Kedarnath Dham is one of the holiest places in India and has a special place in Hindu mythology. Located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is part of the Char Dham Yatra as well as Jyotirlinga Darshan Yatra. The temple is at 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) and offers not only spiritual peace but also a breathtaking view of snow-capped mountains and the Mandakini River flowing through the valley. To reach Kedarnath Temple, pilgrims have to trek or can take Kedarnath helicopter services.
History and Significance of Kedarnath Yatra
For centuries pilgrims, adventurers and devotees have been coming to this remote place which is spiritually enriching and physically challenging. Kedarnath is not just about worship; it’s an experience that combines history, devotion and Himalayan adventure in one.
Kedarnath Dham is famous for two important reasons- first as the God is worshipped here as Kedarnath Jyotirlinga- one of the Tweleve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and second is as visited as one of the four Dhams of Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand. This One Dham Yatra Package has mythological and religious significance. According to Mahabharata, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva for the sins they committed during the war. Lord Shiva avoided them and took the form of a bull and disappeared into the earth at Kedarnath and left his hump behind which is worshipped as the lingam in the temple today.
Built by Pandavas and later restored by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, the temple is a symbol of devotion and spiritual discipline. Adi Shankaracharya’s samadhi is behind the temple and that adds to the importance of the place. Every year the Kapat (temple doors) of Shri Kedarnath opens on Akshay Tritiya in April-May and closes on Kartik Purnima in November, which marks the end of the yatra season.
Note: Daily darshan timings are from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM and there is a mid-day break from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Opening and Closing Dates of the Kedarnath Temple 2025
Opening dates of Kedarnath Temple is announced on the auspicious day of Maha Shivaratri every year and lies 2 or 3 days after Akshay Tritiya. The Priests at Kedranath Badrinath Dham Committee choose the day on which the Kedarnath shrine will open. This year Opening date – 6:20 a.m. on 2 May, 2025 (Morning) and Closing date – 23 Oct 2025, a day after Bhai Dooj in late November, following the Diwali celebrations.
Best Time to do Kedarnath Yatra
The best time to visit Kedarnath is from April to June and again from September to October. During these months the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C and is ideal for trekking and spiritual activities. April is the opening of the temple and the season is crowded with pilgrims seeking the divine blessings of Lord Shiva.
Avoid the monsoon season (July-August) as the heavy rains increase the chances of landslides and roadblocks. Winter months from November to March are extremely cold and the area is snowbound and the temple is closed.
Geography and Climate
Kedarnath is situated at a height of 3,583 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas and is surrounded by the Kedarnath, Kedar Dome and other Himalayan peaks. The region is beautiful and rugged, and the glacial fed Mandakini River flows near the temple which adds to the spiritual energy of the place.
Summers are mild and winters are very cold with heavy snowfall and sub zero temperatures. Kedarnath is not accessible in winter because of extreme weather and the temple remains closed for 6 months.
All Details About Kedarnath Trek
Kedarnath trek is a tough but rewarding one, not just for spiritual fulfillment but also for a journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Himalayas. The trek starts from Gaurikund, the base of the trek and is 16 km long. For those who cannot trek, services of Palki/Dandi, Kandi & Mule/Ponies or helicopter services are available. Anyone can book these services from the booking counter at Gaurikund/Sonprayag.
Trekking through valleys, waterfalls and rough paths is physically demanding but spiritually uplifting. The beauty of the trek is enhanced by the continuous presence of Mandakini River and the sight of Kedarnath Temple nestled in snow clad mountains is a treat to the eyes.
Kedarnath Dham Yatra Route
Kedarnath Popular Route : Delhi → Haridwar (206 kms) → Rishikesh (24 kms) → Devaprayag (70 kms) → Srinagar (35 kms) → Rudraprayag (34 kms) → Tilwara (9kms) → Agastamuni (10 kms) → Kund (15 kms) → Guptkashi (5 kms) → Phata (11 kms) → Rampur (9 kms) → SonPrayag (3 kms) → Gaurikund (5 kms) → Kedarnath (16 Kms).
Kedarnath Trek Route Map Start from Gaurikund : Gaurikund (6 kms) → Rambara Bridge (4 kms) → Jungle Chatti (3 kms) → Bheembali (4 kms) → Linchauli (4 kms) → Kedarnath Base Camp (1 kms) → Kedarnath Temple
The Spiritual Experience at Kedarnath
Kedarnath is a very spiritual place where you can hear the chants of “Om Namah Shivay” and the bells of the temple all around. Pilgrims start their journey with a dip in the holy water of Gaurikund, believed to purify the soul. When you reach the temple, the stone lingam and the ancient architecture will fill you with peace and devotion.
The temple is open from April to November and during the pilgrimage season you can find lakhs of devotees visiting the temple. The daily rituals like Maha Abhishek and Shayan Aarti add to the spiritual quotient of the place. You can also book special pujas in advance like Rudrabhishek Puja and Maha Abhishek starting from Rs 850 which goes up to Rs 8500.
How to Reach Kedarnath from Delhi
Reaching Kedarnath is an adventure. The temple is accessible by:
- By Road: From Delhi to Kedarnath is 450 km. Most pilgrims and tourists break the journey into smaller parts and stop at Haridwar or Rishikesh. Haridwar to Kedarnath is 250 km, buses and taxis are available from both Haridwar and Rishikesh. For a group tour, it is better to hire Tempo Traveller on rent in Delhi which offers a comfortable journey throughout.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh which is 220 km from the temple. From there you must go by road to Gaurikund, the base of the trek.
- By Air: The Kedarnath flight option is to fly to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun which is 250 km from Gaurikund. Alternatively, helicopter services from Phata or Guptkashi are available for a quicker route to the temple. Kedarnath helicopter price is INR 7,500 to INR 8,500 per person for a round trip depending on the season.
- By Helicopter: For those who are short of time or unable to trek, helicopter services are an efficient and scenic way to reach Kedarnath. Helicopters are available from Phata, Guptkashi and Sersi and flight takes around 10-15 minutes. By opting for a helicopter not only shortens the travel time but also gives you a bird’s eye view of the Himalayan peaks.
Suggested Read: Kedarnath Dham Yatra Package Cost
Nearby Attractions and Treks
Kedarnath not only provides spiritual bliss but also many nearby attractions and treks to make the pilgrimage more enjoyable.
- Vasuki Tal: This high-altitude lake 8 km from Kedarnath is a trek for adventure lovers. Surrounded by snow mountains the lake offers a breathtaking view of Chaukhamba peaks. The trek is tough but rewarding with lots of natural beauty.
- Gandhi Sarovar (Chorabari Tal): A 3 km trek from Kedarnath this glacial lake is famous for its crystal-clear water. The place is peaceful and is believed to be where Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed so it has historical significance too.
- Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath: During winter when Kedarnath is closed the deity is shifted to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath. This ancient temple is a must visit for those who want to understand the winter rituals of Kedarnath.
- Triyuginarayan Temple: 30 km from Gaurikund this temple is the legendary place where Lord Shiva and Parvati got married. It is famous for the eternal flame that has been burning since their marriage.
- Gaurikund: The base camp for the Kedarnath trek Gaurikund is also a pilgrimage site where hot water springs flow and pilgrims take baths before starting their journey.
Places to Stay near Kedarnath Dham
Kedarnath has various accommodation options from pilgrim lodges to guesthouses and Dharamshalas. Here are the options:
- Dharamshalas and Ashrams: These are the most budget friendly, basic facilities at minimal cost. Government run GMVN guesthouses and private Dharamshalas near the temple are popular.
- Guesthouses: Slightly better than Dharamshalas, guesthouses have clean rooms and basic facilities like hot water and simple food. Many are in nearby towns of Guptkashi and Sonprayag.
- Hotels: For more comfort hotels are available in Guptkashi, Phata and Sonprayag. These hotels have mid-range facilities like hot water, electricity and in-house dining.
Essential Tips for Travellers
Before you start the Kedarnath Yatra, travellers should consider these essential tips:
- Health Precautions: At high altitudes, the air is thin so altitude sickness is common. Ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and carry medicines for altitude sickness.
- Packing: Carry warm clothes as the temperature can drop suddenly even in summer. Carry trekking shoes, raincoat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the harsh mountain sun.
- Accommodation: Book your stay in advance, especially during peak yatra season (May-June, September-October). Basic amenities are available but luxury is scarce.
- Permits and Registration: Before starting the Kedarnath Yatra, pilgrims need to do Kedarnath Yatra registration. This can be done online through the Char Dham Yatra website or in person at registration centers in Rishikesh, Haridwar and other major towns. Registration ensures safety and better management of the pilgrimage.
Concluding Thoughts
If you are eager to go for one of the most sacred Pilgrimage trips in India, read this Travel guide to be prepared for the challenges, cost, registration process etc. With proper preparation, Kedarnath Yatra will be a spiritually fulfilling experience and a treat to your eyes. Whether you are looking for divine blessings or adventure this place will leave a lasting impression.