Kedarnath is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus in India. The temple is located in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3,583 m near the head of the Mandakini River. Due to its remote location and extreme weather conditions, visiting Kedarnath requires proper planning and preparation.
In recent years, the Uttarakhand government has introduced an online registration system for pilgrims visiting Kedarnath and other Char Dham sites (Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri). This online registration is mandatory for all pilgrims planning to undertake the Kedarnath yatra.
Why is online registration mandatory for Kedarnath?
Here are some of the main reasons why online registration is compulsory for visiting Kedarnath temple:
- Crowd Control: Online registration helps regulate and control the number of pilgrims visiting Kedarnath daily. This is important from safety and logistics perspective considering the fragile mountain terrain.
- Quota system: The online system allows state authorities to implement a quota system and limit number of pilgrims per day from different regions/states.
- Accommodation Arrangement: Registering online allows the Devasthanam Board to accordingly arrange lodging and accommodation facilities for pilgrims.
- Health/Fitness Check: The online form requires pilgrims to provide health and fitness details which can be screened to ensure they can undertake the arduous trek.
- Security: Online registration allows authorities to conduct background checks on pilgrims if required for safety purposes.
- Convenience: The online portal offers a one-stop solution for pilgrims to plan their entire trip including darshan slots, permits, accommodation etc.
- Keeping track: It allows the government to have accurate real-time data and keep track of the number of pilgrims on the Yatra.
The online registration system was launched after the 2013 flash floods which caused extensive damage in Uttarakhand. The system helps regulate the number of pilgrims which is important for both security and maintaining ecological balance in the fragile Himalayan region.
When to do Online Registration for Kedarnath Yatra
The online registration portal opens every year sometime in March/April before the start of the Yatra. The dates are announced in advance by the Uttarakhand Char Dham Devasthanam Management Board.
It is recommended to do the registration as early as possible once the portal opens. This increases your chances of getting the preferred travel dates and darshan slots.
Here are some key timeline tips for Kedarnath online registration:
- March-April: Online registration portal opens
- April End: Advance registration quota opens
- May: Registration for the initial travel dates in May/June opens
- July-Sept: Registration continues for slots in remaining season
- Oct-Nov: Yatra ends, portal closes
Pilgrims can keep checking the Devasthanam Board website for latest announcements on the online registration timeline and schedule.
How to register online for Kedarnath Yatra
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to register online for Kedarnath Yatra:
- Go to the official website: https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/
- Click on “New Registration” and fill in the registration form.
- Provide required personal details in the form and submit.
- An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number for verification.
- Login using your ID and password sent to your email address.
- Choose your travel dates and fill the application form for Kedarnath Yatra.
- Attach required ID proofs and documents as per guidelines.
- Make the registration fee payment via net banking or other payment gateways.
- Download the acknowledgement slip once registration is successful.
The registration fee is Rs. 100. The acknowledgement slip contains your Yatra ID number and other details. You need to carry a printout of this slip throughout your pilgrimage.
Documents Required for Kedarnath Online Registration
The following documents are required while filling the Kedarnath online registration form:
- Name, DOB, Gender
- ID proof – Aadhaar Card, Driving License, Passport etc.
- Address proof
- Health/Fitness Certificate – Mandatory for pilgrims above 65 years of age
- Disability Certificate – For differently abled pilgrims
- ID photos
- COVID-19 vaccination certificate (recommended)
All documents need to be uploaded in specified format as per the guidelines provided.
What Details are Required for Kedarnath Registration
The online registration form for Kedarnath Yatra requires the following key details from the applicant:
| Information | Details Required |
|---|---|
| Personal Details | Name, DOB, Email, Mobile number |
| ID Proofs | Aadhaar card, Driving License etc. |
| Yatra Details | Preferred dates, Number of persons |
| Travel Details | Route, Mode of transport |
| Medical Information | Past medical history, current health status |
Providing complete and accurate information in the form ensures faster approval of your registration.
How to Apply for Darshan Slots at Kedarnath Temple
Along with trip registration, pilgrims also need to book darshan slots for Kedarnath Temple through the online portal.
Here are the steps to book darshan slots after registration:
- Login to online portal using your credentials.
- Choose the date of your temple visit and click on “Book Slot”.
- Select the time slot as per your preference.
- Confirm slot booking after making the requisite payment.
- Download the voucher showing your darshan date/time.
It is recommended to book the slots well in advance, even before reaching Kedarnath, for assured entry to the temple.
The online booking cost per pilgrim for darshan slots is:
- Rs. 100 for morning (6 AM – 2 PM) slots
- Rs. 200 for evening (3 PM – 9 PM) slots
Free darshan slots are also available on limited basis which can be checked online.
Other Facilities to Book with Registration
Apart from darshan slots, pilgrims can also conveniently book associated facilities for the Kedarnath trip through the online portal:
- Helicopter tickets: Book tickets for to and fro helicopter ride between Phata/Sirsi and Kedarnath.
- Accommodation: Reserve stay at government/private lodges and guest houses at Kedarnath.
- Pooja/Havan: Book slots for special poojas and havans to be performed on your behalf.
- Fair shops: Stalls at the temple premises can be booked online for performing rituals.
Booking these facilities in advance ensures availability and a smooth Yatra for the pilgrims.
How to Edit Registration Form
The online registration form for Kedarnath Yatra can be edited and modified by the applicant anytime before final submission.
Here are the steps to edit/modify the registration form:
- Login to the portal using your credentials.
- Go to “Application Status” section.
- Click on “Edit Application” for the registered application.
- This will open the registration form again in editable mode.
- Make the required changes in personal details or Yatra itinerary.
- Click on “Save” after editing the form.
- Repeat till final submission after form editing is complete.
However, after final payment and confirmation, the registration details cannot be edited. In that case, applicants will need to cancel the registration and book a fresh slot.
How to Make Payment for Online Registration
The payment of the online registration fee for Kedarnath Yatra can be done through the following methods:
- Netbanking – Via credit/debit card or internet banking of supported banks
- UPI Payment Apps – Bhim app, PhonePe, Paytm etc.
- SBI Bank Counters – Via demand draft or cash deposit slip
- Online Payment Gateways – Paytm, Billdesk, CC Avenue etc.
Payment via netbanking and UPI apps is recommended as it is instantaneous. The registration is approved as soon as payment is successful.
In case of payment failures, applicants can choose another payment option and complete the transaction. The registration payment needs to be made latest by 1 day before travel date.
How to Cancel Online Registration
Registered applicants can cancel their online registration for Kedarnath Yatra due to any unforeseen circumstance.
Here is the process to cancel online registration:
- Login to the portal and go to “Application Status”.
- Click on “Cancel Application” link for the specific registration.
- Select reason for cancellation – Medical, Personal, COVID etc.
- Confirm cancellation request.
- The cancellation will be approved within 2 days.
- Fresh registration can be done with new dates.
Please note there is no provision for retaining or transferring the registration to someone else once cancelled. Fresh registration has to be done.
Partial cancellation is also allowed in case any member of group wants to cancel their registration.
Important Tips for Kedarnath Online Registration
Here are some important tips to keep in mind for smooth online registration for Kedarnath Yatra:
- Provide accurate personal, ID and health details in the form.
- Upload documents in specified size and format only.
- Book slots well in advance for better availability.
- Opt for group registration if travelling together.
- Take printout of acknowledgement slip after payment.
- Book helicopter tickets and accommodation in advance.
- Prior medical check-up is recommended before registration.
- Do not book travel tickets before registration confirmation.
Conclusion
The online registration system for Kedarnath Yatra has streamlined the entire pilgrimage process. It has made travel planning easier for both pilgrims and the government authorities.
By providing accurate information during registration, pilgrims can ensure a smooth hassle-free darshan. Advance planning and booking of all facilities is highly recommended.
The online process has brought transparency and order to the Yatra management. For any queries, pilgrims can contact the Devasthanam Board helpdesk.
With the right preparation, online registration and guidance of local support staff, Kedarnath Yatra promises to be a profound spiritual experience for all devotees.