Women Self-Help Groups Powering Kedarnath Yatra Economy
From Prasad and Souvenirs to Homestays and Refreshment Houses
The ongoing Kedarnath Yatra is once again proving to be a significant source of livelihood for women self-help groups (SHGs) in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district. Around 150 SHGs are actively involved in various entrepreneurial activities along the Yatra route, including selling Prasad, souvenirs like Kedarnath temple replicas, incense sticks, hill products, and even running homestays and refreshment stalls.
The temple replicas—crafted by local women at the Industry Department’s Growth Center in Bhatwadi Sain—have already seen over 5,000 units prepared this year. Kedarnath Prasad is also available for purchase online.
In Jakholi block, 50 SHGs are engaged—30 in Prasad preparation, 10 in incense making, and 10 in selling hill products, including Badri cow ghee priced at ₹1200/kg.
Agastyamuni block boasts 38 SHGs selling local products, souvenirs, and packaging Prasad, with some running refreshment houses, benefiting around 90 women.
Ukhimath block has 60 SHGs, with 48 directly making Prasad and others engaged in running tents, refreshment houses, homestays, and selling handcrafted goods.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami noted that the Chardham Yatra is becoming a strong pillar of the local economy, especially empowering women. Government support includes stall allocation and promotion of the “Vocal for Local” campaign. Pilgrims are encouraged to purchase quality products made by local women.
