The Char Dham and Hemkund Sahib Yatra in Uttarakhand has recorded more than 45 lakh registrations for the 2026 season, underlining the growing popularity of one of India's most significant annual pilgrimages.
According to official data cited by authorities, registrations for the pilgrimage crossed the 45-lakh mark within weeks of the yatra's commencement, per a report by NDTV. The figure includes devotees planning to visit the four revered Himalayan shrines like Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath, as well as the Sikh pilgrimage site of Hemkund Sahib.
Kedarnath leads in registration
Among the Char Dham destinations, Kedarnath continues to attract the highest number of pilgrims. Officials told NDTV that the shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva has once again emerged as the most sought-after destination among devotees registering for the yatra.
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Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri have also witnessed strong interest, while registrations for Hemkund Sahib have steadily increased following the opening of the revered Sikh shrine for the season.
Authorities strengthen arrangements
As per the reports of NDTV, the Uttarakhand government has stepped up preparations to manage the large influx of pilgrims. Measures have been implemented to improve crowd management, accommodation, transportation and healthcare facilities along the pilgrimage routes.
Officials have also increased monitoring through digital registration systems and real-time tracking mechanisms to ensure smoother movement of devotees. Emergency response teams, medical units and disaster management personnel have been deployed at key locations across the pilgrimage circuit.
Economic boost for Uttarakhand
The growing number of pilgrims is expected to provide a significant boost to Uttarakhand's tourism and hospitality sectors. Hotels, guesthouses, transport operators, local businesses and vendors along the pilgrimage routes traditionally benefit from the annual yatra season.
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The Char Dham Yatra holds immense religious significance for Hindus, with visits to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath believed to be among the most sacred pilgrimages in the country. Hemkund Sahib, located at an altitude of over 15,000 feet, is one of the most important Sikh pilgrimage sites.
With registrations already surpassing 45 lakh,as per NDTV's report officials expect the number of pilgrims to continue rising during the peak travel months, making the 2026 season one of the busiest in recent years.
