Shimla, Dec 2,
The Churdhar Temple, a revered pilgrimage site in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, has been closed to devotees from December 1, 2024, due to inclement weather and snowfall. An official order issued by the Chairman of the Churdhar Temple Management Committee, who also serves as the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Chaupal, Shimla, confirmed the closure.
The decision follows the annual precautionary measure to prevent accidents on the temple route, which becomes treacherous during the winter months. The temple doors will remain closed until April 2025, depending on weather conditions.
Standing at an elevation of 3,647 meters (11,965 feet), Churdhar Peak is the highest point in the outer Himalayas and offers panoramic views of snow-covered ranges, making it a popular destination for trekkers and devotees. However, during winter, the region experiences extreme cold and frequent snowfall, with temperatures plummeting below freezing.
The temple management has urged devotees to avoid attempting the trek until further notice. The official order warns that legal action will be taken against individuals who disregard the closure. The route leading to the temple becomes highly dangerous due to slippery trails and risk of avalanches.
As of now, the region is experiencing daytime temperatures hovering around -5°C, while nights see harsher conditions, with mercury dropping to -10°C.
Churdhar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds deep spiritual significance. Pilgrims and trekkers are advised to wait for the reopening of the temple, ensuring their journey is safe and spiritually fulfilling.
For updates on the reopening of the temple, devotees can contact the Churdhar Temple Management Committee.
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