The sacred portals of Shri Badrinath Dham will close for the winter season on November 25 at 2:56 pm. This marks the formal end of another successful pilgrimage year in Uttarakhand. The closing process, which follows age-old customs, runs for 4 days and reflects the deep faith associated with this Himalayan shrine. The temple has received more than 16 lakh devotees this year, showing the continued devotion of pilgrims even in harsh winter conditions. The annual closure also signals the final phase of the Chardham Yatra, as the doors of Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Kedarnath have already been closed in October.

Rituals Begin on November 21

The closing events at Badrinath Dham commence 4 days prior to the official date. The first ritual was held on November 21. This day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, whose shrine is located within the Badrinath temple premises. The worship of Lord Ganesha marks the beginning of the “Panch Puja” tradition. After this puja, the Ganesha temple doors are closed for winter. Devotees believe that no ritual can begin without the blessings of Lord Ganesha, who removes all obstacles and ensures an auspicious start. After this ritual, it is believed that Lord Badrinath prepares to enter his symbolic “Vaikunth” rest for the next six months.

Second Stage Rituals on November 22

The next phase took place on November 22. According to the Badrinath Pujari Samaj President, Ashutosh Dimri, special rites were held for Lord Adi Kedareshwar and Adi Guru Shankaracharya. Their temple portals, which also lie within the Badrinath complex, were respectfully closed after offering prayers. Before sealing the doors, the deities were symbolically bid farewell as part of an ancient custom.

Events from November 23 to 25

November 23 held special mythological significance. On this day, the sacred Khadak or Khando book, representing Vedic scriptures, was ceremonially closed. As per belief, the recitation of Vedic verses pauses during this period. This act shows the symbolic silence of the scriptures until the temple reopens next year. On November 24, Goddess Mahalakshmi was invoked with traditional offerings. Devotees believe that she brings prosperity and divine grace to the Dham before winter sets in. On the morning of November 25, the idol of Lord Badri Vishal was adorned with yellow flowers. This marks the final preparation before the temple doors close.

The Unique Tradition of “Sakhi Bhav”

A rare and sacred tradition is performed before the closing of the portals. In this ritual, the former chief priest, known as the Rawal, wears female attire. He symbolically escorts Goddess Lakshmi into the sanctum. This act is called “Sakhi Bhav”. According to tradition, this ritual represents Goddess Lakshmi accompanying Lord Vishnu as he enters his divine rest. After this, the idols of Kuber, Uddhav, and Garuda are taken outside the sanctum for their winter worship. Priests believe this ritual strengthens the spiritual connection between divine feminine energy and divine discipline.

Portals to Close on November 25

The final closure is scheduled for November 25 at 2:56 pm. The exact time is based on traditional calendar calculations. As soon as the portals close, the winter shift of the deities begins. The idols of Kuber and Uddhav are carried to the Yog Dhyan Badri Temple in Pandukeshwar. They will remain there until the spring. The idol of Garuda and the seat of Adi Guru Shankaracharya are taken to the Narsingh Temple in Joshimath. These winter rituals ensure the continuity of worship throughout the cold months when the main temple becomes inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. The eternal flame inside the Badrinath temple, however, continues to burn for the next six months.

Ceremonial Preparations and Attendance

For the closing day, the temple is beautifully decorated with flowers. Several dignitaries, temple officials, priests, and devotees will be present to witness the ceremony. The annual closure not only marks a significant religious milestone but also brings the spiritual journey of the Chardham Tour to a peaceful and meaningful conclusion for the year.