Char Dham Yatra

Why in news?

• The Char Dham yatra, a pilgrimage to four sacred Hindu shrines in the Himalayas, has witnessed a high number of deaths among the devotees this year.

About Char Dham Yatra:

• Char Dham Yatra is a pilgrimage circuit in Uttarakhand.
• It involves visiting four sacred Hindu shrines located in the Himalayas.
• The four shrines included in the yatra are Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
• It is believed that one should complete the Char Dham Yatra in a clockwise direction: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

Religious Significance:

• Each of these shrines holds significant religious and mythological importance in Hinduism.
• It is believed that undertaking the Char Dham Yatra can cleanse one's sins and lead to spiritual salvation.

About Char Dam Project:

• Char Dam Project is a major infrastructure initiative in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.
• It aims to improve connectivity and pilgrimage tourism to the four holy Hindu sites, known as Char Dham.
• Expected to boost tourism, trade, transport, and employment opportunities in Uttarakhand.
• Enhances safety and security for pilgrims and strengthens military operations in border areas.
• Facilitates disaster management and relief operations in emergencies.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Chardham road project aims to connect which of the following pilgrimage centers?

1. Yamunotri

2. Ujjain

3. Varanasi

4. Badrinath

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1,2 and 3 only

(b) 2,3 and 4 only

(c) 1 and 4 only

(d) 1,2,3 and 4

Answer