Kedarnath Temple opens for devotees with Vedic rituals in 2026. CM Pushkar Singh Dhami attends ceremony, first prayer offered in PM Modi’s name. Char Dham Yatra begins with grand celebrations, flower decorations, and helicopter पुष्प वर्षा.
Rudraprayag, April 22, 2026
Amid deep faith, devotion, and spiritual fervor, the sacred portals of the eleventh Jyotirlinga, Kedarnath Temple, were ceremoniously opened for devotees on Wednesday with Vedic rituals and traditional procedures. As the temple portals opened at the auspicious time of 8:00 AM, the entire shrine resonated with chants of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Jai Shri Kedar.” The first पूजा (ritual worship) was performed in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
On this divine occasion, Pushkar Singh Dhami was present at the temple and offered prayers to Lord Kedarnath, seeking peace, prosperity, and well-being for the nation and the state. The ceremonial opening was further elevated by devotional tunes played by the Sikh Regiment band, adding to the spiritual atmosphere.
Chief Minister Dhami extended his greetings to the people of the country, stating that Kedarnath Dham is not only a major center of faith for followers of Sanatan Dharma but also a symbol of India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. He expressed confidence that this year’s Char Dham Yatra would set new records with the blessings of Lord Kedarnath.
He also highlighted that the state government has made extensive arrangements to ensure a safe, smooth, and well-organized pilgrimage. He urged the people of Uttarakhand to welcome pilgrims from across India and abroad with warmth and hospitality.
The Chief Minister noted that after the 2013 disaster, the temple underwent a grand and divine reconstruction under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, transforming it into a global spiritual attraction.
Temple Adorned with Flowers, Devotees Immersed in Devotion
The Panchmukhi (five-faced) ceremonial palanquin of Lord Kedarnath had reached the shrine a day earlier from its winter seat at Omkareshwar Temple, passing through Guptkashi, Phata, and Gaurikund. The rituals for opening the temple began at 5:00 AM.
Rituals inside the sanctum were performed by Rawal Bhimashankar Ling, priest T. Gangadhar, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Kedarnath MLA Asha Nautiyal, and other priests and scholars. With prayers for universal welfare, the temple portals were formally opened at 8:00 AM.
On this auspicious occasion, the temple was beautifully decorated with over 51 quintals of flowers. As the doors opened, petals were showered from helicopters, leaving devotees overwhelmed with emotion and devotion, and creating a truly divine atmosphere.
