Char Dham Yatra 2026 –
Complete Itinerary, Cost & Booking Guide
Yamunotri · Gangotri · Kedarnath · Badrinath — everything you need to plan your sacred Himalayan pilgrimage. Dates, registration, day-wise itinerary, budget breakdown & expert tips.
- Yamunotri & Gangotri opened on 19 April 2026 (Akshaya Tritiya)
- Kedarnath opened 22 April 2026 at 8:00 AM | Badrinath opened 23 April 2026
- Season closes: Gangotri 10 Nov · Yamunotri 11 Nov · Kedarnath 11 Nov · Badrinath 13 Nov 2026
- Online registration is free & mandatory at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
- Road packages: ₹20,000–₹80,000/person | Helicopter: ₹1.8L–₹3.15L/person
- Best months: May–June & September–October
What is Char Dham Yatra?
The Char Dham Yatra is Hinduism’s most revered mountain pilgrimage — a sacred circuit through four ancient temples nestled deep in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The four holy shrines are:
Yamunotri
Gangotri
Kedarnath
Badrinath
According to Hindu tradition, completing this pilgrimage in the prescribed clockwise direction — Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath — is believed to cleanse the soul of all sins and pave the path toward moksha (liberation). The yatra has been undertaken by saints and sages for thousands of years and now attracts over 50 lakh (5 million) pilgrims annually.
Char Dham Route Map
The traditional route starts from Haridwar or Rishikesh and follows a circular Himalayan path:
Rishikesh
Haridwar
- Haridwar → Janki Chatti (Yamunotri base): ~200 km (5–6 hrs)
- Janki Chatti → Uttarkashi (for Gangotri): ~100 km (3 hrs)
- Uttarkashi → Gaurikund (Kedarnath base): ~240 km (7–8 hrs)
- Gaurikund → Badrinath: ~240 km (7 hrs)
- Badrinath → Haridwar: ~300 km (9 hrs)
- Total road distance: ~1,200 km approximately
Day-by-Day Itinerary (12 Days)
This is a comfortable 12-day itinerary from Haridwar/Rishikesh covering all four dhams at a pilgrim-friendly pace:
Haridwar / Rishikesh → Barkot (Yamunotri region)
Arrive at Haridwar or Rishikesh by train/bus/flight. After completing Char Dham registration and collecting Yatra Pass, drive to Barkot (~220 km, 7–8 hrs) through the scenic Yamuna Valley via Dehradun and Mussoorie. Evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri if time permits.
🌊 Yamunotri Darshan (1st Dham)
Drive from Barkot to Janki Chatti (45 min). Begin 6 km trek to Yamunotri Temple (or take pony/palki). Visit Surya Kund hot spring, cook rice in the thermal springs (a beloved tradition). Take darshan of Goddess Yamuna. Trek back to Janki Chatti, drive back to Barkot.
Barkot → Uttarkashi
Drive from Barkot to Uttarkashi (~100 km, 3–4 hrs). En route visit Vishwanath Temple in Uttarkashi — one of Shiva’s most ancient shrines. Evening is free to explore the local market and ghats on the Bhagirathi River.
🏔️ Gangotri Darshan (2nd Dham)
Early morning drive from Uttarkashi to Gangotri (~100 km, 3 hrs). Take darshan of Goddess Ganga at Gangotri Temple (3,415 m). Dip in the icy sacred Bhagirathi River. Optional: Trek to Gaumukh Glacier (18 km, for adventure seekers — needs separate permit). Return to Uttarkashi.
Uttarkashi → Guptkashi / Phata
Long drive (~240 km, 7–8 hrs) through the beautiful Devprayag, Rudraprayag sangam (confluence) and Tilwara to reach Guptkashi or Phata — the base for Kedarnath. Pass through several Panch Prayag confluences. Check in and rest well for the most challenging day ahead.
🔱 Kedarnath Darshan (3rd Dham)
Drive to Gaurikund (base camp). Start the 16 km trek to Kedarnath (3,553 m) — or take helicopter from Phata/Sirsi helipad (₹5,500–₹8,000 one way). Seek blessings at one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Witness the magnificent view of Kedarnath peak (6,940 m). Stay at Kedarnath overnight for early morning darshan.
Kedarnath → Pipalkoti / Chamoli
Early morning abhishek puja at Kedarnath temple. Descend back to Gaurikund (trek or helicopter). Drive towards Badrinath (~240 km, 7 hrs) via Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nandprayag confluence points. Stop at Joshimath for lunch and visit Shankaracharya Math. Overnight halt at Pipalkoti or Chamoli.
🪷 Badrinath Darshan (4th & Final Dham)
Drive from Pipalkoti to Badrinath (~80 km, 2 hrs). Take holy dip at Tapt Kund (hot spring). Attend the grand Badrinath aarti and take darshan of Lord Badrinarayan. Visit Mana Village (last Indian village before Tibet border), Vyas Gufa, Bheem Pul. Evening Gita paath at the temple.
Badrinath → Rudraprayag
Early morning final darshan at Badrinath. Begin return journey — drive to Rudraprayag (~160 km, 5 hrs). En route, visit Anusuya Mata Temple (optional) and stop at the sacred Rudraprayag Sangam (confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers).
Rudraprayag → Rishikesh
Drive from Rudraprayag to Rishikesh (~130 km, 4 hrs). Visit Devprayag — the confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers where the Ganga officially originates. Evening visit to Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula in Rishikesh. Attend the famous Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
Rishikesh — Rest & Exploration
Buffer day in Rishikesh. Visit Haridwar for Har Ki Pauri ghat, Chandi Devi temple, and the evening Ganga Aarti. Shopping for prasad, rudraksha, and Uttarakhand handicrafts. Optional: white-water rafting on the Ganga in Rishikesh for adventure seekers.
Haridwar / Rishikesh — Departure
Final holy dip at Haridwar. Transfer to Haridwar Railway Station or Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) for departure. Yatra complete — carry the blessings of all four dhams! 🙏
Char Dham Yatra 2026 — Cost Breakdown
The total cost depends on your travel style, group size, and transport choice. Here is a complete cost breakdown:
Package Cost by Category
| Package Type | Accommodation | Transport | Cost / Person | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Package | Dharamshala / 1–2 Star | Shared Tempo Traveller | ₹20,000 – ₹35,000 | Solo / Budget pilgrims |
| Standard Package | 3 Star Hotels | Private Sedan / Innova | ₹40,000 – ₹60,000 | Families, most popular |
| Comfort Package | 3–4 Star Hotels | Private Innova / Crysta | ₹60,000 – ₹80,000 | Comfortable family travel |
| Luxury Package | 4–5 Star / Boutique | Luxury SUV + Heli at Kedarnath | ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,50,000 | Premium travellers |
| Helicopter Package (Full) | 3–4 Star Hotels | Heli to all 4 Dhams | ₹1,80,000 – ₹3,15,000 | Senior citizens, VIPs |
| * Prices are per person for 10–12 day road yatra. Single supplement extra. Prices may vary by season and group size. | ||||
Additional / Extra Expenses
| Expense | Approx. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath Helicopter (one way) | ₹5,500 – ₹8,000 | Phata / Sirsi / Guptkashi to Kedarnath |
| Pony at Yamunotri / Kedarnath | ₹2,500 – ₹4,500 | Per person one way, negotiable |
| Palki / Doli (for seniors) | ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 | 4–6 bearers, one way |
| Puja / Abhishek at temples | ₹500 – ₹5,000 | Depends on puja type chosen |
| Gaumukh Trek Permit | ₹150/day | For Indian nationals |
| Porter at Kedarnath | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 | For luggage, per trip |
| Personal Expenses / Tips | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 | Per person estimate |
| Meals (if not in package) | ₹400 – ₹800/day | Simple pilgrim meals available |
- Carry sufficient cash — ATMs are scarce and unreliable in remote areas
- Book hotels and helicopter tickets at least 2–3 months in advance for May–June
- Group bookings of 6+ persons get 10–15% discount on most packages
- Avoid July–August — monsoon causes landslides and route closures
- Sep–Oct is excellent value — less crowds, clearer weather, same prices
Registration — Mandatory for All Pilgrims
Every pilgrim must register before the yatra — including helicopter travellers and VIPs. Arriving without a valid Yatra Pass / QR-coded e-pass will result in being turned back at checkpoints. Registration is completely free.
How to Register for Char Dham Yatra 2026
- Visit registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in or download the “Tourist Care Uttarakhand” app
- Create an account with your mobile number and Aadhaar/Passport details
- Select your planned visit dates for each dham and number of travellers
- Upload a recent photo and health declaration form
- Senior citizens (60+) must upload a medical fitness certificate
- Download and print the QR-coded Yatra Pass — digital copies may not be accepted at all checkpoints
Offline Registration
Available at counters in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Sonprayag, and Joshimath — but very crowded in peak season. Always register online in advance.
Medical Certificate (60+)
Pilgrims above 60 years must carry a medical fitness certificate from a registered doctor. Children below 5 also need a health clearance.
Documents Required
Printed Yatra Pass, government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar / Passport / Voter ID), and medical certificate if above 60 years of age.
Registration via WhatsApp
You can also register via WhatsApp by messaging the official Tourist Care Uttarakhand number. Check the official portal for the current WhatsApp number.
Best Time to Visit
| Month | Weather | Crowd Level | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| April (Opening) | Cold, chance of snow | Moderate | 🟡 Good — spiritual opening ceremonies |
| May – June | Pleasant, 10–22°C | Very High (Peak) | 🟢 Best — ideal weather but book early |
| July – August | Heavy monsoon, landslides | Low | 🔴 Avoid — road closures frequent |
| September – October | Clear skies, 8–18°C | Medium (Best value) | 🟢 Excellent — less crowds, great views |
| November (Closing) | Very cold, snow begins | Low | 🟡 Last chance — closing ceremonies |
What to Pack — Complete Packing List
🧥 Clothing
- Heavy woollen jacket
- Thermal innerwear (2 sets)
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Woollen socks (3–4 pairs)
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- Woollen cap & gloves
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Light cotton clothes for plains
💊 Health & Safety
- Altitude sickness tablets (Diamox)
- Pulse oximeter
- Portable oxygen can
- First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic)
- Pain relievers (Paracetamol, Combiflam)
- Personal prescription medicines
- Electrolyte sachets (ORS)
- Medical fitness certificate (60+)
🎒 Essentials
- Printed Yatra Pass + Aadhaar
- Cash (₹15,000–₹20,000 min.)
- Power bank (10,000 mAh+)
- Trekking stick / walking pole
- Waterproof bag cover
- Headlamp / torch
- Whistle & emergency contact card
- Small daypack (20–30 litre)
🙏 Puja Items
- Rudraksha mala
- Gangajal container
- Flower garlands (buy locally)
- Incense sticks (agarbatti)
- Small coconut & mishri
- Rice (to cook at Surya Kund)
- Chunri / dupatta (for ladies)
- Puja thali (available at dhams)
How to Reach — Transport Options
🚂 By Train
The nearest major railheads are Haridwar (well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai) and Rishikesh (limited trains). From Delhi, trains take 4–6 hours. From Haridwar, you can hire a taxi/cab for the road journey through the Himalayas.
✈️ By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun — about 35 km from Haridwar. Flights operate from Delhi (45 min), Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities. From Dehradun, hire a cab to Haridwar/Rishikesh and continue by road.
🚌 By Road
GMOU (Garhwal Motor Owners Union) and private buses operate from Delhi (ISBT Kashmiri Gate) to Haridwar and Rishikesh. AC Volvo buses are available for overnight travel. From Rishikesh, the char dham yatra by road begins.
🚁 Helicopter Services
Helicopter services operate from Phata, Sirsi, and Guptkashi to Kedarnath. For the full Char Dham helicopter yatra, packages depart from Dehradun (Sahastradhara helipad) and cover all four dhams in 5–6 days. Booking well in advance is essential.
Book Kedarnath helicopter on the official IRCTC Tourism portal or Uttarakhand Tourism website. Slots fill within hours of opening — set calendar reminders and book the moment slots open for your travel date. Private operators also offer packages from Phata helipad.
Expert Tips for a Safe & Smooth Yatra
Book 2–3 Months Early
Hotels, cabs and helicopter slots fill up fast for May–June. Start planning by February–March for peak season travel.
Carry Sufficient Cash
ATMs are scarce and often out of service in mountain areas. Carry at least ₹15,000–20,000 cash per person beyond your package cost.
Acclimatise Properly
Spend Day 1 in Rishikesh/Haridwar (300 m) before ascending rapidly. Do not rush the trek at Kedarnath — altitude sickness is real.
Pack a Rain Jacket
Himalayan weather changes suddenly. Always carry a quality waterproof jacket and cover for your bag, regardless of the forecast.
Carry a Power Bank
Electricity is unreliable at high altitudes. A 10,000–20,000 mAh power bank keeps your phone charged for navigation and communication.
Senior Citizens — Plan Carefully
Helicopter yatra is highly recommended for those above 65 or with heart/respiratory conditions. Get a medical clearance before departure.
Start Trekking Early
Begin all temple treks by 5–6 AM. Weather deteriorates by afternoon and crowds thin early morning, giving the best darshan experience.
Eat Light at Altitude
Stick to simple, vegetarian, light meals at high altitude. Avoid oily and heavy food — it stresses the body at 3,000+ metres elevation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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