The ongoing Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand has witnessed a remarkable turnout this year, with over 1.6 million pilgrims visiting the sacred shrines, including Hemkund Sahib, in just a month. The pilgrimage, which began on April 30, has seen an unprecedented spiritual fervor from devotees across India and abroad.
Kedarnath Dham has seen an extraordinary influx of devotees, with over 6.5 lakh pilgrims visiting the shrine within just 30 days of its opening on May 2. This remarkable turnout reflects the profound spiritual devotion that continues to attract worshippers to the holy site.
The annual Char Dham Yatra commenced on Akshaya Tritiya, with the portals of Yamunotri and Gangotri opening on April 30 amid Vedic rituals. Kedarnath Dham followed on May 2, and Badrinath Dham opened on May 4. The pilgrimage season typically spans from April-May until October-November, as the high-altitude temples remain closed during the harsh winter months.
One of the most revered temples in the country, dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath draws countless devotees and visitors from across the country. The Char Dham Yatra holds profound spiritual significance in Hinduism.
The Char Dham Yatra involves visiting four holy shrines — Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath — in a prescribed clockwise sequence. The yatra can be undertaken by road or air, with helicopter services also available. Some pilgrims opt for a Do Dham Yatra, visiting two shrines — typically Kedarnath and Badrinath — as highlighted on the Uttarakhand Tourism Department's official portal.
The surge in pilgrim numbers reflects not only a revival of religious tourism post-pandemic but also a deepening spiritual commitment among devotees undertaking this sacred Himalayan journey.
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