Kedarnath Temple to shut its door for winter on November 3

In a recent update, the doors of the revered Kedarnath Temple will shut for the winter season on November 3 at 8:30 AM.

The news was announced by the temple authorities and was confirmed by Vijay Prasad Thapliyal, the chief official of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee. 

November 3 is also Bhai Dooj, a holy Hindu festival that celebrates the bond of sister and brother.

During the winter months, devotees will be able to offer their prayers to Lord Kedarnath at his winter residence, the Shri Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.

Located in the upper Garhwal region, the Kedarnath Temple, along with the other Char Dhams, closes every year in October-November and reopens the following year in April-May.

Among the other Char Dhams, Yamunotri’s doors will also close on Bhai Dooj, while Gangotri’s doors will be shut the day after Diwali, on the occasion of Annakut.

The closure date for Badrinath Temple will be decided during the Dussehra festival.

As per ancient legend, Lord Vishnu’s incarnations, the great sages Nar and Narayan, performed intense penance on the Kedar peak in the Himalayas.

Pleased with their devotion, Lord Shiva appeared and, at their request, granted them the boon to reside forever in the form of a Jyotirlinga.