Char Dham Yatra: New rules for VIP darshan at Kedarnath and Badrinath implemented; find out the applicable fee...

A large number of pilgrims are currently arriving for the Char Dham Yatra. Heavy crowds are being witnessed, particularly at the Kedarnath and Badrinath shrines, with many pilgrims having to wait for hours in long queues for their turn. Amidst this, the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has issued a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) regarding VIP and protocol-based darshan. The new SOP aims to ensure that VIP darshan arrangements have minimal impact on the experience of general pilgrims while keeping the darshan process safe and organized.

**What is the fee for VIP darshan?**
According to the temple committee's new SOP, a fee of ₹1,100 per person will be charged to pilgrims availing of protocol or VIP darshan at the Badrinath and Kedarnath shrines. A receipt will be issued by the committee upon payment of the fee.

**How ​​can one avail of the VIP darshan facility?**
As per the SOP, a VIP darshan slip will be issued based on protocol information received by the district administration or the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee from the state government. Pilgrims will be granted priority access to darshan based on this slip. Those visiting under the protocol category will enter the temple premises via the stairs located to the right of the *Singhdwar* (main entrance).

**Rules for elderly and differently-abled pilgrims**
The temple committee has clarified that entry through Gate No. 2 will be restricted to the elderly (aged 70 and above), differently-abled pilgrims, and individuals belonging to special categories approved by the committee. If any other person attempts to misuse this facility, action will be taken against the staff member deployed at that gate.

**Protocol office relocated**
Under the new arrangement, the protocol office has been shifted to the temple committee's Neelkanth Rest House. Instructions have also been issued to all relevant departments and Indian Army coordination officers to assist with the darshan arrangements based on the protocol slip.

Therefore, if you are planning a Char Dham Yatra, please note that the VIP darshan facility is now available only under the prescribed procedure and fee structure. If you are planning a visit under protocol or VIP arrangements, please obtain the relevant information in advance. Meanwhile, regarding general devotees, the temple committee states that the new SOP will help make the *darshan* process smoother and more organized.

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