Kedarnath Dham Opens April 22: Pilgrimage Season Begins with Sacred Rituals

The opening will take place in accordance with Vedic rituals, traditional customs, and Sanatan traditions. There is a strong sense of enthusiasm across the district, and the administration is in the final stages of completing all necessary arrangements for the occasion.

Meanwhile, the ceremonial idol (Utsav Doli) of Lord Kedarnath will depart from its winter seat at Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, following grand and traditional rituals. The temple premises have been beautifully decorated with flowers, and a large number of devotees have already started gathering.

As per tradition, after the evening aarti today at Omkareshwar Temple, a special worship will be performed for Bhukund Bhairav, the guardian deity of Kedarpuri.

According to the scheduled program, on April 19, the Utsav Doli of Lord Kedarnath will leave Ukhimath and reach Phata. On April 20, it will proceed from Phata to Gaurikund, where it will halt for the night at the sacred Gaurimai Temple.

In the next phase of the journey, on April 21, the Doli will depart from Gaurikund in the morning and reach the temple treasury (Bhandar) at Kedarnath Dham. Religious rituals at the shrine will formally commence thereafter, culminating in the opening of the temple doors to devotees on April 22 at 8:00 AM.

Meanwhile, Garhwal Divisional Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey has issued directives to all District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police to ensure the smooth conduct of the Char Dham Yatra 2026.

He stated that the movement of pilgrims' vehicles on the yatra routes will be permitted from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

In his instructions, the Commissioner further added that the movement of pilgrims' vehicles will remain restricted between 10:00 PM and 4:00 AM. During this period, only heavy vehicles will be allowed to operate.

- ANI