The Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand takes pilgrims to four Himalayan shrines: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. Traditionally the circuit is made from west to east, beginning at Yamunotri and ending at Badrinath.

The season

The shrines close for the winter and reopen in spring. Opening and closing dates are announced each year according to the religious calendar, so check the announced dates before making any bookings.

  • Spring and early summer are the busiest periods.
  • The monsoon brings a higher risk of landslides and road closures.
  • The autumn weeks before closing are often clearer, but colder.

Registration

Pilgrims are required to register with the Uttarakhand government before travelling. Use the official state channels and keep a copy of your registration with you.