Planning a spiritual trip to the holy Kedarnath Temple? Before you enjoy the peaceful and divine experience, there is one important step you must follow. “That is the Kedarnath Temple registration.”
Many people feel confused by too many websites, fake promises by agents, and unclear information. The truth is, you do not need any agent or pay extra money to complete your registration.
This blog is your complete step-by-step guide that simplifies everything. You’ll discover how to register online, offline, via mobile, and at checkpoints without paying a rupee extra. All the fine details are covered, including documents, verification, and what to do if your registration fails.
Read this guide till the end and you will feel ready and confident for your journey.
What Is Kedarnath Temple Registration and Why It’s Mandatory
The Kedarnath Yatra is not just a normal trip.
Located at 3,583 meters above sea level in Rudraprayag district, the temple brings thousands of pilgrims every year. Because of the large crowd, safety and smooth travel become very important. That is why the Uttarakhand government asks every visitor to register.
This helps them manage the yatra, keep track of people, and provide enough services. If you skip this step, you might face trouble at checkpoints or get delayed during your journey. The good part is that Kedarnath Temple registration is free, easy, and helps make your yatra experience better.
Now let’s see how to complete the registration in a simple way.
When Does Registration Start for 2025?
Timing is everything. For the 2025 Kedarnath Yatra, the registration usually starts a few weeks before the temple opens. The temple is open on May 2, based on the holy day of Akshaya Tritiya.
Kedarnath Temple registration stays open during the whole yatra season, which goes on till early November when the temple closes due to snowfall. It is better to register early because dates in May and June are always in high demand and get booked quickly.
Is Agent-Free Registration Possible?
Yes — 100%. Many pilgrims fall into the trap of paying ₹200–₹500 to agents or third-party sites just for a basic form that’s freely available on the official portal. Don’t pay anything beyond the standard fee (if applicable).
Step-by-Step Guide for Kedarnath Temple Registration Online (Free Method)
Let’s start with the official method that works seamlessly and doesn’t involve any agent.
✅ Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to the Uttarakhand Tourism Care website:
👉 https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
This is the only official site for free registration. Do not use any third-party websites, as they may charge you for services that are already free.
✅ Step 2: Sign Up or Log In
Tap the “Register/Login” button on the top-right corner. Use a valid mobile number to sign up. You’ll receive an OTP to verify your mobile number.
✅ Step 3: Select Kedarnath Yatra
After logging in, go to the “Kedarnath Yatra” section and click on “New Registration” to begin.
✅ Step 4: Fill in Personal Details
Enter the correct details for each traveler, such as:
- Full Name
- Age and Gender
- Full Address
- Emergency Contact Number
- ID Proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License)
- Upload a recent passport-sized photo (JPEG format)
Aadhaar is recommended, and may need OTP for extra safety.
✅ Step 5: Choose Darshan Date
Pick the exact date you plan to visit Kedarnath Temple.
Popular dates in May and June get booked quickly, so choose your date early. You can also register for other Char Dham places like Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri if you are visiting them too.
✅ Step 6: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of your ID and photo. You may also be asked to enter your COVID-19 vaccination certificate number, depending on the rules at that time.
✅ Step 7: Review and Submit
Double-check all your information before submitting. Small mistakes can create trouble at checkpoints. After submission, you’ll get a confirmation email with a Unique Registration Number (URN) and a downloadable e-pass.
✅ Step 8: Download Your E-Pass
Save your e-pass on your phone or take a printout. You’ll need to show this pass at places like Sonprayag or Gaurikund before starting the 18-km trek to the temple.
” Pro Tip: Always keep a soft copy of your e-pass and ID on your phone or email. Mobile network may not work properly in the hills, so having backups helps a lot. “
Can You Register Offline? Yes, But Read This First
Offline registration is available, but it’s not recommended due to long queues, delays, and uncertainty during peak season.
If you still want to do offline registration:
Where to Register Offline?
You can visit these counters during the yatra season, usually open between 7 AM and 7 PM:
- Haridwar Railway Station and Rohi Hotel, Haridwar
- Rishikesh ISBT Counter
- Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara
- Guptkashi Bus Stand
- Sonprayag Control Room
- Phata and Gaurikund Help Desks
- Near Kedarnath Temple
How to Register Offline
- Reach early in the morning to skip long queues
- Ask for the registration form and fill in your name, age, phone number, and ID details
- Submit a photocopy of your ID (Aadhaar, voter ID, passport, or driving license)
- Attach a passport-sized photo
- Biometric details like a photo or a fingerprint may be taken
- After checking your documents, you’ll receive your Yatra card or pass with a unique ID
Offline slots are limited and often fill quickly. If you’re visiting in May or June, online registration is a safer and faster option to avoid delays.
Mobile App Registration – Do It in 5 Minutes
Another hassle-free method is via the Tourist Care Uttarakhand App.
How to Use the App?
- Download “Tourist Care Uttarakhand” from Play Store or App Store.
- Sign up with mobile number and verify OTP.
- Fill in all details just like the web version.
- Upload ID and choose Kedarnath as your destination.
- QR Code will be generated and stored in the app.
This method works great if you’re on the move or booking for a group.
WhatsApp Registration
If you use your phone a lot and want a quick way to register, the Uttarakhand government now allows Kedarnath Temple registration on WhatsApp. It’s free, fast, and simple.
- Open WhatsApp and send the word “Yatra” to +91 8394833833
- You’ll get a reply with menu options like “Char Dham Registration”
- Choose the right option and fill in your details like name, ID number, and travel date
- Send clear photos of your ID proof and passport-size photo
- After checking your documents, you will get your e-pass on WhatsApp
You can save or print this pass and carry it during your yatra.
Can You Travel Without Registration?
In short, no. Kedarnath Temple registration is a must for every pilgrim, including kids and older people. This rule started after the 2013 floods to keep everyone safe and control the crowd.
If you do not have a valid e-pass or registration card, you will be stopped at checkpoints like Sonprayag or Gaurikund. Do not take any chance. Kedarnath Temple registration is free and takes only a few minutes.
Group or Family Registration – Here’s How It Works
You can register everyone together:
- Choose “Group Registration” on the official website or app.
- Fill in details for each person (name, age, ID type, contact number).
- Upload ID proofs and passport-size photos for every group member.
- This process is also available at offline counters—just bring all required documents for every person.
Can You Change Your Darshan Date?
Sometimes plans change, and that’s okay. If you need to adjust your Kedarnath Temple registration date, you can update the details online before the final step.
After final submission, making changes becomes harder.
In that case, you can call the UTDB helpline at +91 0135 2559898 or go to a nearby offline center for help. During busy months like May and June, it may be difficult to reschedule because many people are visiting.
If you reach 2 or 3 days before your darshan date in less crowded months like late June or September to October, you might still get entry. But it is not guaranteed, so always carry your registration certificate with you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Last-Minute Registration: Waiting too long can lead to unavailable slots or long queues at offline centers.
Incorrect Details: Typos in ID numbers or names can cause verification issues.
Ignoring Checkpoints: Skipping registration thinking it’s optional will halt your journey.
Trusting Unofficial Sources: Always use the UTDB portal or counters to avoid fraud.
Your Darshan Journey Begins With a Click – Don’t Miss the First Step!
Thousands of pilgrims get confused about how to begin their journey. Many end up paying for something that’s absolutely free. Let this guide be your trusted friend in planning a cost-free, hassle-free Kedarnath Temple registration.
Skip the middlemen.
Avoid the stress.
Register the right way and focus on what truly matters, the blessings of Lord Kedarnath.
If you found this guide helpful, don’t keep it to yourself. Share it with your friends, family, or anyone planning the Kedarnath yatra, help them save money, time, and effort by guiding them toward the right path. Every darshan begins with the right knowledge and now, you’ve got it all in one place.
Have any questions or experiences to share? Drop a comment below, your thoughts might help someone else too.
And before you leave, bookmark this guide so you can revisit it anytime during your journey planning.
Remember one thing, Visit Uttarakhand shares every detail you need about the state, without selling any travel packages.
Jai Baba Kedarnath! 🙏
