If you are planning the Char Dham Yatra in 2026, let me tell you โ this year comes with some important changes that you need to know about before you start booking anything. Biometric registration is now mandatory, the 60-40 online-offline registration split is new, and the helicopter costs for Kedarnath have gone up again. I have been following the Char Dham circuit closely and have traveled to Kedarnath and Badrinath multiple times over the years, so I will share everything I know to help you plan this sacred journey properly.
The Char Dham Yatra covers four sacred temples in Uttarakhand โ Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath โ and the complete circuit from Delhi takes about 10-12 days by road, covering roughly 1,500-2,000 km. In this guide, I will walk you through the 2026 opening dates, registration process, day-by-day itinerary, budget breakdown, helicopter booking, and everything else you need to know to plan your yatra.
| Yatra Season | April 19 – November 13, 2026 |
| Total Circuit Distance | ~1,500-2,000 km from Delhi (by road) |
| Days Required | 10-12 days (complete circuit) |
| Budget Estimate | Rs 20,000-55,000 per person |
| Registration | Mandatory, free โ opens March 20, 2026 |
| Best Months | May-June and September-October |
| Key Altitudes | Kedarnath: 3,583m | Badrinath: 3,133m |
| Last Updated | February 2026 |
When does the Char Dham Yatra 2026 start and what are the temple opening dates?
The Char Dham Yatra 2026 begins on April 19 with Yamunotri and Gangotri opening first, followed by Kedarnath on April 22 and Badrinath on April 24. All temples close by mid-November. Registration opens March 20, 2026.
Here are the confirmed opening and closing dates for all four Dhams in 2026. Keep in mind that the opening dates are decided based on the Hindu calendar โ specifically on Akshaya Tritiya โ and may shift by a day or two based on the Panchang. The closing dates are announced on Vijayadashami (Dussehra).
| Temple | Opening Date | Closing Date | Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yamunotri | April 19, 2026 | November 11, 2026 | 3,293m (10,804 ft) |
| Gangotri | April 19, 2026 | November 10, 2026 | 3,100m (10,170 ft) |
| Kedarnath | April 22, 2026 | November 11, 2026 | 3,583m (11,755 ft) |
| Badrinath | April 24, 2026 | November 13, 2026 | 3,133m (10,279 ft) |
The traditional clockwise route starts with Yamunotri, then Gangotri, followed by Kedarnath, and finally Badrinath. I would suggest following this sequence because it gradually increases in altitude and difficulty, giving your body time to acclimatize. However, many pilgrims now start with Badrinath and work backwards โ the choice is yours.
How do I register for the Char Dham Yatra 2026? What are the new rules?
Registration is mandatory and free for all pilgrims. In 2026, biometric Aadhaar-based registration is compulsory. Register online at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in starting March 20, 2026. The new 60-40 split means 60% slots are online and 40% at offline counters in Haridwar and Rishikesh.
The Uttarakhand government has introduced some important changes for 2026 that you should know about. Biometric registration linked to your Aadhaar Card is now mandatory. This was optional in previous years but is compulsory starting 2026. Also, there is a new 60-40 registration split โ 60% of registrations will be online and 40% at offline counters (30 counters in Rishikesh and 20 in Haridwar).
How to Register Online (Step by Step)
- Visit registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in or download the Tourist Care Uttarakhand app
- Create an account with your name, mobile number, and registration type (Individual, Family, or Tour Operator)
- Complete OTP verification on your mobile and email
- Log in and create your tour โ enter tour type, dates, number of pilgrims, and destinations
- Add pilgrim details: full name, age, gender, Aadhaar number, emergency contact
- Upload a passport-sized photo and valid ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN, Passport โ format: 10kb-150kb, .jpg or .png)
- Submit the form โ you will receive a Yatra Registration Letter via SMS with a QR code
Alternative registration methods: Send “YATRA” to 8394833833 on WhatsApp, or call the toll-free helpline at 0135-1364. You can also register through authorized travel operators at no extra cost.
At each shrine, your QR code wristband will be scanned at verification centers โ Dobata (Yamunotri), Heena (Gangotri), Sonprayag (Kedarnath), and Pandukeshwar (Badrinath). These centers are connected to a central control room in Dehradun for real-time pilgrim tracking. Hence, do make sure your registration is complete before you leave for the yatra.
What is the best time to go for the Char Dham Yatra in 2026?
The best months are May-June (warm weather, all roads open) and September-October (fewer crowds, clear skies, lush green scenery). Avoid July-August due to heavy monsoon rains and landslide risks. May to mid-June sees the heaviest crowds due to school holidays.
Let me break this down month by month so you can pick the window that works best for you:
| Month | Weather | Crowds | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Late April | 10-20ยฐC, cool nights, some snow at higher altitudes | Low-Medium | Good โ early season, roads just opened |
| May | 15-30ยฐC, pleasant days, clear skies | High (peak) | Best weather but heavy crowds |
| June | 18-35ยฐC, warm, pre-monsoon showers late June | Very High | Good weather, maximum rush |
| July-August | 15-25ยฐC, heavy rainfall 400+ mm/month | Low | Avoid โ landslides, road closures |
| September | 12-25ยฐC, post-monsoon, green landscapes | Low | Excellent โ clear views, fewer pilgrims |
| October | 5-20ยฐC, crisp, clear Himalayan views | Low-Medium | Best for photography and peace |
If I were planning my Char Dham Yatra in 2026, I would go in late September or early October. The weather is perfect, the crowds have thinned out significantly after the monsoon, and the landscapes are lush and green from the rains. The only downside is that nights get cold at Kedarnath โ temperatures can drop to 0-5ยฐC โ so carry proper woolens.
How much does the Char Dham Yatra cost in 2026? Complete budget breakdown
A complete Char Dham Yatra costs approximately Rs 20,000-25,000 (budget), Rs 35,000-50,000 (mid-range), or Rs 60,000-90,000 (comfort) per person for 10-12 days. This includes transport, accommodation, food, treks, and donations. Helicopter to Kedarnath costs Rs 7,000-10,000 extra per person one-way.
Here is a detailed cost breakdown based on current 2026 prices. Keep in mind that costs vary depending on the season โ peak months (May-June) are 20-30% more expensive than shoulder months (April, September-October).
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport (ex-Delhi, 10-12 days) | Rs 5,000-8,000 (bus/shared) | Rs 15,000-20,000 (shared Innova) | Rs 30,000-40,000 (private car) |
| Accommodation (10 nights) | Rs 5,000-8,000 (dharamshala/GMVN) | Rs 10,000-15,000 (mid-range hotels) | Rs 20,000-30,000 (good hotels) |
| Food (10-12 days) | Rs 4,000-5,000 (dhaba meals) | Rs 5,000-8,000 (restaurant meals) | Rs 8,000-12,000 (hotel dining) |
| Trek aids (ponies, doli, porter) | Rs 2,000-3,000 (walk most) | Rs 5,000-8,000 (pony for Kedarnath) | Rs 10,000-15,000 (pony/doli all) |
| Misc (darshan, tips, emergency) | Rs 2,000-3,000 | Rs 3,000-5,000 | Rs 5,000-8,000 |
| Total (per person) | Rs 18,000-27,000 | Rs 38,000-56,000 | Rs 73,000-1,05,000 |
Last verified: February 2026. Prices may vary by 10-20% during peak season (May-June).
Helicopter to Kedarnath (optional but popular): The helicopter ride from Phata/Sitapur/Guptkundi to Kedarnath takes about 7-10 minutes and costs Rs 7,000-10,000 per person one-way (as of 2026). This saves you the grueling 16 km trek. Book early through IRCTC or authorized operators like Himalayan Heli Services or Arrow Aviation โ slots fill up fast for the May-June window.
Tips to Save Money
- Travel in a group of 4-5: Shared Innova or tempo traveler costs come down significantly โ 4 is the magical number for splitting costs
- Go in September-October: Accommodation is 20-30% cheaper than peak season
- Stay in GMVN guesthouses: Government-run Tourist Rest Houses are available at all bases (Rs 500-1,500/night, book at gmvn.in)
- Carry packed snacks: Food gets expensive and options limited at higher altitudes, especially near Kedarnath
- Walk the Kedarnath trek: Saves Rs 5,000-8,000 on ponies/helicopter if you are fit enough
What is the day-by-day itinerary for the complete Char Dham circuit?
The traditional clockwise route takes 10-12 days starting from Delhi or Haridwar: Delhi to Barkot (Day 1), Yamunotri darshan (Day 2), Uttarkashi (Day 3), Gangotri darshan (Day 4), Guptkashi (Day 5), Kedarnath trek and darshan (Days 6-7), Pipalkoti (Day 8), Badrinath darshan (Day 9), return via Haridwar (Days 10-11).
Here is the most practical day-by-day itinerary that I would recommend. This follows the traditional clockwise route and includes enough buffer for rest and acclimatization:
Day 1: Delhi/Haridwar to Barkot (400 km from Delhi, 10-12 hours)
Start early from Delhi โ ideally by 4-5 AM to beat the highway traffic. The drive to Haridwar (220 km) takes about 5-6 hours on the expressway. From Haridwar to Barkot, it is another 180-200 km of winding hill roads that take 6-8 hours. If you are starting from Haridwar or Rishikesh, you save half a day. Overnight stay in Barkot โ several decent hotels and dharamshalas are available here.
Day 2: Barkot to Yamunotri and back
Drive from Barkot to Janki Chatti (45 km, about 2 hours). From here, it is a 6 km trek one-way to Yamunotri temple. Ponies and dolis (palanquins) are available if you cannot walk. Take a dip in the holy Surya Kund hot spring, offer prayers at the temple, and trek back. Return to Barkot for the night. Start early โ the trek gets crowded after 9 AM.
Day 3: Barkot to Uttarkashi (100 km, 5 hours)
A relatively easy driving day through the beautiful Yamuna valley. In Uttarkashi, visit the ancient Vishwanath Temple โ one of the oldest Shiva temples in the region. This is a good day to rest and let your body adjust to the altitude. Overnight in Uttarkashi.
Day 4: Uttarkashi to Gangotri and back (100 km one-way, 4-5 hours)
The road from Uttarkashi to Gangotri passes through Harsil โ one of the most scenic stretches in all of Uttarakhand. The road is narrow but well-maintained. At Gangotri, visit the temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga and take a dip in the holy Bhagirathi river. If you have time, walk to Pandavan Gufa (1.5 km from the temple). Return to Uttarkashi for the night.
Day 5: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi (220 km, 8-10 hours)
This is the longest driving day of the yatra. The route goes via Rudraprayag and the roads can be slow due to ongoing construction and narrow stretches. Start early and plan for a lunch stop at Rudraprayag. Overnight in Guptkashi โ book your stay in advance as it gets packed during peak season.
Days 6-7: Guptkashi to Kedarnath and back
Day 6: Drive from Guptkashi to Gaurikund (35 km). From Gaurikund, begin the 16 km trek to Kedarnath โ this is the most demanding part of the entire yatra. The trek takes 6-8 hours on foot. Ponies (Rs 3,000-5,000), porters, and doli/palki services are available. Helicopter option: Rs 7,000-10,000 per person one-way from Phata/Sitapur (7-10 minutes). Reach Kedarnath, take darshan at the Jyotirlinga temple, and stay overnight in basic dharamshalas or GMVN accommodation near the temple.
Day 7: Early morning darshan (the temple opens at 4 AM โ the early morning aarti is something you should not miss), then trek/helicopter back to Gaurikund and drive to Guptkashi. This day will be exhausting, especially if you are trekking down. Rest well.
Day 8: Guptkashi to Pipalkoti/Joshimath (160 km, 6-7 hours)
Drive through the beautiful Garhwal hills towards Badrinath. You can stop at Chopta for a quick view of the Tungnath ridge if time permits (3.5 km short trek). Overnight in Pipalkoti or Joshimath.
Day 9: Pipalkoti to Badrinath and back (80 km one-way, 4 hours)
Drive to Badrinath early morning. Take a holy dip in Tapt Kund (natural hot spring right next to the temple), then visit the Badrinath temple for darshan. After that, drive 3 km further to Mana Village โ the last Indian village before the Tibet border. Visit the Vyas Gufa, Ganesh Gufa, and the stunning Vasudhara Falls (5 km trek from Mana). Return to Pipalkoti or drive further to Rudraprayag if you want to save time the next day.
Days 10-11: Return to Haridwar and Delhi
Day 10: Drive from Pipalkoti/Rudraprayag to Haridwar (250 km, 8-10 hours via Rishikesh). Take evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri. Day 11: Haridwar to Delhi (220 km, 5-6 hours on the expressway). You can also extend the trip by spending a day in Rishikesh for offbeat Uttarakhand exploration if you have the time.
Is the Char Dham Yatra safe? What medical fitness do I need?
The Char Dham Yatra is generally safe with proper preparation. Pilgrims above 50 years must carry a medical fitness certificate. Key risks include altitude sickness at Kedarnath (3,583m) and Badrinath (3,133m), monsoon landslides (avoid Jul-Aug), and the demanding 16 km Kedarnath trek. Acclimatize gradually and carry warm clothing.
Medical Fitness Requirements
- Pilgrims above 50 years: Must carry a medical fitness certificate from a registered doctor (heart, lungs, BP check). This is not required for registration but may be checked at verification centers
- Heart or respiratory conditions: Consult your doctor before attempting the yatra โ Kedarnath at 3,583m can be demanding
- Pregnant women: The trek to Kedarnath is not recommended. Consider the helicopter option or skip Kedarnath
Altitude Sickness Prevention (Critical)
Please take utmost caution with altitude sickness โ I have seen people underestimate it on the Kedarnath trek. The symptoms range from mild headache and nausea to severe breathlessness and vomiting. Here is what I always suggest:
- Acclimatize gradually: The clockwise route helps because it gains altitude slowly over several days
- Stay hydrated: Drink 3-4 liters of water daily, especially during the Kedarnath trek
- Walk slowly: Do not rush the Kedarnath trek โ take breaks every 30-45 minutes
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 48 hours before reaching high altitudes
- Carry Diamox: Consult your doctor and keep it as a precaution
- Oxygen cans: Available at Kedarnath base but better to carry your own (Rs 300-500 each)
Road Safety and Weather Risks
- Monsoon (July-August): Landslides are very common on the Kedarnath and Badrinath routes. Road closures can strand you for days. I would strongly advise against traveling during these months
- Night driving: Never drive in the hills at night โ no streetlights, narrow roads, and cliff edges
- Mobile network: BSNL works best in the hills. Jio and Airtel have patchy coverage. Download offline maps before you leave
- ATMs: Available in Uttarkashi, Guptkashi, Joshimath, and Rudraprayag. Carry enough cash (Rs 10,000-15,000) for stretches where ATMs are not available
- Emergency contacts: Char Dham helpline: 0135-1364 (toll-free) | Uttarakhand Police: 112
What should I pack for the Char Dham Yatra?
Pack warm layers (temperatures drop to 0-5ยฐC at Kedarnath), rain gear, comfortable trekking shoes, a small daypack for treks, basic medicines, and enough cash. Keep luggage light โ you will be trekking 6-16 km stretches and heavy bags make it miserable.
- Clothing: Warm jacket, thermals, fleece, windproof layer, rain poncho, comfortable trekking pants (3-4 sets), warm cap and gloves
- Footwear: Waterproof trekking shoes with good grip (non-negotiable for Kedarnath trek), comfortable sandals for rest days
- Daypack: 20-30 liter backpack for day treks with water bottle, snacks, rain cover
- Medicines: Diamox, Disprin, Crocin, ORS, bandages, personal prescriptions, antiseptic
- Electronics: Power bank (10,000 mAh minimum), charger, offline maps downloaded, torch/headlamp
- Documents: Aadhaar Card, Yatra Registration Letter (printed + phone), medical fitness certificate (if above 50), hotel bookings
- Miscellaneous: Sunscreen, lip balm, dry fruits and energy bars, small umbrella, walking stick (can also rent at Gaurikund for Rs 100-200)
Related Reading
If you are planning the Char Dham Yatra, these guides will help you with specific parts of the journey:
- Delhi to Tungnath and Chandrashilla โ Complete Travel Guide
- Top 10 Offbeat Places in Uttarakhand โ Garhwal and Kumaon
- Top 5 Easy Treks in Uttarakhand for Beginners
- Harsil and Gangotri Trip โ Itinerary and Road Conditions
- Mussoorie โ A Detailed Travel Guide
- Harsil โ An Offbeat Place in Garhwal, Uttarakhand
- Snow Trek to Tungnath โ Revisiting Uttarakhand
- The Most Complete Guide to Kausani, Uttarakhand
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need for the complete Char Dham Yatra?
A complete Char Dham circuit takes 10-12 days from Delhi or 9-10 days from Haridwar. If you want a more relaxed pace with rest days, plan for 13-14 days. You can also do individual Dhams separately โ Kedarnath-Badrinath takes 5-6 days and Yamunotri-Gangotri takes 4-5 days.
Is the Char Dham Yatra registration free?
Yes, registration is completely free. Do not pay anyone for registration. You can register online at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in, via WhatsApp (send “YATRA” to 8394833833), or at offline counters in Haridwar and Rishikesh. Beware of agents who charge money for this โ it is a free government service.
Can senior citizens do the Char Dham Yatra?
Yes, but with precautions. Pilgrims above 50 years should carry a medical fitness certificate. For the Kedarnath trek (16 km), helicopter, pony, or doli/palki services are available. Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri are accessible by road with shorter treks (6 km for Yamunotri, road access for others).
Do I need to book accommodation in advance?
In May-June (peak season), yes โ book at least 2-3 weeks in advance. GMVN guesthouses can be booked at gmvn.in. Hotels in Barkot, Uttarkashi, Guptkashi, and Pipalkoti fill up fast. In September-October, you can find accommodation more easily but advance booking is still recommended.
Is the Kedarnath helicopter worth it?
If you are not physically fit for a 16 km uphill trek or are short on time, the helicopter (Rs 7,000-10,000 one-way) is absolutely worth it. The ride takes 7-10 minutes versus 6-8 hours of trekking. Book early โ slots fill up weeks in advance during May-June. Operators include IRCTC, Himalayan Heli Services, and Arrow Aviation.
What is the Kedarnath trek difficulty level?
The 16 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is moderate to difficult. It gains about 1,500 meters in altitude over steep, paved paths. A reasonably fit person can complete it in 6-8 hours. The last 2-3 km are the most demanding. Carry a walking stick, start early (by 5-6 AM), and take regular breaks. Ponies and porters are available throughout.
Can I do the Char Dham Yatra by helicopter only?
Yes, several operators offer complete Char Dham by helicopter packages covering all four temples in 4-5 days. These start at Rs 1,50,000-2,50,000 per person from Dehradun. This is the most comfortable option for senior citizens or those with limited time.
Is the road to Badrinath safe for sedans?
The main highway to Badrinath via Joshimath is generally well-maintained and sedans can manage it during May-June and September-October. However, in case of rain or construction zones, ground clearance can be an issue. I would recommend an SUV or high ground clearance car for the complete Char Dham circuit, especially the stretches to Yamunotri and the Guptkashi-Gaurikund road.
What food is available during the yatra?
Only vegetarian food is available in all four Dham areas โ this is a religious zone. Dhabas and small restaurants serve rice, dal, roti, sabzi, Maggi, and chai at every major stop. Expect to pay Rs 100-200 per meal at dhabas and Rs 300-500 at hotel restaurants. Food gets limited and expensive near Kedarnath temple โ carry dry fruits, energy bars, and snacks.
When should I register for the Char Dham Yatra 2026?
Registration opens on March 20, 2026. I suggest registering as early as possible, especially if you plan to travel in May-June. With the new 60-40 split (60% online, 40% offline), online slots may fill up faster than previous years. You can register on registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in or the Tourist Care Uttarakhand app.
Final Thoughts on Planning Your Char Dham Yatra 2026
The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most sacred and rewarding pilgrimages you can undertake in India. Whether you are going for spiritual reasons or simply to experience the raw beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas, this journey will leave a lasting impression. My biggest advice โ do not rush it. Take your time at each Dham, acclimatize properly, and soak in the experience rather than treating it like a checklist.
If you are planning the yatra in 2026, start your registration on March 20 to secure your preferred dates. Book your accommodation early if traveling in May-June. And please, take the altitude warnings seriously โ I cannot stress this enough. Carry warm clothes, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.
Join the Discover With Dheeraj community of mountain travelers for more Uttarakhand travel guides, road status updates, and honest reviews. If you have done the Char Dham Yatra before, I would love to hear about your experience โ share your tips in the comments so other pilgrims can benefit from it too.
If you have any questions about planning your Char Dham Yatra 2026, feel free to ask in the comments section below ๐
