On the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, the opening date of the portals of Kedarnath Temple, one of Uttarakhand’s most revered Himalayan pilgrimage sites, was officially announced. The temple doors will open for devotees on April 22, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. in Vrish Lagna, following traditional rituals and astrological calculations conducted at Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath. The announcement has sparked excitement among devotees across the country.
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Kedarnath Dham: Auspicious Timing Declared on Mahashivratri
As per tradition, priests and Vedic scholars determined the sacred timing on Mahashivratri. This year, T. Gangadhar Ling has been appointed as the chief priest of Kedarnath Dham. Following the declaration, the temple committee and administration accelerated preparations to ensure smooth pilgrimage arrangements for visitors.
Ritual Processions Begin April 18
The ceremonial process will commence on April 18 with special prayers to Lord Bhairavnath. On April 19, the Panchmukhi palanquin of Lord Kedarnath will depart from the winter seat at Ukhimath and proceed toward the shrine through traditional halts, reaching Kedarnath on April 22. Devotees will then be able to offer prayers to the sacred self-manifested Shivling, marking the formal beginning of the Char Dham Yatra.
Administration Speeds Up Preparations
Authorities have intensified efforts to clear snow from trekking routes and restore facilities such as drinking water, electricity, healthcare, and security. Special guidelines have also been issued for crowd management and pilgrim safety during the yatra season.
Full Char Dham Opening Schedule
After Kedarnath, the portals of Badrinath Temple will open on April 23 at 6:15 a.m. Meanwhile, Gangotri Temple and Yamunotri Temple will open earlier on April 19. With all four dates confirmed, preparations and enthusiasm among pilgrims have significantly increased.
