Kedarnath Temple atop 3,583 metre (11,755 ft) in the Indian state of Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas is one of the holiest prayer sites for Hindus. "Land of Lord Shiva", Chaukori attracts platoons, god lovers and travelers for peace of mind outside Himalaya's scenic view with greenery. If you are looking for a detailed Kedarnath travel guide, it will take you back to the ancient times, religious and natural importance of this place. From the world-famous Kedarnath Temple itself, to surrounding attractions such as Gaurikund, Vasuki Tal and Gandhi Sarovar - this holy town will give you an unforgettable trip for your soul.
The ideal time to travel Kedarnath is May – October- the perfect months when the climate is fresh and good for darshan as well as trekking. Whether you are going on pilgrimage or visiting the Himalayas for adventure, this guide takes you to a safe and enriching trip.
Kedarnath Temple was mentioned in the ancient Hindu scriptures, with its present structure believed to have been constructed by the Pandavas of Mahabharata. The temple was subsequently revived by Adi Shankaracharya during the 8th century AD. Kedarnath Temple Found Resurrected after earthquakes and extreme Himalayan weather, the Kedarnath temple is a beauty to behold ruling d North Indian Himalayan architecture with its striking stone exterior and classic carvings./
Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, which makes it a sacred place for Hindu people. The temple acquired its mystique, it is said, after Lord Shiva manifested himself here as a bull to avoid the Pandavas. Gaurikund next door is also deemed holy, with a hot spring. Where pilgrims bathe before going to the temple.
For those looking for an all-inclusive experience, you get to explore not just Kedarnath but also other Char Dham Yatra temples—Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri—with our customised Char Dham Yatra packages providing ease of travel along with expertly guided tours and memorable experiences. That remains etched in your memory forever.
The Kedarnath Temple poojas begin early in the morning with Abhishek of Lord Shiva, Rudra Abhishek, chanting of Panchakshari Mantra and other customary practices. Public darshan is available from around 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with evening aartis [available] between 5:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
The ceremonies are seasonal and vary a bit — and to observe them is an all- encompassing spiritual experience for believers.
When to visit Kedarnath Temple: The best time to visit Kedarnath Temple is in between May and June, September and October:
May–June: Beginning of the Char Dham Yatra. The temperature varies between 5°C to 18°C which makes it an ideal weather for darshan, trekking and sightseeing.
September-October: Brings clearer skies, thinner crowds and with it great vistas of the snow-covered Himalayas.
The temple will be kept closed during in winter (Nov - April) due to heavy snowfall, and the idol of the god is brought to Ukhimath for puja.
Recommended Post: Best Time To Visit Char Dham
Opening Date 2026: Tentatively April 24, 2026, at 6:00 AM (exact date announced by the Kedarnath-Badrinath Temple Committee).
Closing Date 2026: Tentatively, on Vijaya Dashami in October or November when the temple closes for the winter season.
Note: This information is subject to change. Wait It may be updated, so Stay tuned to see it official at Epic Yatra.
A few striking stories are coming out of the mountainous temple town Kedarnath, deep in the Himalayas, which can only be reached by mixing road travel and trekking:
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun (around 220 kms) From there, you can then hire a taxi or bus to Gaurikund, the starting point for the trek.
By Train: The nearest railheads are Rishikesh (210 km) and Haridwar (232 km), which are linked to all the main cities in India. Road travel follows after arrival.
By Roads: Gaurikund can be easily accessed from Rishikesh, Haridwar or Dehradun by NH-107. Frequent buses, shared jeeps and taxis are available.
If you are looking for a road trip to Char Dham with the family, we offer a 9-night, 10-day Char Dham family package covering Haridwar, Barkot, Uttarkashi, Phata, Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Haridwar. Check out our detailed info on the Char Dham Yatra family package.
1. Warm Clothes: It's cold being up so high, even in summer. Throw in the puffer jackets, thermals, gloves and hats.
2. Footwear: Good grip trekking shoes are advisable.
3. First-Aid & Medications: Band aids, pain relievers, and any medication you are on.
4. Sunscreen & Sunglasses: In the high-altitude sun.
5. Rain Gear: Compact Umbrella or rain jacket, you can also have an umbrella during monsoon.6. Water & Snacks: Bring along water, dry fruits or energy bars.
7. Cash & ID Proof: Few ATMs carry enough cash and valid ID proof.
8. Health Factors: Ascend slowly, individuals with heart, respiratory and chronic health issues should consult a physician, pay attention to the weather.
Note: Check the latest weather updates before planning your trip.
Temple darshan time:- 6:00 am to 12:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm.
Modest, traditional attire is required. Photography is prohibited inside.
Online darshan registration is also provided on the official online website of Kedarnath-Badrinath Temple Committee.
You can also register offline at counters in Gaurikund or Kedarnath.
For faster and convenient travel with VIP Darshan, the Chardham Yatra package by helicopter will also work wonders for you. This alternative will not only save time but also offer a different view of stunning combs overhead.
Hotels: Choices for all budgets:
Premium: Hotel Snow Crest, GMVN Kedarnath, Himalayan Hotel Kedarnath.
Budget: Hotel Shiva Ganga, Hotel Kedarnath View.
Food: Dedicated vegetarian restaurants like Shree Bhojanalaya, Hotel Rudra and GMVN Cafeteria serve fresh and hygienic food.
Kedarnath dances to the tune of:
Maha Shivaratri: Grand festivities with overnight prayers.
Badri-Kadar Utsav: Cultural performances at Badrinath and Kedarnath.
Opening & Closing Ceremonies: Special pujas & lighting of Akhund Jyoti, and shifting the idols to the Ukhimath during their stay for winter vacation.
Gaurikund – An sacred hot spring and the base for a trek.
Vasuki Tal – A glacial lake, about Kedarnath.
Gandhi Sarovar – A pretty pond in the Himalayas with calm environs.
Samadhi of Shankaracharya – Historical location associated with Adi Jhankaracharya.
Chorabari Glacier - Source of the Mandakini river.
Nearby Destinations:/
Badrinath, Auli, Joshimath, Hemkund Sahib and Valley of Flowers.
You can reach Kedarnath (16 km trek from Gaurikund) easily on well-paved walking paths and also by using ponies and helicopter services. Very little physical excursion participation is available to enable a spiritual journey for aged devotees and children.
This Kedarnath travel guide provides comprehensive information about the spiritual legacy of the temple, trekking destinations, nearby places to visit and tips for travelling. With meticulous planning and Char Dham Yatra tour packages by Epic Yatra. Pilgrims can now visit Kedarnath's divine landscape & other Char Dham sites safely and in comfort. That promises a joyous experience of a lifetime.