Winter Chardham Yatra Draws Thousands Despite Harsh Weather

The Winter Chardham Yatra witnesses over 15,000 pilgrims visiting the shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Amidst cold temperatures, significant arrangements ensure the comfort of devotees. An impressive influx of over 3 million pilgrims was recorded during the entire 2024 Yatra season.

The Winter Chardham Yatra has experienced a surge in interest with more than 15,000 pilgrims journeying to the sacred sites of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. State government reports confirm that as of December 30, the pilgrimage tally reached 15,314, highlighting the devoted enthusiasm among participants.

Officials have revealed that 6,482 pilgrims have made their way to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, the winter abode of Baba Kedarnath. Badrivishal in Pandukeshwar attracted 5,104 visitors, Mukhaba—the residence of Gangotri Dham—welcomed 3,114 devotees, while Kharsali, home to Yamunotri Dham, saw 614 pilgrims. On December 8, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the Panchkedar Winter Yatra at Omkareshwar Temple.

Despite harsh winter conditions, enthusiasm remains undeterred among devotees visiting these revered sites. The palanquins of Baba Kedar and Lord Madmaheshwar are placed at the Omkareshwar Temple for six months, drawing hundreds of daily pilgrims. As part of arrangements, robust measures have been implemented by authorities to support devotees. Notably, the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee reported a record-breaking attendance of over 3 million for the 2024 Yatra season.

(With inputs from agencies.)