Char Dham Yatra 2026 - Opening Dates, Complete Guide & Travel Information
The Char Dham Yatra 2026 is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India, attracting millions of devotees every year. Located in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand, the yatra covers four holy shrines : Yamunotri Temple, Gangotri Temple, Kedarnath Temple, and Badrinath Temple.
Pilgrims believe that completing this spiritual journey washes away sins and brings salvation.
Every year, the Char Dham Yatra begins in April or May and continues until October or November before winter snowfall closes the temples.
Char Dham Yatra 2026 Opening Dates
The official opening dates for Char Dham Yatra 2026 have been announced:
- Yamunotri Temple Opening Date: 19 April 2026
- Gangotri Temple Opening Date: 19 April 2026
- Kedarnath Temple Opening Date: 22 April 2026
- Badrinath Temple Opening Date: 23 April 2026
The yatra traditionally starts on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, when the doors of Yamunotri and Gangotri open for devotees.
What is Char Dham Yatra?
The Char Dham Yatra is a religious journey covering four sacred temples in Uttarakhand. The pilgrimage is performed in a specific order:
- Yamunotri
- Gangotri
- Kedarnath
- Badrinath
This clockwise route is considered highly auspicious in Hindu tradition.
Importance of Char Dham Yatra
The Char Dham Yatra holds immense spiritual significance in Hinduism.
- Yamunotri : Source of River Yamuna
- Gangotri : Origin of the sacred River Ganga
- Kedarnath : One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva
- Badrinath : Dedicated to Lord Vishnu
Devotees undertake this yatra to seek blessings, spiritual peace, and liberation (moksha).
Best Time to Visit Char Dham Yatra 2026
The best months to plan your Char Dham pilgrimage are:
- April to June - Opening season with pleasant weather
- September to October - Post-monsoon season with clear skies and fewer crowds
Avoid peak monsoon months (July and August) due to landslides and heavy rainfall.
How to Reach Char Dham
Most pilgrims start their journey from:
- Haridwar
- Rishikesh
- Dehradun
You can travel by:
- Road (car or tour package)
- Helicopter services
- Trekking (especially for Kedarnath)
Char Dham Yatra 2026 Registration
For 2026, pilgrims must complete online registration before starting the yatra. This helps the government manage crowds and ensure safety during the pilgrimage season.
Char Dham Yatra 2026 Packages
Many tour operators offer packages such as:
- Char Dham Yatra by Road (10-12 Days)
- Do Dham Yatra (Kedarnath & Badrinath)
- Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter (5N/6D)
- Luxury and VIP Darshan Packages
Early booking is recommended because hotels and helicopter slots fill quickly.
Why Plan Char Dham Yatra 2026 Early
Planning early provides several advantages:
- Confirmed hotel bookings
- Helicopter seats availability
- Smooth darshan planning
- Better travel deals
- Less stress during peak season
The Char Dham Yatra 2026 is not just a journey but a divine spiritual experience in the Himalayas. With the temples opening from 19 April 2026, devotees can start planning their pilgrimage in advance for a smooth and memorable trip.
If you are planning your pilgrimage, make sure to book your Char Dham Yatra package 2026 early to secure the best travel arrangements.
