The annual cycle of spiritual pilgrimage to the revered Char Dham shrines is an age-old tradition that beckons devotees with the promise of divine blessings and salvation. As the year 2023 unfolds, the Char Dham shrines – Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri – are gearing up to open their doors and, eventually, bid farewell to the pilgrims who seek solace and spiritual enlightenment.
Char Dham Opening and Closing Dates:
The Char Dham shrines, nestled amidst the pristine natural beauty of the Himalayas, observe a well-defined schedule. They open with the onset of the summer months, typically in April or May, and embrace the faithful with open arms. This sacred journey is a spiritual highlight for countless devotees. The closing of the Char Dham shrines marks the beginning of winter, generally around October or November. During this period, these holy abodes remain inaccessible due to heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions. However, devotees can continue to worship at their winter abodes.
| Chardham Temples | Opening Date | Closing Date |
| Kedarnath | 25 April 2023 | 15 Nov 2023 |
| Badrinath | 27 April 2023 | 21 Nov 2023 |
| Gangotri | 22 April 2023 | 14 Nov 2023 |
| Yamunotri | 22 April 2023 | 15 Nov 2023 |
Badrinath Closing Dates:
The iconic Badrinath Dham, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is scheduled to open its gates to pilgrims on April 27, 2023. This momentous occasion coincides with Basant Panchmi, an auspicious day in the Hindu calendar. Pilgrims can immerse themselves in the divine energy of Badrinath until November 21, 2023, a tentative closing date that aligns with Vijayadashmi, another significant Hindu festival.
Kedarnath Closing Dates:
Kedarnath, a shrine devoted to Lord Shiva, invites pilgrims to embark on their spiritual journeys starting April 25, 2023. This sacred commencement coincides with the festival of Maha Shivratri, a day dedicated to Lord Shiva. The closing date for Kedarnath Temple is set for November 15, 2023, which coincides with the auspicious celebration of Bhai Dooj.
Gangotri Closing Dates:
Gangotri Temple, a revered site associated with the origin of the sacred river Ganges, will open its doors on April 22, 2023. This symbolic inauguration occurs on Akshay Tritya, a day of immense religious significance. Pilgrims can seek divine blessings and purity at Gangotri until November 14, 2023, the day following the festival of Diwali.
Yamunotri Closing Dates:
The hallowed Yamunotri Dham, dedicated to the goddess Yamuna, will welcome pilgrims on April 22, 2023. The auspicious occasion of Akshay Tritya is chosen for the commencement of this sacred journey. Devotees can offer their prayers and seek the blessings of the goddess until November 15, 2023, when the gates will be closed on the day of Bhai Dooj.
The closing of the Char Dham shrines signifies the transition from a season of spiritual journeys to a period of rest, rejuvenation, and reflection. These dates hold immense significance in the lives of devotees, guiding them in planning their visits and ensuring they partake in the divine energy of these sacred sites during the open months. As winter blankets the region with snow and cold, these holy abodes take temporary respite. Still, the faith and devotion of the pilgrims continue, even in their absence, at the winter abodes. The Char Dham yatra of 2023 promises to be a spiritually fulfilling experience for all those who undertake this sacred journey, providing an opportunity for self-discovery and divine connection amidst the majestic Himalayan landscape.
