kedarnath-gears-up-for-char-dham-yatra-registration-begins

Preparations are underway in full force for the opening of the for the Char Dham Yatra 2025. As part of the traditional rituals, the Panchmukhi (five-faced) idol of Lord Kedarnath was ceremoniously sent off to the shrine on Monday.

 

Prior to its departure, a special worship ceremony was held at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath in Uttarakhand. Following the rituals, the idol underwent the sacred Panch-Snan (fivefold ceremonial bath) and was adorned before being placed on a beautifully decorated palanquin (doli).

 

The send-off was marked by deep devotion, with local residents and schoolchildren lining the streets to welcome the doli.

 

According to the schedule, the Panchmukhi idol will halt tonight at its first stop, the Vishwanath Temple in Guptkashi. It will then proceed to Phata on Tuesday, April 29, and move towards Gaurikund on Wednesday, April 30.

 

The doli is expected to reach Kedarnath Dham by Thursday evening, May 1. The temple doors will formally open to devotees at 7:00 am on Friday, May 2, marking the official start of the pilgrimage season.

 

In a press release, Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) media in-charge Dr. Harish Gaur stated that essential facilities, including drinking water, electricity, and accommodations for priests and temple staff, are fully in place.

 

Meanwhile, with the registration process for the Char Dham Yatra beginning on Monday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed confidence that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth and successful pilgrimage season.

 

"All preparations for Char Dham Yatra 2025 have been done," CM Dhami saidKedarnath Temple , adding, "Yamunotri and Gangotri doors will open on April 30; Kedarnath Dham on May 2; whereas Badrinath Dham will open on May 4."

 

Dhami further informed that all security arrangements related to travel and accommodation have been completed.

 

Char Dham Yatra 2025 registration also began on Monday, with special registration counters set up for the specially-abled, senior citizens, and foreign nationals.

 

Whereas, 20 free registration counters have been installed as well, District Tourism Officer, Shushil Nautiyal, said.