Kedarnath Temple Opening Date 2024
The Kedarnath Temple is scheduled to open its doors for pilgrims on May 11, 2024, at 6:20 AM. This date was announced on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri in February 2024 as per the usual practice of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Samiti.
Kedarnath Temple Closing Date 2024
While the official closing date for the Kedarnath Temple in 2024 hasn’t been announced yet, it’s tentatively expected to be on November 14th. Here’s why:
- Historical Practice: The temple closes its doors two days after Diwali every year due to harsh weather conditions in the winter months.
- Diwali Date: Diwali falls on November 12th in 2024.
- Past Trends: In previous years, the closing date usually falls two days after Diwali.
Who Decides Kedarnath Temple Opening And Closing Date?
The opening and closing dates of the Kedarnath Temple 2024 are determined by a combination of traditional practices and astrological calculations:
Tradition:
- Closing: The Kedarnath Temple typically closes two days after Diwali every year due to harsh weather conditions in the winter months. This practice has been followed for centuries and aligns with the changing seasons in the Himalayas.
Astrological Calculations:
- Opening: The exact opening date is determined through astrological calculations by priests at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath. They consider various factors, including the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritya. This day falls on a specific date in the Hindu calendar and is considered an auspicious time for new beginnings.
Official Announcement
- Maha Shivaratri: The final decision and official announcement of both the opening and closing dates are made during the Maha Shivaratri festival, typically held in February or March. This announcement is made by the Badrinath-Kedarnath Mandir Samiti, which manages these two prominent temples.
Additionally:
- Weather conditions: While the closing date is traditionally set two days after Diwali, extreme weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances can lead to adjustments. The final decision is made by the temple authorities, prioritizing the safety of pilgrims.
Here’s a quick summary:
- Closing: Based on tradition, two days after Diwali (tentative date in 2024: November 14th).
- Opening: Based on astrological calculations and announced on Maha Shivaratri (officially announced date in 2024: May 11th).
It’s important to note that these dates are subject to change based on unforeseen circumstances. Always confirm the finalized dates closer to the time of your pilgrimage through official sources like the Badrinath-Kedarnath Mandir Samiti website or the Uttarakhand Tourism website.
About Kedarnath Temple
The Kedarnath Temple, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas in the Rudra Himalaya range of Uttarakhand, India, is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest Shiva temples in India, and holds immense significance for Hindu pilgrims.
The temple’s origins are shrouded in ancient history, with legends attributing its construction to the Pandavas, the heroes of the epic Mahabharata. However, historical evidence suggests that the temple was built sometime between the 8th and 12th centuries AD.
Kedarnath is revered as one of the four cardinal Dhams (abodes) in the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit, along with Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Badrinath. This pilgrimage is considered highly sacred, and completing it is believed to bring spiritual merit and liberation.
How to Reach Kedarnath Temple?
1. By Road: This is the most common way to reach Kedarnath, and the journey typically involves:
- Reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh. These major towns are well-connected to other parts of India by road, rail, and air.
- Taking a taxi or bus from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Gaurikund. This is the last point accessible by motor vehicles, located around 216 km from Rishikesh.
- From Gaurikund, embarking on a 16-kilometer trek to Kedarnath. This is a challenging but rewarding hike that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. You can also hire ponies, mules, or palanquins for the journey.
2. By Helicopter: Helicopter services are available from Guptkashi, Phata, and Sersi to Kedarnath. This is a quicker option but also the most expensive one. The availability of helicopter services can be affected by weather conditions.
Important points to remember:
- Weather conditions: The Himalayas are known for their unpredictable weather, especially during the winter months. It’s crucial to check the weather forecast before planning your trip and be prepared for sudden changes.
- Physical fitness: The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is challenging and requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Ensure you are in good health and properly acclimatized before attempting the hike.
- Permits: You need to obtain a mandatory registration form, also known as a Chardham Yatra Permit, before undertaking the trek. These can be obtained online or at registration counters in major towns like Haridwar and Rishikesh.
