Uttarakhand bans mobile phones and cameras at Char Dham temples — What travellers need to know

Uttarakhand enforces a mobile and camera ban at Char Dham temples to preserve sanctity, curb reel-making and ensure smooth, distraction-free darshan for pilgrims. (File Image)

• Uttarakhand bans mobiles and cameras inside Char Dham temple complexes
• Ban aims to preserve sanctity and prevent disruptions during darshan
• Safe storage for devices will be arranged near temple entrances

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In a first-of-its-kind move, the Uttarakhand government has announced a complete ban on mobile phones and cameras inside the temple complexes of the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. The restriction will apply to Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri from this year’s yatra season.

The decision comes amid rising concerns over reel-making, vlogging, and photography inside sacred spaces, which officials say have increasingly disrupted darshan and affected the spiritual atmosphere of the shrines.

Why Uttarakhand Introduced the Mobile and Camera Ban

The move was finalised during a high-level review meeting on Char Dham Yatra preparations held at the Char Dham Yatra Transit Camp. The meeting was chaired by Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey and attended by Garhwal Inspector General Rajeev Swaroop, district magistrates, senior superintendents of police, and senior departmental officials.

After the meeting, Pandey told reporters that allowing mobile phones and cameras into temple complexes had caused several problems during darshan. Keeping this in mind, the government decided to enforce a complete ban within the shrine premises.

‘Char Dham Yatra Is a Sacred Pilgrimage,’ Says Commissioner

Highlighting the devotional significance of the pilgrimage, Pandey said the Char Dham Yatra is a sacred journey undertaken with faith and reverence.

"Devotees should submit their mobile phones and cameras before entering the temple for darshan, and after leaving the temple, they can take their photos and videos with the temple in the background," he said.

Officials added that the restriction aims to ensure devotees are able to perform darshan with complete focus and without distractions or crowd-related disputes.

Safe Storage Arrangements for Mobile Phones and Cameras

To ease inconvenience for pilgrims, the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has been instructed to coordinate with district administrations to create proper arrangements for the safe keeping of mobile phones and cameras.

The facilities will be set up near temple complexes, ensuring devotees can deposit their belongings securely before entering the shrine areas.

Over 50 Lakh Devotees Visited Char Dham Last Season

Pandey said that more than 50 lakh devotees visited the four Dhams—Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—during the previous pilgrimage season. With footfall expected to rise further, authorities are focused on improving both crowd management and the overall pilgrimage experience.

Officials believe the ban will help reduce bottlenecks and allow smoother darshan for all pilgrims.

Fast-Track Preparations and Funding for Char Dham Yatra 2026

During the review meeting, Pandey also announced that funds for Char Dham Yatra management would be released to all districts by February. He directed district magistrates to submit lists of urgent works within three days and ensure that tender processes are completed within a week.

This, he said, would allow infrastructure and logistical improvements to begin in fast-track mode ahead of the pilgrimage season.

Focus on Sanctity, Discipline and Smooth Darshan

Officials described the decision as a balanced step that reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining religious discipline while ensuring efficient administration. The ban is expected to reduce unnecessary controversies and help restore the sanctity of one of India’s most revered pilgrimage circuits.