{"id":"f-73cd9b4b27-236514e5-3cfd-5d63-8edf-4774c2d84f05","title":"Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra 2026: Online registration starts today, pilgrimage begins on April 19","description":"The countdown for Char Dham Yatra 2026 has begun. Online registration starts today, on March 6, while the pilgrimage begins April 19. The government has announced free registration, offline counters, and improved facilities to ensure a safe and smooth journey for millions of devotees.","timestamp":1772779964,"category":"travel_and_lifestyle","headline":"Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra 2026: Online registration starts today, pilgrimage begins on April 19","modifiedHeadline":"Char Dham Yatra: Registration Opens March 6","subCategories":["scid_c3ff64bf"],"subcategoriesName":["Travel News"],"region":"IN","bundleMetaData":{"bundleId":"7b48871c-c993-4956-b43d-6f46f8e1b036","bundleTitle":"Today In India","cardData":null},"iabCategoryId":"663","iabCategoryName":"Travel Preparation and Advice","fcSummary":"the char dham yatra 2026 in uttarakhand begins april 19, coinciding with akshaya tritriya. online registration opens march 6, with free registration managing pilgrim flow and ensuring safety. shrines open sequentially; yamunotri & gangotri on april 19, followed by kedarnath & badrinath. offline registration counters will be available. enhanced facilities, trip cards for vehicles, and increased bus operations are planned.","summary":"Char Dham Yatra 2026: Registration opens March 6, pilgrimage begins April 19. Free registration & enhanced facilities for devotees.","ctaUrl":"https://trends.glance.com/newz/astrology/IN/en/news9/f-73cd9b4b27-236514e5-3cfd-5d63-8edf-4774c2d84f05","sourceUrl":"https://www.news9live.com/india/uttarakhand-char-dham-yatra-2026-registration-starts-today-pilgrimage-begins-on-april-19-with-enhanced-facilities-2939754","bannerImage":"https://g-mob.glance-cdn.com/public/fc/image/tdVNTf8stMl0.webp","content":"

Dehradun: The much-awaited Char Dham Yatra 2026 in Uttarakhand is set to begin on April 19, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya.

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The state government has finalized preparations, and online registration for the pilgrimage will open on March 6. Millions of devotees from across India and abroad are expected to visit the four holy shrines—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—nestled in the Himalayas.

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Online Registration Begins March 6

To ensure safety and proper management, registration has been made mandatory for all pilgrims. Devotees can register through the official web portal (registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in) or the Tourist Care Uttarakhand mobile app. The government has clarified that registration will be completely free, with the sole purpose of managing the flow of pilgrims and ensuring their safety.

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Shrine Opening Dates

The doors of Yamunotri and Gangotri will open on April 19, marking the beginning of the Yatra. Kedarnath shrine will open on April 22, followed by Badrinath on April 23. The opening date for Hemkund Sahib, an important pilgrimage site for Sikh devotees, will be announced later.

Offline Registration Counters

For those unable to register online, offline registration facilities have been arranged. A total of 50 counters will be set up, including 30 in Rishikesh and 20 in Vikasnagar (Dehradun). These counters will operate 24 hours a day, starting from April 17, two days before the shrines open. Additional centers will be located at Rishikul Ground in Haridwar and the Transit Camp in Rishikesh. Pilgrims without Aadhaar cards will also be able to register at these centers.

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Enhanced Facilities Along Routes

The government has issued instructions to strengthen facilities along the pilgrimage routes. Drinking water, public toilets, and medical services will be available at regular intervals. Health services are being expanded to ensure immediate medical attention in case of emergencies. Repairs and improvements to both main and alternate routes are being carried out, with clear signage to guide pilgrims.

Trip Cards for Vehicles

To improve safety, trip cards have been made mandatory for all vehicles operating during the Yatra. These cards will contain details of passengers, drivers, and vehicle owners, including mobile numbers and license information. This measure is expected to enhance accountability and ensure quick response in case of emergencies.

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Special Bus Operations

Transportation arrangements have been strengthened with 1,800 buses scheduled to operate during the Yatra. Of these, 400 buses will be kept in reserve. Around 130 buses will depart daily for pilgrimage routes, while 1,300 buses will operate during the peak ten-day period.

Government’s Message

Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj has appealed to all pilgrims to register before starting their journey and follow guidelines strictly. He emphasized that the government’s focus is on safety, transparency, and smooth management. The minister also highlighted that no registration fee will be charged, reinforcing that the system is purely for safety and organization.

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Achievements and Preparations

The Char Dham Yatra has grown significantly in recent years. In 2025, over 5.6 million pilgrims visited the four shrines, setting a record. With such large numbers expected again in 2026, the government is working to strengthen infrastructure and management. From improved roads to better health facilities, every effort is being made to ensure a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey.

Religious Significance

The Char Dham Yatra holds immense religious importance. It is believed that visiting Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath leads to spiritual peace and salvation. Pilgrims from across India and abroad undertake this journey with devotion, making it one of the most significant religious events in the country.

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Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra 2026: Online registration starts today, pilgrimage begins on April 19

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