Registration for Char Dham Yatra

The Char Dham Yatra season will start soon, but before starting your pilgrimage journey, you need to do Registration for Char Dham Yatra, which is mandatory and free of cost. In this article let’s know everything about Char Dham Yatra registration.

Why Registration for Char Dham Yatra is mandatory?

In June 2013 a massive tragedy happened in Kedarnath, leading to thousands of deaths, and many went missing. Therefore, to avoid any such tragedies in the future, the registration is not just necessary but mandatory. It helps to manage crowds at Cham Dham places and to manage the safety of pilgrims.

Registration for Char Dham Yatra benefits the authority in many ways, such as

• After registering, the pilgrims get a QR-coded wristband or pass through which their real-time location can be tracked, which can help authorities to escape the pilgrims in any emergency.
• It helps authorities to control the crowd at such places. After registering, authorities get a clear idea about the number of pilgrims so that they can plan accordingly.
• While registering, the mobile number is mandatory to be given. It helps the authorities to send the weather update to the pilgrims so that pilgrims remain alert.
• The registered number helps the authority to send food, water, and medical help effectively.

Opening of Char Dham Temples.

The Char Dham Yatra season will be starting soon, from April 2026. The Gangotri and Yamunotri will be opening on the auspicious festival of Akshay Tritiya, which is on 19th April 2026. The tentative date for Kedarnath temple opening is 22nd April 2026, and for Badrinath temple it is 24th April 2026. Although fixed dates will be confirmed on Maha Shivratri (15th February) for Kedarnath, for Badrinath it will be confirmed on Basant Panchami (23rd January).

Here is the short summary of confirmed and tentative dates of temple opening.

• Gangotri: 19th April 2026 (Tentative)
• Yamunotri: 19th April 2026 (Tentative)
• Kedarnath: 22nd April 2026 (Tentative)
• Badrinath: 24th April 2026 (Tentative)

The dates for Gangotri and Yamunotri are confirmed, and the dates for Kedarnath and Badrinath will soon be declared by the temple committee. Official registration will open 20 to 30 days before the temple opening. It is suggested to register earlier and have a safe journey.

How to do Registration for Char Dham Yatra in 2026?

As we know now that registration is compulsory and free of cost, here is the step-by-step guide for doing registration.

1. Registration through the official website.

• Visit the official website of Uttarakhand Government registration and tourist care, uk.gov.in, or you can also download the ‘Tourist Care Uttarakhand’ app on your mobile for registration.
• Then click on the register and provide your activated mobile number for verification. You will receive one OTP on the mobile number given. Enter the OTP.
• Then fill the form, filling all the details given, Char Dham travel dates, and the Dham you want to visit, etc.
• Once all the information is filled, you will have to upload the photo ID. It can be your Aadhar card, voter ID, PAN card, passport, etc.
• After submitting your ID, it will generate an e-card with a QR code and a unique registration number.

2. Registration through WhatsApp.

This is the easiest way to register yourself for Char Dham Yatra. You just need to save this number, +91- 8394833833, and then message ‘Yatra.’

The chatbot will ask you certain questions regarding your Yatra, and once it is done, you will get registered and will receive your registration letter in PDF format.

    3.Registration through the toll-free helpline number.

You can also get registered through a toll-free helpline number. You need to call on 0135-1364, and then it will assist you. It operates in many languages, so no need to worry. Your registration will be done after answering the questions.

   4.You need to pay fees for the registration from 2026

Government is about to start some fees for the registration to curb fake registration

    5.Offline registration.

      If you are unable to register online, then you can register through offline centers, which are located at entry points, i.e., in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Barkot, Sonpraya, Uttarkashi, Pandukeshwar, etc. Carry your valid ID proof and give your activated mobile number for registration.

Always carry your pass, as authorities can ask you for passes at many checkpoints. They will scan your QR code, and only then can you continue your journey. If possible, print your pass and laminate it for easy access, as mobile batteries can drain in mountain regions.

     Documents needed during Registration for Char Dham Yatra

Certain documents are needed for registration for Char Dham Yatra; they are

• Aadhar card
• Voter ID
• Passport
• Passport-size photo
• Mobile number

     Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there any charge for registration?

No, the registration is completely free of cost.

2. How can foreign tourists register?

Foreign tourists can register for Char Dham Yatra by using their passport as a valid document, and the rest of the process is the same as mentioned above.

3. Is registration required for those travelling by helicopter?

Yes, registration is mandatory for everyone, whether trekking or travelling by helicopter. Even registration is mandatory for booking your helicopter ride.

4. Do I need separate registration for each Char Dham Yatra?

No, you just need one registration. It will cover all your Char Dham places.

5. Can I change my travel dates after the registration is complete?

Yes, you can change your Yatra dates after registration, but it depends on the slot. As in peak season the slots are booked in advance, it gets tough to get a new slot.

6. When will registration start for 2026?

For 2026 the registration will start 25-30 days before the temple opening dates.