Char Dham Yatra 2026 begins: Kedarnath opens tomorrow; Check registration process, helicopter booking, routes, dates and new rules here

Char Dham Yatra 2026 begins and gains momentum as the snow-capped peaks of Uttarakhand are echoing with Vedic chants. While the portals of Yamunotri and Gangotri already opened on April 19, the spotlight is now firmly on Kedarnath, which is set to welcome devotees starting tomorrow, April 22. Following closely, Badrinath will open its doors the day after tomorrow, April 23. With lakhs of pilgrims expected to descend upon the "Abode of Gods," authorities have introduced unprecedented measures—including a ban on mobile phones inside shrines and mandatory medical screenings—to ensure the sanctity and safety of the 2026 pilgrimage season.

Char Dham Yatra 2026: Kedarnath portal opens; Routes

Among the four sacred dhams, Kedarnath remains the most physically demanding and popular destination. Reaching the shrine requires an arduous 16–18 km trek from Gaurikund, the last motorable point. For those unable to trek, the government has streamlined helicopter services, which must be booked exclusively through the IRCTC portal. Because of the extreme altitude and unpredictable weather, the state has stationed 177 ambulances and a helicopter ambulance operated by AIIMS Rishikesh to provide real-time medical support to pilgrims on the Kedarnath route.

Char Dham Yatra 2026 Badrinath, Gangotri & Yamunotri Routes

While the rush for Kedarnath begins tomorrow, the final leg of the yatra, Badrinath, will open on April 23. Unlike Kedarnath, Badrinath is directly accessible by road, making it a preferred choice for senior citizens. Meanwhile, the pilgrimage has already begun at Yamunotri and Gangotri. Yamunotri serves as the traditional starting point, where visitors trek 5–6 km from Janki Chatti. Gangotri is more accessible, with motorable roads leading straight to the temple, allowing the yatra to flow smoothly toward the more challenging high-altitude shrines opening this week.

New Char Dham Yatra 2026 rules: Non-Hindus entry

What distinguishes the 2026 season are the strict new entry regulations. A total ban on mobile phones and cameras has been implemented inside the temple complexes of Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Gangotri to preserve the spiritual atmosphere. Furthermore, authorities have clarified that while Yamunotri remains open to all, certain conditions for access by non-Hindus have been introduced at the other three shrines. Pilgrims are encouraged to focus on the spiritual experience rather than digital documentation, with dedicated cloakrooms provided for storing electronic devices before entering the sanctum.

Char Dham Yatra 2026 registration process

Health is a non-negotiable priority this year. Every traveller, particularly those above 55 or with pre-existing conditions like asthma and diabetes, must undergo a mandatory medical check-up before starting the yatra. Registration is also compulsory for every individual and vehicle, and can be completed via the official portal: registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in. Once registered, pilgrims receive darshan slot tokens, which are verified at various checkpoints along the mountain routes to prevent overcrowding and ensure a smoother flow of devotees.