Kedarnath Yatra generates Rs 306 crore in 48 days as pilgrim numbers cross 11 lakh

The pilgrimage, known for its challenging 20-kilometre trek, relies heavily on animals and helicopters to assist devotees.

The Chardham Yatra, a major economic driver for Uttarakhand, has seen an unprecedented surge this year, with over 33 lakh pilgrims visiting the sacred sites. The Kedarnath Yatra alone has contributed Rs 306 crore in revenue within just 48 days, officials revealed.

Since the portals of Kedarnath Dham opened on May 2, more than 11.64 lakh devotees have reportedly made the arduous journey to the Himalayan shrine, according to Yogendra Gangwar, Joint Director of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Council. "On average, 24,000 pilgrims arrive daily for darshan," he was quoted by The New Indian Express (TNIE) as saying.

The pilgrimage, known for its challenging 20-kilometre trek, relies heavily on animals and helicopters to assist devotees. Dr Ashish Rawat, Chief Veterinary Officer, was cited by TNIE, “Horses and mules play an extremely crucial role in this difficult pedestrian pilgrimage. As of Wednesday, 228,665 pilgrims reached Kedarnath Dham via horses and mules, generating an income of approximately Rs 67.5 crore." Meanwhile, helicopter services have transported 49,294 pilgrims, earning Rs 61 crore, said Rahul Chaubey, Nodal Officer for Kedarnath Heli Service.

For elderly pilgrims, palanquin and porter services (dandi-kandi) are available, with over 7,000 operators registered this year. These services have already brought in Rs 2.02 crore, while fines of Rs 4.17 lakh were imposed for littering and rule violations.

Transport infrastructure is also thriving. Kulwant Singh Chauhan, Assistant Transport Officer in Rudraprayag, said 225 taxis shuttle pilgrims between Sonprayag and Gaurikund, with 11.44 lakh passengers so far, TNIE reported

Local businesses along the pilgrimage route are reportedly experiencing a major boom, with Gaurikund alone hosting 350 hotels and the wider area offering over 2,000 accommodation options. The Gaurikund Vyapar Sangh president Ram Chandra Goswami told TNIE daid that pilgrims typically spend between Rs 1,500-2,000 daily on food and lodging, generating an estimated Rs 150 crore in local commerce so far this season.