Dehradun, April 19 (NationPress) The doors of Shri Yamunotri Dham and Shri Gangotri Dham are officially opening today on the auspicious day of Akshay Tritiya, heralding the commencement of the annual Char Dham Yatra.

The temples have been adorned with vibrant flowers, and extensive security measures have been implemented.

The ceremonial palanquin, known as 'Doli', carrying Goddess Ganga, has already made its way from her winter residence in Mukhba village after performing special prayers and rituals. This event is celebrated with immense enthusiasm by both locals and pilgrims. Similarly, the palanquin for Goddess Yamuna has also left her winter sanctuary in Kharsali village.

The village is alive with festivities, echoing with chants of 'Jai Maa Gange', complemented by traditional musical instruments such as 'dhol-damau' and 'ransingha'. Numerous devotees, priests, sadhus, and officials have joined in the procession, showcasing a profound sense of faith and community.

On this day, the divine idols will be placed within the temple grounds of Yamunotri and Gangotri.

In a post on X, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated, "On this sacred occasion of Akshay Tritiya, the gates of Shri Gangotri and Shri Yamunotri Dham will be opened for devotees, complete with all rituals. This also marks the inauguration of Char Dham Yatra 2026."

He assured that the state government has made "comprehensive and strong" preparations to ensure that the Char Dham Yatra is "safe, well-organized, and friendly for devotees".

CM Dhami continued, "I pray to Mother Ganga and Mother Yamuna to bless your lives with happiness, prosperity, and success."

Additionally, the Chief Minister extended a warm welcome to all pilgrims visiting the divine land of Uttarakhand. He emphasized the importance of following rules during the pilgrimage and urged everyone to contribute toward a plastic-free environment during this sacred journey. "May the Lord bless this holy pilgrimage with joy, prosperity, and spiritual growth for all," he added.

In the meantime, Shri Kedarnath Dham is scheduled to open on April 22, followed by Shri Badrinath Dham on April 23.

As of Saturday evening, a total of 18.9 lakh pilgrims had registered online for the yatra, with Kedarnath leading at 6.5 lakh registrations, followed by Badrinath (5.5 lakh), Gangotri (3.3 lakh), and Yamunotri (3.2 lakh).

Earlier on Saturday, CM Dhami officially launched the yatra from the Char Dham Yatra Transit Camp in Rishikesh, marking the formal beginning of this revered pilgrimage in Sanatan Dharma. He interacted with devotees, shared his greetings, and wished them a safe and fulfilling spiritual journey.

Due to chilly weather conditions in the hilly areas, additional facilities have been arranged across all four shrines: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.

Traditionally, the Char Dham Yatra commences from Haridwar or Rishikesh and proceeds through Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and concludes at Badrinath, attracting thousands of devotees from all over India and beyond annually.