Kedarnath temple in front of snow-capped mountains, Rudraprayag (photo: Varshit G, Unsplash)

Best Time for Kedarnath Yatra: Month-by-Month Weather & Crowds

Kedarnath is the highest of the Char Dham, a Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva at about 3,583 m in Rudraprayag district. It is reached by a 16 km trek from Gaurikund or by helicopter, and is open from late April or May until Bhai Dooj.

Best overallMid-May - June, mid-Sep - Oct
Fewest crowdsOctober
AvoidJuly - August
ClosedBhai Dooj - April
Weather now in Kedarnath Dham
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Kedarnath at a glance, month by month

JanClosed
FebClosed
MarClosed
AprOpens late Apr/May
MaySnow, big crowds
JunPeak rush
JulLandslides
AugHeavy rain
SepRain eases
OctClear, calm
NovCloses Bhai Dooj
DecClosed
BestOkayAvoid

Seasons at Kedarnath

Opening weeks

Good
Late Apr - May · -2 to 12°C

Snow along the trail and around the temple. Very cold nights and heavy crowds for the opening.

Suits: Devotees, snow lovers

Summer

Busy
Jun · 5 to 15°C

The busiest month, with long queues for darshan, ponies and helicopters.

Suits: Those who book early

Monsoon

Avoid
Jul - Aug · heavy rain

Landslides on the road and trail, frequent helicopter cancellations. Best avoided.

Suits: Not recommended

Autumn

Best
Sep - Oct · 0 to 12°C

Clear skies, crisp air and shorter queues. Many pilgrims think this is the best time.

Suits: Older pilgrims, photographers

What to pack for Kedarnath

Warm and dry

  • Padded jacket
  • Thermals
  • Rain poncho
  • Woollen cap and gloves

For the trek

  • Trekking shoes with grip
  • Walking stick
  • Water and energy snacks
  • Torch for the early start

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