The Char Dham Yatra is one of India’s most sacred Hindu pilgrimages, taking devotees through four holy shrines in the Garhwal Himalayas of uttarakhand — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Each year, the temples remain closed during the harsh winter and reopen in spring, drawing millions of pilgrims from across the country and abroad.

📅 When Will the Char Dham Yatra 2026 Begin?

For the 2026 pilgrimage season, the yatra is scheduled to begin on 19 April 2026, coinciding with the auspicious Hindu festival of Akshaya Tritiya — a date considered highly favorable to start spiritual journeys.

🗓️ Opening Dates for the Temples

Here’s when each Char Dham temple’s doors (Kapat) will open to devotees:

Temple

Opening Date 2026

Yamunotri Dham

19 April 2026 🛕

Gangotri Dham

19 April 2026 🛕

Kedarnath Dham

22 April 2026 (approx.) ⛰️

Badrinath Dham

24 April 2026 (approx.) 🙏

These dates follow traditional religious customs and local climatic conditions, ensuring the paths and temple surroundings are safe for pilgrims.

📝 Registration & Preparations

📌 Mandatory Registration

All pilgrims planning to undertake the yatra must register before starting the journey. Registration is available both online and offline, and details like personal ID and travel plans must be submitted in advance.

📊 Why Early Registration Matters

With millions expected to visit this year, early registration helps authorities manage logistics, crowd control, and safety measures, particularly during peak travel months.

🌄 What This Start Date Means for Devotees

Starting the yatra in mid‑April offers several advantages:

• ✅ Better weather — spring conditions make pilgrim routes more accessible.
• ✅ Spiritual timing — Akshaya Tritiya has religious significance for many pilgrims.
• ✅ More planning time — devotees can plan accommodation, travel, and darshan schedules.

📍 Travel Tips for the 2026 Season

Here are some important things pilgrims should keep in mind:

🏔️ Weather & Roads

Before the yatra begins, higher Himalayan routes may still be affected by residual snow. Authorities work to clear roads well ahead of April, but travellers should prepare for changing weather.

🧳 Pack Smart

Pilgrims are advised to carry warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and any required medications — especially since mountain weather can be unpredictable.

📍 Temple Rules

Some temples may have specific restrictions (e.g., no cameras or phone videos), so it’s best to check the latest guidelines issued by the Char Dham committees before travelling.

📌 Closing Dates & yatra Window

While the 2026 yatra begins on 19 April, the pilgrimage continues through the warmer months and usually closes in mid‑to‑late November before winter sets in again. Each temple’s closing date varies slightly based on tradition and weather.

🧠 Summary: Key Dates at a Glance

Event

Date

Yamunotri & Gangotri Opening

19 April 2026

Kedarnath Opening

~22 April 2026

Badrinath Opening

~24 April 2026

Pilgrimage Season Ends

~November 2026

The Char Dham Yatra 2026 is poised to be a spiritually uplifting and logistically well‑organized pilgrimage — starting earlier than usual and data-aligned with auspicious dates. If you’re planning to go, beginning preparations now — including registration and travel arrangements — will help ensure a smooth and fulfilling journey.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.