Nearly 3 Lakh Pilgrims Visit Char Dham Shrines in First Week of Yatra

The annual Char Dham Yatra has witnessed a strong start this year, with nearly three lakh pilgrims visiting the Himalayan shrines of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath since the pilgrimage began on April 19. In comparison, around 2.5 lakh pilgrims had undertaken the yatra during the corresponding initial period last year, indicating a higher early turnout this season.

According to official data, a total of 2,98,048 devotees had undertaken the yatra by 7 pm on April 26. The figures reflect a steady surge in daily footfall , rising sharply from 9,800 pilgrims on the opening day to 59,458 on Sunday , indicating growing momentum as the season progresses.

Among the four shrines, Kedarnath Dham has emerged as the most visited, recording a cumulative footfall of 1,56,913 pilgrims , including 32,131 visitors on Sunday alone . Badrinath Dham , which opened later in the week, has already attracted 52,225 devotees . Meanwhile, Gangotri and Yamunotri have registered 44,335 and 44,575 pilgrims respectively since the start of the yatra.

Officials attributed the smooth flow of pilgrims to improved travel management and streamlined arrangements , ensuring hassle-free darshan across all shrines despite the heavy rush.

Chairman of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee, Hemant Dwivedi, said that total registrations for the pilgrimage are nearing 24 lakh , suggesting a significant rise in turnout in the coming weeks. He added that under the guidance of Pushkar Singh Dhami, arrangements at all four shrines remain systematic and well-coordinated .

The administration, he said, continues to stay vigilant regarding pilgrim movement, healthcare services, accommodation, and emergency response , ensuring a safe and organised pilgrimage experience.