Panchmukhi idol departs for Kedarnath Dham; Temple doors to open on May 2

ANI April 28, 2025 210 views

The revered Panchmukhi idol has begun its ceremonial journey to Kedarnath Dham, marking the start of the Char Dham Yatra preparations. After traditional rituals in Ukhimath, the idol will travel through Guptkashi, Phata, and Gaurikund before reaching Kedarnath on May 1. The temple doors will officially open for devotees on May 2, with CM Dhami assuring all arrangements are complete. Registration for the pilgrimage has also begun, with special provisions for senior citizens and foreign nationals.

"All preparations for Char Dham Yatra 2025 have been done" - CM Pushkar Singh Dhami
Ukhimath, April 28: The preparations for the opening of Kedarnath Temple for Char Dham Yatra 2025 are in full swing. As part of the rituals leading up to the event, the Panchmukhi (five-faced) idol of Lord Kedarnath was ceremonially sent off to the shrine on Monday.

Key Points

1

Panchmukhi idol starts journey from Omkareshwar Temple

2

Stops at Vishwanath Temple in Guptkashi

3

Kedarnath doors open May 2 at 7 AM

4

CM Dhami confirms full Yatra preparations

Before embarking on the journey, a special worship ceremony was held at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, Uttarakhand.

The Panchmukhi idol, after undergoing a traditional Panch-Snan (fivefold ceremonial bath) and decoration, was placed on a decorated palanquin (doli). School children and residents lined the streets to welcome the doli with devotion.

The idol will rest tonight at its first stop-Vishwanath Temple in Guptkashi.

According to the schedule, the doli will proceed to Phata on Tuesday, April 29. It will then move to Gaurikund on Wednesday, April 30. On Thursday, May 1, it is expected to reach Kedarnath Dham by evening.

The Kedarnath temple doors will open for devotees at 7:00 AM on Friday, May 2.

Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) media in-charge, Dr. Harish Gaur, said in a press release that preparations at Kedarnath Dham are complete. Arrangements have been made for drinking water, electricity, and accommodations for priests and temple staff.

Additionally, with the registration process for the Char Dham Yatra commencing on Monday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is confident that all preparations are in place to conduct a successful Yatra.

"All preparations for Char Dham Yatra 2025 have been done," CM Dhami told ANI, adding, "Yamunotri and Gangotri doors will open on April 30; Kedarnath Dham on May 2; whereas Badrinath Dham will open on May 4."Dhami further informed that all security arrangements related to travel and accommodation have been completed.

Char Dham Yatra 2025 registration also began on Monday, with special registration counters set up for the specially-abled, senior citizens, and foreign nationals. Whereas, 20 free registration counters have been installed as well, District Tourism Officer, Shushil Nautiyal, said.

Reader Comments

P
Priya S.
So excited for the yatra season! 🙏 The procession sounds beautiful with school children welcoming the doli. Wishing safe travels for the Panchmukhi idol to Kedarnath. Jai Baba Kedar!
R
Rahul K.
The article mentions good preparations, but I hope they've improved the sanitation facilities along the route this year. Last time I went, that was a major issue despite the spiritual experience.
A
Anjali M.
The fivefold ceremonial bath tradition is so fascinating! Does anyone know more about what each bath represents? Would love to learn more about these rituals.
V
Vikram P.
My family has been planning this pilgrimage for years. Glad to hear about the special counters for seniors - my parents will appreciate that. The detailed schedule helps with our planning too.
S
Sunita R.
The image of the decorated palanquin moving through the Himalayan villages gives me goosebumps! Such a beautiful blend of devotion and tradition. Can't wait to see pictures from the procession.
A
Amit D.
Good to see the government taking security seriously. After the 2013 floods, proper arrangements are crucial. Hope the weather cooperates this season!

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Kedarnath Dham Panchmukhi idol Char Dham Yatra 2025 Uttarakhand Pushkar Singh Dhami
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