The Char Dham Yatra starts on April 30th with the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri temples. Kedarnath opens on May 2nd, and Badrinath on May 4th. To reduce health problems during the Char Dham Yatra, the Uttarakhand government has released health advice for pilgrims. They strongly suggest that pilgrims get a health checkup before starting the journey and prepare their bodies by walking, practicing breathing exercises (pranayama), and doing heart-strengthening exercises. Pilgrims are asked to register on the Health and Tourism Registration App.
The advice, available in 12 languages, reminds pilgrims to bring necessary medicines. In the previous year, 246 pilgrims died due to health issues, and 242 died in 2023. These deaths were mainly caused by altitude sickness, lack of oxygen, and heart attacks.
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The advisory also recommends drinking enough water, eating a healthy diet, and consuming warm, light beverages. Pilgrims should take advantage of the health screening centers and medical posts along the route to monitor their health.
Health Secretary R Rajesh Kumar said that the screening points check 28 health indicators, including blood pressure, blood sugar, and oxygen levels. These screening points are connected to the registration system, making sure everyone gets a thorough health checkup before beginning the yatra.