The sacred Char Dham and Hemkund Sahib Yatra attracts millions of devotees every year, seeking spiritual fulfilment in the Himalayan temples of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, along with the revered Hemkund Sahib. This year, to ensure a smoother experience, the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) has introduced Aadhaar-based eKYC for registration, making the process faster, safer, and more efficient.
Tech meets tradition
The registration process for the 2025 Yatra began on March 20, and within days, over 750,000 pilgrims have successfully used Aadhaar-linked online registration. This digital transformation is designed to reduce waiting times, improve security, and help authorities track crowd movement to prevent overcrowding at the sacred sites.
Pilgrims can easily register online through the official portal (registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in) or the “Tourist Care Uttarakhand” mobile app. Those who prefer traditional methods can still register offline at designated centres.
Why Aadhaar-Based registration?
- Quicker process: Pilgrims no longer need to wait in long queues for verification.
- Better management: Authorities can track the number of visitors and plan resources accordingly.
- Improved safety: In case of an emergency, the system allows faster identification and assistance.
- Prevents duplicate entries: Ensures every pilgrim gets an equal chance to undertake the Yatra.
A step towards a safer pilgrimage
With UIDAI’s support, this initiative is a step towards balancing faith with modern technology. By making registration seamless, authorities aim to provide a hassle-free and more spiritual experience for pilgrims, ensuring their journey to the divine is as smooth as possible.
