Char Dham Yatra 2026: Complete Yatra Guide & Full Details Plan

The Char Dham Yatra is one of the best-known pilgrimages in India and a must-visit destination if you happen to be in the Uttarakhand region in the year 2026. The journey takes you through four of the most notable temples in Uttarakhand, which are Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. People from all around the globe travel to India to visit these temples and complete the pilgrimage each year.

This travel guide will provide up-to-date information about the Char Dham Yatra, such as registration information for darshan, directions to the Char Dham temples, where to find accommodations near the Char Dham temples, what time you should arrive at each of the Char Dham temples for your darshan, what medicine you will need to take with you when you visit the Char Dham temples, and what to remember in order to have a successful yatra at each of the Char Dham temples.

Char Dham Yatra 2026 – Full Travel Plan, Cost & Tips

Chiku Cabs has been in the Uttarakhand pilgrimage tour business for over 10 years. Chiku Cabs offers dependable bookings for Char Dham Yatra packages as well as personalised Char Dham Tour packages from Delhi, Haridwar or other cities in India using a car, tempo traveller, or helicopter. Chiku Cabs has an extensive fleet of vehicles and speed boats with a solid reputation for safety, affordability and providing you with a memorable Yatra, whether you are travelling alone, as part of a family group or as a senior citizen.

Char Dham Yatra 2026: Opening and Closing Dates

To know when to prepare for a pilgrimage trip, it’s important to know the opening of Char Dham and when the temples will be closed in 2026. The dates for opening and closing are set according to the Hindu calendar (Panchang) and will be announced during specific holidays (Basant Panchami and Mahashivratri). Please see below for approximate opening & closing dates for each Dham, so you can plan properly for Char Dham Yatra.

Note: These dates are based on recent announcements and are widely consistent across sources. Always confirm on the official Uttarakhand Tourism website closer to the date, as minor changes can occur due to weather or Panchang.

Natural seasons can be grouped into four major time divisions based on nature, such as Solar Seasons (Summer, Monsoon, Winter, and Intermediate). In addition, approximately twelve (12) lunar month cycles will fall into those divisions resulting in the twelve months of those four seasons. Each month in the twelve months of the lunar calendar belongs to the same solar season. Month Sunghai (month of March-April), month Apnaaree (month of May-June), which are both in Solar Season (Summer); month Junaadh (month of July-August), which is in Solar Season (Monsoon); month Aheadani (months of September-October), which is in Solar Season (Fall); and month Abhadani (month of November-December),

which are in Solar Season (Winter) will occur during the Solar Seasons timeframe, and the Longest Day of the Year (Winter Solstice), January 21st (Third of Twelve Moon Cycles), will also fall within these lunar months of the three seasons of the year of winter.

Best time for Yatra: May & June and September & October (pleasant weather, temples open, fewer monsoon/early snow risks).

1. Yamunotri: The Origin of River Yamuna

Many pilgrims visit Yamunotri first in their Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage; this destination serves as the worship venue to the goddess Yamuna.

It sits at an elevation of 3293 meters above sea level; it is also where the holy Yamuna River begins its journey down to the plains.

How to Reach:

The temple can be approached by a 6 km trek from Janki Chatti either by foot, palki (palanquin) or mule.

The trek takes you through breathtaking vistas of the beautiful Himalayan landscape.

Temple Dates (2026-2027 Season):

• Opens: Akshaya Tritiya (April 19, 2026)
• Closes: November 11, 2026

Highlights & Tips:

You may be able to benefit from the time spent at the Surya Kund, which is a hot spring near the temple used by people traveling to the temple to cook rice and potatoes in it as food offerings to take back to the temple later.

In order to have more time for the darshan and avoid travelling with large groups, it is suggested to arrive at the start of the day to allow yourself enough time for your travel.

2. Gangotri: The Sacred Source of the Ganges

Gangotri is the second of the Dham Yatra that is situated at 3100 m above sea level, and is known as the origin/source of the Holy Ganges River (Bhagirathi).

The temple in Gangotri is conveniently reached via road and affords a beautiful view of the surrounding hills.

Temple Dates:

• Opens: 19 April (Akshaya Tritiya)
• Closes: 10 November

Highlights & Tips:

The surrounding areas also have many places of interest such as Bhagirath Shila and Pandava Gufa, which are both of mythological significance.

Pilgrims should pack for the summer months as it can be quite cold.

Early in the morning is the best time for darshan, as there are usually many people lined up to enter the temple.

3. Kedarnath: The Abode of Lord Shiva

Kedarnath is a famous religious site that is located at an elevation of 3583 m above sea level and is the 3rd of the 4 Dhams and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India.

How to Reach (from Gaurikund):

There are many different options:

• Palki
• Mule
• Helicopter

The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is around 16 km.

Although the trek is challenging, it provides numerous opportunities for spiritual experiences along with stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and the beauty and tranquility of Mother Nature.

Temple Dates (2026):

• Opens: April 22nd 2026, around 2300 hrs
• Closes: November 11th 2026

Tips:

It is best to start your trek early in the day and make sure to bring some basic supplies for the trek, such as water, snacks, and a first aid kit.

Helicopter transport is an option for all guests who can’t walk to the trailhead.

Guests should allow for time to acclimatize properly to their elevation before hiking, to minimize the chance of altitude sickness.

4. Badrinath: The Sacred Abode of Lord Vishnu

India has four pilgrimage sites and the temple of Badrinath (the fourth) is termed dham in reference to them.

Badrinath temple is positioned at a height of 3133m and is reachable by motor vehicle through Nar and Narayan mountain ranges, all year round.

Temple Dates (2026):

• Opens: 23th April, 2026, around 6.15 am
• Closes: 13th November, 2026

Highlights:

There are numerous other sites in the vicinity that pilgrims find interesting, including:

• the last village in India (Mana), which lies on the border with Tibet
• Vyas Gufa (the cave of Sage Vedvyasa who is believed to have written the Mahabharata)
• and numerous other locations where sages have historically meditated.

Tips:

If you’re going to Badrinath, be sure to dress correctly: make sure to layer up because the temperatures will change and be very chilly!

You’d also want to perform the Darshan (view deity) before 7am or after 5:30pm when there are fewer people to avoid having large crowds.

Which Route Should I Follow?

The entire pilgrim route for Char Dham Yatra can start at either Delhi or Haridwar. The most popular Char Dham Yatra Route is:

Delhi → Haridwar → Barkot → Janki Chatti (for Yamunotri) → Uttarkashi → Gangotri → Guptkashi → Kedarnath → Joshimath / Pipalkoti → Badrinath → Rishikesh → Delhi.

• Yamunotri: 6 km from Janki Chatti, with options for individual trekking or horse/palki provided.
• The journey from Gaurikund to Kedarnath will require a trek of approximately 16 km through rough terrain; therefore, visitors may want to consider alternative methods of transportation such as by doli (a type of palanquin) or mule. Helicopter services are also available for those who wish to avoid the trek by foot.
• Road access is available for both Gangotri and Badrinath but travelers should check on current road conditions prior to leaving home.

Chiku Cabs offers its customers vehicles that are equipped with the comforts of home. This includes providing periodic updates regarding road and route conditions. All their drivers have extensive experience driving in the Himalayan region.

10 Days Char Dham Yatra Itinerary (Detailed Plan)

Are you searching for an organized, dependable Char Dham Yatra option? Then look no further. We have compiled a fantastic 10-day itinerary that will provide you with both a spiritual experience and relaxation! This itinerary outlines how to accomplish the various days at all temples, as well as assists with: 1) Where to worship, 2) Darshans (viewings), 3) Where to sleep (lodging/hotel, etc). The following is your itinerary for each of the ten days:

• Day 1: Depart from Delhi en route to your first destination – Haridwar (approximately 210 km from Delhi). Attend Har Ki Pauri Ganga Aarti. After the Ganga Aarti, check in at the hotel.
• Day 2: Travel from Haridwar to Barkot via Mussoorie and Kempty Falls; overnight stay in Barkot.
• Day 3: Trek from Barkot to Yamunotri Temple (approximately a 6 km trek to Janki Chatti) and return to Barkot.
• Day 4: Leave Barkot for Uttarkashi, where you will visit the Vishwanath Temple.
• Day 5: Leave Uttarkashi, go to Gangotri Temple, and then come back to enjoy Harsil Valley.
• Day 6: Make your way from Uttarkashi to Guptkashi, stopping at the Tehri dam on your way.
• Day 7: Go from Guptkashi to the base of Kedarnath by hiking or helicopter, depending on weather conditions (check beforehand whether helicopters will be available). For helicopter transportation, verify costs and safety procedures.
• Day 8: Witness God’s vision of Kedarnath and then travel back to Guptkashi by hiking or driving.
• Day 9: Drive from Guptkashi to Badrinath Temple (via Mana Village, for Badrinath Darshan hours).
• Day 10: Drive from Badrinath Temple to Haridwar or Delhi (via Devprayag).

Taxi booking available for Yatra by car (for both small and large groups).

Step-by-Step Registration Process for Yatra 2026

The registration is now compulsory for all yatris to ensure safety & manage crowds during Yatra. Visit Uttarakhand Tourism’s official website or Tourist Care Uttarakhand App for more details.

• Fill in these fields: Aadhaar Number, Photo and Mobile Phone Number (Photo Required).
• Yatra Card can be Printed/Downloaded.
• You need a QR Code Wristband from Yatra Card for check-in to Temples.
• Medical Certificate and Registration are Mandatory (Char Dham Tour Package customers have Free Assistance from Chiku Cab Staff to perform Medical Checkups/Registration).

Official portal: registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in or Tourist Care Uttarakhand App.

Package Types (Cost Breakdown)

• Budget, Standard, Luxury: You can find Packages to fit All Budgets.
• Budget Packages Include Kitchen, Small Car & Clean Hotel (Cost: ₹25,000-₹35,000/Person).
• It is possible to find affordable group and family packages at rates between Rs 40-55,000 per person on a standard basis. We offer use of Innova-type vehicles for transportation to and from sites with hotel accommodations rated 2-3 stars with all meals included. Designed primarily for couples and small families.
• Luxury packages for a group of four will run between Rs 60-1,00,000+ per person and include a private luxury SUV with the best hotel/resort and the added bonus of having your Char Dham helicopter reservation and getting VIP Darshan. The most comfortable experience possible for senior citizens and/or families that include disabled persons.

Contact us regarding a customized quote for: Char Dham Yatra from Delhi Package or Char Dham Yatra from Haridwar.

There are different types of helicopter reservations and transportation (taxi) for Char Dham. The costs for reserving a helicopter to Kedarnath depending on the operator will vary due to differences in demand by the time of day, so it is advisable to book well in advance of your trip in order to get the most competitive rate when booking through helicopter. There are full circuit Itineraries may be reserved via Dehradun, and taxi rentals are available for the entire Char Dham yatra, as well as individual taxi rentals between temples to get from one temple to another. All drivers working for Chiku Cabs have received mountain driving training and will treat you excellently.

Information on the Medical Needs, Safety and AMS Before You Go and the Difficulty Level of Your Yatra: Roads, Walking, High Elevation

• You should have your physician sign a fitness form in order to travel.
• Know the Symptoms & Medications for AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), ORS or Portable Oxygen to Assist Elderly Family Members.
• It is very necessary to keep hydrated, not abruptly change altitude, and dress appropriately for today’s temperature.
• We sent out a safety checklist for Kedarnath and an AMS guide to all of our Chiku Cab passengers.

Char Dham Yatra Packing List:

• Light warm clothes suitable for the weather & altitude where you will be going to.
• Trekking shoes/boots for hiking to temples, and a pair of slippers to wear at your hotel.
• Light snacks, dried fruit, glucose tablets, water bottles.
• Personal medications kit (including pain relievers, all the basic medications, and any prescription medications).
• Cell phone chargers/power banks, a small flashlight.

To confirm payment you must present a valid ID and bring your confirmation printout for the booking of a Chiku cab. Chiku cab, part of Chiku Tour & Travel Group, has provided quality service in the Temple Tour market in Uttarakhand for over ten years, so we are well-qualified to provide you with excellent service. All of our drivers are police-qualified and have experience driving through the Char Dham route so that you can have additional peace of mind knowing that you are in a safe vehicle. Our customer service team is available to support you throughout your Yatra.

Flexible packages to fit your budget

Real reviews and transparent pricing

Help with registration, medical requirements, AMS safety kit, and best-time updates

Plan Your Yatra Better – Final Advice & Next Steps

The 2026 Char Dham Yatra lets you experience the most memorable and sacred journey to the Tibetan mountain range (the Himalayas). By preparing ahead of time, you can alleviate a lot of stress associated with the trip by booking your accommodations, figuring out where you’ll go when you arrive at your destination, deciding when you’ll get there, and also finding a local representative who can help guide you during your travels. If you’re interested in registering for travel updates, assistance with purchasing a travel package to the pilgrimage, or any other questions regarding your trip, please reach out for more information.

Get Your Char Dham Yatra Tour Package Or Taxi Rental Now With Chiku Cab’s Char Dham Travel Service! If you want to have success when it comes to traveling to your dhams, contact Chiku Cab Ideal Travel Solutions For All Of Your Travel Arrangements For All Dham Locations. To Contact Chiku Cab Please Call 844 844 5504, Go To http://www.chikucab.com And Send An Email To info@chikucab.com Good Luck With a Smooth, Safe, Successful Yatra. Jai Badri Vishal!

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

Q1) Do You Have To Arrange Your Char Dham Yatra In Advance, Before You Depart?

Ans) Yes, Because When You Book Your Char Dham Yatra In Advance, You Will Have Guarantees For Your Lodging, Guarantee Of Safe Taxi’s & Assistance With The Registration Processes.

Q2) How can I visit or travel to the holy places of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath?

Ans) All of these temples are located in Uttarakhand and can be reached both by road and on foot via various trekking routes that lead to each temple with nearby roads providing connections through doli (hand-pulled carts) and/or ponies as well as helicopter service from each road access point.

Q3) When is the optimum time to take the Char Dham Yatra?

Ans) May & June and September & October are the most favourable times for the Char dham Yatra because the weather is pleasant, and the temples will be open during those months as well.

Q4) Are Senior Char dham Tour Packages available?

Ans) Yes, we can create customized/ tailored tour packages for Seniors with the option of a Car/TEMPO TRAVELLER or a Helicopter; we can also include different modes of transportation in these tour packages that will assist Seniors.

Q5) What is the Char Dham temple name order?

Ans) Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath.

Abhishek Singh

I’m a wanderer who loves venturing on to unknown and unseen places. I explore freely to various fun and adventurous places, whether it be spiritual temple tours, captivating landscapes, and more. I wonder around in search of hidden gems and tourist attractions, temples, and other places.