The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Hinduism, taking devotees to the holy shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. This journey is believed to cleanse past sins and lead the soul toward Moksha (salvation).
Every year, millions of pilgrims from India and around the world undertake this spiritual journey. However, due to heavy snowfall and harsh winters at high altitudes, the Char Dham temples remain open only for a few months. Knowing the exact opening and closing dates is essential for a smooth and safe pilgrimage.
Official Char Dham Yatra Opening & Closing Dates 2026
The opening and closing of Char Dham temples are decided by temple committees and priests after astrological calculations. These dates are announced around Akshaya Tritiya, an auspicious Hindu festival that marks the beginning of the yatra season.
Expected Char Dham Dates 2026:
| Temple | Opening Date | Closing Date (Tentative) |
|---|---|---|
| Yamunotri | 19 April 2026 | 1 November 2026 |
| Gangotri | 19 April 2026 | 1 November 2026 |
| Kedarnath | 22 April 2026 | 6 November 2026 |
| Badrinath | 24 April 2026 | 6 November 2026 |
Note: Closing dates may change depending on snowfall and weather conditions.
What is the Char Dham Yatra?
The Char Dham Yatra refers to the pilgrimage to four ancient temples located in the Garhwal Himalayas. These shrines are considered the spiritual backbone of Uttarakhand and are deeply rooted in Hindu scriptures and mythology.
The yatra traditionally begins from Yamunotri, followed by Gangotri, Kedarnath, and finally Badrinath. Many pilgrims follow this sequence to maintain spiritual order and tradition.
Religious Significance of the Four Dhams
Each of the Char Dhams is associated with a sacred river that nourishes both spiritual and physical life across India.
- Yamunotri – Origin of River Yamuna
- Gangotri – Origin of River Ganga
- Kedarnath – Origin of River Mandakini
- Badrinath – Origin of River Alaknanda
These rivers are worshipped as goddesses and hold immense ritual importance in Hinduism.
Yamunotri Dham: Origin of River Yamuna
Yamunotri is the first Dham of the Char Dham Yatra and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, the sister of Lord Yama. It is the westernmost shrine of the Char Dham circuit and marks the beginning of the yatra. According to Hindu belief, bathing in the Yamuna protects devotees from untimely death and grants long life.
The temple is located at an altitude of around 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) in the Uttarkashi district. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forests, Yamunotri offers a serene and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
The actual source of River Yamuna is the Yamunotri Glacier, located near the Bandarpunch Peak. Due to extreme terrain, pilgrims worship at the temple instead of visiting the glacier.
Rituals & Attractions at Yamunotri
One of the main rituals here is cooking rice in the Surya Kund, a natural hot water spring near the temple. Devotees tie the cooked rice in cloth and take it home as Prasad.
Another nearby spring is Gauri Kund, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, where pilgrims take a holy dip before darshan.
Yomunotri Opening & Closing Dates 2026
- Opening Date: 19 April 2026
- Closing Date: 1 November 2026
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
How to Reach Yamunotri
- Nearest railhead: Dehradun
- Nearest road point: Janki Chatti
- Trek distance: Approx. 6 km
Pilgrims trek approximately 6 km from Janki Chatti. Ponies and palanquins are available for elderly devotees.
Gangotri Dham: Birthplace of River Ganga
Gangotri is the second Dham and is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, the most sacred river in Hinduism. It is believed that Goddess Ganga descended to Earth here to cleanse humanity of sins.
Located at an altitude of about 3,100 meters (10,200 feet), Gangotri lies in the Uttarkashi district and is surrounded by deodar forests and Himalayan peaks.
The actual origin of River Ganga is Gaumukh Glacier, situated around 18 km from Gangotri. However, the temple marks the spiritual source of the river.
Religious Importance of Gangotri
King Bhagirath’s penance is said to have brought Ganga to Earth. Lord Shiva trapped her mighty force in his locks before releasing her gently for the welfare of mankind.
Nearby Sacred Places
- Bhagirathi Shila – where Bhagirath meditated
- Pandava Gufa – associated with the Pandavas
- Gaumukh Glacier – trekking destination for spiritual seekers
Gangotri Opening & Closing Dates 2026
- Opening Date: 19 April 2026
- Closing Date: 1 November 2026
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
How to Reach Gangotri
Gangotri is accessible by road and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. Gangotri is well-connected by road via Uttarkashi and does not require trekking for temple darshan.
Kedarnath Dham: Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva
Kedarnath is the third Dham and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is considered one of the most powerful and spiritually intense Shiva temples in India.
Situated at a height of approximately 3,583 meters (11,755 feet), Kedarnath lies in the Rudraprayag district and is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and the Mandakini River.
According to legend, the Pandavas built this temple to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva after the Mahabharata war. Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a bull and later manifested as a Jyotirlinga.
Temple Architecture & Rituals
The stone-built temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old and was revived by Adi Shankaracharya. His samadhi is located behind the temple.
Morning and evening Aarti, Abhishek, and Rudrabhishek are major rituals performed here.
Kedarnath Opening & Closing Dates 2026
- Opening Date: 22 April 2026
- Closing Date: 6 November 2026
- Temple Timings: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM
How to Reach Kedarnath
- Nearest road point: Gaurikund
- Trek distance: 16–18 km
- Helicopter services are available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi
The temple is reached by a 16–18 km trek from Gaurikund. Helicopter services are also available from nearby helipads. Due to high altitude, pilgrims are advised to acclimatize properly.
Badrinath Dham: Abode of Lord Vishnu
Badrinath is the final Dham of the Char Dham Yatra and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped here as Badri Narayan. Located at an altitude of about 3,133 meters (10,279 feet) in the Chamoli district, the temple is nestled between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges, near the Alaknanda River.
According to legend, Lord Vishnu meditated here under a Badri (berry) tree, while Goddess Lakshmi protected him from harsh weather.
Temple Rituals & Sacred Spots
Before entering the temple, pilgrims take a holy dip in Tapt Kund, a natural hot water spring believed to cleanse sins. Inside the temple, the black stone idol of Lord Vishnu is worshipped in a seated meditative posture.
Nearby Places to Visit
- Mana Village – last Indian village near the Tibet border
- Vasudhara Falls – sacred waterfall
- Mata Murti Temple – dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s mother
Badrinath Opening & Closing Dates 2026
- Opening Date: 24 April 2026
- Closing Date: 6 November 2026
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
How to Reach Badrinath
Badrinath is well-connected by road and surrounded by the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges. Badrinath is fully motorable and easily accessible by road via Joshimath.
Best Time to Visit Char Dham Yatra 2026
Choosing the right time is essential for a comfortable pilgrimage.
- May to June: Ideal weather, clear roads, high footfall
- July to August: Monsoon season, landslide risk (not recommended)
- September to October: Fewer crowds, scenic landscapes, stable weather
Early planning ensures better accommodation and transport availability.
Char Dham Yatra Registration Process
The Uttarakhand Government mandates online registration for all pilgrims. Registration helps in crowd control and ensures pilgrim safety. Pilgrims must carry a valid ID proof during the yatra.
Health & Safety Guidelines for Pilgrims
High altitudes can cause fatigue and breathlessness.
- Walk slowly and stay hydrated
- Carry essential medicines
- Avoid alcohol and smoking
- Acclimatize properly before trekking
Senior citizens should consult a doctor before planning the yatra.
Why is the Char Dham Yatra So Important?
In Hinduism, Teerth Yatra is a sacred duty that strengthens faith and devotion. Pilgrims believe that visiting the Char Dhams cleanses the soul and brings inner peace.
The journey tests patience, humility, and spiritual dedication. For many devotees, completing the Char Dham Yatra is a deeply emotional and transformative experience.
Spiritual Meaning of Completing All Four Dhams
Completing the Char Dham Yatra is believed to liberate the soul from the cycle of birth and death. Each Dham represents purification at a deeper spiritual level. The journey is not just physical but deeply emotional and transformative, offering peace, devotion, and divine connection.
Plan Your Char Dham Yatra 2026 Smoothly
Proper planning ensures a smooth, safe, and spiritually enriching journey. Booking hotels, transport, and helicopter services in advance is highly recommended.
Embark on the sacred Char Dham Yatra 2026 and experience divine blessings amidst the Himalayas.
