Sacred Gates Unveiled
The spiritual journey to Kedarnath is set to recommence on April 22, 2026, with the auspicious opening of its temple doors at 8:00 AM. This significant
date was formally declared on the occasion of Mahashivratri, following meticulous Panchang calculations, during a ceremony held at the Shri Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath. Dignitaries including Kedarnath Rawal Bhimashankar Ling, Kedarnath MLA Asha Nautiyal, and Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) Chairman Hemant Dwivedi were present to witness this announcement. The proceedings also saw the finalization of the schedule for the departure of Lord Kedarnath’s Panchmukhi Doli, marking the official commencement of the pilgrimage season. The atmosphere at Shri Omkareshwar Temple was vibrant, adorned with approximately 9.5 quintals of flowers, community feasts organized by donors, and the fervent chants of "Jai Shri Kedar" from hundreds of devotees, creating a deeply spiritual ambiance.
Yatra Preparations Underway
BKTC Chairman Hemant Dwivedi extended Mahashivratri greetings globally, inviting pilgrims to embark on the Char Dham Yatra, which includes the revered sites of Shri Badrinath and Shri Kedarnath. He emphasized the urgency for officials to accelerate preparations, underscoring the pilgrimage's crucial role in blending faith, tradition, and local livelihoods. Dwivedi assured that the committee is dedicated to upholding the traditional rights of the Hak-Hakook holders and, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, is coordinating closely with the state government. The primary objective is to facilitate a pilgrimage that is not only safe and well-organized but also convenient for every devotee. Following this announcement, the committee will intensify efforts to finalize all necessary arrangements for the upcoming pilgrimage season, with the Badrinath Dham portals slated to open on April 23.
Ensuring Pilgrim Safety
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has affirmed that the state government is undertaking comprehensive preparations to guarantee the safety of all pilgrims undertaking the upcoming Char Dham Yatra. He confirmed that significant efforts are in motion to ensure a secure and seamless experience for everyone. The Chief Minister reiterated the official announcement that the gates of Kedarnath Temple will indeed open for devotees on April 22, reinforcing the commitment to a well-managed pilgrimage season. This assurance from the Chief Minister highlights the collaborative approach between the state administration and the BKTC to manage the influx of devotees effectively and maintain the sanctity of this important religious journey.
