The doors of the ancient Madmaheshwar Temple, often termed the Second Kedarnath, in the Garhwal Himalayas will be ceremonially closed on November 18 for the winter season, authorities announced on Tuesday. The temple and the annual ritual form a key part of the winter spiritual cycle in the region.
Officials from the Badrinath‑Kedarnath Temple Committee said the closing of the sacred gate (kapaṭ) marks the end of the summer pilgrimage season. Following the closure, the temple’s movable charioted image (doli) of Lord Madmaheshwar will begin its transfer to the winter abode at Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath, the traditional seat of the deity during colder months.
Although pilgrims will no longer have physical access beyond November 18, the transfer of the doli will honour age-old religious custom and it will first rest at Gaundar village overnight, then reach Ransi village’s Rakeshwari temple on November 19, before proceeding to Giriya village on November 20, and finally arriving at Omkareshwar Temple on November 21 at 2 pm.
This transition ritual reflects the belief that the Garhwal deities relocate to warmer abodes as winter sets in, preserving the sanctity and continuity of worship. For local communities and pilgrims alike, it signifies the start of the off-season for the high-altitude shrines and a time when temples shift to more accessible venues.
The Madmaheshwar temple, nestled in the Rudraprayag district, draws devotees during the summer months from across India and abroad. The closure is a standard annual process, yet each year the event attracts attention for its spiritual significance and logistical planning.
As the doors close, the temple staff will begin preparations for the next year’s opening, while accommodations and services along the pilgrimage route will transition accordingly. The local administration has advised devotees planning visits to adjust their travel schedules and plan accordingly.
