Winter freeze shuts Churdhar

Sirmaur district’s majestic Churdhar peak, rising 11,965 feet above sea level and recognised as the highest peak of the Outer Himalaya (Shivalik range), will remain closed to devotees and trekkers from December 1 due to escalating winter hazards. The administration has enforced a complete ban on the pilgrimage, which will continue until the Baisakhi Sankranti in April next year. Authorities have cautioned that anyone found venturing towards the shrine of Shirgul Maharaj during this restricted period will face strict legal action.

Churdhar Temple Committee Chairman and Chopal SDM Hem Chand Verma said that winter conditions in the region become extremely challenging every year. Heavy snowfall blankets the high-altitude trails, steep slopes turn dangerously slippery and temperatures frequently dip far below freezing. These factors combine to make the pilgrimage route highly unsafe.

Past experiences have shown that sudden weather changes often leave devotees and tourists stranded in the upper reaches, compelling rescue teams to undertake difficult and high-risk operations. On multiple occasions, airlifting had to be arranged, endangering not only the stranded visitors but also the rescue personnel involved in the operation.

Taking these recurring threats into account, the administration has decided to halt all movement towards the shrine once the temple closes for the winter season. Officials have reiterated that the ban will be implemented strictly and violators will not be spared under the law.

SDM Verma appealed to the public to prioritise their safety, follow administrative guidelines and avoid the Churdhar route until the weather stabilises and the temple doors reopen in April. He emphasised that the devotion of lakhs of pilgrims is deeply respected, but safeguarding lives during harsh winter months remains the administration’s foremost responsibility.