5 min read
Updated 5 April 2026
Portal opening dates are announced on Akshaya Tritiya (based on Hindu Panchang). Expected 2026 dates: Yamunotri — 19 April 2026. Gangotri — 19 April 2026. Kedarnath — 22 April 2026 (confirmed on Maha Shivaratri). Badrinath — 24 April 2026. Dates are subject to weather conditions and Devasthanam Board announcement.
Portals close on Diwali (late October/early November). Expected: Yamunotri — November 1, 2026. Gangotri — November 1, 2026. Kedarnath — November 3, 2026 (after Bhai Dooj). Badrinath — November 5, 2026. Season length: approximately 6 months.
May 1-June 15: Opening weeks — fresh, less crowded, pleasant weather. September 15-October 15: Post-monsoon — clearest skies, coolest weather. Avoid: July-August (monsoon, landslides, dangerous conditions). June 15-July 15: Pre-monsoon buildup — acceptable but warm.
Online: register at official Uttarakhand Devasthanam Board portal. In person: Haridwar, Rishikesh, or dham base towns. Cost: ₹50 per person. Required: Aadhaar card, photo ID, passport-size photo. RFID card issued — carry at all times during yatra.
Expected: 22 April 2026. The exact date is confirmed on Maha Shivaratri based on the Hindu Panchang. Check the Devasthanam Board website for official announcements.
Yes, October is one of the best months — clear post-monsoon skies, fewer crowds, and cooler temperatures. Portals close in early November, so plan by mid-October.
Online registration can be done in advance. But you can also register at centres in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and dham base towns on arrival. Processing is immediate.