Kedarnath Temple Reopens, Char Dham Yatra Begins

The sacred Kedarnath Temple in Uttarakhand opened its doors to devotees on Friday at 7 a.m., marking the beginning of the annual Char Dham Yatra. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami took part in the grand opening ceremony, which unfolded under tight security. The Char Dham Yatra, a major pilgrimage in northern India, includes visits to Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri. The event holds deep religious significance, drawing thousands of pilgrims from across the country.

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In preparation for the temple’s reopening, priests carried the Panchmukhi (five-faced) idol of Lord Kedarnath from Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath. They performed the traditional Panch-Snan (fivefold ceremonial bath) before placing the idol on a beautifully adorned palanquin (doli) for the journey. As the procession passed through villages, locals and school children lined the route to offer prayers and show devotion. The temple premises were decorated with vibrant flowers and traditional motifs, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere for arriving pilgrims.

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Enhanced Security and Pilgrim Facilities Ensure Safe and Smooth Kedarnath Yatra Experience

To manage the growing number of devotees, authorities implemented extensive security measures. Director General of Police Deepam Seth oversaw the deployment of additional personnel along the pilgrimage route and temple area. Authorities also installed CCTV surveillance systems to manage crowd flow and ensure safety. To preserve the sanctity of the rituals and prevent congestion, temple officials banned video recording and the creation of social media reels within the premises.

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The Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) confirmed that all essential facilities, including lodging, drinking water, and electricity, are in place for priests and support staff. To assist special groups, authorities set up dedicated registration counters for senior citizens, differently abled individuals, and foreign nationals. Additionally, helicopter services between Sonprayag and Kedarnath have resumed, offering a convenient option for those unable to trek. Passengers receive safety instructions before boarding to ensure a smooth and secure journey.