Best Time for Char Dham Yatra in 2026: A Complete Guide
The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most revered pilgrimages in India, covering the four sacred shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. While this journey is spiritually fulfilling, choosing the right time to embark on it is crucial for a safe and comfortable experience.
Best Time to Visit Char Dham
The best time for the Char Dham Yatra is during the summer and early autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the routes are accessible.
- Summer Season (May to June)
- Monsoon Season (July to September)
- Autumn Season (September to October)
- Winter Season (November to April)
Temperature and Weather of Char Dham
Char Dham in Summer (Peak)May–June
Pleasant weather (10°C–25°C), clear skies, and open roads. Best for families and first-timers, but very crowded.
Char Dham in Monsoon (Avoidable) July–September
Heavy rainfall, high risk of landslides, flooding, and road blockages make travel unsafe.
Char Dham in Autumn (Good) September–October
Cooler temperatures (0°C–15°C) and fewer crowds. Post-monsoon clarity offers stunning views and peaceful travel.
Char Dham in Winter (Closed) November–April
Temples are closed due to extreme cold and heavy snowfall; routes are inaccessible. Deities move to lower "winter abodes".
Month-wise Breakdown
May - June: Best for peak season travel with clear weather.
July - August: Risky due to monsoons, best avoided.
September - October: Ideal for fewer crowds and serene landscapes.
November - April: Not recommended as temples remain closed.
How Can You Travel for Char Dham Yatra?
The Char Dham Yatra can be completed in different ways depending on your comfort, time, and physical ability. Most pilgrims choose road travel from Delhi or from Haridwar, while others opt for a combination of trekking and helicopter services for the Do Dham, and some use the full Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter.
Road journeys are the most common for Char Dham Yatra and allow gradual acclimatisation, with trekking required for Yamunotri and Kedarnath. The Helicopter services are available for pilgrims who prefer shorter travel times or have mobility concerns, though the weather conditions play a major role in the operations of the helicopter services.
Best Time for Char Dham Yatra by Age Group
For Families with Children
May to June is generally the most suitable period due to stable weather, open roads, and better medical access. Crowds are higher, but travel conditions are predictable and safer for children. (Avoid if you see rainy weather in June)
For Adults and First-Time Pilgrims
May–June and September–October both work well. Summer months suit those who prefer comfort and services, while September offers fewer crowds and a calmer journey.
For Senior Citizens
September is often preferred due to reduced crowd pressure and cooler temperatures. Many senior pilgrims consider helicopter travel for Kedarnath to reduce physical strain.
Conclusion
The Char Dham Yatra is best undertaken between May–June and September–October, when weather conditions, accessibility, and safety align well for most travellers. Choosing the right season based on travel method and age group can significantly improve comfort and overall experience. Careful planning ensures the journey remains both spiritually enriching and physically manageable.
Also, check our post on Essential Packing List For Char Dham Yatra
