When Does the Char Dham Yatra Begin? Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham Open Today!
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Synopsis
The Char Dham Yatra, a revered pilgrimage, officially kicked off with the opening of Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham portals. This journey promises a profound spiritual experience in the breathtaking Himalayas, welcoming thousands of devotees each year.
Key Takeaways
- Char Dham Yatra commences with the opening of Gangotri and Yamunotri portals.
- Thousands of devotees participate annually.
- Significance of Akshaya Tritiya is highlighted.
- Each shrine holds immense religious value in Sanatan culture.
- Opening of Kedarnath and Badrinath Dham follows.
Uttarkashi, April 30 (NationPress) The revered Char Dham Yatra has officially begun on Wednesday, marked by the ceremonial opening of the portals of Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. This pilgrimage signifies the start of a spiritually enriching journey through the venerated Himalayan shrines.
After spending half a year in her winter residence located in Mukba village, the palanquin of Goddess Ganga was ceremoniously dispatched to Gangotri Dham on Tuesday.
The journey took a brief halt overnight at Bhairav Temple in Bhairavghati.
Tirtha Purohit Rajesh Semwal confirmed that the palanquin would continue to the Gangotri temple today, where the doors are set to open at 10:30 am with traditional rituals and Vedic chants.
Simultaneously, the palanquin of Maa Yamuna left her winter abode in Kharsali for Yamunotri Dham early this morning, with temple gates expected to open at 11:55 am to receive devotees.
On this occasion, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his greetings to the pilgrims.
In a post on X, he stated, "Today, on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, the doors of Shri Yamunotri Dham and Shri Gangotri Dham will officially open for the devotees. The Char Dham Yatra - 2025 commences today, symbolizing a unique blend of faith, devotion, and the priceless sentiments of Sanatan culture."
He further added, "On behalf of the state government, we warmly welcome all devotees to the Char Dham Yatra. We pray that with the blessings of Maa Yamuna and Maa Ganga, all devotees lead blessed lives."
The portals of Kedarnath Dham will open on Friday, followed by the opening of Badrinath Dham on Sunday.
The Panchmukhi idol of Lord Kedarnath was ceremonially dispatched from Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath on Monday after special prayers.
The Char Dham Yatra, regarded as one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India, draws thousands of devotees each year.
The journey follows a clockwise path through Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, with each location holding immense religious significance in Sanatan tradition.
Point of View
It symbolizes a significant aspect of India's cultural and spiritual tapestry. This pilgrimage not only attracts thousands seeking spiritual solace but also reinforces the importance of tradition in contemporary society. Upholding the values of faith and devotion, the Char Dham Yatra stands as a testament to India's rich heritage.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Char Dham Yatra?
The Char Dham Yatra is a revered pilgrimage in India, encompassing four sacred shrines: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, each holding immense religious significance.
When do the portals of the Dham open?
The portals of Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham opened today, April 30, with Kedarnath opening on May 5 and Badrinath on May 7.
What rituals are performed during the opening of the portals?
Traditional rituals, including Vedic chants and ceremonial send-offs, are performed during the opening of the portals to welcome devotees.
How many devotees participate in the Char Dham Yatra annually?
The Char Dham Yatra attracts thousands of devotees each year, making it one of the most significant pilgrimages in India.
What is the significance of Akshaya Tritiya?
Akshaya Tritiya is considered an auspicious day in Hindu tradition, marking the beginning of many new ventures and spiritual journeys.
