Uttarakhand allows local pilgrims to visit Kedarnath temple

The famous Kedarnath temple in Uttarakhand is now open for local pilgrims, starting May 4, as per an order passed by Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat. In addition, pilgrims from Uttarakhand can also visit other Himalayan temples in the state.
The three districts in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, where the famous Char Dhams comprising Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are located, fall in the green zone, where no case of COVID-19 has been reported so far.


As per the state given by Uttarakhand CM, the state government has permitted inter-district travel of people with certain rules from May 4; more so, in the green zone districts. Despite these relaxations, the CM urged the people to observe social distancing while visiting the temples.
When questioned whether the devotees from other parts of India will be permitted to visit the temples in Uttarakhand, the CM reportedly said that the COVID-19 crisis is the major hurdle and the state government is waiting for things to cool down.

Gangotri and Yamunotri temples are situated in Uttarkashi district, while Kedarnath and Badrinath are located in Rudraprayag and Chamoli district respectively.

Although Kedarnath and Badrinath temples open in quick succession every year, this year, due to the COVID-19 situation, only Kedarnath shrine was reopened on May 29. The shrine of Badrinath will reopen on May 15. The beautiful temples of Gangotri and Yamunotri were reopened on April 26.