Char Dham Yatra Kapat Opening Date 2026 – Expected Dates & Official Announcement Details
Quick Overview
Ideal Duration
10 to 12 days
Best Season
April to June and September to October
Dham Order
Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath
Understanding the Four Dhams of Char Dham Yatra
The Char Dham Yatra includes four important temple destinations located in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. Each dham is associated with a different river and has its own location, climate, and travel requirements. Understanding the four dhams helps pilgrims plan their journey better, especially in terms of route, weather preparation, and time management.
- Yamunotri Dham is associated with the origin of the Yamuna River
- Gangotri Dham is associated with the origin of the Ganga River
- Kedarnath Dham is dedicated to Lord Shiva and located at high altitude
- Badrinath Dham is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has better road access
The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most important pilgrimage journeys in India. It includes visits to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath in Uttarakhand. Every year, pilgrims wait for the announcement of the Char Dham Yatra kapat opening dates, as these dates mark the official start of the yatra season.
If you are planning your journey, knowing the Char Dham Yatra Kapat Opening Date 2026 and understanding the official registration process is important for travel planning, accommodation booking, and temple visits.
What Does Kapat Opening Mean in Char Dham Yatra?
“Kapat” means the main doors of the temple. Due to heavy snowfall and cold weather in the Himalayan region, all Char Dham temples remain closed during winter from October–November and reopen during April–May.
The opening dates are decided based on:
- Hindu calendar calculations
- Temple traditions
- Decisions taken by temple committees
After the kapat opening, pilgrims are allowed to visit the temples.
Char Dham Yatra Kapat Opening Date 2026 (Expected Dates)
The dates mentioned below are tentative and based on internet information and previous years’ trends. These dates are only for early planning purposes.
| Temple | Expected / Tentative Details |
|---|---|
| Yamunotri Dham | 19 April 2026 (Akshaya Tritiya – Sunday) |
| Gangotri Dham | 19 April 2026 (Akshaya Tritiya – Sunday) |
| Kedarnath Dham | Date announced on Maha Shivaratri |
| Badrinath Dham | Date announced on Basant Panchami |
Yamunotri and Gangotri usually open on Akshaya Tritiya, while Kedarnath and Badrinath opening dates are announced later.
How Kedarnath and Badrinath Kapat Opening Dates Are Announced
Kedarnath Kapat Opening Date Announcement
The Kedarnath kapat opening date is traditionally announced on Maha Shivaratri.
In 2026, Maha Shivaratri will be celebrated on Sunday, 15 February 2026.
- The announcement is made at Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath
- The date is decided by temple priests and scholars
- After the announcement, official preparations begin
Badrinath Kapat Opening Date Announcement
The Badrinath kapat opening date is announced every year on Basant Panchami.
In 2026, Basant Panchami will fall on Friday, 23 January 2026.
- The decision is taken at Narendra Nagar Raj Darbar (Tehri)
- Religious leaders and authorities are present
- The date is later shared publicly through official channels
Official and Final Announcement for Char Dham Yatra 2026
The final and confirmed announcement related to:
- Char Dham kapat opening dates
- Char Dham Yatra registration
- Travel rules, safety instructions, and health guidelines
will be released only by the Uttarakhand Government on its official website:
https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/
Pilgrims should rely only on this website for final confirmation. Any dates mentioned elsewhere before official notification should be treated as tentative.
Gangotri and Yamunotri Kapat Opening Date 2026
Gangotri Dham
- Known as the origin of River Ganga
- Opens on Akshaya Tritiya
- Located at around 3,100 meters
Yamunotri Dham
- Known as the origin of River Yamuna
- Famous for Surya Kund and Divya Shila
- Requires a short trek from Janki Chatti
The opening of these two temples marks the beginning of the Char Dham Yatra season.
Best Time to Visit Char Dham Yatra 2026
| Period | Travel Conditions |
|---|---|
| April – June | Best weather, peak season |
| July – August | Monsoon season, travel difficulties |
| September – October | Less crowd, stable weather |
The months of May and June 2026 are suitable for most pilgrims.
Char Dham Yatra Registration 2026
Char Dham Yatra registration is mandatory for all pilgrims.
- Online and offline registration available
- Required for temple visits and accommodation
- Health details may be required
All registrations and official updates are managed through:
https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/
Important Travel Tips for Char Dham Yatra 2026
- Complete registration before starting the journey
- Book hotels and transport in advance
- Carry warm clothes even during summer
- Get a medical check-up, especially for senior citizens
- Follow local administration and government guidelines
Char Dham Yatra Packages 2026 with DevsthanExpert
DevsthanExpert.com provides travel coordination services, including:
- Fixed and customized Char Dham Yatra packages
- Kedarnath helicopter assistance
- Senior citizen-friendly travel planning
- Local coordination with verified vendors
- Assistance via call and WhatsApp
Important Disclaimer
The dates mentioned in this blog are based on information available on the internet and past year trends.
DevsthanExpert does not confirm or officially announce Char Dham kapat opening dates.
The final and confirmed dates, registration details, and guidelines are announced only by the Uttarakhand Government.
To confirm the latest and accurate information, pilgrims must visit the official website:
https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will Char Dham Yatra 2026 start?
Char Dham Yatra 2026 is expected to start in April, but the final dates will be announced officially by the Uttarakhand Government.
Where can I confirm the final kapat opening dates?
Final confirmation will be available only on
https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/
Can I plan my trip before official confirmation?
Yes, tentative planning can be done, but final bookings should be made only after official announcements.
Is Char Dham Yatra suitable for senior citizens?
Yes, with proper planning, medical checks, and suitable travel arrangements.
Conclusion
The Char Dham Yatra Kapat Opening Date 2026 helps pilgrims plan their journey in advance. However, all dates mentioned here are tentative and for informational purposes only.
Pilgrims are strongly advised to verify final announcements and complete registration only through the official Uttarakhand Government website. With proper planning and reliable coordination, DevsthanExpert helps make the Char Dham Yatra organized, comfortable, and hassle-free.