Unmatched Enthusiasm for Char Dham Yatra
The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand is not just a sacred pilgrimage for devotees in India but also attracts thousands of international travelers. The online registration process for the yatra has begun, and within a short time, lakhs of devotees have already registered to embark on this spiritual journey.
The four revered shrines—Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—remain open only for a few months each year. Among these, Kedarnath Dham, dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds a special place in Hinduism. However, an intriguing question arises: Where does Lord Shiva reside when the doors of Kedarnath Dham close for winter?
👉 Register for Char Dham Yatra 2025 Here
When Will the Kedarnath Temple Open in 2025?
Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, the sacred Kedarnath Temple is set to reopen on May 2, 2025, after being closed for six months. Located at an altitude of 11,968 feet in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India and an integral part of the Char Dham Yatra.
The temple is open for only 6 to 7 months each year, typically from April-May to October-November. Due to extreme winter snowfall, the temple remains inaccessible for the rest of the year. Despite the limited time frame, nearly 20 lakh pilgrims visit Kedarnath annually.
If you are planning to undertake the Kedarnath Yatra, make sure to register online in advance and stay updated on the latest travel guidelines.
👉 Check Kedarnath Weather Updates
Kedarnath: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas
Kedarnath is not just a part of the Char Dham and Panch Kedar Yatra, but it is also one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas—the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple holds immense religious significance, attracting millions of devotees each year.
In 2024, the doors of Kedarnath were opened on May 10, and lakhs of devotees rushed to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. The rush was so overwhelming that many devotees could not have darshan and had to return. This year, devotees are expected to turn out in even greater numbers.
Where Does Lord Shiva Go After Kedarnath Temple Closes?
Every year, as winter approaches, the doors of Kedarnath temple are closed due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions. The Himalayan region experiences sub-zero temperatures, making it impossible for pilgrims to access the shrine.
However, devotees need not worry because Lord Shiva is believed to shift his divine presence to Ukhimath, a sacred site in Uttarakhand.
Ukhimath: The Winter Abode of Lord Kedarnath
- Ukhimath is a significant pilgrimage site in Panch Kedar, where the palanquin (Doli) of Lord Kedarnath is ceremoniously carried during winter.
- The idol of Kedarnath Mahadev is worshiped here throughout the winter months.
- Devotees can visit Ukhimath to continue offering prayers and seeking blessings from Lord Shiva even when Kedarnath remains closed.
👉 Know More About Ukhimath and Winter Worship
Key Travel Information for Kedarnath Yatra 2025
✅ Kedarnath Temple Opening Date: May 2, 2025
✅ Pilgrimage Duration: April-May to October-November
✅ Expected Footfall: 20+ lakh pilgrims
✅ Winter Abode of Lord Shiva: Ukhimath
✅ Online Registration: Mandatory for all pilgrims
👉 Plan Your Travel & Accommodation
Final Thoughts
The Char Dham Yatra, especially the Kedarnath pilgrimage, holds deep spiritual significance for devotees. While the temple doors close due to harsh winters, Lord Shiva’s presence remains uninterrupted at Ukhimath, allowing devotees to continue their worship.
If you plan to visit Kedarnath this year, ensure you register early, prepare for extreme weather conditions, and embrace the divine experience of this sacred journey. May Lord Shiva bless all the devotees on this holy path!
