Char Dham Yatra registration 2026 is now mandatory for all pilgrims visiting Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Over 19 lakh devotees have already completed Char Dham Yatra registration 2026 ahead of what is expected to be a record-breaking pilgrimage season, with all four shrines now open after their auspicious opening days in April.

Registration is done through the official Uttarakhand Tourism portal at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in. Pilgrims cannot proceed past designated checkpoints without a valid QR-coded e-pass linked to their registration. The process is free, and any agent charging a fee for registration is operating illegally.

New Rules for Char Dham Yatra 2026

The 2026 season has several new requirements that pilgrims must follow before and during the journey:

  • Mandatory health check: All pilgrims must complete a physical medical check-up before beginning their ascent. This is compulsory for those above 55 years of age or anyone with a history of heart disease, hypertension, asthma, or diabetes. Health check centres are set up in Dehradun, Haridwar, Tehri, and Pauri.
  • No phones inside temples: Mobile phones and cameras are not permitted inside the temple premises at any of the four shrines. This applies to all pilgrims regardless of purpose or press credentials.
  • Faith-based entry restrictions: Entry to Badrinath requires an affidavit affirming faith in Sanatan Dharma. Gangotri mandates specific rituals. Kedarnath has similar conditions. Yamunotri remains open to visitors of all backgrounds.
  • Real-time tracking: A GPS-based system monitors movement along trekking routes. Medical teams are stationed at regular intervals, and every registered pilgrim can be located in the event of an emergency or medical incident.

Opening Dates and How Long Shrines Stay Open

Yamunotri and Gangotri opened on April 19, 2026. Kedarnath opened on April 22. Badrinath opened on April 23. The four shrines will close for winter in November: Yamunotri on November 11, Gangotri on November 10, Kedarnath on November 11, and Badrinath on November 13.

Daily darshan slots at Kedarnath are limited to manage crowd flow. Pilgrims who register online receive a specific time slot and are expected to arrive accordingly. Walk-in pilgrims without prior registration face longer waits at checkpoints along the route.

How to Complete Char Dham Yatra Registration 2026

The process takes about 10 minutes online. You need a valid photo ID, a passport-size photograph, and basic contact details. Aadhaar card is accepted as the primary ID. After completing the form, you receive a QR-coded e-pass via email and SMS. Print it or save it on your phone before departing.

Offline registration counters are open from April 15 at bus stations and tourist rest houses in Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Pauri, and Uttarkashi. The Hello Doon Char Dham Yatra guide has step-by-step registration instructions, a complete packing list, and route details from Dehradun.

For official registration, use only the Uttarakhand Tourism official portal. The registration is free. Avoid third-party agents or websites that charge for what is a zero-cost process.