How to do Kedarnath Yatra Registration 2026 - in 5 Simple Steps

Yes, registration is compulsory for Kedarnath darshan in 2026—no drama, no fees, totally free of cost. This isn’t optional or “we’ll see later” type stuff. Every pilgrim has to do it. Every pilgrim must complete the free online Char Dham Yatra registration on the official Tourist Care Uttarakhand portal to get a QR-based Yatra Pass. You’ll need a valid photo ID (Aadhaar is best), mobile number, email ID, and basic details for each pilgrim. Once registered, you can download your QR e-pass, carry it in print and on your phone, and then use your Yatra Registration Number to book helicopter tickets on the official IRCTC HeliYatra portal if you plan to fly.

A little preparation makes the registration process effortless. Before the portal opens—typically around April—gather the details you’ll need to secure your spot quickly. With these details in hand, you're ready to navigate to the official government website and create your account. So keep these handy.  

For online Kedarnath yatra registration - the very first step is creating an account on the official Tourist Care Uttarakhand portal. It’s crucial to use only the official portal, as other unofficial sites may charge for this free service.  Here are the 5 simple -

1. On the page - https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/signin.php, click the Login/Register and select your category (Individual, Family, or Tour Operator). Enter your full name, mobile number, and create a password to sign up.

2. Plan Your Tour: After logging in, click "Create/Manage Tour Info" and then "Add New Tour". Select your tour type, enter your travel dates (entering and leaving Uttarakhand), and specify Kedarnath as your destination (when you’re in Kedarnath) with the specific date you plan to visit.

3. Add Pilgrim Details: Now add members detail one by one. Click "Add Pilgrim" and fill in the required fields for each traveller, including full name, age, gender, mobile number, and residential address.

4. Upload Documents: You must upload a passport-sized photograph and select an identity proof (such as an Aadhaar card, Voter ID, or Passport) to upload. Make sure the image size is under 2Mb. 

5. Download Your Letter: Once finished, download the Yatra Registration Letter, which contains a unique QR code. You will also receive a unique ID via SMS.

This is a very simple option for those who prefer using mobile messaging.

1. Save the Number: Add +91-8394833833 to your contacts.

2. Start the Chat: Type the word Yatra and send it to the number.

3. Follow Prompts: The system will guide you through selecting the number of tourists, travel dates, and entering pilgrim details like name, age, and Aadhaar number.

4. Receive Confirmation: Once completed, a registration letter in PDF format will be generated directly in the chat.

• Mobile App: Download the "Tourist Care Uttarakhand" app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to register.

• Toll-Free Number: You can call 1364 (or 0135-1364 for other states) for assistance with the registration process.
  

If you are unable to register online, physical registration points are available in Uttarakhand. These include locations such as:

• Haridwar: Rahi Hotel or the Railway Station.

• Rishikesh: ISBT or Gurudwara.

• Near Kedarnath: Sonprayag, Gaurikund, and Kedarnath itself.

While online registration is strongly recommended, physical offline registration counters for Kedarnath Yatra are available at key transit hubs like Haridwar and Rishikesh for those who arrive without pre-registering. However, this offline option comes with serious drawbacks. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Online Registration: Secure your spot from home weeks in advance. It’s free, guaranteed, and gives you peace of mind with just a brief internet connection.

• Offline Registration: This option doesn't require the internet, but you risk wasting hours of your trip in long queues. During peak season, there's a real possibility that daily slots will be full by the time you reach the  counter.

The online Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra registration process is the clear winner for a smooth and predictable pilgrimage. In case slots are booked then offline registration will help you get a darshan pass. 

A common issue is the portal slowing down due to high traffic, especially when registration first opens. The simplest solution is to try again during off-peak hours, like late at night (after 10 PM) or very early in the morning (before 7 AM).

If you enter a name or age incorrectly, don't panic. The portal allows you to review and edit pilgrim details before you click the final “submit” button to generate your pass.

Finally, remember that the official government registration is 100% free. If a website asks for money to register, you are on the wrong site.

After submitting the form, the system generates your official Kedarnath Yatra E-Pass. Look for a "Download Pass" or "View Registration Card" button on your dashboard. If you registered a group, remember to download the individual pass for every member.

When you open the pass, you'll see a large QR code. This is your digital boarding pass for the pilgrimage. At checkpoints along the route, officials will scan this code to verify your registration and manage pilgrim flow.

A crucial tip: don’t rely on just one copy. Save the E-Pass PDF to your phone, but also print at least two physical copies. Mobile networks can be unreliable in the mountains, and a paper backup ensures you'll have no issues at the checkpoints.

Yatra registration is required if you’re visiting any of the shrines - Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri & Hemkund Sahib. Also, online registration is also required if you wish to book helicopter tickets for Kedarnath or doing Yatra by Helicopter, for making a Trip Card, special prayers like Rudrabhishek etc.

Reaching Kedarnath by helicopter is a popular option, but booking a ticket is a completely separate process from your Yatra registration. Both are required if you plan to fly. Your Yatra Registration Number is the key that unlocks the helicopter booking system.

The first thing the official booking website will ask for is this unique number for each passenger. Without it, you cannot book helicopter tickets. This rule fulfills the mandatory Char Dham yatra permit requirements and ensures every traveler is accounted for.

While the Uttarakhand Tourism Department manages Yatra registration, the government has authorized IRCTC to run the official helicopter portal, HeliYatra. Always use this official site to avoid fraudulent third-party agents. The correct flow is simple: first, complete your free Yatra registration to get your pass number. Only then should you visit the IRCTC HeliYatra website to book your flight.

You've navigated the official process and secured your Yatra Pass. With this significant administrative step behind you, you can now turn your full attention to the pilgrimage itself.

Focus on booking accommodations in places like Guptkashi or Phata, arranging your travel, and starting daily walks to build stamina for the high-altitude trek. The paperwork is done. Your Kedarnath registration 2026 is a milestone you have already passed, allowing you to focus purely on the profound spiritual experience that awaits on your Char Dham Yatra.

• Is registration mandatory? Yes, for all pilgrims.

• Registration type: Free online Yatra registration with QR e-pass.

• Official portal: Tourist Care Uttarakhand (state government site).

• When it usually opens: Around April, before the temple opening.

• Needed details: Aadhaar or other ID, photo, mobile number, email, emergency contact.

• Offline option? Yes (Haridwar, Rishikesh counters), but online is strongly recommended.

• Helicopter tickets: Only after you get your Yatra Registration Number, via IRCTC HeliYatra.