Uttarakhand Chief Minister Launches Winter Char Dham Yatra, Paving the Way for Year-Round Pilgrimage
Click to start listening
New Delhi, Dec 8 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative to promote religious tourism and stimulate economic growth, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the Winter Char Dham Yatra at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, which serves as the winter seat for Lord Kedarnath. The ceremonial event commenced with traditional prayers and rituals, representing the official launch of a pilgrimage that will now be available throughout the year, marking a significant milestone in the state’s cultural and economic landscape.
During his two-day trip to the Rudraprayag district, CM Dhami addressed a long-awaited request on the second day, announcing the transformation of the Char Dham Yatra into a year-round religious circuit. Historically, this yatra would halt during the winter months when the Himalayan shrines become inaccessible due to snow. With this new initiative, the winter residences of the deities, including the Omkareshwar Temple in Kedarnath, along with other designated locations in Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri, will now welcome pilgrims during the colder months.
At the event, CM Dhami remarked, “The winter Char Dham Yatra is a pivotal step in positioning Uttarakhand as a year-round pilgrimage destination. We are diligently overseeing all arrangements to ensure the success of this project. I am optimistic that this will not only enhance the religious significance of our state but also provide a continuous source of livelihood for local communities.”
The Winter Char Dham Yatra is projected to attract pilgrims from all over the country and abroad, further boosting Uttarakhand’s economy by encouraging tourism even during off-peak seasons.
The event witnessed a large turnout, including notable leaders such as Rudraprayag MLA Bharat Singh Chaudhary, Kedarnath MLA Asha Nautiyal, BKTC (Badri-Kedar Temple Committee) President Ajendra Ajay, BJP District President Mahavir Panwar, temple priests, and numerous residents.
By facilitating a 12-month pilgrimage, this initiative strives to balance tradition, spirituality, and economic sustainability, reinforcing the state’s identity as Devbhoomi, the Land of Gods.
