Char Dham Yatra 2026: Complete Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan the Char Dham Yatra — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath — including route, registration, best time and packing tips.
The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Hinduism. Visiting Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath is believed to wash away sins and lead to moksha. The journey through the Garhwal Himalayas is as breathtaking as it is spiritual — but it needs good planning.
The Four Dhams
- Yamunotri — Source of the Yamuna River, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Reached by a trek of about 6 km from Janki Chatti.
- Gangotri — Dedicated to Goddess Ganga; the temple is accessible by road.
- Kedarnath — One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, at around 3,583 m. Reached by a trek of about 16–18 km from Gaurikund, or by helicopter.
- Badrinath — Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and accessible by road, on the banks of the Alaknanda.
Traditional Route
The Yatra is traditionally done from west to east: Haridwar/Rishikesh → Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath. A comfortable road trip takes 10–12 days; with helicopter services it can be done in 5–6 days.
When to Go
The temples open around Akshaya Tritiya (April/May) and close around Diwali (October/November), with exact dates announced each year.
- May–June: Pleasant weather but the busiest season.
- July–August: Monsoon — landslides and road closures are common; best avoided.
- September–October: Clear skies, fewer crowds — an excellent window.
Registration Is Mandatory
All pilgrims must register with the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board before the journey, online or at registration counters. Carry a valid photo ID. Helicopter tickets for Kedarnath must be booked only through the official IRCTC HeliYatra portal — beware of fake websites.
Health & Fitness Tips
- Start walking daily a few weeks before the trip to build stamina.
- Senior citizens and those with heart, lung or blood pressure conditions should consult a doctor before travelling.
- Acclimatise gradually and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
- Ponies, palkis and pithus are available on the trekking routes.
What to Pack
- Warm layers, thermals and a waterproof jacket — temperatures drop sharply at night
- Comfortable trekking shoes and a walking stick
- Personal medicines, a basic first-aid kit and ORS
- Torch, power bank and some cash (ATMs and network can be patchy)
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