Patal Bhuvaneshwar cave closed till October 10 due to low oxygen levels

The entry of pilgrims and tourists to the famous Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave in Gangolihat, Uttarakhand, will be temporarily restricted from August 11th to October 10th during the monsoon season. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has taken this decision due to the possibility of oxygen levels decreasing and safety risks increasing during the rainy season.

According to an order issued by the Dehradun Division of the ASI, entry to the cave will be restricted from August 11th, 2026, to October 10th, 2026. The department states that disruption of the natural air flow within the cave during the monsoon season may lead to a decrease in oxygen levels, posing a risk to the health of pilgrims and tourists. This decision was made based on the report of the Senior Conservation Assistant and guidelines from ASI Headquarters to prevent any emergency.

Cave closed for pilgrims for two months

Now, pilgrims will have to wait until October 10th for darshan. The cave will reopen only after the monsoon season ends and security arrangements are reviewed. The ASI and the temple committee have appealed to people not to plan any travel during the restricted period.