Heading to Kedarnath? Leave your phone behind or risk legal trouble

As the doors of the Kedarnath Temple prepare to open on April 22, authorities in Uttarakhand have introduced a strict new rule for pilgrims: mobile phones will not be allowed inside the shrine. The measure comes as the 2026 Char Dham Yatra begins, with Gangotri and Yamunotri having opened on April 19 and Badrinath scheduled to reopen on April 23.

Images of Kedarnath Temple decorated with marigold flowers have already gone viral, building anticipation ahead of the yatra. But alongside preparations, the newly announced mobile ban has sparked wide discussion online.

Complete ban on phones inside temple premises

Temple officials have confirmed that devotees will no longer be permitted to carry mobile phones into the shrine. The restriction means pilgrims cannot take photographs, record videos or create reels during their visit.

Temple committee member Vineet Posti told ANI that this step has been taken in view of the heavy footfall expected after reopening.

Over recent seasons, authorities observed a rise in visitors filming content inside the temple, often causing congestion and disrupting the spiritual environment. The mobile prohibition, they say, is intended to restore decorum and ensure smoother movement during darshan.

Violations may lead to legal action

The committee has announced a zero-tolerance approach towards rule-breaking. Anyone found using a phone or attempting to take pictures inside will face legal consequences, though officials have not yet detailed specific penalties.

Posti stated that the decision was made keeping in mind the sanctity of the shrine and the convenience of devotees and reiterated that carrying mobile phones inside the temple premises, taking photos or videos, and creating reels are strictly forbidden. He added that any devotee found violating these rules will face legal action.

Officials have urged devotees to cooperate and maintain the temple’s spiritual atmosphere.

Online reaction largely positive

The ban has been widely discussed across social media, with many users supporting the initiative. Several have praised the decision as a way to restore the serenity of the temple and reduce crowding caused by people pausing to film or take photos. Others noted that while the rule will prevent visitors from capturing mementos of their pilgrimage, it may help preserve the sanctity of the space.

Temple reopening and ritual preparations

Kedarnath Temple will reopen on April 22 at 8 am, following ritual traditions. The ceremonial palanquin has already left Gaurikund and is making its way towards the shrine. The temple opens only once the palanquin reaches its destination.

The annual reopening follows a six-month closure through winter. This year’s date was set on Shivratri, when the opening time for Badrinath was also finalised.

Crowd management measures for the Yatra

Ahead of the pilgrimage season, Rudraprayag authorities have put in place an extensive traffic and crowd management plan to accommodate the anticipated surge in devotees. Police deployment is being increased across national highways, approach roads and key choke points.

Rudraprayag Superintendent of Police Niharika Tomar told ANI, "A detailed traffic plan has been formulated for the yatra in the district. Coordination has been established with nearby districts. The traffic system has been divided into 2 super zones and 11 sectors. Additionally, 13 mobile force teams have been constituted. A diversion plan will also be implemented in case of increased traffic pressure."

Officials say dividing the district into zones and sectors will enable faster responses during peak rush hours. Temporary and permanent parking areas have been set up to ease congestion along the yatra route.

Pilgrims will be allowed to begin darshan once the Kedarnath Temple opens on April 22.