Kedarnath temple portals closed for winter; deity's palanquin begins journey to Ukhimath
The process began at 4 a.m. with special prayers and religious ceremonies, with all rituals performed in accordance with traditional customs before the temple doors were closed at the auspicious time
On Wednesday, November 11, 2026, the portals of the revered Kedarnath temple were sealed for the upcoming winter season, adhering to ancient rituals and Vedic chants. At 4 a.m., special prayers and religious ceremonies took place before the temple doors were sealed at the appropriate time.
Kedarnath, which generates 50.30 tonnes of waste in just five months, more than double the amount produced in the previous three years, closed its portals in accordance with traditional customs. Following closure, the processional palanquin of Lord Kedarnath was carried around the temple grounds before journeying to the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, the deity's winter residence.
The palanquin is expected to rest overnight in Rampur before proceeding to Guptkashi and finally reaching the Omkareshwar Temple on November 13. For the next six months, devotees will be able to offer prayers to the deity at the Ukhimath temple. In a parallel development, the ceremonial palanquin of Goddess Yamuna, accompanied by Shani Dev Maharaj, departed from Yamunotri for Kharsali, the deity's winter abode, amidst traditional rituals and folk music.
Villagers and pilgrims welcomed the palanquin with flowers and garlands upon its arrival at Yamunotri, where they enjoyed the first snowfall of the season.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
