Introduction

The Himalayas are calling! The Char Dham Yatra is not just a journey; it is a spiritual lifeline for millions of Hindus. As we approach the 2026 pilgrimage season, devotees across India are already planning their visit to the four holy shrines: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

At Bani Tour and Travels, we understand that this journey requires more than just a car—it requires devotion, safety, and a driver who knows every curve of the mountain roads. In this guide, we share the essential details you need to plan your Yatra in 2026.

Char Dham Yatra 2026: Tentative Opening Dates

The official dates are determined by the temple committees based on the Hindu Panchang (auspicious calendar). However, based on the festival of Akshaya Tritiya, here are the expected opening dates for 2026:

Dham (Shrine)	Expected Opening Date	Occasion
Yamunotri	19 April 2026	Akshaya Tritiya
Gangotri	19 April 2026	Akshaya Tritiya
Kedarnath	22 April 2026 (Tentative)	Before Maha Shivratri announcement
Badrinath	24 April 2026 (Tentative	Basant Panchami announcement

> Note: These dates are subject to official announcement by the Char Dham Temple Committee. We will update this blog as soon as the final notification is released.

The Ideal Route Map

Traditionally, the Yatra is done from West to East. Why? It is believed one should start from the source of the Yamuna and end at the abode of Lord Vishnu.

Haridwar/Delhi to Barkot: The base for the Yamunotri trek.
Barkot to Uttarkashi: The stopover for Gangotri.
Uttarkashi to Guptkashi/Sitapur: The base for the Kedarnath trek.
Kedarnath to Joshimath/Badrinath: The final stop for Badrinath Darshan.
Badrinath to Rishikesh/Haridwar: Return journey.

Distance Covered: Approx. 1,600 km (Round Trip from Haridwar).

Why Choose a Private Taxi Over Bus or Shared Cabs?

The roads to Char Dham are beautiful but challenging. Narrow curves, unpredictable weather, and long travel hours make comfort a priority. Here is why booking a Private Taxi with Bani Tour and Travels is the smartest choice:

Safety on Steep Roads: Our drivers are “Pahadi” experts. They drive these routes daily and know exactly how to handle landslides or rain-slicked roads.
Comfort for Seniors: If you are traveling with parents, a private Innova Crysta allows them to recline, rest, and stop whenever they need a bathroom break or tea. Buses run on fixed schedules; we run on your schedule.
Luggage Freedom: From heavy woolens to Prasad, you don’t need to worry about space.
Door-to-Door Service: We pick you up from Delhi Airport (IGI) or Haridwar Railway Station and drop you right at your hotel.

Essential Packing List for 2026

Documents: Yatra Registration Pass (Mandatory), Aadhar Card (Original & Copies).
Clothing: Heavy woolens (temperatures drop to 0°C at night), raincoats, and sturdy grip shoes for the Kedarnath trek.
Medicine: Motion sickness pills, painkillers, and personal medication.
Cash: ATMs are scarce in higher altitudes like Kedarnath. Carry sufficient cash.

Registration is Mandatory!

The Uttarakhand Government has made biometric registration compulsory for all pilgrims.

Website: registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
Cost: Free
How to do it: You can register online or visit our office, and our team will help guide you through the process when you book your taxi with us.

Book Your Yatra Today

The rush for May and June 2026 has already begun. Hotels and good cars get booked months in advance.

Don’t wait until the last minute.
Secure your safe journey with Bani Tour and Travels.
Call for Package Rates: +91-8077114488
Serving: Haridwar, Dehradun, Delhi NCR
Book Online: www.banitourandtravels.com

(Author’s Note: This post was written by the content team at Bani Tour and Travels, your trusted local travel partners in Uttarakhand.)

Char Dham Yatra 2026 – Official Dates, Route Guide & Why You Need a Private Taxi