The Char Dham Yatra season is underway in 2026, and more than 12.6 lakh pilgrims visited all four Dhams within the first 25 days after the portals opened on April 19. If this pilgrimage is on your list, several 2026-specific rules are worth knowing before you go.
Key Takeaways
The four shrines opened between April 19 and April 23, 2026, and close between November 10 and 13.
Non-Hindus may face specific access conditions at Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Gangotri; Yamunotri remains open to all faiths.
Pilgrims over 55 must pass a physical health screening at base camps, and those with certain health conditions need a medical fitness certificate.
Monsoon rains have caused landslides and road blockages along routes to Kedarnath and Badrinath.
What's Different in 2026
Health screening requirements are stricter this year, with mandatory checks for pilgrims over 55 and documentation required for anyone with conditions like asthma, heart disease, or diabetes. Alcohol and other intoxicants are strictly forbidden throughout the Yatra circuit, a rule enforced more visibly than in past seasons.
Navigating the Monsoon Disruption
The Yatra itself hasn't been suspended the way Amarnath was, but monsoon rain has caused landslides and rockfall along the highways to Kedarnath and Badrinath, leading to occasional closures. Check road status the morning of travel, and build slack into your schedule rather than a tight multi-shrine itinerary during peak monsoon weeks.
Good to Know Registration is mandatory and managed through Uttarakhand's official Char Dham portal — book well ahead, especially for peak season slots. Base camp towns get crowded quickly once portals open; book accommodation in advance rather than arriving without reservations. Weather-related delays are common during monsoon; treat your itinerary as flexible rather than fixed to specific dates.
Registration rules, health requirements, and road conditions all shift year to year — confirm current details on the official Char Dham portal close to your travel dates rather than relying on last year's information.
