How to Register, Best Routes, Where to Stay, Costs & Helicopter Booking
Over 50 lakh devotees expected for Chardham Yatra 2025 – Here’s everything you need to know before starting your journey.
Excitement Builds as Chardham Yatra 2025 Begins on April 30
“I’ve been doing the Chardham Yatra since 2004, but this year is special. I’ll visit Kedarnath by helicopter, and I want to be in the first group to get darshan of Baba Kedarnath… Har Har Mahadev!”
So says a regular yatri we met at Haridwar Railway Station, reflecting the enthusiasm of over 20 lakh pilgrims already arriving in Uttarakhand for the yatra.
The Chardham Yatra 2025 officially begins on April 30, 2025 (Akshaya Tritiya), when the temple doors of Gangotri and Yamunotri open at 10:30 AM. This year, the Uttarakhand government expects more than 50 lakh pilgrims, exceeding last year’s count of 48.11 lakh.
What is the Chardham Yatra?
The Chardham Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage to four high-altitude shrines in Uttarakhand: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. It is believed that undertaking this yatra washes away all sins and opens the doors to salvation (moksha).
How to Register for Chardham Yatra 2025
Before beginning your journey, registration is mandatory:
- Online Registration: Visit registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
- Offline Registration: Starts from April 28 at 50+ centers in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi.
- During registration, you must submit your mobile number and medical history to ensure emergency tracking and safety.
Tip: Keep your Aadhaar card or another valid ID handy during travel.
Gangotri Dham Travel Guide (Opens April 30)
Gangotri is one of the most accessible dhams:
- Distance: Approx. 240 km from Dehradun
- Travel Time: Around 8 hours
- Best Route: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Uttarkashi → Gangotri
- Transport: Buses, cars, and private taxis reach directly to the temple
Yamunotri Dham Travel Tips (Also Opens April 30)
Yamunotri requires a short trek:
- Route: Haridwar/Rishikesh → Barkot → Janki Chatti → 6 km trek to Yamunotri
- Accommodation: Available at Barkot and Janki Chatti
Kedarnath Yatra 2025 Details (Temple Opens May 2 at 7 AM)
Kedarnath, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, is more challenging but spiritually rewarding:
- Bus Fare: ₹600–700 from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Sonprayag
- Next Steps:
- Take a local shared cab to Gaurikund (8 km)
- Trek 20 km from Gaurikund to Kedarnath
- Helicopter Booking: Available from Phata, Sersi, Guptkashi – book in advance through authorized portals
- Doli Yatra Schedule:
- April 28: Omkareshwar Temple (Ukhimath) → Guptkashi
- April 29: Guptkashi → Phata
- April 30: Phata → Gaurikund
- May 1: Gaurikund → Kedarnath
Forecast: If weather remains favorable, over 30 lakh devotees may visit Kedarnath in 2025.
Badrinath Dham Travel Info (Temple Opens May 4 at 6 AM)
- Route: Haridwar → Joshimath → Badrinath
- Fare: ₹800–900 by bus
- Attractions Nearby: Mana Village (India’s last village near the China border)
- Accessibility: Vehicles go directly to Badrinath temple, no trekking required
Essential Travel Tips for Chardham Yatra
- Health Check: Get a doctor’s consultation; all dhams are at high altitude
- Packing Checklist:
- Woollen clothes, gloves, hat
- Trekking shoes for mountain trails
- Water bottle and dry snacks
- ID Proof: Carry Aadhaar or valid government ID at all times
- Private Vehicle Info: Register your car/bike at Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun RTO offices
Chardham Yatra 2025: Estimated Costs
| Item | Approx. Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Registration | Free |
| Bus Travel (one way) | ₹600–900 |
| Accommodation (per night) | ₹800–2500 |
| Food & Miscellaneous | ₹500–1000/day |
| Helicopter Ride (one way) | ₹2,500–4,000 |
Total Yatra Cost (7–10 days): ₹8,000 – ₹20,000 per person, depending on travel mode, accommodation, and services.
Conclusion: Why Chardham Yatra 2025 is Special
With record pilgrim turnout expected, improved facilities, and better connectivity (including helicopter services), Chardham Yatra 2025 promises a smooth, divine, and unforgettable spiritual experience.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pilgrim like Gagandeep, this year’s yatra is set to be the biggest yet.
Har Har Mahadev!