For millions of devotees around the world, the journey to Badrinath is the ultimate spiritual quest. Nestled between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges at an altitude of 10,279 feet, the Badrinath Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is considered the most important of the four shrines in the Char Dham Yatra.
Every year, the temple remains closed for nearly six months during the harsh Himalayan winter. As the snow begins to melt and the spring air returns to Uttarakhand, pilgrims eagerly wait for the gates to open.
If you are planning your pilgrimage for the upcoming season with Char Dham Tour Package, here is the most important update: The Badrinath Temple Opening Date 2026 is confirmed for 23 April 2026.
Badrinath Temple Opening Date 2026: The Confirmed Details
The doors (Kapat) of the Shri Badrinath Dham will officially open to devotees on 23 April 2026.
The opening ceremony is scheduled to take place during the auspicious Brahma Muhurta at 6:15 AM. This moment marks the beginning of the 2026 pilgrimage season, during which the idol of Lord Badri Vishal is brought back to the main sanctum from its winter seat.
- Opening Date: 23 April 2026
- Opening Time: 6:15 AM
- Day: Thursday
How the Opening Date is Announced on Basant Panchami
In accordance with centuries-old traditions, the opening date of Badrinath is not fixed by a calendar but by astrological calculations. These calculations are performed every year on the festival of Basant Panchami, which fell on 23 January 2026 this year.
The Traditional Ritual at Narendranagar
The announcement process is a sacred event held at the Royal Palace of the Tehri Garhwal family in Narendranagar. During this ceremony:
- The Royal Priest (Raj Purohit) and temple authorities study the Hindu Panchang (almanac).
- They determine the most auspicious hour for the deity to return to the shrine.
- The formal declaration is made in the presence of the Maharaja of Tehri, the Rawal (Chief Priest) of Badrinath, and members of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC).
Simultaneously, rituals are also held at the Narsingh Temple in Joshimath, where the winter worship of Lord Badrinath takes place. Once the date is declared on Basant Panchami, the entire state of Uttarakhand begins preparations for the yatra.
Previous Years’ Opening and Closing Trends
Badrinath typically opens in late April or early May, coinciding with the festival of Akshaya Tritiya.
| Year | Opening Date | Closing Date |
| 2023 | 27 April | 18 November |
| 2024 | 12 May | 17 November |
| 2025 | 30 April (approx) | Early November |
| 2026 | 23 April (Confirmed) | Mid-November (Expected) |
The exact closing date for 2026 will be announced later in the year on the day of Vijayadashami (Dussehra).
Badrinath Yatra Registration 2026: What You Need to Know
To ensure the safety of pilgrims and manage the crowd in the high-altitude terrain, the Uttarakhand government has made Badrinath registration mandatory.
- When to Register: Registration for the 2026 yatra is expected to open in March 2026
- , approximately 45 days before the temple opens.
- How to Register: Devotees can register online via the official portal of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in) or through the “Tourist Care Uttarakhand” mobile app.
- Offline Registration: For those unable to register online, physical counters are usually available at Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Joshimath, though online booking is highly recommended to save time.
Note: You must carry your registration slip (digital or physical) as it is checked at various points like Pandukeshwar and Joshimath.
Weather Conditions in April–May at Badrinath
The month of April marks the onset of spring, but Badrinath remains significantly cold due to its elevation.
- Temperatures: Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, providing a crisp and sunny atmosphere. However, nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C or even -5°C.
- Snow: While the main roads are cleared by the Border Roads Organization (BRO), you will still see massive walls of snow along the route and around the temple premises in late April.
- Precipitation: Light rain or sudden snow showers are common. It is essential to carry heavy woolens, thermal wear, and a waterproof jacket or poncho.
How to Reach Badrinath
Badrinath is well-connected by road, and recent infrastructure projects have made the journey smoother, though it remains a long mountain drive.
By Road (The Most Popular Route)
Most pilgrims start their journey from Haridwar or Rishikesh. The route follows the Alaknanda River and passes through the famous “Panch Prayag” (five confluences).
- Route: Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Nandaprayag → Joshimath → Badrinath.
- Travel Time: Approximately 10–12 hours from Rishikesh. It is advisable to take a halt at Joshimath or Pipalkoti to acclimatize.
By Helicopter
For those with limited time or health concerns, helicopter services are the fastest option.
- Departure Points: Flights typically operate from SahastradharaHelipadinDehradun.
- Booking: Tickets must be booked in advance through the official IRCTC HeliYatra website.
Best Time to Plan Your Visit
While the Badrinath Temple Opening Date 2026 is 23 April, the first two weeks see a massive rush of devotees wanting to witness the first darshan.
- For Devotion: 23 April to 10 May is the most spiritually vibrant time, though very crowded.
- For Comfort: Late May to June offers the most pleasant weather for trekking and sightseeing.
- Post-Monsoon: September and October are excellent months to visit as the skies are clear and the crowds are thinner compared to the summer months.
Important Tips for Devotees Visiting Early in the Season
- Acclimatization: Badrinath is located at a high altitude. Spend a night in Joshimath (6,150 ft) before heading to Badrinath to help your body adjust.
- Medical Check-up: If you have heart or respiratory issues, consult a doctor. The oxygen levels are lower at the shrine.
- Advance Booking: Hotels in Badrinath are limited. With the opening date being 23 April, ensure you book your stay at least two months in advance.
- Tapt Kund: Before entering the temple, it is traditional to take a dip in the Tapt Kund, a natural hot water spring. This helps warm the body before standing in the darshan queue.
FAQs Related to Badrinath Opening Date 2026
Q1: Can I visit Badrinath on 23 April 2026?
Yes, the temple opens on 23 April. However, expect very long queues and heavy security. Ensure you have your registration completed well in advance.
Q2: Is AC bus service available to Badrinath?
Yes, several private and state-run (GMOU) buses operate from Haridwar and Rishikesh. However, AC is often turned off in high-altitude zones to prevent engine strain.
Q3: Are there hotels near the temple?
Yes, there are several ashrams, guesthouses, and GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) bungalows near the temple. Early booking is mandatory for April and May dates.
Q4: Is the road safe in late April?
Generally, yes. The BRO works around the clock to clear winter snow. However, always check the local weather forecast for any “Yellow” or “Orange” alerts before starting your drive.
The Badrinath Temple Opening Date 2026 of 23 April is your starting point for a life-changing spiritual journey. As the doors of the “Earthly Vaikuntha” open, thousands of hearts will find peace at the feet of Lord Badri Narayan.
Plan your yatra early, complete your registration on time, and prepare for the divine experience of a lifetime. Om Namo Narayana!
