Deaths at Mt Everest this year caught international attention, but away from the media glare, another category of climbers — the pilgrims to some of the most sacred sites in the Himalayas — have been battling similar challenges: oxygen depletion at high altitudes and serpentine queues on narrow trek routes. Since 2017, 279 people en route Uttarakhand’s four Char Dham shrines have died, mostly due to cardiac arrests at altitudes 3,000 metres above sea level in the Himalayas.
This year alone, 61 pilgrims have died in the first 50 days of the yatra, which means over one death per day.
| Requirement |
Details |
| Purpose |
To ensure physical fitness for high-altitude travel during the Char Dham Yatra (Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath) |
| Is it Mandatory? |
Yes, especially for senior citizens (above 55 years), heart patients, and those with respiratory issues |
| Who Needs It? |
All pilgrims are advised, but it is mandatory for senior citizens and high-risk individuals |
| Recommended Tests |
- Blood Pressure
- ECG (Electrocardiogram)
- Blood Sugar
- Pulse Oximeter Test
- Basic Physical Examination
|
| Fitness Certificate Issued By |
Registered Medical Practitioner (MBBS or higher, government or private hospital) |
| Certificate Validity |
Usually valid for 6 months from the date of issue (check with local authorities) |
| Where to Get It |
Government hospitals, private clinics, and certified health camps authorized for Char Dham Yatra |
| Documents Required |
- Aadhar Card / Passport / Any Photo ID
- 2 Passport-size Photos
- Previous Medical Records (if any)
|
| Submit During |
Online or offline registration for the Char Dham Yatra |
| Additional Advice |
Acclimatize properly, carry prescribed medicines, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking/alcohol during the Yatra.
|
The annual yatra to Yamunotri , Gangotri , Kedarnath and Badrinath draws lakhs of pilgrims from across the country. The pilgrimage is much publicised and Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself has visited Kedarnath a number of times to meditate in a cave or to oversee reconstruction projects in the temple town. The footfall to Kedarnath has broken all records this year, with over 7 lakh devotees visiting the shrine since its portals opened on May 9.
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