As we are all aware temples and other places of worship in India have been shut for more than three months due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Temples gradually began reopening in June but with new rules for visiting. However, not all the temples have resumed operations owing to a spike in the COVID-19 cases in several states. Some of the major shrines have now reopened and have even made certain changes to accommodate more number of devotees per day.
Know more about the new rules for visiting famous temples from north to south:
Char Dham temples
Located in the middle of the Himalayan ranges, the Char Dham includes Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. As per reports, around 3000 people can visit Kedarnath and Badrinath site, and 900 and 700 devotees can visit the Gangotri and Yamunotri sites. E-passes are compulsory, Pregnant women and people above the age of 65 or under 10 not allowed, Social distancing and hygiene protocols to be followed strictly.
Vaishno Devi
The Vaishno Devi shrine reopened for devotees on August 16. As per reports, the temple now allows 4500 locals and 500 outsiders. Devotees from outside the region will have to produce a COVID-19 negative certificate not older than 48 hours from an ICMR approved laboratory.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The Padmanabhaswamy temple reopened in the last week of August will now remain shut for devotees until October 15 as twelve temple employees have tested positive for COVID-19.
Kamakhya Temple
The Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati Assam was about to open from September 24. However, the temple management has decided to defer the reopening and make necessary arrangements for darshan. The temple remains closed as of now.
Tirupati Temple
The world-famous Tirupati Balaji temple’s doors are open to devotees for darshan. Those who are planning to visit the temple can get their bookings done through the official site.
Siddhivinayak Temple
Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak temple continues to remain closed for darshan since lockdown 1 was first announced. Devotees, can, however, take the online darshan and aarti of Lord Ganesha on the official website.
Mahakaleshwar Temple
Ujjain’s The Mahakaleshwar Temple opened its doors for devotees on September 29. The temple management has been asked to follow all the COVID-19 related hygiene and safety protocols. Devotees must follow the guidelines, wear a mask, and maintain social distancing.
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