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Char Dham Health Advisory Explained: A Health Tips to Keep in Mind
All the holy shrines in the Char Dham Yatra route in Uttarakhand are located at moderate to high altitudes. Traveling in these altitudes may expose your bodies and minds to extreme colder weather, lower humidity, high ultraviolet radiation and reduced air and oxygen pressure. Travelers should be aware of that, and take precautions to avoid any untoward incidents during their stay in the Himalayas. Here are some general health advisories to keep in mind, some issued by the government, some are just common sensical.
Health Advisories:
- Undergo a thorough health check-up before embarking on the Yatra.
- Travelers with pre-existing conditions must carry prescribed medicines, prescriptions, and contact details of their physicians for emergencies.
- Ensure your travel itinerary includes at least one day of rest before reaching the final pilgrimage site.
- Pack sufficient woollen/warm clothes for the journey.
- Exercise extra caution if you have Heart Diseases, Respiratory ailments, Diabetes, or Hypertension when traveling to high altitudes.
- If you experience symptoms such as headache, dizziness, chest tightness, seek immediate medical attention or call 104 and 108 helplines.
- Abstain from alcohol, drugs, and smoking during the pilgrimage.
- Use sunscreen with SPF 50 for skin protection from sunlight.
- Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from UV rays.
- Stay well-hydrated and avoid traveling on an empty stomach.
- Take regular breaks during trekking or walking.
- Refrain from strenuous exercise at high altitudes.
- In emergencies, contact helpline numbers [108 – National Ambulance Service and 104- Uttarakhand Health Helpline].
Tourists on their way to the Char Dham Shrines should not ignore these health advisories, and should be prepared in case of medical emergency. While most of the travels during most times for most yatris go smoothly without any medical incidents, but as the saying goes: "It's better to be prepared to be safe than sorry".
In addition to these health advisories, one should also not forget to register before starting their char dham journeys. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Char Dham Registration Requirements:
Mandatory Online Registration: All tourists have to register online through the official website of the Uttarakhand Char Dham Devasthanam Management Board (UCDDM). This mandatory registration process helps the authorities manage crowd control and ensure the safety of pilgrims.
Link : https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/
Documents Required: For registration, tourists need to provide some basic personal information, photo identification, and proof of address. For foreign nationals, a valid passport and visa are required.
Registration Fees: A nominal registration fee is applicable for all pilgrims. The fee varies depending on the age and category of the pilgrim.
Note: Do not take char dham without Yatra Certificate. it's a mandatory registration as dictated by the government.
While the information in the previous two sections are mandated by the law, here are a few sound travel tips you should follow during your Char Dham tour to get the best of your Char Dham experience.
Travel Tips:
Travel During Peak Season: The Char Dham Yatra typically takes place between April and June, coinciding with the summer season. This period sees the highest influx of pilgrims, leading to crowded routes and accommodation. Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (March-April or September-October) for a more relaxed experience.
Choose the Right Mode of Transport: The Char Dham shrines are accessible by road, helicopter, and even trekking routes. Choose the mode of transport that best suits your fitness level and budget. Shared taxis and jeeps are readily available, while helicopters offer a faster but more expensive option.
Pack Adequately: Pack warm clothes, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and rain gear, as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. Carry essential toiletries, medications, and a first-aid kit.
Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Be mindful of local customs and traditions, and avoid littering or causing any damage to the environment.
Check out comprehensive guide on 10 tips for a memorable and hassle-free char dhan tour.
Briefly, here are some essential do's and don'ts
Do's:
Register online before undertaking the yatra.
Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
Carry essential medications and inform authorities of any medical conditions.
Dress modestly and respect local customs.
Dispose of waste responsibly and avoid littering.
Follow traffic rules and drive cautiously on mountain roads.
Don't:
Travel without registering online.
Ascend to high altitudes without proper acclimatization.
Engage in strenuous activities, especially during the initial days.
Consume alcohol or smoke cigarettes at high altitudes.
Litter or cause any damage to the environment.
Disrespect local customs or traditions.
You can also read our article on Planning & Mindfulness: Do's and Don'ts while undertaking your char dham yatra for more do's and don'ts.
