Char Dham Yatra 2025 commences with opening of Yamunotri, Gangotri Dham portals

Devotees carry the palanquin (doli) of Maa Ganga as it leaves for Gangotri from its winter abode in Mukhba village, in Uttarkashi, on April 29 (Photo Courtesy: PTI)

The sacred Char Dham Yatra 2025, one of the most revered spiritual pilgrimages in Hinduism, officially commenced on Wednesday, April 30, with the ceremonial opening of the portals of Yamunotri and Gangotri Dhams in Uttarkashi district on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya.

Nestled in the serene Garhwal Himalayas, the Char Dham - comprising Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath - is visited by lakhs of devotees every year, seeking divine blessings and spiritual purification.

According to IANS, the palanquin (doli) of Maa Yamuna departed early morning from her winter abode in Kharsali village and reached Yamunotri Dham amidst traditional rituals and chants.

Similarly, after spending six months in Mukba village, the winter residence of Goddess Ganga, her palanquin was ceremoniously sent off to Gangotri Dham on Tuesday.

Garhwal Divisional Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed that all preparations for the annual pilgrimage have been completed. Speaking to the media, he said, "All arrangements have been made for the smooth conduct of the Char Dham Yatra. We prayed to Goddess Ganga for a successful yatra. The safety of devotees remains our top priority."

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also extended greetings to devotees. Taking to social media platform X, he posted, "Today, on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, the doors of Shri Yamunotri Dham and Shri Gangotri Dham have been formally opened to devotees. The Char Dham Yatra 2025 begins today - this sacred journey symbolizes a divine confluence of faith, devotion, and the eternal values of Sanatan culture."

"On behalf of the state government, I welcome and greet all devotees embarking on this holy journey. May the blessings of Maa Yamuna and Maa Ganga enrich everyone's life," he added.

The gates of Kedarnath Dham will open on May 2, followed by Badrinath Dham on May 4. On Monday, the Panchmukhi (five-faced) idol of Lord Kedarnath departed from Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, the deity's winter seat, en route to Kedarnath.

Also Read: Char Dham Yatra 2025: Idol of Lord Shiva leaves winter abode for Kedarnath shrine; gates to open on May 2

Authorities have implemented extensive arrangements for crowd management, emergency response, sanitation, and accommodation along the pilgrimage route, ensuring a safe and fulfilling experience for all yatris.

(With agency inputs)