Significance of The Char Dham
In the 8th century, Adi Shankaracharya designated four sacred sites at India's four corners, Badrinath in the north, Rameswaram in the south, Puri in the east, and Dwarka in the west, as the 'Char Dham', binding the whole country into one spiritual tradition. Each Dham has its own tradition, deity, and architectural style, yet all are tied to the same goal, attaining moksha.
This all-India Char Dham should not be confused with Uttarakhand's own regional 'Chota Char Dham' circuit (Yamunotri-Gangotri-Kedarnath-Badrinath), the two are distinct traditions, though Badrinath appears in both. Rameswaram Temple is also counted among the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it part of both lists.
The Char Dham
Lord Vishnu's abode; represents the northern point, set in the Himalayas, also part of the Chota Char Dham.
Lord Shiva's abode; represents the southern point, also counted among the twelve Jyotirlingas.
Lord Jagannath's (Krishna) abode; represents the eastern point, known for its world-famous Rath Yatra.
Lord Krishna's abode; represents the western point, tied to the legend of the city of Dwarka submerging into the sea.
Visiting The Char Dham
The Char Dham are spread across four distant corners of India, Badrinath in the Himalayas, Rameswaram on a southern island, Puri on the eastern coast, and Dwarka on the western coast, so completing all four in one journey is, for most pilgrims, something planned over years. Apart from Badrinath, the other three remain accessible year-round; Badrinath closes through winter snowfall.
About The Char Dham
This page presents the list of the all-India Char Dham established by Adi Shankaracharya, their locations, and what makes each one distinctive, with a link to each one's detailed page.
The information on this page is presented with easy-to-read sizing and print support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Char Dham?
Badrinath (north), Rameswaram (south), Puri (east), and Dwarka (west), these four pilgrimage sites together are called the Char Dham.
Who established the Char Dham?
Adi Shankaracharya established the Char Dham in the 8th century to spiritually unify the whole of India.
What is the difference between the Char Dham and the Chota Char Dham?
The all-India Char Dham (Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, Rameswaram) is an ancient, all-India tradition established by Adi Shankaracharya, while the Chota Char Dham (Yamunotri-Gangotri-Kedarnath-Badrinath) is a regional pilgrimage tradition specific to Uttarakhand, Badrinath appears in both lists.
Is Rameswaram part of any other sacred list?
Yes, Rameswaram Temple is also counted among the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it part of both the Char Dham and Jyotirlinga lists.