The Char Dham Yatra is among the most sacred pilgrimages in India, drawing millions of devotees to the Himalayan shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath every year. With increasing footfall and challenging mountain conditions, the Uttarakhand government has made Char Dham Yatra registration mandatory to ensure pilgrim safety and smooth movement.
This guide covers the 2026 Char Dham Yatra registration process, including when it opens, how to verify your biometrics, and what documents you need. You will find both online and offline registration methods, along with helpful suggestions, all in one document.
About Char Dham Yatra – A Sacred Himalayan Pilgrimage
Char Dham Yatra represents a spiritual journey to the four most revered temples of Uttarakhand:
- Yamunotri – Dedicated to Goddess Yamuna
- Gangotri – Dedicated to Goddess Ganga
- Kedarnath – One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva
- Badrinath – Dedicated to Lord Vishnu
These high altitude shrines are located in the Garhwal Himalayas. The shrines are closed from April to October due to heavy snow cover on the ground. This pilgrimage is associated with achieving spiritual purification through physical preparation, advanced arrangements, and following to government rules and regulations.
Is Char Dham Yatra Registration Mandatory in 2026?
Yes, registration is mandatory for every pilgrim in 2026 without any exception.
This includes:
- Indian citizens
- Senior citizens
- Children
- Foreign nationals
- Pilgrims traveling by road, trekking routes or helicopters
Pilgrims without valid registration and a QR code are stopped at the checkpoint and denied entry to the temple.
Char Dham Yatra Temple Opening Dates 2026
Temple opening dates are announced based on Hindu Panchang rituals and decisions by temple committees. As per the current updates, the Char Dham is expected to open in 2026.
- Yamunotri & Gangotri: April 19, 2026 (Akshaya Tritiya)
- Kedarnath: April 22, 2026 (tentative)
- Badrinath: April 24, 2026 (tentative)
These dates may change slightly after official confirmation. Pilgrims should arrange their registration and travel bookings accordingly.
Why Char Dham Yatra Registration Is Important
The registration system is designed to:
- Control the number of daily pilgrims
- Prevent crowding in temples
- Track pilgrims during emergencies
- Improve disaster response and rescue operations
- Ensure that medical help reaches the pilgrims quickly
This system has become especially important after past natural disasters in the region.
How to Do Char Dham Yatra Registration 2026
Pilgrims can complete registration using four official methods provided by the Uttarakhand Tourism Department. All methods are free and government-approved.
Official Portal for Char Dham Yatra Registration
The only official website for registration is
https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
Pilgrims should avoid unofficial agents or websites offering paid registration services.
Modes of Char Dham Yatra Registration 2026
Online Registration (Most Preferred)
Registering online is both the easiest and fastest way to register for travel. Pilgrim travelers can:
- Pick the dates they prefer
- Skip standing in long lines
- Easily access proof of registration digitally
Mobile App Registration
The government also offers the “Tourist Care Uttarakhand” mobile application, which provides:
- Registration access
- Emergency contacts
- Yatra updates
WhatsApp Registration
For easy access, pilgrims can register via WhatsApp:
- Send “Yatra” to +91-8394833833
- Follow the automated steps
- Complete digital registration
This option is useful for pilgrims who are less comfortable with websites.
Offline (Physical) Registration
Offline registration is available at selected counters in Uttarakhand, mainly for last-minute travelers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Complete Char Dham Registration Online
Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
- Register using your mobile number
- Verify OTP and log in
- Add pilgrim details (name, age, gender)
- Upload ID proof (Aadhaar/Voter ID/Passport)
- Select dham(s) and intended travel dates
- Submit the form
- Download the Yatra Registration Letter with QR Code
This QR code is scanned at every major checkpoint.
Mode of Verification During Char Dham Yatra
Verification is Done in Two Steps
- QR Code Scanning at Entry Points
- Biometric Verification at Designated Centers
The Seamless Yatra Will Require Both Verification Procedures
Biometric Registration for Char Dham Yatra – Complete Explanation
Why Biometric Registration Is Mandatory
The biometric registration will allow authorities to:
- Track the real-time location of pilgrims
- Respond quickly in medical or weather-related emergencies
- Identify and prevent the entry of unauthorised individuals
- Improve crowd control at sensitive areas of the yatra
Documents Required for Biometric Registration
Pilgrims must carry:
- Aadhaar Card (recommended)
- Voter ID or Passport (alternative)
- Registered mobile number
Ensure the ID details match the registration form exactly.
Can You Complete Char Dham Biometric Registration Offline?
Yes. Biometric registration can be completed at authorized offline centers in Uttarakhand. However:
- Waiting time can be long during peak season
- Slots may fill quickly
Advance online registration is strongly recommended.
Tourist Registration and Verification at Entry Points
At checkpoints, pilgrims must show:
- Digital or printed Yatra Registration Letter
- Valid photo ID
- QR code for scanning
If documents are correct, verification usually takes only a few minutes.
Physical Char Dham Registration Centers in Uttarakhand
Offline registration and verification counters are usually available at:
- Haridwar
- Rishikesh
- Dehradun
- Sonprayag
- Joshimath
Availability depends on daily crowd limits and government advisories.
Budget-Friendly Char Dham Yatra Tour Packages by Japji Travel
For senior pilgrims, transportation, registration, and delays due to weather or health issues can create anxiety and make the experience difficult. To help alleviate some of this stress, Budget Char Dham Yatra Packages provide:
- Support regarding registration
- Scheduling of trip itinerary
- Transportation you can trust
- Assistance is available locally throughout your travel.
Japji Travel will assist you in safely planning your trip, developing an all-inclusive route that is practical and easy to follow, and providing reliable logistical support while you are at the Char Dham.
Contact us to book your Char Dham tour package.
Emergency Helpline Numbers for Char Dham Yatra 2026
During the yatra, pilgrims should keep:
- Uttarakhand Tourism helpline numbers: 1364 (For other states: +91-135-1364)
- Email: publicityutdb@gmail.com, publicityofficer@utdbofficial.com
- Disaster management control room numbers: 0135-2559898, 2552627, 0135-3520100
These details are available on the official portal and mobile app.
Key Things to Know Before You Register
- Registration is mandatory for all pilgrims
- Registration is free
- Keep ID proof and mobile number ready
- You will receive a QR-coded travel registration letter
- Carry both digital and printed copies
Important Tips for Smooth Char Dham Yatra Registration
- Register as soon as registration opens
- Avoid peak travel dates if possible
- Double check personal details before submission
- Carry power banks and offline copies of documents
- Seniors should undergo a medical check-up before travelling
Conclusion
The journey to the Char Dham Yatra 2026 is a very memorable spiritual pilgrimage. As such, preparation prior to this trip is essential. To ensure a safe and efficient walking experience, all pilgrims must register, provide biometric verification, and undergo monitoring through QR codes during their journey.
You should register for your Char Dham Yatra early, develop a plan that follows all official guidelines, and assemble all of your required documents before you leave. Focusing on the spiritual aspect of your journey is essential, and with good preparation and trusted companionship, your Char Dham pilgrimage will be safe, enjoyable, and rewarding.
FAQs
Yes, registration is compulsory for all pilgrims planning the Char Dham Yatra in 2026. Without a valid registration slip or e-pass, pilgrims may not be allowed to proceed beyond checkpoints or enter the temples.
Pilgrims can register online through the Uttarakhand government’s official portal or mobile app. Registration is also available at offline counters set up in cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun.
No, a single registration is sufficient. During the registration process, pilgrims select the dham sites they plan to visit, and one e-pass covers all selected destinations.
No, Char Dham Yatra registration is completely free. The government does not charge any fee for issuing the registration slip or e-pass.
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