The Char Dham Yatra is a revered Hindu pilgrimage to four holy shrines in the Garhwal Himalayas: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Because these temples are located at high altitudes, they close each winter due to heavy snow and re-open in spring when weather conditions improve.
📅 Opening Dates – Char Dham Yatra 2026
In 2026, the Char Dham temples open in late April, typically beginning around the auspicious festival of Akshaya Tritiya, a day considered spiritually favorable for new beginnings.
| Temple | Opening Date (2026) |
|---|---|
| Yamunotri | 19 April 2026 |
| Gangotri | 19 April 2026 |
| Kedarnath | 22 April 2026 |
| Badrinath | 24 April 2026 |
On these days, the holy doors (Kapaat) are ceremonially opened and the deities are brought from their winter abodes back to the main temples — marking the official start of the pilgrimage season.
❄️ Closing Dates – Char Dham Yatra 2026 (Tentative)
The pilgrimage season usually runs through late autumn and ends before winter snows block roads and paths. In 2026, tentative closing dates for each temple are as follows:
| Temple | Closing Date (2026) |
|---|---|
| Yamunotri | 1 November 2026 |
| Gangotri | 1 November 2026 |
| Kedarnath | 6 November 2026 |
| Badrinath | 6 November 2026 |
These dates are approximate and may be slightly updated by temple authorities based on weather conditions and festive calendars. After closing, the deities are moved to their winter homes in lower-altitude locations, where devotees can continue worship during winter months.
