The online registration process for the much-awaited Char Dham Yatra and Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage in Uttarakhand commenced on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 7 AM. Devotees planning to visit the sacred Himalayan shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and the revered Sikh pilgrimage site, Hemkund Sahib, can now register online through the official website of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Council.
Opening Schedule of the Char Dham Yatra - The Char Dham Yatra will officially commence on April 30, 2025, with the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri temples in the Uttarkashi district. Kedarnath Temple in Rudraprayag district will welcome devotees starting May 2, followed by Badrinath on May 4. Hemkund Sahib, located in Chamoli district, will open its doors to pilgrims on May 25.
Government's Extensive Preparations
The enthusiasm among devotees was evident from the overwhelming response on the first day of registration. Within the first few hours, around 60,000 registrations were completed, with the highest number of applications recorded for Kedarnath Dham. The state government anticipates an unprecedented influx of pilgrims, estimating that between 80 to 90 lakhs, or even one crore, devotees may participate in the Yatra this year.
To ensure a smooth, safe, and grand pilgrimage, the Uttarakhand government is implementing extensive measures. Tourism Secretary Sachin Kurbe confirmed that meticulous planning is underway, focusing on security, transportation, and healthcare facilities. With 40 days remaining before the pilgrimage officially begins, preparations have already been initiated.
Key initiatives include:
• Infrastructure Improvements: Road repairs, expansion of healthcare facilities, and enhanced traffic management.
• Disaster Preparedness: Disaster management teams on high alert to tackle unpredictable weather conditions.
• Medical Support: Over 150 medical relief posts along the travel routes, supported by helicopter and ambulance services.
• Online Tracking: Implementation of an online tracking system to monitor pilgrims' movements.
• Transport Facilities: Temporary parking, additional bus stops, and shuttle services for smooth vehicular movement.
• Security Enhancements: Deployment of SDRF and police teams along the Yatra routes to ensure safety.
• Special Provisions for Helicopter Travel - Devotees planning to visit Kedarnath and Badrinath by helicopter must complete the online registration process to obtain their tickets. For additional information, they can contact the toll-free number to access detailed Yatra-related information.
Mandatory Registration for Devotees
To streamline the pilgrimage process, the Uttarakhand government has made registration compulsory for all travellers. Pilgrims must complete their registration through the official Uttarakhand Tourism Department website or mobile app, as travel without registration will not be permitted.
Offline Registration Centres
This year, 60% of the registrations for the Yatra will be conducted online, while the remaining 40% will be completed through offline channels. This approach ensures that pilgrims arriving without prior registration will not encounter any difficulties. For those unable to register online, offline registration centres will be established along the Yatra routes, including Haridwar and Rishikesh, starting 10 days before the commencement of the pilgrimage. These centres will operate round the clock to assist devotees in completing their registration hassle-free.
Mandatory Registration for Private Vehicles
To ensure seamless traffic management, all private vehicles entering Uttarakhand for the Yatra must be registered. Vehicle owners are required to complete an online declaration form. Non-registered vehicles from other states will need to be parked in Rishikesh, with passengers continuing their journey in designated local commercial vehicles. Additionally, vehicle inspections will be conducted at three key checkpoints along the Yatra route, where registration documents, vehicle papers, and Aadhar cards will be verified. Vehicle checks have also been made mandatory at all Uttarakhand state borders.
