look news india
News India Live, Digital Desk: The journey to the four holy places situated in the lap of Himalayas – Munotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath is going to start from 19th April 2026. This time the administration has made some major changes in the rules keeping in mind crowd management and security.
1. Possible opening dates
The dates as per Hindu calendar and auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya are as follows:
| Dham | opening date | Specific |
|---|---|---|
| Yamunotri | 19 April 2026 | on the day of Akshaya Tritiya |
| Gangotri | 19 April 2026 | on the day of Akshaya Tritiya |
| Kedarnath | 22 April 2026 | Official time will be announced on Shivratri |
| Badrinath | 24 April 2026 | The date has been fixed on Basant Panchami |
2. When and how to register?
to travel Compulsory Registration Expected to commence from February-March 2026.
Online Portal: You can register by visiting registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in.
Whatsapp: Text ‘Yatra’ to +91-8394833833.
Mobile App: Download the ‘Tourist Care Uttarakhand’ app.
Offline: Counters will also be available at centers like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Sonprayag and Pandukeshwar.
3. New rules: Ban on mobile and camera
According to a News18 report, the temple committees have taken some tough decisions for the 2026 Yatra:
Strictness in the sanctum sanctorum: Use of mobile phones and cameras may be completely prohibited inside the temple premises of Kedarnath and Badrinath (especially in front of Singhdwar).
Tilak and Prasad: Some restrictions may be imposed on applying tilak or distribution of prasad in the premises of Kedarnath temple so that the flow of crowd does not stop.
Helicopter Booking: Helicopter ticket for Kedarnath only IRCTC Book only from the official website (heliyatra.irctc.co.in).
4. Recommended Route (Travel Route)
The journey is always done from west to east (clockwise):
Rishikesh/Haridwar → Barkot (Yamunotri)
Barcoat → Uttarkashi (Gangotri)
Uttarkashi → Guptkashi/Sonprayag (Kedarnath)
Sonprayag → Joshimath (Badrinath) → return to Rishikesh
5. Important documents and health
ID Proof: Aadhar Card (mandatory), Voter ID or Passport.
Health Checkup: It is advisable for passengers above 60 years of age to carry a medical fitness certificate.
QR Code: Carry the ‘Yatra Registration Form’ (with QR Code) received after registration, in digital or physical form; Without this you will not be allowed to enter.
