Char Dham Yatra stands as a highly revered Hindu pilgrimage, encompassing visits to four sacred shrines nestled in the picturesque landscape of Uttarakhand, India. These revered sites, namely Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, collectively known as the Char Dham, offer devotees a deeply spiritual journey amid the pristine Himalayan surroundings.
While the pilgrimage presents formidable challenges, including treks through steep hills, dense forests, and river crossings, the experience is profoundly enriching for all who undertake it. The serene ambiance of the shrines, coupled with the sacred rituals performed therein, adds to the spiritual significance of the journey.
Traditionally spanning from April to November, the Char Dham Yatra experiences a hiatus during the winter months when heavy snowfall renders the roads impassable. The scheduled opening dates for the temples in 2024 are as follows:
- Yamunotri Temple Opening Date: May 10, 2024
- Gangotri Temple Opening Date: May 10, 2024
- Kedarnath Temple Opening Date: May 11, 2024
- Badrinath Temple Opening Date: May 12, 2024
Amid the anticipation of increased pilgrim numbers, stringent guidelines have been implemented for Char Dham Yatra 2024:
- Mandatory Registration: All pilgrims embarking on the Char Dham Yatra must undergo mandatory registration.
- Registration Process: Registration can be completed online via the Dehradun Smart City Portal or at offline registration centers along the Chardham route.
- Access Restrictions: Access to the Char Dham premises or any location in Uttarakhand is granted only upon successful registration.
- COVID Protocols: Individuals who have received both doses of the COVID vaccine must present their vaccination certificate upon request. Those unvaccinated must provide a negative RT-PCR test report conducted within 72 hours.
- Health Precautions: In the event of a pilgrim testing positive for COVID during the journey, they will be promptly sent for further assessment.
- Temple-Specific Regulations: Certain temple-specific regulations include the prohibition of applying tilak or distributing prasad within the precincts of Kedarnath Temple and the strict prohibition of touching idols, religious texts, and bells within the temple courtyards.
- Helicopter Bookings: Helicopter bookings for Char Dham Yatra 2024 are now available through the official Uttarakhand Tourism website.
Key Points
- Online registrations for all four temples are now open.
- Pilgrims can register individually or as a family through the designated online portal.
- After registration, pilgrims will receive a Yatra Registration Letter containing a unique QR code for verification.
- Download the “Tourist Care Uttarakhand” app for enhanced assistance throughout the journey.
Stay tuned to our social media channels for further updates on Char Dham Yatra 2024.
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