DEHRADUN, OCT 7: The ongoing Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand has set a new record, with more than 56 lakh pilgrims visiting the four Himalayan shrines so far this season, according to the state government.
A government statement said the number of devotees undertaking the pilgrimage in 2026 has crossed 56.18 lakh, surpassing the previous all-time high of around 52 lakh pilgrims recorded in 2023.
The record footfall at Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri reflects the growing popularity of religious tourism in Uttarakhand and the continued faith of devotees from across the country.
Reacting to the surge in pilgrim numbers, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the record turnout was made possible by extensive arrangements to ensure safe, smooth and organised travel for devotees.
“Every devotee coming to Devbhoomi Uttarakhand is our guest. The state government’s constant effort is to ensure that every pilgrim’s journey remains safe, smooth and pleasant,” Dhami said.
He said the rise in the number of devotees was also an indication of improved facilities and arrangements along the pilgrimage routes.
The Chief Minister credited the coordinated efforts of the state administration, police, health department, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local bodies and shrine priests for the successful conduct of the yatra.
Dhami said facilities related to healthcare, traffic management, drinking water, sanitation, parking, accommodation, disaster management and overall pilgrim convenience had been continuously strengthened along the Char Dham routes.
He added that special emphasis was being placed on seamless coordination among various departments to ensure the smooth conduct of the ongoing pilgrimage season.
