Pilgrimage
Char Dham
Two journeys share the name. In Uttarakhand, the Char Dham Yatra visits four Himalayan temples: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. The older Char Dham is four temples at the four corners of India.
The Uttarakhand Char Dham
- YamunotriUttarkashi district, Uttarakhand
Reached on foot or by pony from Janki Chatti.
- GangotriUttarkashi district, Uttarakhand
- KedarnathRudraprayag district, Uttarakhand
Reached on foot or by pony from Gaurikund, or by helicopter.
- BadrinathChamoli district, Uttarakhand
Before you go
- Register first. Registration for every pilgrim and vehicle is required and free on the Uttarakhand Tourist Care portal, run by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board. Helpline 1364 (toll free).
- Check the dates. Closing dates for winter are announced each year on Vijayadashami (Dussehra).
- Plan for walking. Yamunotri and Kedarnath are reached on foot or by pony from the road head.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Char Dham in Uttarakhand?
Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. The yatra traditionally goes west to east in that order.
Do I need to register for the Char Dham Yatra?
Yes. Every pilgrim and vehicle must register before the journey. Registration is free on the Uttarakhand Tourist Care portal, registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in. Helpline: 1364 (toll free) or 0135 3520100.
When do the Char Dham temples close for winter?
The temples open in spring and close for winter around October and November. The exact closing dates are announced each year on Vijayadashami (Dussehra). In 2025, for example, Gangotri closed on 22 October, Kedarnath and Yamunotri on 23 October and Badrinath on 25 November.
What is the original Char Dham?
The four abodes at the four corners of India traditionally linked with Adi Shankaracharya: Badrinath in the north, Dwarka in the west, Puri in the east and Rameswaram in the south.
Sources: Uttarakhand Tourist Care portal (registration and helpline); All India Radio News for the 2025 closing dates; Wikidata for locations. Checked 19 Oct 2026.