Kedarnath, one of the holiest pilgrimage places in India, is situated in the scenic Himalayas of Uttarakhand. It is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts lakhs of devotees & tourists each year. Planning your trip wisely is key, given the climate and high altitude.
So, what’s the best time to visit Kedarnath? This 2025 guide is all-inclusive — weather, seasons, travel tips, and much more.
Kedarnath Temple Overview
Kedarnath Temple, at an enviable height of 3,583m (11,755 ft), is part of the Char Dham Yatra and is regarded as a revered spiritual place in Hinduism. The temple is only open for a short period each year, typically from April/May until November due to heavy snow.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
The best time to visit Kedarnath is between May and June, as well as September to October. This region has very favourable weather, gentle winds, dry skies and suitable trekking conditions from March to June and mid-September to mid-November, making these months very suitable for pilgrims and travelers alike.
Summer Season (May to June)
Temperature: 5°C to 18°C
Highlights:
- The temple opens in May, which is also when it shuts down for the winter.
- The atmosphere is green and beautiful.
- Ideal for trekking and sightseeing.
- Darshan and travel weather are pleasant.
Why visit: Kedarnath is the most favourite season to visit Kedarnath. The roads and accommodation facilities are operational, with the whole experience being a spiritually uplifting one.
Monsoon Season (July to August)
Temperature: 10°C to 20°C
Highlights:
- Frequent rains can also trigger landslides and even disrupt travel.
- Keep in mind that this can get slimy and slippery across the trek.
Why Not To: Even though the landscapes look very vibrant, this is the wrong time to visit, as the rainfall could be heavy and other natural hazards are present.
Autumn Season (September to October)
Temperature: 3°C to 15°C
Highlights:
- Fresh mountain air and clear skies.
- Fewer crowds compared to summer.
- Best Places for Photography and Quiet Darshan
This is also the best time to visit Kedarnath. The freshness after monsoons only makes for a more beautiful region, and the temple is accessible till early November.
Winter Season (November to April)
Temperature: -15°C to 5°C
Highlights:
- After heavy snowfall, the temple has been closed.
- Idol of Lord Kedarnath is taken to Ukhimath, where it is worshipped during winters.
Reason for Avoiding: Temple remains inaccessible during this period, and it is a snow-covered place.
Kedarnath Temple Opening and Closing Dates 2025
- Opening Date: Expected around May 10, 2025 (Akshaya Tritiya)
- Closing Date: Expected around November 2, 2025 (Kartik Purnima)
Travel Tips for Going to Kedarnath in 2025
- Check Weather Forecasts: Always check the weather before starting a trip, and upon return.
- Advance Booking: Accommodation and helicopter bookings are usually filled in advance.
- Carry Warm Clothes: The weather can get chilly in the evening, even in the summer months.
- Stay Hydrated and Fit: This is a challenging Trek – the better you are fit, the better you can accomplish the trek.
- Avoid Monsoon: Landslides are common — travel in months means when safe to do so.
- Medical Check-Up: If you have a breathing condition or a heart problem, tell your doctor before going to a high altitude.
How to Reach Kedarnath
By Air: The Nearest Airport is JollyGrant Airport (Dehradun) , which is 239 km away from it.
Rail: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh (221 km).
Travel by road: All the way till Gaurikund (the last point where a motorable road is available), after which you have to walk 16 km to the temple or option to take a helicopter service from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi to Gaurikund.
Why Timing Matters
The timing is everything when it comes to visiting Kedarnath, as it can directly affect your experience in terms of the weather, accessibility, as well as crowds. During May–June or September–October, darshan is smooth and you can breathe in the majestic backdrop, without succumbing to harrowing weather.
Conclusion
The Best Time to Visit Kedarnath is May to June and September to October, when there are clear skies, unobstructed roads, and you can indulge in the spiritual vibes of the Himalayas. So plan your trip with care, stay up to date with temple timings and weather updates for a spiritually fulfilling visit to one of India’s revered places.
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FAQ’s
1. Which is the best month to visit Kedarnath?
May, June, September and October are the best months to visit Kedarnath because of good weather conditions and safe travel.
2. Is it possible to visit Kedarnath in July or August?
No, it is not, because of poor travel conditions and landslides due to the heavy rains of the monsoon season.
3. Is Kedarnath open in winter?
From November to April, it is closed due to heavy snowfall.
4. What is the temperature in Kedarnath in May?
In May, the average temperature in Kedarnath lies between 5°C and 15 15°C.
5. Which is better – May or September for visiting Kedarnath?
Both are excellent. May–June sees colorful crowds and clear skies, while September–October is quieter but just as stunning.
