Char Dham 2026 Temple Opening Dates (Kapaat Udghatan)
The Char Dham temples open annually on auspicious dates determined by the Vedic calendar (Panchang). The dates are announced by the respective temple committees at Makar Sankranti (January 14) each year. The opening ceremony is called Kapaat Udghatan and draws massive crowds — planning around the exact opening dates is critical to avoiding peak rush.
| Dham | Opening Date 2026 | Opening Ceremony |
|---|---|---|
| Yamunotri | Akshaya Tritiya (approx. April 30, 2026) | 6 AM puja |
| Gangotri | Akshaya Tritiya (approx. April 30, 2026) | Simultaneous |
| Kedarnath | Approx. May 2, 2026 (TBC) | Utsav Murti procession from Ukhimath |
| Badrinath | Approx. May 4–6, 2026 (TBC) | Rawal (chief priest) announces date |
Note: Exact 2026 dates will be officially announced at Makar Sankranti 2026. The above are estimated based on the Panchang cycle. Confirm at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in before booking.
Temple Closing Dates (Kapaat Band)
Temples close in October–November for the winter:
- Kedarnath — usually Bhai Dooj (November, 2–3 days after Diwali)
- Badrinath — usually 15–20 days after Diwali
- Yamunotri and Gangotri — Diwali day or within a few days after
How to Register on the Official Portal
Step 1: Visit registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in. Step 2: Click 'Register' and create an account with your mobile number. Step 3: Enter pilgrim details — name, age, Aadhaar number, address, and health declaration. Step 4: Select dham, date, and entry slot. Day-wise quotas apply. Step 5: Pay registration fee (nominal, ₹50–100). Step 6: Download and print registration slip with QR code.
For a step-by-step visual guide, see our Char Dham Registration Guide.
When to Book — Travel Planning Timeline
- 6 months before — Book train/flight tickets from your origin city to Haridwar/Rishikesh. These are the first to sell out for May–June.
- 3–4 months before — Book helicopter slots if using helicopter for Kedarnath. Heli-booking portal opens around February.
- 2–3 months before — Book yatra package and accommodation in Haridwar, Barkot, Uttarkashi, Guptkashi, Badrinath.
- 2–4 weeks before — Complete biometric registration on the portal.
Book our Char Dham 9N/10D package which handles all inter-dham logistics, accommodation, and registration assistance.