One of the holiest Hindu pilgrimages in the world, Char Dham, includes the four sacred locations of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. To ensure that the Yatra runs smoothly and is a success for everyone, the Uttarakhand government has laid up a number of precautions this year.

Registration

Before attending the Chardham Yatra and Hemkund Sahib, devotees should make sure they have registered. The Uttarakhand government has capped the number of daily travellers in order to guarantee a smooth trip.

For this reason, we ask that you please confirm the portal’s legitimacy and register at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in before you travel.

Health Advisory

High elevations are home to the sacred shrines of Uttarakhand’s Char Dham Yatra. Pilgrims may experience extreme cold, low humidity, increased UV radiation, and decreased oxygen and air pressure while visiting all of these sites.

Important Guidelines for Pilgrims

1. Health Check-Up: Get a thorough health check-up before starting your journey. If you have pre-existing health conditions, carry adequate prescribed medicines, your prescription, and your doctor’s contact details.

2. Special Considerations: Senior citizens and individuals with heart diseases, respiratory ailments, diabetes, or hypertension should be extra cautious.

3. Travel Itinerary: Include at least one day’s rest in your plan before reaching the main pilgrimage site.

4. Clothing: Carry enough woollen or warm clothes to protect against the cold.

5. Altitude Precautions: If you experience symptoms like headache, dizziness, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, or fast breathing, seek medical attention immediately. You can call 104 or 108 for assistance.

6. Avoid Harmful Substances: Do not consume alcohol, drugs, or smoke during the journey.

7. Sun Protection: Use sunscreen with SPF 50 and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.

8. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink plenty of water and avoid travelling on an empty stomach.

9. Rest and Safety: Take frequent breaks while trekking or walking, and avoid strenuous activities at high altitudes.

10. Emergency Assistance: In case of emergencies, contact the helplines:

• 108 – National Ambulance Service
• 104 – Uttarakhand Health Helpline

  Travel Tips for Mountain Roads in Uttarakhand

  Dos

  1. Register Your Vehicle: Make sure your vehicle is properly registered.
  2. Passenger List: The driver should keep a list of all passengers in the vehicle.
  3. Give Way: Always give way to vehicles going uphill.
  4. Carry Vehicle Documents: Keep all valid documents for the vehicle and an extra stepney (spare tire).
  5. Get a Green Card: Obtain the green card from the transport office before travelling.
  6. Honk on Turns: Use the horn at turns to warn other vehicles.
  7. Park Safely: Always use the hand brake when parking and park only in designated areas.
  8. Proof of Travel: Carry ID proof or a scanned QR code for verification.

  Don’ts

  1. Avoid Night Driving: Don’t drive on mountain roads between 10 pm and 4 am.
  2. No Overtaking on Turns: Never overtake on road curves.
  3. Don’t Drink and Drive: Driving under the influence is dangerous and prohibited.
  4. No Rooftop Travel: Do not sit on the roof of vehicles.
  5. Don’t Litter: Avoid throwing garbage like clothes or plastic bags on the roads.
  6. No Commercial Use: Don’t use private vehicles for commercial purposes.