Kedarnath Opening and Closing Dates This Year

Kedarnath opening and closing dates in 2025

Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and an integral part of the revered Char Dham Yatra circuit, follows a seasonal schedule due to its high-altitude location in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, India. The temple remains open for approximately six months each year, closing during the harsh winter months when the area becomes inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.

Opening Date for 2025

The sacred portals of Kedarnath Temple are scheduled to open for devotees on May 2, 2025. The opening ceremony, known as “Kapat Udghatan,” typically begins with elaborate rituals at dawn amidst the chanting of Vedic hymns by priests.

Closing Date for 2025

The temple is expected to close its doors for the winter season on October 23, 2025, around the festival of Bhai Dooj (two days after Diwali). The closing ceremony, called “Kapat Bandh,” will be performed with traditional rituals before the symbolic image of Lord Kedarnath is transferred to its winter abode at Ukhimath.

Important Information for Pilgrims

• Winter Abode: During the winter months when Kedarnath Temple remains closed, the deity is worshipped at Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, where devotees can continue to offer their prayers.
• Peak Pilgrimage Season: The most popular time for pilgrimage is from mid-May to June and September to early November, when weather conditions are relatively favorable.
• Weather Considerations: Even during the open season, weather in the region is unpredictable. Pilgrims should be prepared for cool temperatures ranging from 5-20°C (41-68°F) during daytime and often dropping below freezing at night.
• Registration Requirement: All pilgrims must register through the official Uttarakhand Char Dham Yatra portal and obtain a permit before commencing their journey.
• Health Precautions: Given the high altitude of Kedarnath (approximately 3,583 meters/11,755 feet above sea level), visitors are strongly advised to acclimatize properly and consult a doctor before traveling, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

Getting to Kedarnath

The journey to Kedarnath involves:

• A trek of approximately 16 kilometers from Gaurikund, which is the last motorable point
• Alternatively, helicopter services are available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi to Kedarnath, weather permitting
• The nearest major towns are Rudraprayag (86 km) and Rishikesh (210 km)
• The nearest railway station is at Rishikesh, and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun

Special Arrangements for 2025

For the 2025 pilgrimage season, the Uttarakhand government has announced enhanced facilities including:

• Improved queue management systems
• Additional medical camps along the trekking route
• Increased number of rest stops and shelters
• Enhanced emergency response teams positioned at strategic locations