Why Does The Char Dham Yatra Begin On Akshaya Tritiya? Discover Its Spiritual Significance

Char Dham Yatra 2025: The sacred Char Dham Yatra is set to begin on April 30, which is the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. On this day, the portals of Yamunotri and Gangotri temples are opened. This year, Akshaya Tritiya falls on April 30. But do you know what "Akshaya" means and why the Char Dham Yatra begins on this specific day? Let’s also explore the spiritual significance of Akshaya Tritiya.

ALSO READ: This Akshaya Tritiya Not Just Gold, Even Earthenware Will Brighten Your Fortune

What Is Akshaya Tritiya Called In Sanatan Dharma?

In Sanatan Dharma, Akshaya Tritiya is referred to as the Yugadi festival. It falls on the Tritiya Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Vaishakh and is believed to be a highly auspicious day. According to religious beliefs, acts of charity, chanting, penance, and worship performed on this day yield Akshaya Punya — imperishable merit. It is also considered extremely fortunate to begin any new venture on this day, as success is believed to be assured.

The word Akshaya means “that which never diminishes.” That’s why people traditionally purchase gold — a metal that symbolises eternal wealth — on Akshaya Tritiya. It is believed that buying gold on this day pleases Goddess Lakshmi, who blesses her devotees with prosperity and abundance. Akshaya Tritiya is mentioned in several sacred texts, including the Bhavishya Purana and the Narada Purana.

What Should Be Done On Akshaya Tritiya?

Akshaya Tritiya is considered a Swayam Siddha Muhurat, meaning an auspicious time that doesn’t require any special planetary alignment. Therefore, starting any new venture on this day is believed to be highly favourable. The sacred Char Dham Yatra also begins on Akshaya Tritiya. On this day, the doors of the Yamunotri and Gangotri temples are ceremoniously opened. In Hinduism, the Char Dham Yatra holds immense spiritual significance. The pilgrimage traditionally starts from Yamunotri and follows the sequence: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

Following Yamunotri and Gangotri, the Kedarnath shrine opens on May 2, and Badrinath on May 4. As per religious beliefs, starting the pilgrimage from Yamunotri ensures a smooth journey without obstacles. Yamunotri is the origin point of the Yamuna River. According to mythology, Yamuna is the sister of Yama and has been granted a boon that her waters will relieve people of sorrow. It is believed that taking a holy dip at Yamunotri frees devotees from the fear of death, which is why the Char Dham Yatra traditionally begins there.

Apart from its religious importance, the Char Dham Yatra also holds geographical relevance. Yamunotri is located in the western region, and the yatra proceeds eastward, making the route more practical and convenient for pilgrims.

What Are The Auspicious Timings For Akshaya Tritiya 2025?

Now, let's talk about the auspicious timings for Akshaya Tritiya 2025. According to the Drik Panchang, the Tritiya Tithi will begin on April 29 at 5:32 PM and end on April 30 at 2:12 PM. The auspicious time for worship will be from 5:41 AM to 12:18 PM, with a total duration of 6 hours and 37 minutes. This is also considered the best time for home entry rituals.

According to religious beliefs, if you are unable to purchase gold or silver on Akshaya Tritiya, buying earthenware, cowrie shells, yellow mustard, turmeric root, and cotton is also considered very auspicious for prosperity. Donations of yogurt, rice, milk, and kheer on this day hold great significance.

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