Kedarnath Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India and a vital part of the Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kedarnath Temple is located at an altitude of around 3,583 meters, surrounded by the majestic Garhwal Himalayas.
Every year, lakhs of devotees undertake the Kedarnath Yatra seeking spiritual peace, blessings, and inner transformation.
Kedarnath Temple Significance
Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and holds immense religious importance. According to mythology, the temple was built by the Pandavas and later restored by Adi Shankaracharya.
The temple remains open only for a limited period due to extreme weather conditions.
Kedarnath Yatra Opening & Closing Dates
Opening: Usually late April or early May
Closing: Around Bhai Dooj (October/November)
Dates are announced annually by the Badrinath–Kedarnath Temple Committee.
Tip: Always confirm official opening dates before planning.
How to Reach Kedarnath
1. By Road
Haridwar / Rishikesh → Sonprayag → Gaurikund
2. Trek Route
Gaurikund to Kedarnath: ~16 km trek
Options:
Walking
Pony
Palki
3. Kedarnath Yatra by Helicopter
Helicopter services operate from:
Phata
Guptkashi
Sirsi
This journey being a part of the Main Char Dham Yatra circuit is ideal for senior citizens and pilgrims with limited time.
Kedarnath Yatra Registration Process
Registration is mandatory for all pilgrims.
You can register via:
Official Uttarakhand Tourism portal
Offline counters (seasonal)
Documents required:
Valid ID proof
Yatra registration slip
Best Time for Kedarnath Yatra
May to June: Pleasant weather, peak season
September to October: Clear skies, fewer crowds
Avoid monsoon months due to landslides.
Weather Conditions in Kedarnath
Summer: 5°C to 15°C
Night temperatures drop significantly
Sudden weather changes are common
Warm clothing is essential even in summer.
Suggested Kedarnath Yatra Itinerary (Brief)
Day 1: Reach Guptkashi / Sonprayag
Day 2: Gaurikund → Kedarnath trek
Day 3: Darshan & return
Day 4: Departure
(For complete itineraries, see our package pages)
Also, Kedarnath Yatra combined with Badrinath Yatra becomes the ultimate Do Dham Yatra. So, you can also explore both shrines in one go if planned perfectly.
Important Travel Tips for Kedarnath Yatra
Carry warm clothes & rain protection
Start trek early morning
Stay hydrated
Follow local administration guidelines
Avoid overexertion due to high altitude
Accommodation Near Kedarnath
Options include:
GMVN guest houses
Budget lodges
Dharamshalas
Booking in advance is highly recommended during peak season.
Kedarnath Yatra & Char Dham Connection
Kedarnath is one of the four sacred shrines of the Char Dham Yatra, along with:
Yamunotri
Gangotri
Badrinath
Pilgrims often combine Kedarnath with Badrinath or Do Dham Yatra.
