Kedarnath Reopens April 22; Char Dham Dates Announced for 2026

Kedarnath Dham in Uttarakhand is set to welcome devotees from April 22, marking the start of the 2026 Char Dham Yatra. The reopening date was fixed on Mahashivratri at the shrine’s winter seat, and travelers are already planning ahead for the pilgrimage season. The other three dhams have also announced their opening days: Gangotri and Yamunotri will open on April 19, while Badrinath opens on April 23. The seasonal gates are expected to draw thousands of pilgrims, renewing the age-old tradition that draws devotees from across the country.

Pilgrims will undertake a journey through rugged mountain routes, with the backdrop of snow-kissed peaks and pristine rivers. Kedarnath Dham opens at 8 am on April 22, as confirmed by local temple authorities, signaling the official start of the Char Dham Yatra for 2026. Badrinath, the second halt in the yatra, is scheduled to open the following day, while Gangotri and Yamunotri welcome visitors on April 19. The four shrines together hold immense spiritual significance and are a major driver of regional tourism each spring.

Authorities say preparations are in place to manage crowds, ensure safety, and maintain the sanctity of the temples during the busy pilgrimage period. Pilgrims are advised to plan their travel in advance, check official updates for any weather-related changes, and carry essentials suitable for high-altitude conditions. The opening of all four dhams marks the start of a season that blends devotion with a scenic Himalayan backdrop, inviting devotees to partake in age-old rituals while navigating the practicalities of travel in the mountains.

As the gates reopen, the Char Dham Yatra once again becomes a beacon of spiritual renewal for many, while also giving a welcome boost to local economies that rely on crowds of pilgrims and visitors each spring.

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