If you run short of cash at Kedarnath, then worry not, HDFC Bank just opened an ATM in temple premises

In a bid to provide relief to over 35,000 devotees coming to the Kedarnath temple, HDFC Bank has just opened an ATM in the temple premises, which is the only money-vending machine within a 24-km radius of the temple. HDFC Bank ATM in Kedarnath temple was unveiled on August 2. The ATM was inaugurated by Trivendra Singh Rawat, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand in the presence of Aditya Puri, MD, HDFC Bank. Located at a height of 11,755 feet above sea level, this is the bank’s highest ATM in the country, HDFC Bank said.

In a statement, HDFC Bank said, "The ATM will provide over 15 different types of services to over 35,000 devotees every day as well as the local populace. In addition to cash withdrawal, these services include payment of bills, credit card dues, and availing instant loans. The ATM will also allow customers to deposit funds, operating almost like a branch in this difficult terrain." 

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With this launch, the Bank now has 88 ATMs in the state.

Speaking on the development Kumar Sanjeev, Branch Banking Head at HDFC Bank said, “It is deeply satisfying to set up an ATM here and be of service to scores of people.” He added “At HDFC Bank, this initiative reiterates our commitment to make it convenient for people to bank with us by extending our and services to the remotest and geographically challenging areas of the country, such as this.”

Trivendra Singh Rawat, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand (R) and Aditya Puri, MD, HDFC Bank (L). Source: HDFC Bank

A shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kedarnath Temple is located in the Garhwal Himalayan Range. It is not directly accessible by road. Reaching the temple involves a challenging 16 km uphill trek from Gaurikund. Given the geographical challenges, the ATM uses satellite connectivity to provide all-weather services.

Due to inclement weather, the shrine is open to devotees only between the months of April and November. In 2018, approximately 7.32 lakh visitors made the pilgrimage with the highest daily footfall recorded at 36,000.