As autumn paints Uttarakhand in shades of gold and amber, the state’s revered Char Dham temples are preparing to close their doors for the winter, signaling the end of the 2025 pilgrimage season. Pilgrims are making their final journeys, offering prayers, seeking blessings, and soaking in the spiritual serenity of the Himalayan shrines before the deities are moved to their winter abodes.
Kedarnath Temple, perched at an altitude of 3,583 meters, will conclude its season on October 23 at 8:30 AM, coinciding with the festival of Bhai Dooj. Following centuries-old tradition, the idol of Lord Kedarnath will be carried in a five-faced palanquin to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, where worship will continue throughout the winter. The annual procession, known as the Palki Yatra, draws devotees and priests who accompany the deity with rituals, hymns, and prayers along the scenic Himalayan trails.
Gangotri Temple will close a day earlier, on October 22 at 11:36 AM during the Abhijit Muhurat, coinciding with the Annakoot festival. The idol of Goddess Ganga will be transported to her winter abode in Mukhba village, nestled 25 km from the temple, where she will remain for the next six months. Pilgrims often visit Mukhba during this period to continue their devotion, keeping the spiritual connection alive even during winter.
Yamunotri Temple, the source of the sacred Yamuna River, is scheduled to close on October 23 at 12:30 PM, also on Bhai Dooj. The idol of Goddess Yamuna will be shifted to Kharsali village, following the traditional practice of seasonal worship that has been observed for generations.
Badrinath Temple will remain open a little longer, with its doors closing on November 25 at 2:56 PM. The temple will host five days of elaborate ceremonial rituals starting November 21 before moving the deities to their winter abodes in Pandukeshwar and Joshimath, where devotees can continue to offer prayers until the temple reopens in summer 2026.
While the Char Dham shrines rest for the winter, pilgrims can still pay homage at the deities’ winter residences. Authorities urge visitors to check official updates for temple timings, travel arrangements, and health and safety guidelines, ensuring a smooth and meaningful pilgrimage experience even during the off-season.
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