With the preparations for the commencement of Char Dham Yatra and pilgrims eagerly awaiting the opening of the shrines in full swing, authorities have introduced several key announcements and guidelines to ensure a smooth and safe journey. The annual pilgrimage, which holds deep spiritual significance, will officially begin on April 30, 2025, with the opening of Gangotri and Yamunotri temples, followed by Kedarnath on May 2 and Badrinath on May 4. This year, strict measures have been put in place, including a ban on mobile phones and video recording inside temple premises to maintain the sanctity of the shrines. Additionally, the Uttarakhand government has issued a health advisory urging devotees to undergo medical check-ups and follow a fitness routine before embarking on the high-altitude pilgrimage. To manage the large influx of pilgrims, multiple registration options have been introduced, along with designated holding areas equipped with essential facilities for devotees facing delays. Security and medical teams have also been deployed along the route to assist devotees in case of emergencies.
1. Char Dham Yatra 2025 Registrations Surpass 10 Lakh, Kedarnath Receives the Highest Bookings
The registration process for the Char Dham Yatra is currently underway, with over 10 lakh devotees having registered online so far. Those who have not yet completed their registration can still do so, along with booking for Char Dham Hotels. Among the four dhams, Kedarnath has received the highest number of registrations, with 3.29 lakh pilgrims signing up for the visit. Once the pilgrimage begins, 40% of the registrations will be conducted offline. This year, the Char Dham Yatra is set to commence on April 30, and online registration, which began on March 20, has already seen an overwhelming response from devotees across the country.
2. Helicopter Services from Jolly Grant to Two Dhams Witness 70% Booking
Devotees are filled with excitement as the Char Dham Yatra approaches. Rudraksh Aviation has already completed 70% of its bookings for the yatra, which is scheduled to continue until June 20. The company’s MI 17 double-engine helicopter will begin operations from the Jolly Grant helipad in May. Starting from May 2, the helicopter will carry 20 devotees per trip from Jolly Grant to the dhams, with the same number returning after visiting two of the sacred shrines. The service will also offer a one-day darshan of two dhams, followed by a night stay for added convenience. Due to an increase in royalty, there has been a slight rise in the fare per devotee. Company officials have also noted that bookings for both dhams from Jolly Grant will be accepted only until June 20. After this date, the helicopter service will be suspended as the rainy season begins.
3. Green and Trip Cards to Be Mandatory for Char Dham Yatra Vehicles, Single Round Trip Required
Commercial vehicles heading to Uttarakhand for the Char Dham Yatra are now required to obtain both a Green Card and a Trip Card. Without these documents, vehicles will not be allowed to proceed with the journey. The Transport Department has specified that the Trip Card issued to commercial vehicles coming from other states will be valid for 10 days. During this period, each vehicle is permitted to make only one trip to a single Dham. If a vehicle needs to make a second trip to the same Dham, it must wait for the Trip Card's validity to expire before applying for a new one. These regulations apply exclusively to commercial vehicles. Operators can obtain the Green Card from any ARTO office within the state.