Kedarnath · Verified guide
Kedarnath Yatra: Complete Guide
Kedarnath, at about 3,583 m in the Garhwal Himalaya, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and part of the Char Dham yatra. The temple is open only for about six months a year.
Changing information reviewed · Official sources separated from planning guidance
Quick answer
Kedarnath opened on 22 April 2026 and closes for winter on Bhai Dooj; the exact 2026 closing date is announced on Vijayadashami (in 2025 it closed on 23 October). Register free on registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in before you travel. From Gaurikund it is about a 17 km uphill trek (6–8 hours); helicopter seats are sold only on heliyatra.irctc.co.in.
Key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Deity | Lord Shiva as Kedarnath; one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and the first of the Panch Kedar |
| Altitude | About 3,583 m (11,755 ft) |
| Season | Late April / May (around Akshaya Tritiya) to Bhai Dooj (October–November) |
| Winter seat | The deity is taken to Ukhimath for the six winter months |
| Trek | About 17 km from Gaurikund; 6–8 hours on foot |
| Managed by | Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) |
| Nearest railhead | Rishikesh, about 223 km by road |
Plan in this order
- Check the datesThe temple is closed in winter. Opening and closing dates
- Register for the yatraMandatory and free. How to register
- Book the helicopter (optional)Only on heliyatra.irctc.co.in.
- Travel to Sonprayag / GaurikundBy road from Rishikesh or Haridwar, usually with a night stop.
- Trek or fly to KedarnathStart early; weather changes fast in the afternoon.
Health and safety
- The altitude is high; climb slowly and rest. People with heart or lung conditions should consult a doctor first.
- Carry warm clothes and rain gear in every season.
- Follow police and SDRF advisories on weather and route closures.
Book travel to Rishikesh
Fix your darshan first, then book the journey with buffer on both sides.
Frequently asked questions
When does Kedarnath close in 2026?
On Bhai Dooj. The exact date is announced on Vijayadashami. In 2025, Kedarnath closed on 23 October.
Is registration compulsory for Kedarnath?
Yes. Char Dham registration is mandatory and free on registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in.
How long is the Kedarnath trek?
About 17 km uphill from Gaurikund, taking 6–8 hours on foot.
Where can I book a Kedarnath helicopter?
Only on IRCTC's official HeliYatra website, heliyatra.irctc.co.in.
Sources
- Kedarnath Temple (Wikipedia)
- Char Dham 2026 opening dates (Yatradham)
- 2025 winter closing dates announced (All India Radio News)
- Char Dham e-pass registration guide (Yatradham)
- Kedarnath helicopter booking (IRCTC HeliYatra, official)
Checked 6 Oct 2026. Rules can change; confirm with the official source before you travel.