Embarking on the sacred journey of the Char Dham Yatra means aligning with nature’s rhythm in the Garhwal Himalayas — and knowing the Opening and Closing Dates of Char Dham Temples 2026 is step one. These dates tell you when the four shrines open their gates for devotees and when they close for the winter season. Planning ahead ensures your spiritual journey is smooth, timely and worry-free
Why These Dates Matter
The four sacred shrines — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath — in Uttarakhand speak not only of devotion, but also of the harsh Himalayan climate. These shrines open in late spring and close by autumn because heavy snow and landslides make access impossible in winter. Knowing the schedule helps you:
- Book transport & stays in advance
- Avoid closed gates or last-minute cancellations
- Choose safer weather windows for the high-altitude journey
2026 Tentative Opening & Closing Dates
Here is the best available information for the 2026 schedule. These are tentative and subject to final announcement by temple committees.
| Temple | Opening Date (2026) | Closing Date (2026) |
| Yamunotri | 19 April 2026, 8:30 AM. | 11 November 2026 (Tentative) |
| Gangotri | 19 April 2026, 9:30 AM. | 10 November 2026 (Tentative) |
| Kedarnath | 22 April 2026, 7:00 AM. | 11 November 2026 (Tentative) |
| Badrinath | 24 April 2026, 6:00 AM. | 13 November 2026 (Tentative) |
Note: These dates are subject to final confirmation by the respective temple committees and the local Hindu Panchang.
Best Time to Visit & Why
- May to June: Ideal weather, fresh snow-melt, roads open.
- September to early October: Clear skies, fewer crowds.
- Monsoon months (July & August) bring risk of landslides and delays.
- After the closing date, the temples relocate their deities to winter abodes and the high-altitude route gets inaccessible.
How These Dates Are Decided
- The head priests and temple committees study the Hindu Panchang (calendar).
- Sacred rituals like ‘Pran Pratishtha’ occur during auspicious timings.
- Weather and accessibility of mountain roads are factored in.
- After closing for winter, the deities take their winter seats in lower altitude shrines.
Planning Your Yatra Around These Dates
- Book your transport and accommodations once the date is declared to avoid last-minute spike in rates.
- Register early for the Yatra (online/offline) since the window is short.
- Ensure you start journey after the opening date — arriving too early means gates may be shut.
- Finish before the closing date — delays may force you back due to road closures.
Essential Travel Tips for Char Dham Yatra 2026
Planning your Char Dham Yatra 2026 requires preparation to ensure a smooth and safe journey. Here are some essential tips every pilgrim should follow:
- Register Online Early: Complete your Char Dham Yatra registration well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
- Pack Light but Smart: Carry warm clothes, rain gear, a power bank, medicines, and reusable water bottles.
- Choose Reliable Transport: opt for verified vehicles and experienced drivers familiar with mountain routes.
- Book Stays in Advance: Accommodation in Kedarnath and Badrinath gets full quickly — book early with Clans Stays for hassle-free arrangements.
- Stay Hydrated & Eat Light: High altitudes can affect digestion; drink water frequently and eat simple food.
- Check Weather Updates: Always review weather forecasts before travel, especially during the monsoon season.
- Health First: Carry altitude sickness tablets and consult your doctor before the trip if you have medical conditions.
- Stay Connected: Download offline maps and keep emergency helpline numbers handy.
- Respect Nature: Avoid littering, use eco-friendly items, and maintain the sanctity of temple surroundings.
Char Dham Yatra Registration Process 2026
The Char Dham Yatra Registration 2026 is mandatory for all pilgrims visiting Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. It helps the Uttarakhand government ensure pilgrim safety, manage crowds, and provide real-time assistance during emergencies.
Step-by-Step Online Registration Process
- Visit the official portal — registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in.
- Create your account using mobile number and email ID.
- Fill in personal details, travel dates, and temples you plan to visit.
- Upload photo ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.).
- Submit your form and download the QR-based Yatra Registration Slip.
- Carry this slip with you — it is mandatory for temple entry.
Offline Registration Option
If you don’t have access to the internet, you can register offline at:
- Haridwar Registration Centre
- Rishikesh Yatra Office
- Sonprayag / Phata Help Desks
- Joshimath and Uttarkashi Counters
Just bring your photo ID, mobile number, and travel details — the team will help you complete the process quickly.
Documents Required
- Valid Photo ID proof (Aadhaar / Passport / Voter ID)
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Active mobile number & email ID
Why Registration is Important
- Ensures safe and trackable pilgrimage experience.
- Allows quick rescue support during weather or health emergencies.
- Helps control crowd management at major temples.
- Simplifies record-keeping and temple entry.
Weather Conditions in Char Dham During Yatra Season
Summer (May – June)
The most pleasant time for Char Dham Yatra, with temperatures between 8°C to 20°C.
Days are sunny and clear, perfect for darshan and trekking. Light woollens are enough for evenings.
Monsoon (July – August)
Heavy rains make travel risky due to landslides and slippery routes.
It’s best to avoid this season unless absolutely necessary. Carry rain gear and emergency supplies.
Autumn (September – October)
Cool, clear, and peaceful — ideal for devotees seeking a calm yatra.
Temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, and the post-monsoon scenery is breath-taking.
Winter (November – April)
The region experiences extreme cold and heavy snowfall during this time.
All four dhams remain closed, and deities are worshipped at their winter seats.
Travel Tip:
Plan your Char Dham Yatra 2026 between May–June or September–mid-October for the best weather.
Clans Stays Private Limited keeps you updated with live weather alerts and ensures a safe, comfortable journey.
Why Choose Clans Stays for Char Dham Yatra 2026
Clans Stays Private Limited makes your Char Dham Yatra 2026 smooth, safe, and well-organized from start to finish. We handle everything — from registration and permits to transportation, hotels, and guided tours. Our experienced team ensures your journey is comfortable and stress-free, even in the Himalayan terrain. With verified stays, reliable drivers, and 24×7 assistance, you can focus on your spiritual experience while we take care of the rest. Choose Clans Stays for a worry-free pilgrimage you’ll remember forever.
