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9389418523The sacred journey to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath in Uttarakhand’s breathtaking Himalayan landscape is known as the Char Dham Yatra. Each year, the official opening and closing dates of these temples are determined based on Hindu calendar calculations and weather conditions.
Typically, the temples open in late April or early May and close in late October or early November before the harsh winter begins. However, pilgrims are always advised to confirm the latest dates with official authorities or tour operators before planning their visit.
Undertaking the Char Dham Yatra requires:
Good physical fitness
Proper planning
Respect for local customs and traditions
This spiritually transformative journey offers divine peace amidst the serene Himalayas, strengthening one’s connection with nature and faith.
| Temple | Opening Date 2026 | Closing Date 2026 (Tentative) |
|---|---|---|
| Yamunotri | April 19, 2026 | November 11, 2026 |
| Gangotri | April 19, 2026 | November 10, 2026 |
| Kedarnath | April 22, 2026 | November 11, 2026 |
| Badrinath | April 23, 2026 | November 13, 2026 |
Yamunotri is the first stop of the Char Dham Yatra and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna.
The temple opens on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, a festival symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. The date is determined according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
The temple generally remains open from late April/early May until October/early November, depending on weather conditions.
Yamunotri Temple closes on Bhai Dooj, two days after Diwali. Before winter begins, the idol of Goddess Yamuna is moved to Kharsali village, where devotees continue worship during the winter months.
Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, is the second destination of the Char Dham Yatra. Pilgrims believe bathing in the holy Ganga purifies the soul.
Gangotri Temple also opens on Akshaya Tritiya, with grand rituals and Ganga Aarti ceremonies at the banks of the Bhagirathi River.
The temple closes around Diwali. The idol of Goddess Ganga is then moved to Mukhba village (Harsil) for winter worship.
Due to heavy snowfall and extreme cold, the temple remains inaccessible during winter.
Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most revered shrines in Hinduism and part of the Char Dham circuit.
The opening date is announced on Maha Shivratri, and the temple opens on Akshaya Tritiya. The idol is ceremonially brought from Ukhimath to Kedarnath in a grand procession known as the Doli Yatra.
Kedarnath Temple closes on Bhai Dooj. During winter, the idol of Lord Shiva is worshipped at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.
Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, marks the final destination of the Char Dham Yatra. Situated at an altitude of around 3,000 meters, it offers a spectacular natural setting.
The opening date is announced on Basant Panchami, and the temple opens on Akshaya Tritiya with special rituals and ceremonies. Thousands of devotees gather to witness the first darshan of Lord Badri each year.
The closing date is determined based on astrological calculations, usually around Vijaya Dashami or Bhai Dooj. After closure, the idol is moved to Joshimath’s Narsingh Temple for winter worship.
Although the main temples close during winter due to heavy snowfall, devotees can continue their spiritual journey by visiting the winter seats of the deities.
The Char Dham Yatra is a deeply spiritual and transformative experience, offering divine serenity amidst the Himalayas. However, before planning your journey, always confirm updated dates and guidelines from:
Official government sources
Local authorities
Authorized Char Dham tour operators
Weather conditions and other factors may cause changes, so accurate and up-to-date information is essential for a safe and fulfilling pilgrimage
