What if you found a journey that offers not just stunning mountain views but also inner purity? Some trips are taken to explore the world, but the Char Dham Yatra is taken to discover yourself and transform from within.
So, if you're planning your next Uttarakhand Tour Packages, let it begin with something extraordinary. Let your spiritual journey begin with the Char Dham Yatra 2026!
The four dhams: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, have called pilgrims to the Himalayas for generations. Together, they trace a path of purity, devotion, strength, and salvation, with the age-old belief that finishing this yatra cleanses the soul and brings one to moksha.
Opening & Closing Dates of Chardham Yatra 2026
Yamunotri Temple
- Opening Date: April 19, 2026 (Saturday) - Akshaya Tritiya
- Closing Date: November 11, 2026 (Tentative) - Bhai Dooj
- Significance: Source of River Yamuna, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna
Gangotri Temple
- Opening Date: April 19, 2026 (Saturday) - Akshaya Tritiya
- Closing Date: November 10, 2026 (Tentative) - Deepawali
- Significance: Origin of River Ganga, sacred to Goddess Ganga
Kedarnath Temple
- Opening Date: April 22, 2026 (Wednesday) at 7:00 AM (Tentative)
- Closing Date: November 11, 2026 (Tentative)
- Significance: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva
Badrinath Temple
- Opening Date: April 24, 2026 (Friday) at 6:00 AM
- Closing Date: November 13, 2026 (Tentative) - Vijay Dashami
- Significance: Sacred abode of Lord Vishnu
most recommended uttarakhand trips from wanderon
The Chardham Yatra is among the holiest pilgrimages in Hinduism, undertaken by millions seeking spiritual cleansing and liberation. Char Dham means Four Abodes - four sacred destinations of immense religious importance.
Bada Char Dham Yatra vs Chota Char Dham Yatra
The Bada Char Dham refers to four sites positioned at India's four corners: Badrinath (north), Dwarka (west), Puri (east), and Rameswaram (south). Sri Adi Shankaracharya established this circuit to spiritually connect the entire nation.
The Chhota Char Dham, or Himalayan Char Dham is equally revered and includes Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath in Uttarakhand's Garhwal region.
Each dham honors a deity; Yamunotri (Goddess Yamuna), Gangotri (Goddess Ganga), Kedarnath (Lord Shiva), and Badrinath (Lord Vishnu). Devotees believe completing this yatra washes away a lifetime of sins and leads to moksha.
This guide is dedicated to the Chota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, India's most beloved annual pilgrimage.
Suggested Read: Top 15 Pilgrimage Road Trips in India (2025 Guide)
The Four Holy Shrines of Char Dham Yatra Uttarakhand
The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage routes, guiding devotees through four divine temples high in the Garhwal Himalayas. Each temple has deep spiritual meaning and reflects a different aspect of faith and purity.
The Yamunotri temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, stands at an elevation of 3,293 meters at the very source of the Yamuna River. Encircled by snow-laden peaks and thermal springs, the site is best known for Surya Kund - a sacred hot spring where devotees cook rice as an offering to the deity.
The first dham of the Chardham Yatra, Yamunotri, marks the start of spiritual purification for every devotee.
- Altitude: 3,293 meters
- Location: XFX7+V5V, Yamunotri, Yamnotri Range, Uttarakhand 249141
- Accessibility:
- By Car: Drive up to Janki Chatti (last motorable point)
- By Trek: 6 km trek from Janki Chatti to the temple, approximately 3-4 hours
- By Helicopter: Helipad available at Kharsali, short walk/pony ride to temple
- By Pony/Palki: Available at Janki Chatti for those unable to trek
Gangotri, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, is located at 3,100 meters along the Bhagirathi River. According to Hindu legend, this is the hallowed site where the Ganga descended from the heavens to earth. Pilgrims visit Gangotri seeking forgiveness and purification, with faith in the Ganges' ability to cleanse the soul of all sins.
With glaciers, pine forests, and mountain peaks as its backdrop, Gangotri is among the most stunning destinations of the Char Dham yatra.
- Altitude: 3,100 meters
- Location: XWVR+QF7, Gangotri, Uttarakhand 249136
- Accessibility:
- By Car: Motorable road goes directly up to Gangotri temple, no trek required
- By Helicopter: Harsil helipad is the nearest, followed by a short taxi ride
- By Bus: Regular buses available from Uttarkashi to Gangotri
At 3,583 meters near the Mandakini River, Kedarnath Temple is one of Lord Shiva's twelve Jyotirlingas and one of the most revered shrines in all of India. It is believed that Pandavas built it to atone for the sins of the Kurukshetra war. To reach the temple, devotees either take on a tough Himalayan trek or opt for a helicopter ride.
Overall, Kedarnath Char Dham Yatra represents strength, endurance, and devotion, making it one of the most spiritually powerful destinations of the yatra.
- Altitude: 3,583 meters
- Location: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand 246445
- Accessibility:
- By Car: Drive up to Gaurikund (last motorable point)
- By Trek: 18 km trek(approx) from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, approximately 6-8 hours
- By Helicopter: Direct helicopter service from Phata, Sirsi, or Guptkashi helipads, 7-10 minute flight
- By Pony/Palki: Available at Gaurikund for those unable to trek
The final and most revered stop of the Chardham Yatra, Badrinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Situated at an altitude of 3,133 meters on the banks of the Alaknanda River, it is believed that Lord Vishnu meditated here for thousands of years.
The colorful facade, vibrant rituals, and backdrop of the Neelkanth Peak make it a sight to behold. Badrinath represents compassion, wisdom, and ultimate salvation (moksha)
- Altitude: 3,133 meters
- Location: Badri to Mata Murti road, Badrinath, Uttarakhand 246422
- Accessibility:
- By Car: Motorable road goes directly to Badrinath temple, no trek required
- By Helicopter: Helipad available at Badrinath itself
- By Bus: Regular buses and shared taxis available from Rishikesh and Joshimath.
Best Time for Char Dham Yatra 2026
Going by the Char Dham Yatra opening dates 2026, pilgrims have from late April through to early November to complete their journey, a season that covers three very different phases of Himalayan weather and experience.
Summer Season (April to June)
- Temperature: 10°C to 25°C
- The busiest and most accessible period for the yatra
- Routes are fully open and the scenery is at its most vibrant
- Best suited for first-time visitors and family groups
Monsoon Season (July to August)
- Temperature: 12°C to 20°C
- Persistent rainfall and unpredictable landslides create real hazards
- Route blockages can disrupt even the most carefully planned itinerary
- Most pilgrims give this season a miss for good reason
Autumn Season (September to November)
- Temperature: 8°C to 18°C
- A quieter and equally beautiful alternative to the summer rush
- Skies stay clear, weather remains settled, and trails are less crowded
- The post-monsoon landscape adds a different kind of beauty to the journey
- Finish your circuit before the Char Dham Yatra closing dates — shrines begin closing from early November onwards
Suggested Read: Pilgrimage to 12 Jyotirlinga in India – Complete Travel Guide
Recommended Route of Char Dham Yatra 2026
The recommended route of Chardham Yatra follows a specific west-to-east direction, beginning with Yamunotri, then moving to Gangotri, Kedarnath, and finally Badrinath.
This order is considered spiritually significant, as it represents the journey from purification to salvation, starting from the rivers (Yamuna and Ganga) and ending with the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
The yatra traditionally starts from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun, which are well-connected by road, rail, and air.
The complete Char Dham Yatra list of stops pilgrims usually follow:
- Haridwar/Rishikesh → Barkot (Yamunotri base)
- Barkot → Yamunotri → return to Barkot
- Barkot → Uttarkashi (Gangotri base)
- Uttarkashi → Gangotri → return to Uttarkashi
- Uttarkashi → Guptkashi (Kedarnath base)
- Guptkashi → Gaurikund → Kedarnath → return to Guptkashi
- Guptkashi → Badrinath → return via Joshimath to Rishikesh/Haridwar
Char Dham Yatra Itinerary (9-10 Days)
Planning your Chardham Yatra becomes easier when you have a well-organized route. This 9–10 day itinerary covers all four shrines, starting from Haridwar/Rishikesh, the traditional gateway to the pilgrimage.
Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar / Rishikesh
- Arrive at Haridwar or Rishikesh by train, road, or flight to Dehradun.
- Visit Har Ki Pauri for Ganga Aarti in the evening.
- Overnight stay in Haridwar or Rishikesh.
Day 2: Haridwar – Barkot (Drive 210 km / 7 hrs)
- Begin your Char Dham Yatra journey with a scenic drive via Mussoorie
- Reach Barkot, the base for Yamunotri.
- Rest overnight.
Day 3: Barkot – Yamunotri – Barkot (Trek / 6 hrs total)
- Drive to Janki Chatti, then trek 6 km to Yamunotri Temple.
- Take a holy dip in Surya Kund and offer prayers to Goddess Yamuna.
- Return to Barkot for overnight stay.
Day 4: Barkot – Uttarkashi (Drive 100 km / 4 hrs)
- Depart for Uttarkashi, home to the Vishwanath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Overnight stay in Uttarkashi.
Day 5: Uttarkashi – Gangotri – Uttarkashi (Drive 200 km round trip)
- Drive along the Bhagirathi River to Gangotri Temple.
- Offer prayers to Goddess Ganga and enjoy the serene Himalayan views.
- Return to Uttarkashi for the night.
Day 6: Uttarkashi – Guptkashi (Drive 220 km / 8 hrs)
- Early morning drive to Guptkashi via Tehri Dam and Rudraprayag.
- Visit the Ardhnarishwar Temple in the evening.
- Overnight stay in Guptkashi.
Day 7: Guptkashi – Kedarnath (Trek or Helicopter)
- Drive to Gaurikund, then start the 18 km trek to Kedarnath Temple (or opt for a helicopter service).
- Visit the ancient Kedarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Overnight stay in Kedarnath (basic accommodation).
Day 8: Kedarnath – Guptkashi (Return)
- Early morning darshan at Kedarnath Temple.
- Trek or fly back to Guptkashi.
- Rest overnight.
Day 9: Guptkashi – Badrinath (Drive 180 km / 7 hrs)
- Drive through beautiful Joshimath and reach Badrinath.
- Visit Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Evening Aarti and overnight stay in Badrinath.
Day 10: Badrinath – Joshimath – Rishikesh/Haridwar (Drive 270 km / 8-9 hrs)
- Visit Mana Village (the last Indian village near the Tibet border).
- Return journey to Haridwar or Rishikesh.
- Yatra concludes with divine blessings and lifelong memories.
Suggested Read: 13 Places To Visit In Uttarakhand In 2025
Char Dham Yatra Registration 2026 - Process and Requirements
The government of Uttarakhand has made it mandatory for all pilgrims to register in advance to ensure safety and streamline the pilgrimage.
Char Dham Yatra registration can be completed online via the official website or mobile app, and you can also register offline at designated counters. Without registration, pilgrims are not permitted entry into any of the four shrines.
Upon successful registration, you receive a QR code via SMS or email. This Yatra Parchi or Registration Letter must be shown at the entry point of each shrine: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
The registration is also known as a yatra e-pass, yatra permit, yatra parchi, or registration card. The Uttarakhand government uses a GPS-based monitoring system to track registered pilgrims, regulate crowd flow, and provide access to government facilities such as food, lodging, and emergency services.
How to Register for Char Dham Yatra 2026
Below are various options to register for Char Dham Yatra 2026:
1. Online Registration (Recommended)
- Visit the official portal at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in and click "Register/Login"
- Enter your name, mobile number, and email; complete OTP verification
- Navigate to "Create/Manage Tour Info" → "Add New Tour"
- Enter trip duration, temple visit dates, and number of pilgrims
- Add each pilgrim's details: age, gender, contact, emergency contact, and scanned ID proof
- Submit and download your Yatra Registration Letter with QR code
2. Tourist Care Uttarakhand App
- Download "Tourist Care Uttarakhand" app on Android or iOS
- Follow the same registration steps as the official website
- Also provides route maps, weather updates, and accommodation options
3. WhatsApp Registration
- Type "YATRA" and send to +91-8394833833
- Follow the prompts to complete registration directly through WhatsApp
4. Toll-Free Number
- Call 0135-1364
- A representative will guide you through the complete registration process
5. Offline Registration Counters
For those unable to register online, counters are available at key locations:
Major Counters:
- Haridwar — Rahi Hotel
- Rishikesh — ISBT, RTO, Gurudwara
Route-Wise Counters:
- Barkot (Yamunotri route)
- Hina (Gangotri route)
- Sonprayag (Kedarnath route)
- Pandukeshwar & Govind Ghat (Badrinath route)
Documents & Requirements:
- Valid government-issued photo ID: Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, PAN Card, or Driving License
- Recent passport-sized photograph or clear selfie (JPG/PNG format, 10KB–150KB for online uploads)
- Active mobile number and email ID for OTP verification
- Emergency contact details of someone not traveling with you
- Health declaration form including any existing medical conditions and current medications
- Medical fitness certificate is mandatory for children under 12 and senior citizens above 65 years
- For foreign nationals, valid Passport and Visa documents are mandatory
Suggested Read: 15+ Best Things To Do In Uttarakhand In 2025
Travel Options for Char Dham Yatra
Pilgrims have multiple travel options to undertake the 4 Dham Yatra, depending on convenience, budget, and fitness level. The journey typically starts from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun, which are well-connected by road, rail, and air.
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun.
- Well-connected with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.
- Pilgrims can hire taxis from the airport to reach Haridwar, Rishikesh, or directly to the yatra route.
By Train
- Nearest railway stations: Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun.
- Haridwar is the most popular station due to its connectivity with major Indian cities.
- From the station, pilgrims hire taxis or take buses to begin the yatra.
By Road
- Private taxis, cabs, and buses are widely available.
- Roads connect all four shrines, though some stretches involve steep mountain drives.
- Ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic drives and stopping at local attractions along the way.
By Helicopter
Char Dham Yatra by helicopter provides a faster and more convenient way to complete the yatra, allowing pilgrims to visit Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath in 5-6 days, compared to the traditional 9-10 day road journey.
Helicopter Packages typically include VIP darshan arrangements, guided transfers, and comfortable stays at Himalayan towns along the route. The aerial journey also offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, rivers, and valleys.
Key Features:
- Covers all four shrines quickly, ideal for travelers with limited time.
- Comfortable and accessible for elderly pilgrims, families, or those not keen on long treks.
- Offers stunning Himalayan aerial views.
- VIP darshan arrangements save hours of waiting in queues
Important Details & Considerations:
- Cost: Helicopter packages are significantly more expensive than road travel, with some 5N/6D packages costing around ₹2,30,000 per person.
- Yamunotri Access: Even with helicopters, a short trek or pony/palki may be needed as the helipad is some distance from the temple.
- Weather & Safety: High-altitude flights are subject to weather delays or cancellations; authorities have flagged safety concerns.
- Booking: Reserve well in advance as slots fill up quickly; verify the legitimacy of operators.
Suggested Read: 22 Best Places to Visit in Dehradun | 2025 Travel Guide
Tips for Travelers on Char Dham Yatra
- Registration fills up quickly once the season opens — get yours done as early as possible
- Hard copies of your e-pass and ID should belong in your bag at all times, not just your phone
- Don't skip the pre-trip health check. Altitude-related problems are common and hit harder with heart or lung conditions
- No negotiation on these: Thermals, rain jacket, trekking shoes, sunscreen, torch, first-aid kit
- Every season brings different Char Dham Yatra weather conditions: Summer is your best bet, monsoon is the season most experienced pilgrims avoid, and autumn rewards patience with cold but clear mountain days
- Four simple rules for every shrine: Dress respectfully, avoid alcohol, skip non-veg food, leave the surroundings clean
- Himalayan roads are not reliable. Buffer days in your itinerary are what keep your plans from falling apart
- Withdraw cash before you leave the bigger towns. The route beyond runs almost entirely without digital payment options
- Weather and road updates need checking every morning. This habit matters most during monsoon and the weeks that follow
Suggested Read: 16 Travel Tips For Uttarakhand Adventures in 2026
Char Dham Yatra 2026 - Key Takeaways
The Char Dham Yatra takes you deeper into the mountains, into silence, and into a version of yourself you rarely get to meet. The rough roads, the tough climbs, and the weather that shifts without warning are all woven into the experience.
Be fully present for every moment of it. Before you head out, note the Char Dham Yatra 2026 opening dates in late April and get your registration sorted well in advance. Decide on your travel mode. Road travel offers full immersion while helicopter travel prioritises comfort.
Pack thermal layers, waterproof gear, and a solid first-aid kit without compromise. Most of the route runs on cash so carry more than you think you will need. Get medically checked before departure, as it is essential for high-altitude travel and always keep physical and digital document copies on hand.
