Char Dham travel guidelines—Covid-negative certificate not essential

In a latest development in Uttarakhand travel rules, the state government has announced that tourists are not required to carry a COVID-19 negative certificate anymore to visit the Char Dham sites. The Char Dham shrines were opened up sometime ago for Uttarakhand residents, and also for visitors outside the state. The new guidelines for visiting the holy sites are now to be followed henceforth.
According to the Chief Executive Office of Char Dham Devasthanam Management Board, Ravinath Raman, visitors are instead required to register on the board’s official website . This is so that they can get their e-pass that will allow them to visit the Char Dham shrines.


It is being reported that the pilgrims would go through thermal scanning before entering the shrines, and a COVID-19 test will be conducted if they record high body temperature. The cost of the test will have to be borne by the pilgrims; moreover, they will only enter the shrine if the test result comes back as negative.
The guidelines also suggest that certain groups of people are advised against the yatra, including infants, people above the age of 65, pregnant ladies, and those below 10 years of age.

The guidelines also warn interested visitors, who are asymptomatic not to visit the shrine and not to apply for an e-pass as well. Also, those who are going to the shrine with the help of heli services do not have to apply for an e-pass. All their formalities will be completed by the helicopter company. Most importantly, you are not permitted to touch the idols during your visit.