, so keep important numbers written down.
What to leave behind
Heavy suitcases, expensive jewellery and too many clothes. Porters and ponies charge by weight, and hotels near the shrines have limited space.
Please speak to your doctor before the trip, especially if you have heart, lung or blood-pressure conditions.
