Best Time to Visit Kedarnath Dham

Best Time to Visit Kedarnath Dham

The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the summer months, from May to June. You can also plan a trip between September and October, before winter begins. The Kedarnath temple, part of the Char Dham, closes from November due to extreme cold and heavy snowfall. During winter, roads are blocked, and the trek to Kedarnath is not possible because of snow.

Located in Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is a sacred place for Hindu pilgrims. It is home to the famous Kedarnath Dham, visited by many devotees. In 2025, the Kedarnath Temple will open on May 10. For a spiritual trip, book your Kedarnath Yatra with Travel Shrine, a top tour company in India. If you’re short on time, their Do Dham Yatra by Helicopter can complete your journey in just one day!

During the Char Dham Yatra season, you can also visit Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri temples. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures staying below 20°C, making it a great time for the yatra.

Kedarnath Weather by Season

Temple Timings and Updates

• Opening Date 2025: May 2, 2025

• Closing Date 2025: To be announced

• Darshan Time 2025: 6 ascended, 6:10 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

• Peak Season: May to June

• Off Season: Winter (November to April)

• Temperature in Summer: High of 30°C, low of 15°C

• Temperature in Monsoon: High of 15°C, low of 5°C

• Best Weather: Summer is warm and sunny, ideal for travel.

Kedarnath Weather in Summer (May and June)

The summer months of May and June are the best time to visit Kedarnath. Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C, perfect for traveling in the Himalayas. Days are pleasant, but nights can be cold. In June, you can enjoy the Kedar festival, a vibrant cultural event. Visit attractions like Tunganath Temple, Gauri Kund, and Bhairavnath with Travel Shrine’s Kedarnath tour packages.

Summer Temperature

• May: 0°C to 5°C, sunny days, very cold nights.

• June: 4°C to 12°C, warm and sunny, ideal for trekking.

Summer Packing Tips

• Use a backpack instead of trolley bags.

• Carry light woolen clothes for cold nights.

• Wear trekking or walking shoes.

• Bring trekking pants, sunglasses, a sun cap, and a windproof jacket.

• Carry a walking stick, torch, and personal toiletries.

• Bring a water bottle, dry fruits, or energy bars.

• Carry energy drinks like Gatorade to stay hydrated.

Kedarnath Weather in Monsoon (July to September)

It’s not recommended to visit Kedarnath during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall. Temperatures range from 12°C to 27°C. The Shravani Annakoot Mela, a colorful festival, is celebrated the day before Raksha Bandhan in August.

Monsoon Temperature

• July: 6°C to 15°C, average rainfall begins.

• August: 8°C to 14°C, humid days, very cold nights.

• September: 3°C to 12°C, pleasant weather, good for visiting.

Monsoon Packing Tips

• Carry a rain-resistant day pack.

• Wear trekking shoes, warm clothes, and waterproof gear.

• Bring thick woolen socks, a raincoat, and water-resistant gloves.

• Carry a walking stick, torch with extra batteries, and toiletries.

• Bring a water bottle, dry fruits, and energy drinks.

Kedarnath Weather in Winter (October to March)

Winter brings freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall, closing the temple. Temperatures range from -1°C to 15°C. The idol of Kedarnath is moved to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukimath, Rudraprayag, one of the oldest temples in India. Pilgrims can visit Omkareshwar in winter to seek blessings. The Samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya, located behind Kedarnath Temple, is honored during the temple’s closing ceremony.

Winter Temperature

• October: 1°C to 5°C, very cold, especially at night.

• November: -10°C to 4°C, heavy snowfall begins, temple usually closes.

• December: -15°C to -2°C, roads blocked due to snow.

• January to March: -18°C to -3°C, everything closed due to heavy snow.

Why Visit Kedarnath Dham?

Kedarnath Dham is a sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva and part of the Char Dham in Uttarakhand. Millions visit every year to seek blessings. The temple is open for six months and closed during winter. Summer is the best time to visit due to pleasant weather. Monsoon brings heavy rains and landslides, so plan extra days if traveling then. September and October are good for winter visits before heavy snow starts.

Things to Know Before Visiting Kedarnath

• The temple is open from April to October; it closes in winter due to snow.

• Best time to visit: May to June and September to October.

• Avoid winter and monsoon due to snow and landslides; plan buffer days in monsoon.

• Wear thick woolen clothes in winter, sunscreen, and sunglasses in summer.

• Carry an umbrella and raincoat for monsoon; bring a first-aid kit.

• Book accommodation early during peak season.

• Bring ID, tickets, and cash.

Travel Shrine’s Kedarnath Yatra Recommendations

Travel Shrine offers affordable Kedarnath Yatra packages. Book the Do Dham Yatra by Helicopter for a quick trip from Kedarnath to Badrinath. The Char Dham Yatra Package for VIPs includes luxury facilities for a comfortable pilgrimage. Fly by helicopter to avoid tough treks and enjoy the spiritual vibes. Register now for your Kedarnath Yatra!

The Char Dham Yatra by road is ideal for those who want to visit all four sites comfortably. Travel Shrine offers a 10-day, 9-night package from Haridwar. For Badrinath, choose road, rail, or air travel, with the best time being May to June and September to November.

Travel Shrine also offers a Char Dham Yatra Package from Mumbai to explore Uttarakhand’s holy shrines.

Best Time for Photography and Trekking

For stunning photos and enjoyable treks, visit Kedarnath from May to June or September to early October. The skies are clear, with snowy mountains, greenery, and soft sunlight.

Top Photography Spots

• Gaurikund: Water, trees, and morning mist.

• Bheem Bali Bridge: Beautiful valley view.

• Rambara Ruins: Historic and silent beauty.

• Lincholi: Wide skies and hills.

• Temple Gate: Classic temple and snow shot.

• Bhairavnath Path: Peaceful valley view.

• Helipad Field: Temple and mountains in one frame.

May to June: Fresh and Clear

The snow melts, and the yatra begins. The air is cool, and the sun is warm. Flowers bloom, and the sky is bright. The trek is dry and easy, with great views at Lincholi and Bheembali. A phone camera is enough for amazing photos, especially at Rambara.

September to Early October: Calm and Golden

After the rains, the skies clear, and the trails are quiet. The golden light in the morning and evening makes photos magical. The path to Bhairavnath Mandir and the helipad field offers stunning views. The trek is safe and peaceful.

Festivals in Kedarnath

Kedarnath feels sacred, especially during festivals. The energy is powerful, with ringing bells and quiet devotion.

Key Festivals

• Temple Opening Day (May 2025): On Akshaya Tritiya, the idol of Lord Shiva is carried from Ukhimath to Kedarnath with chants, flowers, and music. The first aarti is emotional and unforgettable.

• Temple Closing Day (After Diwali): A quiet, emotional farewell as the idol returns to Ukhimath. The cold air and silent devotion create a deep experience.

Seasonal Packing Tips

Packing for Kedarnath requires planning for mountain weather. Keep your bag light but prepared.

May to June Packing

• Light woolen jacket for cold mornings.

• Windcheater or rain poncho for sudden drizzles.

• Broken-in trekking shoes.

• Woolen socks for cold nights.

• Cap or muffler for sun and wind.

• Power bank, basic medicines, torch, water bottle, dry fruits, and energy drinks.

September to October Packing

• Thermal innerwear for cold weather.

• Thick jacket for evenings and mornings.

• Waterproof shoes for wet paths.

• Woolen gloves, socks, shawl, and muffler.

• Moisturizer and lip balm for dry skin.

• Hand sanitizer, tissues, extra charger, and a walking stick.

Avoid relying on shops near the temple, as items are expensive and limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is there less oxygen in Kedarnath?
A. The oxygen level in Kedarnath is about 40% lower than normal due to the high altitude.

Q. What are the pooja timings in Kedarnath?
A. Pooja starts at 4:00 a.m. with Maha Abhishek and ends at 7:00 p.m. with Shyam Aarti.

Q. Do mobile phones work in Kedarnath?
A. Reliance Jio provides mobile and data connectivity on the trekking route from Gaurikund to Kedarnath.

Q. When does it snow in Kedarnath?
A. Snowfall occurs from November to April.

Q. What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?
A. May to June, during the summer season.

Q. How far is Kedarnath from Rishikesh?
A. The road distance is 216 km.

Q. When is the rainy season in Kedarnath?
A. July to mid-September.

Q. Can I visit Kedarnath without booking?
A. Registration is mandatory before the yatra.

Q. What documents are needed for Kedarnath?
A. Bring ID proof, a photo, and address proof. Wash hands and feet before entering the temple and avoid touching idols.

Q. Why is Kedarnath closed for 6 months?
A. The temple closes from November to mid-April due to heavy snowfall.

Q. What is above Kedarnath Temple?
A. Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar), a glacial lake 2 km above the temple, part of the Mandakini River system.

Q. What is the temperature in Kedarnath in May?
A. The temperature ranges from 3°C to 14°C, ideal for trekking and sightseeing.