LIVE· updated every 20 min💬 Ask a question ☀ Morning Brief Explained Visa-free countries Travel safety Airlines Airports

SafarSamacharसफ़र समाचारTravel news · by ClickMyLinksTravel news for India & Asia-Pacific · Powered by ClickMyLinks

Disruption Alerts Fog & Delays: your rights

⌕ Travel deals

Popular now

Explained

Why are Kedarnath and Yamunotri temples closing for winter?

Kedarnath and Yamunotri temples in Uttarakhand have closed for the winter season after welcoming over 28 lakh pilgrims this year. This is a regular practice, and the closure affects travel plans for those visiting these religious sites.

By SafarSamachar Desk · 11 Nov 2026

Illustration of the Kedarnath temple complex at golden hour with snow-capped peaks and prayer flags.

1What happened with Kedarnath and Yamunotri temples?

The temples in Uttarakhand closed for the winter season on Wednesday following traditional rituals. Pilgrims were allowed to have their final darshan before the temples were shut for the next six months.

2Who is affected by this closure?

Pilgrims who plan to visit Kedarnath and Yamunotri during the winter months are affected. They will need to visit the winter abodes of the deities instead of the main shrines.

3When did the temples close?

The Kedarnath temple closed at 8:30 am, and the Yamunotri temple closed at 10:28 am on Wednesday. These closures follow the annual pilgrimage season and are part of a long-standing tradition.

4Where are the deities moved during winter?

The deities of Lord Kedarnath are moved to the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, and the deity of Goddess Yamuna is moved to Kharsali, also known as Mukhimath, for worship during the winter months.

5What is the significance of this closure?

This closure is part of an ancient tradition where the deities are moved to safer locations during the harsh winter months. Pilgrims can still visit the winter abodes to continue offering prayers and performing religious rituals.

6How many pilgrims visited the temples this year?

Over 27.97 lakh pilgrims visited both Kedarnath and Yamunotri this year. Kedarnath received 19.13 lakh visitors, while Yamunotri received 8.84 lakh visitors.

7What happens during the closure period?

During the winter closure, religious rituals and daily worship continue at the winter abodes of the deities. Pilgrims can visit these locations to seek blessings and continue their devotional practices.

This explainer is based on our news report: Kedarnath, Yamunotri temples close for winter after 28 lakh pilgrims visit

Share

Telegram X Facebook

Sources

Written with AI assistance from the sources above and checked against them. Confirm rules, fares and schedules with the official source before you travel.