Yamunotri Dham Gates Open on Akshaya Tritiya; Char Dham Yatra Commences

Yamunotri Dham Gates Open on Akshaya Tritiya; Char Dham Yatra Commences
Yamunotri Dham, April 19, 2026 – On the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya today, the gates of the world-renowned Shri Yamunotri Dham were opened for devotees to offer their prayers. In accordance with the auspicious Lagna (planetary alignment), the ceremonial opening of the gates took place at 12:35 PM, accompanied by elaborate rituals and the chanting of Vedic mantras. With this event, the summer Char Dham Yatra has officially commenced.
Departure of the Doli Procession
This morning, the Doli (palanquin) procession began from Khushimath (Kharsali)—the winter abode of Goddess Yamuna—following traditional customs and rituals. Led by the Doli of Lord Shani, the palanquin of Goddess Yamuna departed for Shri Yamunotri Dham at 8:30 AM. During this departure, the villagers bid a grand and ceremonial farewell to Goddess Yamuna.
Traditional Musical Instruments and Band
Throughout the Doli procession, the Yamunotri Valley region resonated with the sounds of traditional musical instruments and the band of the ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police), Dehradun. The atmosphere remained steeped in devotion, filled with chants of “Jai Ma Yamuna” (Glory to Mother Yamuna).
The Gate-Opening Ceremony
After departing from Khushimath, the Doli procession arrived at Shri Yamunotri Dham, where Havan (sacred fire rituals), prayers, and other prescribed ceremonies were performed. Subsequently, at the auspicious moment of 12:35 PM, the gates were opened in accordance with tradition. A large number of devotees were present to witness this historic moment.
Arrival of Devotees Begins
With the opening of the gates, the flow of devotees into Shri Yamunotri Dham has begun. An atmosphere of faith and enthusiasm prevails throughout the entire region. For the next six months, devotees arriving from across the country and abroad will be able to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of Goddess Yamuna at Shri Yamunotri Dham.
Char Dham Yatra 2026
With the opening of the gates of Yamunotri Dham, the summer Char Dham Yatra has officially commenced. In the coming days, the portals of Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath Dham will also open.