Location:
Uttarakhand, India
Temples: Tungnath (Third Kedar) & Madmaheshwar (Second Kedar)
Opening Dates:
- Tungnath Temple:
April 22, 2026 at 11 a.m.
- Madmaheshwar Temple:
May 21, 2026 at 11 a.m.
Tradition Behind the
Dates
The opening dates of the
Panch Kedar temples are determined through Panchang (Hindu Calendar)
calculations, performed at Omkareshwar temple in Ukhimath and Markateshwar
temple in Makummath. This centuries-old tradition ensures that the
pilgrimage season begins on auspicious timings, often announced on Baisakhi.
Madmaheshwar Rituals
- May 17:
Bhoga idol of Lord Madmaheshwar placed in the Sabhamandap; villagers offer
new grains.
- May 19:
Palanquin departs Omkareshwar temple, reaches Rakeshwari temple in Ransi.
- May 20:
Journey continues from Gaundar village.
- May 21:
Palanquin reaches Madmaheshwar temple; ceremonial opening at 11 a.m.
Tungnath Rituals
- April 20:
Doli departs from Makummath, rests at Bhootnath temple overnight.
- April 21:
Doli reaches Chopta.
- April 22:
Arrival at Tungnath temple; doors open at 11 a.m.
Ceremonial Traditions
On Baisakhi, Lord
Madmaheshwar was seated on a Pushp Rath (flower chariot) and
circumambulated the Omkareshwar temple. Flowers from the Rath were distributed
as Prasad, symbolizing blessings for devotees. Priests, temple
committees, and local leaders participated, reflecting the deep cultural and
spiritual importance of these rituals.
Community Involvement
The ceremonies were
enriched by the presence of Vedic scholars, priests, and villagers.
- In Ukhimath, Acharya Yashodhar
Maithani, Vishwa Mohan Jamloki, and Naveen Maithani performed Panchang
calculations.
- In Makummath, Acharya Bharat
Bhushan Maithani announced Tungnath’s opening date in the presence of head
priest Ramprasad Maithani and other priests.
Local leaders and devotees joined, reinforcing the community spirit behind the pilgrimage.
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