Following the opening of the Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Kedarnath temples, devotees eagerly await the opening of the Badrinath temple. The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand officially commenced on April 30th.
Badrinath Kapat Opening 2025: The final and most significant leg of Uttarakhand's divine Char Dham Yatra is the Badrinath Dham, the abode of Lord Vishnu. The pilgrimage in 2025 holds special significance, as the doors of the Badrinath temple will open for devotees at 6 AM on May 4th.
Prior to this, the Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Kedarnath temples opened on April 30th and May 2nd, respectively. The opening of the Badrinath temple marks the official completion of the Char Dham Yatra.
Why Badrinath Dham is Special
Nestled on the banks of the Alaknanda River at an altitude of approximately 3,100 meters, Badrinath Dham is a prominent pilgrimage site in the Garhwal region. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here in his Nara-Narayana form. Legend holds that Lord Vishnu himself performed penance here in the forms of Nara and Narayana. Therefore, it is believed that visiting this place provides a path to salvation (moksha).
Pre-Opening Traditions
The doors of the Badrinath Dham are opened annually after Akshaya Tritiya on a specific date and auspicious time. In 2025, this auspicious day falls on May 4th. Before the opening, the processional deity from the Narasimha temple in Joshimath is brought to Badrinath in a grand procession after special prayers and rituals. During this journey, devotees in numerous villages welcome the deity with flowers and songs.
Special Significance of the Puja
The worship arrangements at the Badrinath temple are unique. The chief priest, known as the "Rawal," is a Nambudiri Brahmin from Kerala. Only the Rawal has the right to enter the sanctum sanctorum and touch the idol of Lord Badrinath. Upon opening, the deity is adorned with a special sesame oil anointing that continues for the next six months.
Since Badrinath Dham is located at a high altitude, the weather can be unpredictable. Pilgrims should carry warm clothes, an umbrella, medicine, and other essential items. Convenient road access and helicopter services are now available to reach the temple.
