Badrinath/Chamoli, Uttarakhand | November 8, 2025
The revered Himalayan shrine of Badrinath and its surrounding peaks have been transformed into a pristine winter wonderland, receiving the season’s first significant snowfall earlier this week. The fresh blanket of white marks the official commencement of the harsh, yet mesmerizing, winter season in the Garhwal Himalayas.
The snowfall, which was also reported in the nearby Kedarnath Dham and other high-altitude areas like Hemkund Sahib, began in the early hours of Wednesday and continued for several hours, coating the entire temple complex, surrounding hills, and approach roads in a thick layer of snow.
Chilling Cold Welcomes Devotees
The immediate effect of the precipitation has been a sharp and dramatic dip in temperature. Locals and pilgrims are experiencing intense cold, with temperatures in the Badrinath Dham area plummeting to near or below freezing point, particularly during the night and early morning. The chilling conditions are a vivid reminder of the harsh winter for which the region is known.
Executive Officer of the Badrinath Nagar Panchayat, Sunil Purohit, noted that the sudden drop in temperature is a definitive sign of winter’s arrival. Despite the freezing cold, over a thousand pilgrims currently visiting the holy site expressed delight at witnessing the snow-covered temple, describing the scene as a breathtaking confluence of divinity and nature.
“It was freezing cold, but we couldn’t resist stepping out to see the snow-covered temple,” remarked one pilgrim from Kolkata, capturing the sentiment of many devotees who consider the snowfall a blessed sight.
Tourism Sector Anticipates Boost
While the snowfall signals the closure of the Char Dham Yatra season, it brings cheer to the local tourism sector. The sight of snow-draped landscapes, coupled with the forecast for dry, crisp weather in the immediate future, is expected to encourage a final rush of pilgrims and winter enthusiasts before the temple gates close.
Key Update for Pilgrims:
- Road Status: Officials from the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) have confirmed that all roads leading to Badrinath remain open and safe for travel following the recent snowfall.
- Temple Closure Date: Pilgrims intending to visit the Badrinath Temple must plan their journey soon, as the portal is officially scheduled to close for the winter recess on November 25, 2025.
Following the temple’s closure, the shrine and the valley will remain under the vigil of security personnel and temple committee members, preparing for the five to six months when Badrinath is completely covered in snow and becomes largely inaccessible.
The first snowfall is a beautiful annual tradition, transforming the spiritual journey into an ethereal experience and setting the stage for the intense, beautiful winter of the high Himalayas.