Every year, millions of devotees eagerly await the sacred Chardham Yatra, a spiritual journey through the four holy shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath nestled in the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand.
The year 2026 will mark another season of devotion, peace, and divine experience as the Himalayan temples reopen their gates after the long winter closure. This guide covers all the essential information about the Chardham opening and closing dates 2026, along with key travel tips and important details to help you plan your pilgrimage.
The term “Chardham” refers to the “four sacred abodes” — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. These shrines represent the spiritual sources of four holy rivers — Yamuna, Ganga, Mandakini, and Alaknanda.
Undertaking the Chardham Yatra is believed to wash away sins and grant moksha (liberation). The circuit usually begins from Yamunotri and proceeds to Gangotri, Kedarnath, and finally Badrinath — completing a symbolic spiritual journey from purification to salvation.
| Temple | Opening Date (Expected) | Closing Date (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Yamunotri | Akshaya Tritiya, 19 April, 2026 | 11 November 2026 (Tentative) |
| Gangotri (Uttarakashi) | Akshaya Tritiya, 19 April, 2026 ) | 10 November 2026 (Tentative) |
| Kedarnath | 22 April 2026 (Tentative) | 11 November 2026 (tentative)r |
| Badrinath | 24 April 2026 (Tentative) | 13 November 2026 (Tentative) |
| Temple | Morning Darshan Timing | Evening Darshan Timing | Aarti Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yamunotri | 7:30 am – 12:00 pm | 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm) | 6:30 am and 6:30 pm |
| Gangotri (Uttarakashi) | 7:00 am – 2:00 pm | 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm | 6:00 am and 7:00 pm |
| Kedarnath | 7:00 am – 3:00 pm | 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm | 4:00 am and 6:00 pm |
| Badrinath | 6:00 am – 1:00 pm | 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm | 4:30 am – 8:30 pm |
Yamunotri, the origin of the river Yamuna, is the starting point of the Chardham Yatra. Located at an altitude of about 3,293 meters, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, daughter of the Sun God.
Expected Opening Date: 10 May 2026
Expected Closing Date: 3 November 2026
To reach Yamunotri, devotees usually trek 6 km from Janki Chatti, surrounded by snow-clad peaks and natural hot springs. The temple closes on Bhai Dooj, when the idol of Goddess Yamuna is moved to her winter seat in Kharsali village.
Located in the scenic town of Gangotri (at an altitude of 3,100 meters), this temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, the lifeline of India.
Expected Opening Date: 10 May 2026
Expected Closing Date: 2 November 2026
The opening day coincides with Akshaya Tritiya, one of the most auspicious Hindu days. The closing ceremony happens during Diwali, after which the idol of Goddess Ganga is shifted to Mukhba village, her winter home.
The Kedarnath Temple, located at a height of 3,583 meters, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It’s surrounded by snow-capped peaks and the Mandakini River flows beside it, creating a heavenly aura.
Expected Opening Date: 11 May 2026
Expected Closing Date: 2 November 2026
Before the opening, the panchmukhi (five-faced) idol of Lord Kedarnath is brought in a grand procession from Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, where it is worshipped during winter. The closing day is observed with great devotion on Kartik Purnima.
Situated between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges on the banks of the Alaknanda River, Badrinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is the last stop of the Chardham circuit.
Expected Opening Date: 12 May 2026
Expected Closing Date: 10 November 2026
The temple opens after the Mata Murti Ka Puja, a ceremony that determines the exact date. The closing ceremony is marked by the Badri-Kedar Utsav. During winter, the idol of Lord Badrinath is shifted to Narsingh Temple in Joshimath.
The Chardham Yatra season runs from May to November, but the best time to visit is during:
May to June (Summer Season): Pleasant weather and clear roads make it ideal for temple visits.
September to mid-October (Post-Monsoon): Perfect for peaceful travel with fewer crowds and lush greenery.
Avoid July and August as heavy monsoon rains often lead to landslides and road closures.
For official updates on Chardham Opening & Closing Dates 2026, pilgrims can visit the Char Dham Devasthanam Board or the Uttarakhand Tourism website.
The Yatra is expected to begin around 10 May 2026 (Akshaya Tritiya), when Yamunotri and Gangotri open.
Yes, registration is compulsory for all pilgrims and can be done online via the official Uttarakhand Tourism website.
The traditional route is: Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath.
Expect cold mornings and evenings even in May–June, while October–November can be quite chilly. Always carry woollens and rain protection.
Yes, helicopter services operate from Dehradun, Guptkashi, and Phata to Kedarnath and Badrinath during the open season.
