Sacred Opening Declared
The much-anticipated reopening date for the Kedarnath Temple has been officially set for April 22, 2026, at 8:00 AM. This significant announcement was
made on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, following traditional Panchang calculations, at the Shri Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath. The ceremony was graced by the presence of revered figures, including Kedarnath Rawal Bhimashankar Ling, Kedarnath MLA Asha Nautiyal, and the Chairman of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC), Hemant Dwivedi. Alongside them were BKTC Vice Chairman Vijay Kapruwan, CEO Vijay Prasad Thapliyal, other committee members, religious scholars, community leaders, and administrative officials, all coming together to formalize the pilgrimage schedule.
Panchmukhi Doli Schedule Finalized
Alongside the declaration of the temple's reopening, a crucial part of the ceremony involved finalizing the official schedule for the journey of Lord Kedarnath's Panchmukhi Doli, which signifies the divine procession heading towards the Dham. This meticulous planning ensures that the sacred traditions are upheld as the deity is symbolically moved to the temple. The Shri Omkareshwar Temple itself was a spectacle of devotion, adorned with approximately 9.5 quintals of flowers for the occasion. Community feasts, known as 'bhandaras,' were organized by benevolent donors, and the air was thick with spiritual fervor as hundreds of devotees chanted "Jai Shri Kedar," creating an unforgettable atmosphere of faith and reverence.
Char Dham Yatra Preparations
BKTC Chairman Hemant Dwivedi conveyed Mahashivratri greetings to devotees worldwide and extended a warm invitation to embark on the sacred Char Dham Yatra, which encompasses both Shri Badrinath and Shri Kedarnath. He emphasized the critical need for prompt preparations, directing officials to expedite all arrangements for the upcoming pilgrimage season. Dwivedi highlighted that the yatra is not merely a spiritual journey but also a vital nexus of faith, tradition, and economic sustenance for the region. He particularly acknowledged the importance of the Hak-Hakook holders, reaffirming the committee's dedication to protecting their ancestral rights. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the BKTC is working in close collaboration with the state government to guarantee a pilgrimage that is both secure and exceptionally well-organized for every devotee.
Badrinath Temple Date
The Chairman also shared the opening date for the revered Shri Badrinath Dham, which is scheduled to welcome pilgrims on April 23. With both key temple opening dates now confirmed, the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee is poised to intensify its efforts to complete all necessary arrangements. This includes ensuring smooth logistical operations, adequate facilities, and robust safety measures across both pilgrimage sites. The coordinated approach between the temple committee and the state government aims to provide a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience for all who undertake this sacred journey.
Chief Minister's Assurance
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his assurance regarding the comprehensive preparations for the forthcoming pilgrimage season. He emphatically stated that the state government is fully committed to ensuring the utmost safety and security of all devotees undertaking the yatra. The Chief Minister's announcement on Sunday confirmed the April 22 opening date for the Kedarnath Temple gates, reinforcing the state's readiness to host pilgrims. This commitment from the highest level of governance underscores the importance placed on facilitating a smooth and secure spiritual journey for thousands of devotees who converge on these sacred Himalayan shrines.
