1. Why this page exists
The Char Dham route runs through young, steep Himalayan valleys. Even the best-planned trip can be affected by nature or official decisions. We want you to know the risks before you book, so there are no surprises on the road.
2. Weather and natural hazards
- Landslides and road blocks: common in the monsoon (roughly July to mid-September) but possible in any month. Roads to Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri can be blocked for hours or days.
- Heavy rain and flash floods: treks and river-side roads may be closed by the district administration.
- Snowfall and cold: early and late in the season, snow can close high roads and treks, and temperatures at the shrines can fall below freezing at night.
- Helicopter cancellations: flights are frequently delayed or cancelled due to low visibility. Rebooking and refunds are handled by IRCTC and the operator.
3. Government decisions
Temple opening and closing dates, darshan timings, daily pilgrim limits, trek timings and registration rules are decided by the temple committees, the Uttarakhand government and district authorities. They can change at short notice, and we must follow them.
4. High altitude and health
Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are all above 3,000 metres. Thin air, steep treks and cold can be hard on the body, especially for elderly travellers and people with heart, lung, blood-pressure or diabetes conditions.
- Get a medical check-up before the trip and carry your regular medicines.
- Follow the health advisories issued by the Uttarakhand government each season.
- Allow rest days, drink plenty of water and avoid rushing the treks.
- Seek help at the medical posts along the trek routes if you feel unwell.
5. Delays and itinerary changes
When conditions change, we may need to:
- Change the order in which the dhams are visited
- Hold the group at a safe town until a road reopens
- Swap a hotel for one on a safer or open route
- Shorten the trip or skip a dham if access is closed
We will always explain the reason and the options. You pay only for the services you use, and extra nights caused by a delay are charged at actual cost only if you choose to stay. Details are in our Cancellation & Refund Policy.
6. What we do to reduce risk
- Check weather alerts and road updates every day of your trip
- Use drivers experienced on mountain roads and vehicles checked before the season
- Plan buffer time in itineraries for elderly travellers and families
- Stay in contact with you throughout the trip
Read our practical Char Dham safety tips before you travel.
7. Insurance
We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation and trip interruption. Our quotes do not include insurance unless stated in writing.
8. Disclaimer
Chardham Yatri is not responsible for delays, extra costs, missed darshan, injury or loss caused by weather, natural disasters, road or trek closures, government orders, strikes, health conditions, or services booked directly with third parties such as helicopter operators. Travel information on this website is general guidance; always check the latest official notices before setting out. This disclaimer does not limit your rights under Indian consumer law. Please also read our Terms & Conditions.
9. Emergency numbers
- National emergency: 112
- Chardham Yatri trip support: +91 93893 64421