Badrinath: The holy shrine of Badrinath Dham, also known as Bhu-Vaikunth, opened its doors today at 6:15 AM for devotees. The auspicious moment took place
during the Punarvasu Nakshatra and Sarvartha Siddha Yoga, making it spiritually significant. The opening ceremony was performed with full rituals, chanting of Vedic mantras, and traditional customs.
#WATCH | Uttarakhand: As the portal of Badrinath Dham open, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami says, “With the opening of the portals to Badrinath Dham today, Char Dham is completely open. With the blessings of all four dhams and the blessings of Bhagwan Badri Vishal, may the Char Dham yatra… pic.twitter.com/iqHsTvmq7t
— ANI (@ANI) April 23, 2026
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami was present at the temple to witness the sacred event. Thousands of devotees from across India and abroad gathered to see the eternal flame (Akhanda Jyoti) and offer prayers to Lord Badri Vishal. The atmosphere was filled with devotion, chants, and conch sounds, creating a divine experience for all present.
Temple complex was beautifully decorated
The temple complex and surrounding monasteries were beautifully decorated with 25 quintals of orchids and marigold flowers, making the entire area glow with vibrant colors. The decorations added grandeur to the occasion, symbolizing purity and devotion. The sight of the temple adorned with flowers left devotees mesmerized.
Pilgrims had started arriving in large numbers
Even before the doors opened, pilgrims had started arriving in large numbers. Nearly 550 vehicles reached Badrinath, carrying devotees eager to participate in the yatra. By morning, more than 10,000 devotees were present at the shrine, highlighting the immense faith and enthusiasm for the Char Dham Yatra.
All four shrines are accessible to devotees
The opening of Badrinath Dham marks the continuation of the Char Dham Yatra, as the doors of Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Kedarnath had already opened earlier this week. With Badrinath now open, all four shrines are accessible to devotees for the summer pilgrimage season.
The rituals included the arrival of Uddhav (oil pot) and the throne of Adi Guru Shankaracharya, which reached Badrinath Dham on Wednesday. In addition, Kuber’s palanquin reached Bamni village for the night stay before the opening. These traditions, followed for centuries, add to the spiritual depth of the yatra.
Most important pilgrimage sites in India
Badrinath Dham, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India. It is part of the Char Dham and holds immense religious significance. Devotees believe that visiting Badrinath brings blessings, peace, and liberation. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped here as Badri Vishal.
The opening ceremony was marked by Havan, Abhishek, and Aarti, performed by the temple priests. Devotees joined in the first Aarti of Lord Badri Vishal, making the moment truly divine. The chants of mantras and the sight of the eternal flame created a spiritual atmosphere that touched every heart.
With the doors of Badrinath Dham open, the summer pilgrimage season has officially begun. Thousands of devotees are expected to visit the shrine in the coming months, combining spiritual devotion with the breathtaking natural beauty of the Himalayas.
