Winter Char Dham Circuit Promotes Tourism in Uttarakhand

Winter Char Dham Circuit is an alternative pilgrimage route in Uttarakhand, India, that allows devotees to visit the revered deities of the traditional Char Dham shrines.

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Context: The Uttarakhand government has inaugurated the Winter Char Dham Circuit to attract tourists during the off-season winter months.

About Winter Char Dham Circuit

During winter, heavy snowfall makes the main Char Dham shrines inaccessible.
The presiding deities are moved to lower-altitude shrines, designated as their winter abodes:
- Gangotri Dham: Mukhba (Uttarkashi).
- Yamunotri Dham: Kharsali (Uttarkashi).
- Kedarnath: Omkareshwar Temple (Ukhimath, Rudraprayag).
- Badrinath: Pandukeshwar (Chamoli).

Purpose

It allows pilgrims to continue their spiritual journey without interruption, even when the high-altitude temples are inaccessible. And promotes tourism and sustains the local economy during the winter season.

Economic Significance

The Char Dham pilgrimage contributes significantly to Uttarakhand’s economy, generating more than ₹200 crore daily during the peak season. The winter Char Dham aims to extend economic benefits into the off-season by attracting more tourists.

Environmental and Management Concerns

Overcrowding and Infrastructure Strain: Increased footfall strains local infrastructure and disrupts fragile ecosystems.
Impact on Wildlife: Animals such as snow leopards, and mountain sheep descend to lower altitudes during winter for food and water, Winter tourism can disturb these shy species.
Public Health Risks: Harsh weather and challenging terrain in mountain areas raise concerns about safety, security, and public health for pilgrims and tourists.