Uttarakhand’s Char Dhaam—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—are revered pilgrimage sites that attract lakhs of devotees annually. Due to the harsh winter conditions at these high-altitude shrines, the idols of the deities are relocated to specific winter abodes. This unique tradition ensures that worship can continue even during the off-season when the main temples are inaccessible due to snow and freezing temperatures.
1. Yamunotri—Goddess Yamuna
Winter Abode: Kharsali Village, Uttarkashi
Yamunotri, situated at 3,293 meters, is the source of the Yamuna River and one of the holiest sites in India. As winter sets in, the temple at Yamunotri is closed due to heavy snowfall, and the idol of Goddess Yamuna is moved to Kharsali Village. Kharsali is home to a small temple where the goddess is worshipped during the winter months. Pilgrims can visit this shrine and continue their prayers to Goddess Yamuna until the shrine reopens in spring.
2. Gangotri—Goddess Ganga
Winter Abode: Mukhba Village
The Gangotri temple, at an altitude of 3,048 meters, is the sacred site where the Ganges is believed to have descended to Earth. Due to the severe winter conditions, the temple is closed from November to April. During this time, the idol of Goddess Ganga is relocated to Mukhba, a village located at a lower altitude, around 25 km from Gangotri. Mukhba is a peaceful village that serves as the winter abode of the goddess. Pilgrims can visit the small shrine there to offer their prayers during the winter months.
3. Kedarnath – Lord Shiva
Winter Abode: Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath
Kedarnath, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, sits at a high altitude of 3,584 meters, making it inaccessible in winter due to heavy snowfall. The idol of Lord Shiva is transferred to Ukhimath, a town located at 1,300 meters in the Garhwal region. Ukhimath hosts the Omkareshwar Temple, where Lord Shiva’s idol is placed and worshipped during the winter. The temple is a peaceful retreat for devotees, and special ceremonies are held to honor Lord
Shiva until the Kedarnath temple reopens for the summer pilgrimage season.
4. Badrinath – Lord Vishnu
Winter Abode: Joshimath
Badrinath, located at 3,133 meters, is one of the most popular of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Due to the extreme winter weather, the Badrinath temple is closed from November to April. During this time, the idol of Lord Vishnu is moved to Joshimath, a town at a lower altitude of 1,890 meters. In Joshimath, Lord Vishnu is worshipped in a small temple until the Badrinath shrine reopens. Joshimath itself is a sacred town with significant temples and is an important spiritual center for devotees during the winter months.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
The relocation of the deities to their winter abodes reflects the deep respect for both nature and tradition in Uttarakhand. These temples, although smaller and quieter than their high-altitude counterparts, are equally sacred and offer a more intimate experience of worship. For many pilgrims, visiting these winter abodes is an opportunity to escape the crowds of the summer months and engage in peaceful, contemplative prayer.
Visiting the Winter Abodes
- Best Time to Visit: The winter abodes are open from November to April, after which the deities are returned to their original temples for the summer pilgrimage season.
- Weather: Winters in Uttarakhand can be extremely cold with snow, so be prepared with warm clothing, including woolens, thermals, and waterproof footwear.
- Accessibility: The winter abodes are located at lower altitudes than the main temples, making them more accessible during winter. However, some of the roads may still be affected by snow, so check local weather conditions before traveling.
- Accommodation: Accommodation is available in the towns where the winter abodes are located. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage months.
The winter abodes of the Char Dham deities offer a unique and serene alternative for pilgrims seeking spiritual solace during the colder months. These sacred sites allow devotees to continue their worship while experiencing the quieter side of Uttarakhand’s spiritual landscape. Whether you are a pilgrim or a traveler looking for peace and reflection, visiting these winter temples is a memorable and profound experience.
A Warm Invitation to Bhanu Palace, Raintoli, Rudraprayag
For those visiting the sacred shrines and seeking a peaceful, comfortable stay, we warmly invite you to Bhanu Palace, located in the scenic Raintoli area of Rudraprayag. Nestled amidst the tranquil hills of Uttarakhand, Bhanu Palace offers a serene retreat with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rivers. Whether you’re in search of a place to relax after your spiritual journey or simply want to enjoy the beauty of the region, our hospitality ensures a memorable stay. Let Bhanu Palace be your home away from home during your pilgrimage to the Char Dham winter abodes.
Website: www.hotelbhanupalace.com
Mail: bhanupalaceraintoli@gmail.com
Contact: Sagar – 6398777575
Manish – 8218114307
Govind – 8920760678