In its latest move, the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) has introduced electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) authentication which will be based on Aadhaar for the Char Dham and Hemkund Sahib Yatra registrations. The step marks a move towards modernising the traditional pilgrimage experience. The project aims to improve the overall administration of the yearly pilgrimage expediting the registration process and bolstering security.
By integrating Aadhaar-based eKYC, pilgrims can register for the yatra more quickly. The UTDB seeks to decrease paperwork and registration time by utilising the Aadhaar authentication mechanism. Both the official website and the "Tourist Care Uttarakhand" mobile application, which include eKYC services connected to Aadhaar, allow pilgrims to finish their registration. In addition to speeding up the registration procedure, this digital method helps avoid duplicate registrations, guaranteeing that every devotee has an equal chance to make the pilgrimage.
The new Aadhar-based eKYC seemingly allows to closely monitor the pilgrims’ movements and give authorities the ability to curb the crowds and avoid situations like stampedes. Additionally, a pivotal feature would be its assistance in disseminating real-time weather reports which play a crucial role in high-altitude conditions. The administration stands to better control and subsequently improve the safety and overall experience of the pilgrims with better preparations for lodging, transportation and emergency services with the clarity of precise data on pilgrims and their locations.
The Aadhaar-based online registration system has been used by more than 7,50,000 pilgrims since registration opened on March 20, 2025. This high rate of adoption indicates how well the system works and how eager pilgrims are to adopt digital solutions for a more seamless journey. All potential pilgrims are still urged by the UTDB to use this service in order to guarantee a simple registration procedure.
The UTDB is still dedicated to maintaining the spiritual core of the Char Dham and Hemkund Sahib Yatra, even if the use of Aadhaar-based eKYC is a major technological achievement. By incorporating contemporary technology, the traditional pilgrimage is intended to be enhanced and devotees freed from the burden of practical difficulties to concentrate on their spiritual development.