Dehradun: The sacred portals of Shri Kedarnath Dham were ceremoniously opened to pilgrims on Friday at 7:00 AM, marking the beginning of the 2025 pilgrimage season. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was present at the revered temple to welcome devotees and take part in the spiritual celebrations.
As the temple doors opened, devotional tunes by the Indian Army band created a divine atmosphere, while flowers were showered from a helicopter, enhancing the joy and devotion of the gathered pilgrims.
Panchmukhi Doli Reaches Kedarnath
A day before the official opening, on May 1, the Panchmukhi Doli (palanquin) carrying the sacred idol of Lord Kedarnath arrived at the temple. The procession started from Gaurikund, with thousands chanting “Jai Baba Kedar”, filling the air with spiritual energy. The journey, steeped in tradition and faith, was described by CM Dhami as being filled with "reverence, faith, and devotion."
Taking to his official social media handle on X, the Chief Minister wrote:
“Today, after the ritualistic worship at Gaurikund, the Panchmukhi idol of Baba Kedarnath reached the holy Shri Kedar Dham. When the Doli reached the temple premises, there was an atmosphere of devotion among the devotees, the entire Dham echoed with the chanting of 'Jai Baba Kedar’.”
With thousands of pilgrims expected to visit, security in and around Kedarnath Dham has been significantly strengthened to ensure the safety and smooth movement of devotees.
Winter Closure and Opening Dates of Other Shrines
The doors of Kedarnath were closed last November for the winter season with full religious rituals and chants like “Om Namah Shivay” and “Jai Baba Kedar”, accompanied by the Indian Army band.
Meanwhile, other Char Dham temples are also set to reopen soon:
- Badrinath Dham: Opening on May 4
- Shri Tungnath Temple (Third Kedar): Reopening on May 2
- Shri Madmaheshwar Temple (Second Kedar): Reopening on May 21
The Char Dham Yatra—comprising Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—is one of the most sacred pilgrimages for Hindus. Every year, lakhs of devotees undertake this journey to seek blessings and spiritual fulfilment in the lap of the Himalayas.
With the doors of Shri Kedarnath Dham now open, the sacred yatra has officially begun for 2025. Devotees from across the country and the world are once again making their way to these ancient temples, carrying with them their prayers, hopes, and unwavering devotion.
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