The Char Dham Yatra for international tourists is one of the most sacred and spiritually powerful pilgrimages in India. Nestled in the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand, this divine journey covers four ancient temples — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath — collectively known as the Char Dham of the North.

Every year, thousands of devotees from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, UAE, and other countries travel to India to complete this holy circuit. If you are planning the Char Dham Yatra from abroad in 2026, this complete guide will help you with temple timings, VIP darshan booking, helicopter services, registration process, travel routes, accommodation, and essential tips for NRIs and foreign visitors.

What is Char Dham Yatra?

The Char Dham Yatra is a four-temple pilgrimage in Uttarakhand:

• Yamunotri – Source of River Yamuna
• Gangotri – Source of River Ganga
• Kedarnath – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva
• Badrinath – Sacred temple of Lord Vishnu

The yatra traditionally begins from Yamunotri, followed by Gangotri, Kedarnath, and ends at Badrinath.

The Four Sacred Shrines of Char Dham

1. Yamunotri Temple

Located at an altitude of 3,293 meters, Yamunotri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna. Pilgrims trek approximately 6 km from Janki Chatti to reach the temple.

Best for: Spiritual purification and blessings for family well-being
Travel Tip: Pony, palki, and helicopter options are available for senior citizens

2. Gangotri Temple

Situated at 3,100 meters, Gangotri Temple marks the origin of the holy River Ganga. The temple is easily accessible by road.

Best for: Seeking blessings for prosperity and cleansing of sins
Nearby Visit: Gaumukh Glacier (source of River Ganga)

3. Kedarnath Temple

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath Temple stands at 3,583 meters. It requires a 16–18 km trek from Gaurikund.

Best for: Moksha (liberation) and spiritual awakening
Helicopter Services: Available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi

4. Badrinath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Badrinath Temple is located at 3,300 meters and is accessible by road.

Best for: Completing the Char Dham Yatra
Nearby Attractions: Mana Village (last Indian village near China border)

Chardham Yatra 2026 Opening and Closing Dates

The Chardham Yatra 2026 opening and closing dates are among the most searched details by pilgrims planning their Himalayan journey. Every year, thousands of devotees from India and abroad wait eagerly for the announcement of the temple opening schedule so they can arrange travel, hotel bookings, helicopter tickets, and darshan registration in advance.

The Chardham Yatra season usually begins in April or early May and continues until October or November, depending on weather conditions in Uttarakhand. Since these temples are located in high-altitude Himalayan regions, heavy snowfall during winter leads to seasonal closure.

The final opening and closing dates are decided according to Hindu calendar traditions, temple rituals, and astrological calculations. Official announcements are typically made around Maha Shivratri or during spring festivals.

Below is the schedule for Chardham Yatra 2026 to help pilgrims plan their journey in advance:

These dates allow pilgrims nearly six months to complete the sacred yatra comfortably.

Why Chardham Yatra Dates Change Every Year

The Chardham Yatra opening dates are not fixed permanently because:

• Temple openings are aligned with auspicious Hindu calendar days
• Weather and snowfall conditions are reviewed before final approval
• Temple committees and Uttarakhand authorities make the official declaration

Similarly, the Chardham Yatra closing dates are announced around Diwali or Bhai Dooj, depending on religious traditions.

Char Dham Yatra Temple Timings 2026 – Opening & Closing Hours

If you are planning the Char Dham Yatra in 2026, knowing the correct temple darshan timings is very important. Temple hours may slightly change during festivals, special poojas, or due to weather conditions, but the schedule below reflects the standard daily opening and closing timings followed during the pilgrimage season.

The Char Dham temples usually open around April–May (Akshaya Tritiya) and close between October–November (around Diwali) due to heavy snowfall in the Himalayas.

Darshan Timings of Char Dham Temples

Important Notes for Pilgrims

• Morning hours are usually less crowded and ideal for peaceful darshan.
• During peak season (May–June), waiting time can increase significantly.
• Weather in the Himalayas can affect temple schedules.
• VIP Darshan passes help reduce waiting time, especially for senior citizens and international tourists.

Char Dham Aarti Timings 2026 – Morning & Evening Rituals

Attending the aarti at Char Dham temples is considered one of the most divine experiences of the entire yatra. The sound of Vedic chants, temple bells, and sacred hymns creates a spiritually uplifting atmosphere that many foreign devotees describe as life-changing.

Below are the regular aarti timings followed during the pilgrimage season.

Special Pooja & Online Booking Information

Devotees can book special poojas in advance, especially at:

• Kedarnath Temple – Mahabhishek, Rudrabhishek, and other special sevas
• Badrinath Temple – Maha Abhishek, Vishnu Sahasranama Path, and special archana

Online pooja booking is strongly recommended during peak pilgrimage months. Limited slots are available daily, and advance reservation ensures a smooth and stress-free spiritual experience.

Best Time to Attend Aarti During Char Dham Yatra

• Morning aarti is ideal for those seeking a calm and meditative experience.
• Evening aarti offers a powerful and vibrant atmosphere with lamps, chants, and devotional music.
• International visitors are advised to reach at least 30–45 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot.

VIP Darshan for International Tourists – Char Dham Yatra 2026 Guide

For many international pilgrims visiting the Himalayas for the first time, long queues at high-altitude temples can be physically demanding. That is why VIP Darshan in Char Dham Yatra 2026 has become a preferred option for NRIs and foreign devotees who want a smoother and faster temple visit.

VIP entry allows devotees to avoid general queues and attend special rituals with better access and reduced waiting time.

VIP Darshan Options at Char Dham Temples

VIP facilities are mainly available at:

• Kedarnath Temple
• Badrinath Temple
• Gangotri Temple
• Yamunotri Temple

Common VIP Darshan options include:

• Special Entry Darshan Tickets (priority access)
• Mahabhishek Pooja booking (early morning rituals)
• Rudrabhishek and special sevas at Kedarnath
• Maha Abhishek and Vishnu Sahasranama Path at Badrinath
• Helicopter package darshan (especially for Kedarnath)

Helicopter darshan is especially popular among senior citizens and international tourists due to the 16–18 km trek required for Kedarnath.

VIP Darshan Charges (2026)

VIP darshan and special pooja charges vary depending on the temple and ritual type.

Please note that exact prices are announced annually by temple authorities and Uttarakhand tourism. Charges may increase during peak season (May–June).

Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially for:

Online Registration & Booking Process for Char Dham Yatra 2026

Char Dham Yatra registration is mandatory for all pilgrims, including foreign nationals and NRIs. Without registration, entry to temple zones may be restricted.

Step-by-Step Online Registration Process

1. Visit the official Uttarakhand Tourism Char Dham portal
2. Create a new account using your email ID
3. Enter passport details (for foreign nationals)
4. Upload passport copy as ID proof
5. Select travel dates and temple route
6. Submit details and download the Yatra Registration E-Pass

Carry a printed copy or digital version of the e-pass during your journey.

Helicopter Booking for Kedarnath – Important Guidelines

Helicopter services to Kedarnath are highly demanded during the yatra season. International tourists often prefer this option to avoid the steep trek from Gaurikund.

Important Booking Tips:

• Book only through authorized government portals
• Avoid unverified third-party travel agents
• Confirm reporting time and weight limits
• Keep passport and registration pass ready
• Arrive at helipad at least 1 hour before departure

Helicopter fares typically range between ₹7,000 to ₹10,000 one way, but prices may vary each year depending on fuel costs and demand.

Why Advance Booking is Crucial for International Visitors

Char Dham Yatra attracts lakhs of pilgrims every year. For foreign devotees traveling from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, UAE, or other countries, advance planning ensures:

• Guaranteed darshan slots
• Confirmed helicopter tickets
• Proper hotel accommodation
• Smooth travel coordination
• Reduced stress at high altitude

Booking VIP darshan and helicopter services at least 1–2 months in advance is highly recommended for a comfortable and spiritually fulfilling journey.

How to Reach Char Dham from Abroad – Complete Travel Guide for International Pilgrims (2026)

Planning the Char Dham Yatra from abroad requires proper travel coordination, especially for international tourists visiting India for the first time. This guide explains the best entry points, transportation options, and the standard travel route to complete the Char Dham pilgrimage smoothly.

The four sacred shrines — Yamunotri Temple, Gangotri Temple, Kedarnath Temple, and Badrinath Temple — are located in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, India.

Step 1: International Arrival in India

Best International Entry Points

Most foreign devotees arrive at:

• Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) – Most convenient and well-connected
• Mumbai International Airport – Suitable for connecting flights

Among these, Delhi (IGI Airport) is the preferred and most practical entry point for starting the Char Dham Yatra.

Delhi offers:

• Direct international flights from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, UAE, and Europe
• Easy domestic flight connections to Uttarakhand
• Wide availability of hotels and travel services

Step 2: Travel from Delhi to Uttarakhand

After arriving in Delhi, pilgrims must travel to Uttarakhand, where the Char Dham temples are located.

Option 1: By Flight (Fastest Option)

• Take a domestic flight from Delhi to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
• Flight duration: Approximately 45–60 minutes
• Ideal for senior citizens and tight schedules

From Dehradun, taxis are easily available to Haridwar, Rishikesh, or directly to Char Dham routes.

Option 2: By Train (Budget-Friendly)

Major railway stations:

• Haridwar Railway Station
• Rishikesh Railway Station

Train journey from Delhi takes around 4–6 hours.

Haridwar and Rishikesh are the most common starting points for international pilgrims.

Option 3: By Road (Scenic Route)

• Luxury Volvo buses
• Private taxis
• Self-drive rental cars

Travel time by road from Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh: 5–7 hours (depending on traffic)

This option allows pilgrims to enjoy the scenic Himalayan foothills.

Starting Point for Char Dham Yatra

Most international devotees begin their spiritual journey from:

• Haridwar – Famous for Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri
• Rishikesh – Known as the Yoga Capital of the World

Both cities serve as base locations for hotels, tour operators, and yatra registration.

Standard Travel Route for Char Dham Yatra

The traditional and recommended sequence followed is:

Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath

This route follows a clockwise direction, considered spiritually significant.

Duration of Char Dham Yatra

By Road (Standard Yatra)

• 10 to 12 days (comfortable pace)
• Suitable for families and elderly pilgrims
• Includes travel time, rest, and temple visits

By Helicopter (Premium Option)

• 2 to 5 days
• Covers Do Dham or full Char Dham circuit
• Includes VIP darshan assistance
• Ideal for international tourists with limited time

Helicopter packages usually depart from Dehradun and include accommodation and transfers.

Travel Planning Tips for Foreign Tourists

• Arrive in India at least one day before starting the yatra
• Choose May–June or September for best weather
• Keep passport and registration documents ready
• Book hotels and helicopter services in advance
• Travel insurance is highly recommended

Hotels Near Char Dham Temples – Best Stay Options for 2026 Yatra

Finding the right accommodation during the Char Dham Yatra 2026 is very important, especially for international tourists and NRI pilgrims. Due to high altitude locations and limited infrastructure, hotel availability near the temples can fill up quickly during peak season (May–June).

Accommodation near Yamunotri Temple, Gangotri Temple, Kedarnath Temple, and Badrinath Temple ranges from basic dharamshalas to premium stays included in helicopter packages.

Hotels Near Yamunotri Temple

Yamunotri does not have large hotels near the temple itself due to its remote mountain location.

Stay options include:

• Basic guest houses in Janki Chatti
• Small lodges and dharamshalas
• Budget rooms with basic facilities

Most pilgrims stay overnight in Janki Chatti before or after the trek.

Hotels Near Gangotri Temple

Gangotri offers slightly better infrastructure compared to Yamunotri.

Available options:

• GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) guest houses
• Private lodges and budget hotels
• Tourist rest houses

GMVN lodges are government-operated and considered reliable for clean and safe stays.

Hotels Near Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath has limited permanent hotel infrastructure because of its high altitude.

Stay options include:

• Temporary camps
• Basic guest houses
• Prefabricated cottages
• Premium helicopter tour packages with arranged stays

Many international pilgrims prefer helicopter packages that include accommodation in Guptkashi, Phata, or Kedarnath base camps.

Hotels Near Badrinath Temple

Badrinath offers the widest range of accommodation options among all four dhams.

Options include:

• Budget hotels
• Mid-range private hotels
• Government tourist lodges (GMVN)
• Deluxe rooms for families and NRI visitors

Because Badrinath is accessible by road, it has more structured hotel facilities compared to Kedarnath and Yamunotri.

Important Booking Tips for Char Dham Accommodation

• Book hotels at least 1–2 months in advance for May–June
• Choose GMVN lodges for reliable government-managed stays
• Confirm availability of hot water and electricity
• Carry basic medicines due to limited medical stores
• Avoid last-minute booking during peak season

Advance booking is strongly recommended to avoid inconvenience during the pilgrimage.

Dress Code for Char Dham Yatra 2026

There is no strict formal dress code for the Char Dham temples. However, modest and respectful clothing is expected inside temple premises.

Since the temples are located in high-altitude Himalayan regions, appropriate clothing ensures both comfort and safety.

Recommended Dress for Men

• Full-length trousers or track pants
• Shirt or full-sleeve T-shirt
• Light sweater or jacket
• Comfortable trekking shoes

Recommended Dress for Women

• Salwar suit
• Saree
• Long kurta with leggings
• Shawl or warm jacket

Avoid:

• Shorts
• Sleeveless tops
• Short skirts
• Revealing clothing inside temple areas

Special Clothing Advice for Kedarnath & Yamunotri

Temperatures can drop sharply, even during summer months.

Carry:

• Warm jackets
• Thermal innerwear
• Woolen caps and gloves
• Raincoat (weather changes quickly)
• Comfortable trekking shoes with good grip

Proper clothing is especially important for the Kedarnath trek and the Yamunotri route.

Important Guidelines for International & NRI Devotees – Char Dham Yatra 2026

If you are planning the Char Dham Yatra from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Europe, or other countries, proper preparation is essential. The Himalayan terrain, high altitude conditions, and remote temple locations require advance planning — especially for elderly pilgrims.

The four sacred shrines — Yamunotri Temple, Gangotri Temple, Kedarnath Temple, and Badrinath Temple — are located in high-altitude Himalayan regions of Uttarakhand.

Below are important travel tips specifically for international tourists and NRIs.

Essential Travel Tips for Foreign Pilgrims

• Carry multiple photocopies of your passport and visa at all times
• Complete online Char Dham registration before arrival in India
• Purchase an Indian SIM card at Delhi airport for better connectivity
• Keep digital and printed copies of hotel and helicopter bookings
• Consider comprehensive travel insurance (including high-altitude coverage)
• Elderly pilgrims should consult a doctor before visiting Kedarnath
• Exchange currency at Delhi airport or major cities before entering remote areas

High Altitude Awareness – Kedarnath

Kedarnath Temple is located at 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level.

Due to high altitude:

• Oxygen levels are lower
• Breathing may feel slightly difficult for some visitors
• Acclimatization is important
• Walk slowly and stay hydrated
• Avoid overexertion

Many NRIs prefer helicopter packages for elderly parents to avoid the 16–18 km trek from Gaurikund.

Best Time to Visit Char Dham for Foreign Tourists (2026)

Choosing the right season is extremely important for international travelers.

Ideal Months

May–June
• Comfortable weather
• All temples fully operational
• Suitable for families and elderly pilgrims

September
• Fewer crowds
• Peaceful darshan experience
• Clear mountain views

Months to Avoid

July–August (Monsoon Season)
• Heavy rainfall
• Risk of landslides
• Roadblocks possible

Late October
• Very cold weather
• Limited facilities before temple closing

The temples typically close between October–November due to snowfall.

Estimated Budget for International Tourists – Char Dham Yatra 2026

The total cost of Char Dham Yatra depends on travel style, hotel type, and whether helicopter services are included.

Approximate 10–12 Day Budget (Per Person)

What Affects the Total Cost?

• Type of accommodation (budget vs deluxe)
• Private taxi vs shared transport
• VIP darshan and special pooja bookings
• Helicopter services to Kedarnath
• Peak season price surge

International tourists should also consider additional expenses such as:

• International flight tickets
• Travel insurance
• Visa charges
• Currency exchange rates

Why Char Dham Yatra 2026 Planning is Crucial for NRIs

For many overseas devotees, Char Dham Yatra is not just a trip — it is a spiritual reconnection with India’s sacred heritage. Because the pilgrimage involves high altitudes and remote mountain travel, detailed planning ensures:

• Smooth temple darshan
• Comfortable accommodation
• Reduced health risks
• Better time management
• A peaceful spiritual experience

Final Advice for International Visitors

If you are traveling from abroad for Char Dham Yatra 2026:

• Register online early
• Book hotels and helicopter packages in advance
• Choose the right season
• Prepare for high-altitude conditions
• Keep all documents accessible

With proper preparation, the Char Dham Yatra becomes a safe, organized, and deeply transformative spiritual journey through the sacred Himalayas of India.