The time has come for the annual winter closure of the sacred temples of Kedarnath Dham and Badrinath Dham, two of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. As per the announcement by the Shri badrinath kedarnath temple Committee (BKTC), the portals of Kedarnath will be closed on October 23, 2025, while Badrinath will follow on November 25, 2025.
Here's what you need to know:
1. kedarnath Dham: Closing on october 23
· Date of Closure: October 23, 2025.
· Ceremonial Closing: The gates of Kedarnath Temple will be closed for the winter season, following the traditional rituals. The Mukh Darshan (final viewing) of Lord Kedarnath will be the highlight of this ceremony. Devotees will have the last chance to pay their respects before the temple closes for the season.
· Winter Season: During the winter months, the temple remains closed due to heavy snowfall in the region. The idol of Lord Kedarnath is taken to Gauri Kund, where it is worshipped until the temple reopens in the spring.
2. badrinath Dham: Closing on november 25
· Date of Closure: November 25, 2025.
· Rituals and Significance: The closing of Badrinath Dham is a significant event in the region. Devotees flock to the temple during the closing days to seek blessings and witness the Chheda Ceremony (closing rituals). The idol of Lord Badrinath will be moved to its winter residence at Pandukeshwar for the duration of the winter.
3. Why Do the Temples Close for Winter?
The severe weather conditions in the Himalayan region make it dangerous for both pilgrims and temple staff to remain at the sites. The closure is part of a centuries-old tradition to protect the sanctity of the temples and ensure safety during the harsh winter. The temples will reopen in the summer months, with kedarnath usually reopening around April and badrinath in May, as the weather improves and the snow melts.
4. Char Dham yatra Season: A Sacred Pilgrimage
· Kedarnath and Badrinath are two of the most prominent destinations in the Char Dham Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage circuit that includes Yamunotri and Gangotri.
· The Char Dham pilgrimage is a significant spiritual journey for Hindus, and the closing of these temples marks the end of the pilgrimage season for the year.
5. What to Expect for Next Year
The opening dates for Kedarnath and Badrinath will be officially announced in the spring of 2026, and thousands of devotees will once again make their way to these temples as part of the Char Dham Yatra.
6. Final Thoughts:
If you're planning to visit these sacred shrines this year, be sure to make arrangements before the closing dates. The closure of Kedarnath on October 23 and Badrinath on November 25 marks the end of another pilgrimage season in the Himalayas. With its breathtaking beauty and spiritual significance, the Char Dham remains an unparalleled experience for devotees seeking solace and blessings in the lap of nature.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk..jpg)
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