Introduction

Planning to visit Kedarnath? But wait a moment, have you completed the most important and first step towards the journey, Kedarnath Registration?

In recent years, the Uttarakhand government made registration compulsory for all to ensure safety and manage crowd flow during the peak yatra season. 

Whether you travel by road via Haridwar/Rishikesh, trek to Kedarnath, or choose a helicopter, a registration is required to proceed with your journey. Without a valid Kedarnath e-pass, entry may be restricted at various checkpoints. 

This is the thing that can disrupt your travel plans, but don’t worry. In this guide, you’ll discover all that you need to know about Kedarnath Yatra Registration, from the online-offline process to required documents and important guidelines, so that devotees can complete their registration easily. 

registration for kedarnath yatra

Is Registration Required For Kedarnath Yatra In 2026?

Yes, Registration for Kedarnath Yatra is mandatory for all pilgrims. Whether you are travelling by Helicopter, Pony/palki, or on foot, pilgrims must register themselves to receive a unique Yatra pass to get entry to the shrine.

Without registration, devotees are not allowed to continue their journey beyond entry checkpoints, such as Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Sonprayag. 

Reasons Why Registration is Required:

  • Worked as a tool for the government to manage the crowd and help to prevent dangerous situations like overcrowding.
  • Also, it allows authorities to track pilgrims’ activity, ensure their safety, and provide emergency support in cases of emergency, such as landslides or road blockages.
  • Registered Pilgrims get real-time updates of the weather conditions and safety instructions.
  • Kedarnath Yatra registration works as a valid entry pass to get entry to the shrine. 

Can I visit Kedarnath without registration?

No, you can’t visit Kedarnath Temple without registration. No one is allowed to proceed beyond the entry checkpoints in Sonprayag and Gaurikund without the registration letter. Without registration, you won’t be able to start the trek.

What is Yatra Parchi?

Kedarnath yatra parchi is an official digital permit required for all travellers who visit the Kedarnath Temple. Pilgrims can obtain it after completing the Kedarnath Registration. 

It works as the official entry permit for the Kedarnath yatra, ensuring entry beyond checkpoints, such as Sonprayag and Gaurikund. 

It also helps authorities assist with security and tracking. Helping in keeping records for medical emergencies and crowd management during peak season.

Kedarnath Registration Opening Date 2026

For the 2026 season, Kedarnath Registration online started on 6 March 2026, while the offline registration began on 15 April 2026 and operates on designated counters. 

Quick details about Kedarnth Registration:

  • Kedarnath Online Registration Start Date: 6 March 2026
  • Offline Registration Start Date: 15 April 2026
  • Official Site for Registration: https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/
  • Offline Centres: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Sonprayag
  • Kedarnath Registration Fees: Free of cost
  • Required Documents: Aadhaar card/Voter ID/Passport
  • Kedarnath Temple Opening Date 2026: 22 April 2026 at 8:00 AM

Kedarnath Registration Fee

No, there is no fee for Kedarnath Temple Registration. It is free of cost but mandatory for all pilgrims. The Uttarakhand government does not charge any fee for Kedarnath darshan registration. Whether you do it online or offline. 

How To Register For Kedarnath Yatra 2026?

There are two primary ways for pilgrims to complete the Kedarnath Yatra registration 2026:

  1. Online Registration method through official channels, such as the site or mobile app.
  2. Offline method via the physical biometric registration counters

Let’s discuss both methods one by one for better understanding. 

Kedarnath Online Registration Process

Kedarnath online registration can be done through the official channels: the Uttarakhand Tourism Care Portal or the “Tourist Care Uttarakhand” mobile app. 

Here are the steps to be followed for Kedarnath Registration Online.

Step 1: Visit the official site

Visit  https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/ and navigate to the create tour option.

Step 2: Create an account

Sign up using your active mobile phone & email. Verify through OTP. 

Step 3: Plan your tour

Navigate to the “Create/Manage tour” option. Select “Individual” if you plan to travel alone or “family” if you travel with your family or group. Select Kedarnath as your destination and enter the date when you want Darshan. Also, add vehicle details.

Step 4: Enter pilgrims’ Data

Add the Aadhaar card number of a pilgrim and the registered mobile number. After this, verify it via OTP. The system fetches pilgrims ‘ details automatically.

Note: Here, you need to add the emergency contact number of a person who is not travelling with you, just to inform them about the pilgrims. 

Step 5: Upload a recently clicked passport-sized photograph

Step 6: Submit Application & Download yatra pass

Once you submit your registration application, you receive a registration letter that contains a unique QR code. Download the letter on your mobile phone or take screenshots for backup. 

kedarnath registration online e pass

Other methods for Online Kedarnath Registration:

Download the application, Tourist Care Uttarakhand (available on Android and iOS), and follow the steps mentioned above. 

Kedarnath Registration Process For NRIs

While the core process for Kedarnath mandir registration is the same for both indian or foreign pilgrims, they just need to use a passport as their ID proof. 

Foreign nationals complete their registration by following these steps:

Step 1: Visit the official registration site or app, Uttarakhand Tourism Care Portal

https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in

Step 2: Log in and create an account

Use your international number or a local Indian SIM to create an account. 

Step 2: Create a tour

After logging in, navigate to the create tour option and select foreign pilgrims.

Then, select an individual if you travel alone or a family if you travel with family or friends. Now, enter your details carefully, like name, age, travel date, and vehicle details. 

Step 3: Upload Documents

Upload your Passport and a Passport-size photo in the respective size format. 

Step 4: Submit and get your Yatra pass

After completing the process, submit your application, and then you will receive a Yatra letter that contains a Unique OR-code. Keep it safe in your phone, as it must be carried by you throughout the journey. 

How To Register Offline For Kedarnath?

Offline biometric registration is available for the Kedarnath Yatra; the pilgrims who face issues or are unable to register online can do offline registration at various registration counters on the route. But it is expected to have a huge crowd and long queues during the peak season.   

Here is a detailed overview of how to register offline for Kedarnath. 

Follow the steps for Kedarnath Registration offline:

Step 1: Visit the counter first

Arrive at the official biometric registration counter, available at several locations on the Kedarnath route, like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Sonprayag. 

Step 2: Submit your Document

Once you reach the counters, provide a valid photo ID and a passport-size photograph

Step 3: Fill out the physical form

You must fill out a registration form; the staff will help you with it. Enter your travel details and personal details carefully. 

Step 4: Biometric Verification 

You may be asked for biometric verification, such as a fingerprint or a photo Identification.

Step 5: Collect your E-pass

After completing all necessary formalities, travellers receive a Unique E-pass. Keep it throughout the journey. 

Pro tip: Keep your document, like ID proof, and a photograph handy, as the lines are very long during the peak season. 

Major biometric registration centres

  • Rahi Hotel In Haridwar, near Haridwar Railway Station
  • Hemkund Gurudwara near ISBT Rishikesh Bus Stand
  • RTO Dehradun
  • On the Kedarnath route: Sonprayag, Phata, and Gaurikund
kedarnath registration center in haridwar for offline biometric registration process

What Documents Are Needed For Kedarnath Registration?

Here is what pilgrims keep handy for Kedarnath registration online or offline. 

  • Valid ID proof (Aadhaar/Voter ID/Passport)
  • Passport-size photo
  • Additional things: A valid green card if you travel by private vehicle or commercial vehicle. 

Note: These things are also required for the registration process:

  • An active mobile number and email address to receive the OTP, registration confirmation, and Kedarnath E-pass. 
  • Emergency contact details, name, and number of a person who is not travelling with you.

Common Issues & Solutions During Kedarnath Registration Process

Several issues occur during the registration process, including website crashes, no slots available, OTP delays, document errors, etc. 

Here is a brief description of common errors and their solutions for successful registration:

Problem 1: Website crash/slow process: Most commonly, many pilgrims face the website not loading or face technical issues due to high traffic.  

Solution: Use an alternative method, the Uttarakhand Tourist Care app, or register in the early morning or late at night.

Issue 2, No slots Available: During the peak season, registration slots fill quickly, leaving no slots available. 

Solution: Register early to get your desired travel dates or try for offline registration.

Issue 3, OTP Delay: Sometimes, travellers do not receive the OTP. 

Solution: Make sure you have a very strong internet connection and keep refreshing your phone to receive the OTP instantly. 

Issue 4, Document errors: The website does not handle incorrect ID types, such as submitting an ID in a large size. 

Solution: Ensure that the uploaded document is 1 MB in size. 

Travel Tips For Travellers

Register Early: Slots for Kedarnath registration are limited, 15000 to 18000 persons per day, which easily get filled, so register early to travel on your desired travel dates.

Keep documents ready: Whether you register online or offline, keep your documents, like ID proof and a passport-size photo, handy during the registration.

Use the official source only: Register through the official site only, the Uttarakhand Tourism care portal.

Don’t pay for Registration: Do not trust any third party who get charge for this, remember registration is absolutely free.

Always carry the Kedarnath E-pass: You must carry both a printed and digital copy of your Kedarnath registration pass. 

Conclusion

Registration for Kedarnath is the very first and crucial step toward a smooth journey to the Kedarnath Temple. Kedarnath registration is not just a formality; it’s a tool that ensures pilgrims’ safety and better crowd management. 

Due to the rising number of pilgrims each year, the registration slots get filled quickly, so pilgrims should complete their registration early. Whether you register online or offline, keep your required documents like ID proof and Photo ready to avoid any last-minute hassle.

Also, follow the official guidelines of Uttarakhand Kedarnath registration 2026 for a safe and comfortable journey. 

FAQs

Is registration necessary for Kedarnath?

Yes, Registration for the Kedarnath Yatra is necessary for all pilgrims, whether you travel by road, trek, or helicopter; whether you are an Indian or a foreign national. The Uttarakhand government made registration mandatory for all to ensure pilgrims’ safety and manage crowd flow.

How much does Kedarnath registration cost?

There is no cost for Kedarnath registration; it’s free but mandatory for all. Travellers do not pay any fee to register for Kedarnath.

Is Kedarnath registration open now?

Yes, for the 2026 season, the Kedarnath registration is open now and starts from  6 March 2026, and it opens till the end of the yatra season. But pilgrims are advised to register early as registration slots fill during peak season.

Can I travel before my registration day to Kedarnath?

Officially, travel is restricted before the registration date to Kedarnath. You only get entry or Darshan to the shrine on that day, which you select on your travel date or a day before and after the selected date.

What if we go to Kedarnath without registration?

Travelling without registration can be risky and futile; you will not be allowed and will be asked to turn back at checkpoints, such as Phata, Guptkashi, and Sonprayag, to complete the registration process.

Is there any offline registration for Kedarnath?

Yes, offline registration for Kedarnath is available as an option for those who are unable to do registration online or forgot to complete registration. They can register at various biometric registration centres along the route, like in Haridwar and Rishikesh. Pilgrims must fill out a physical form and provide the required documents to receive the registration slip.

Is an e-pass required for Kedarnath?

Yes, the Kedarnath E-pass is an official entry permit that pilgrims obtain after completing their Kedarnath registration. It must be carried by pilgrims travelling to Kedarnath, as it is asked to be scanned at entry checkpoints in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Sonprayag.