Headline: Explore Uttarakhand's Sacred Winter Temples After Char Dham Yatra Closure

When the sacred Char Dham Yatra comes to an end each year due to the onset of winter, Uttarakhand continues to offer spiritual solace through its revered winter temples. Though the main shrines of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath close in October–November, devotees can still seek blessings at their designated winter abodes, keeping the divine connection alive amid the serene Himalayan backdrop.

1. Pandukeshwar Temple – The Winter Seat of Lord Badrinath
Located near Joshimath, Pandukeshwar is believed to be the place where King Pandu, the father of the Pandavas, worshipped Lord Vishnu. When the doors of Badrinath Temple close for the season, the idol of Lord Badrinath is placed in the Yoga Dhyan Badri Temple here. Surrounded by majestic peaks, Pandukeshwar lies around 503 km from Delhi. Travelers can reach it via the Delhi–Haridwar route or take a bus from Delhi’s Kashmere Gate to Rishikesh, followed by another ride to Pandukeshwar.

2. Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath – The Winter Home of Kedarnath
Situated in the Rudraprayag district, Omkareshwar Temple becomes the winter residence of Lord Kedarnath. The temple is not only an important religious site but also an architectural beauty, known for its stone carvings and tranquil setting. Located about 436 km from Delhi, it can be reached via NH7 or by taking a bus to Rishikesh or Dehradun, followed by a taxi to Ukhimath.

3. Jyotirmath Narsingh Temple – The Winter Seat of Lord Vishnu
Nestled in the Chamoli district, Jyotirmath Narsingh Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his fierce Narsingh avatar. The temple, known for its ancient architecture and serene surroundings, holds great significance during the closure of the Badrinath shrine. The distance from Delhi is around 488 km, accessible via Rishikesh, with taxis available for the final leg of the journey.

4. Mukhwa Village – The Winter Abode of Goddess Ganga
Mukhwa, a picturesque village near Harsil Valley in Uttarkashi district, becomes the winter home of Goddess Ganga when the Gangotri Temple shuts for the season. The idol of the Goddess is brought here, and rituals continue for six months. The village, with its traditional wooden homes and breathtaking mountain views, can be reached from Delhi via Haridwar, followed by a taxi to Harsil.

Experience the Char Dham Spirit Year-Round
The Uttarakhand government encourages pilgrims to visit these winter temples, allowing devotees to continue their spiritual journey even when the main shrines are inaccessible. Whether it’s the divine peace of Pandukeshwar or the tranquil charm of Mukhwa, these sacred destinations keep the essence of Char Dham Yatra alive throughout the year.