Uttarakhand: Snowfall at Char Dham shrines before portal opening, cold April raises worry amid IMD alerts

by

Dehradun: The weather has changed drastically in Uttarakhand just days before the Char Dham portals are set to open. Heavy rain, hailstorms, and snowfall in Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri have surprised devotees and residents, bringing back winter-like chill in April.

Since Tuesday night, rain has been falling continuously across the state. In Dehradun, strong winds and showers dropped the maximum temperature by six degrees Celsius, while the minimum also fell below normal. Cloudy skies and cold winds made the capital feel unusually cold for this time of year.

Snowfall at Char Dham shrines

High-altitude areas above 3,000 meters, including Kedarnath and Badrinath, recorded fresh snowfall. Gangotri and Yamunotri also witnessed snow, making the shrines look picturesque but raising concerns about accessibility ahead of the annual pilgrimage. The Char Dham portals are scheduled to open later this month, and the sudden change in weather has added challenges for preparations.

See the tweet showing snowfall in Gangotri 

Weather forecast ahead

According to the Meteorological Center, the current pattern is due to western disturbance activity. Rain and snowfall are expected to continue in hilly districts until April 13. Light to moderate rain is likely in Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh, while snowfall may occur at altitudes above 3,000 meters.

Temperatures are expected to drop further by 4 to 6 degrees Celsius in the next two days. However, after April 10, maximum temperatures may rise again by 5 to 7 degrees Celsius.

Challenges Ahead

Temple committees and local authorities are working to ensure that the snow does not delay the opening of portals. Roads leading to Kedarnath and Badrinath often require heavy clearance work after snowfall, and this year’s early April snow has added extra pressure.

Despite the challenges, devotees are hopeful. Many believe that snowfall at the shrines is a sign of divine blessing, even as authorities stress the importance of safety and preparedness.

Officials have advised pilgrims to prepare for cold conditions

The Char Dham Yatra is expected to begin on schedule, but officials have advised pilgrims to prepare for cold conditions and stay updated with official advisories. With lakhs of devotees expected, the focus remains on ensuring safe travel, smooth arrangements, and preserving the sanctity of the shrines.

Pilgrimage preparations under watch

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as the Char Dham Yatra approaches. The portals of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri are scheduled to open later this month, and snowfall could delay road clearance and shrine preparations. Officials have assured that safety measures are being taken to ensure smooth travel for devotees.

For now, the unusual April snowfall has reminded residents and pilgrims of the unpredictable nature of Himalayan weather, reinforcing the need for caution and preparedness during the sacred yatra season.