The sacred portals of the Kedarnath temple officially opened to devotees on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, marking a significant phase of the ongoing Char Dham Yatra. The revered shrine, located in the Garhwal Himalayas, welcomed pilgrims with traditional rituals and Vedic chants following its winter closure.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami confirmed that the temple's opening ceremonies were conducted in full adherence to religious traditions. The broader Char Dham Yatra commenced earlier on April 19 with the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri temples, while Badrinath is set to open on April 23. Notably, the inaugural prayers at Gangotri and Yamunotri were offered in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Pilgrim Numbers and Demand
The 2026 pilgrimage season is witnessing robust demand, with nearly 1.9 million (19 lakh) devotees already registered for the Char Dham Yatra. This figure underscores the enduring spiritual appeal and growing scale of the pilgrimage, building on the momentum from last year when over 5.1 million (51 lakh) pilgrims undertook the journey.
New Entry Rules and Restrictions for Kedarnath Yatra
Authorities have introduced new regulations for the 2026 Kedarnath Yatra, impacting visitor access and conduct:
- Non-Hindu Visitors: Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Gangotri now have specific conditions for non-Hindu visitors. Badrinath requires an affidavit affirming faith in Sanatan Dharma, while Gangotri mandates specific rituals for entry. Yamunotri, however, remains open to all, irrespective of religious affiliation.
- Mobile Phones and Cameras: To preserve the sanctity of the shrines, mobile phones and cameras are strictly prohibited inside the temple premises of Kedarnath and other Char Dham sites.
Mandatory Registration Process
All pilgrims planning to undertake the Kedarnath Yatra must complete mandatory registration. Several convenient methods are available:
- Online Registration: Visit registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in, register with your mobile number and email, verify via OTP, and create a password. Log in, select "Create/Manage Tour Info," choose "Char Dham Yatra 2026" and Kedarnath, then enter traveler details and upload required documents (passport-size photo, valid ID). Submit to generate a QR-coded Yatra e-pass.
- Mobile App: Download the "Tourist Care Uttarakhand" app, register, add travel details, and obtain your QR pass.
- WhatsApp Registration: Send "Yatra" to +91-8394833833 and follow the prompts to receive your QR pass.
- Offline Counters: Registration facilities are available at designated counters in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Sonprayag, Guptkashi, and Dehradun airport. Pilgrims must carry original ID proof and a passport-sized photograph.
Important Guidelines for Pilgrims
- A QR-coded pass is mandatory for verification at checkpoints, such as Sonprayag.
- Registration for the Yatra is free; pilgrims are advised to avoid unofficial agents.
- A valid registration number is a prerequisite for booking helicopter services to Kedarnath.
- Given the high altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet), elderly pilgrims and those with pre-existing health conditions are strongly advised to carry a medical fitness certificate.
With comprehensive preparations in place, authorities anticipate a steady increase in pilgrim turnout over the coming weeks, ensuring a safe and spiritually enriching experience for all.