Char Dham Yatra is one of the most sacred and spiritual pilgrimages in India. This yatra includes visiting four holy shrines: Yamunotri Temple, Gangotri Temple, Kedarnath Temple, and Badrinath Temple. Every year, lakhs of devotees travel to Uttarakhand to complete the spiritual Char Dham Yatra.
To better manage this spiritual journey, the government has made Char Dham Yatra registration mandatory for every traveller. If you are planning to undertake this journey this year, it is important to be aware of key details of the Char Dham Yatra registration procedure, such as opening times, special guidelines, and more.
Opening and Closing of Char Dhams 2026
The Char Dham Yatra has a specific opening and closing schedule. Here are more details on the opening and closing of Char Dhams in 2026:
| Char Dham Temple | Opening Date | Closing Date (Tentative) |
| Gangotri Temple | 19th April, 2026 | 10th November, 2026 |
| Yamunotri Temple | 19th April, 2026 | 11th November, 2026 |
| Kedarnath Temple | 22nd April, 2026 | 11th November, 2026 |
| Badrinath Temple | 23rd April, 2026 | 13th November, 2026 |
The Char Dham Yatra will begin on April 19, on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya when the temples of Gangotri and Yamunotri will open for devotees.
Why is Registration Important for Char Dham Yatra?
There are several benefits of Char Dham Yatra registration, including:
- Registration Is Mandatory
Registration for Char Dham Yatra has been made mandatory by the Uttarakhand Government. Therefore, it is important for devotees to register for the yatra, either online or offline, before visiting.
- GPS-based Tracking System
Registration helps the government track the number of pilgrims visiting each shrine. This reduces overcrowding and improves crowd management. Additionally, it allows authorities to quickly assist pilgrims in emergencies such as bad weather, landslides, or health issues.
- Hassle-Free Visit for Devotees
Registration ensures a hassle-free visit for the devotees. Upon registration, an official yatra pass is issued, making it easier to cross all checkpoints during the journey.
- Access to facilities
Registering for the Char Dham Yatra also provides devotees with access to several government facilities, such as lodging, food, and emergency services, either free of charge or at a subsidised cost.
Documents Required for Char Dham Registration
To complete your Char Dham Yatra registration, you need to keep a few important documents ready. These include:
- A valid government ID (Aadhaar card, voter ID, passport, etc.)
- Mobile number (active for OTP verification)
- Contact information, such as Email ID and residential address
- Recent passport-size photograph (in digital format for online registration)
- Travel details such as dates and destinations
- Emergency contact information
Registration Fees for Char Dham Yatra
There are no registration fees for the Char Dham Yatra. The government has made it free to ensure devotees of all economic backgrounds can undertake the pilgrimage.
However, pilgrims should stay alert and avoid third-party websites or agents that claim to offer paid registration services, as these are often fraudulent. To ensure a safe and genuine experience, always complete your registration through the official portal or authorised centres only.
How to Register for Char Dham Yatra?
Since registration is mandatory for the Char Dham Yatra, the Uttarakhand government announces Char Dham Yatra registration 2026 dates well in advance. The registration process for Char Dham Yatra 2026 starts on 6th March at 7:00 AM via the official mobile application.
For offline registration, the authorities will open the registration shortly before the yatra begins. Registration counters will be set up at Haridwar, Rishikesh, Barkot, Heena, Sonprayag, and Pandukeshwar. The devotee must carry a valid ID proof to complete the registration process at offline counters.
| Chardham Registration Counters | Other Counters |
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Step-by-Step Guide for Online Char Dham Yatra Registration 2026
There are several ways to register for Char Dham Yatra.
1. Char Dham Yatra Online Registration
Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide you can follow to do online registration for Char Dham Yatra:
- Step 1: Visit the official Char Dham Yatra portal registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in or download the mobile application. The mobile application is available for both iOS and Android.
- Step 2: Create a new account using your mobile number.
- Step 3: Fill in the Char Dham Yatra registration form and provide personal details such as name, ID proof, and travel date.
- Step 4: Next, select the Char Dham destination you are planning to visit.
- Step 5: Submit the form and download the registration confirmation. This confirmation works as your Yatra pass, so ensure to keep it safe.
2. WhatsApp Registration for Char Dham Yatra
Pilgrims can now register for Char Dham Yatra through WhatsApp.
- Send YATRA to 8394833833 via WhatsApp.
- Next, you will receive questions regarding the pilgrimage. Provide the necessary details, and the registration process will be completed through the app.
3. Char Dham Yatra Registration via Toll-Free number
If online or WhatsApp registration is inaccessible or uncomfortable, pilgrims can register through the toll-free number.
- Call 0135-1364
- A representative will assist you through the Char Dham Yatra registration procedure.
4. Tourist Care Uttarakhand App
Devotees can also register for the yatra via the Tourist Care Uttarakhand app.
- Download the app on your mobile phone.
- Follow the steps in the app to register for Char Dham Yatra.
Yatris can also use the app for route maps, chardham weather updates, and hotel accommodations during the pilgrimage.
Verification Checkpoints for Char Dham Yatra Registration
During the yatra, authorities check the registration details at multiple locations. These checkpoints are set up to ensure safety and track pilgrim movement. Typically, verification points include:
- Entry points like Haridwar and Rishikesh.
- Mid-route checkpoints.
- Temple entry gates.
Note: Ensure to carry a valid ID proof and registration details during the yatra.
Special Guidelines for Pilgrims Travelling to Char Dham
Since the Char Dham Yatra is undertaken by lakhs of devotees, authorities issue special guidelines to ensure the experience is safe, comfortable, and hassle-free. Here are some key guidelines that you must know:
- Health Check-ups
The Char Dham Yatra involves high-altitude travel, especially at Kedarnath and Badrinath. Pilgrims are advised to undergo basic health check-ups before starting the journey. Additionally, it is advisable to carry essential medicines and stay hydrated throughout the yatra.
- Emergency Helplines
The Uttarakhand Government provides dedicated helpline numbers for pilgrims. These helpline numbers are available to assist during medical emergencies, missing persons, weather updates, travel assistance, and other such queries.
- Yatra E Pass
Upon registration, pilgrims are issued a Char Dham Yatra E Pass. This contains all personal details and travel information. It is important to show this pass at various checkpoints during the yatra. Therefore, you must keep it easily accessible either on the phone or as a printed copy.
- Green Card/ Trip Card
The Char Dham Green card is a mandatory permit for commercial and private vehicles travelling to the pilgrimage. This card regulates vehicle movement and pollution monitoring in the area.
Green card/Trip Card for the Char Dham Yatra is issued by the Uttarakhand Transport Department, and pilgrims can apply for it through greencard.uk.gov.in.
- Helicopter Registration
Helicopter services are also available for the Char Dham, especially for pilgrims travelling to Kedarnath. Helicopter service charges vary depending on the route and operator.
Frequently Asked Questions on Char Dham Yatra
- Is there any limit on the number of pilgrims allowed per day?
Yes. The Uttarakhand Government often sets a daily cap on the number of pilgrims visiting each dham. This helps manage crowd flow and ensures safety in high-altitude areas. Once the daily limit is reached, further registrations for that date may be closed, so early planning is important.
- Do children and senior citizens also need to register?
Yes, registration is mandatory for all age groups, including children and senior citizens. For elderly travellers, it is especially helpful as authorities can provide better assistance in case of health or mobility concerns.
- What happens if I lose my Yatra E-Pass during the yatra?
If you lose your Yatra E-Pass, you can usually download it again from the official portal using your login details. If you are already on the route, you can visit a nearby registration centre or checkpoint for assistance. To avoid such hassle, it is recommended to carry a digital pass.
- What kind of accommodation options are available during the yatra?
There are several accommodation options available that fit the needs and budget of every pilgrim. Some options include guesthouses, dharamshalas, hotels, and government lodges. Note that accommodation facilities may vary by location.
- Are there guided tour packages available for Char Dham Yatra?
Yes, many travel agencies offer guided Char Dham Yatra packages that include transportation, accommodation, meals, and assistance. These packages are helpful for first-time travellers, as they reduce the need for individual planning and ensure a more organised experience.
- What are some common travel tips for Char Dham Yatra?
Some travel tips include booking in advance, registering for the Yatra, packing warm, appropriate clothes, staying hydrated, and eating light meals. Additionally, starting early each day can help avoid overexertion, especially near Kedarnath Temple. Do not forget to keep documents handy and follow local safety guidelines throughout the journey.
- Are food facilities easily available during the yatra?
Yes. There are multiple small eateries, dhabas, and community kitchens serving simple vegetarian meals. However, options may be limited in remote areas, so carrying light snacks and a personal water bottle is always a good idea.
- Why should I choose redBus for my Char Dham Yatra ticket bookings?
Choosing redBus for your Char Dham Yatra makes travel planning simple and convenient. You get access to a wide range of bus options, easy price comparison, and secure online payments. Additionally, with modern features, you can check routes, times, and seat availability in one place, saving time. These options help ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, especially in peak travel seasons.
