Kedarnath is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. It is located in the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India. The Kedarnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is part of the Char Dham Yatra. Every year, thousands of devotees visit this holy place to seek blessings. The weather in Kedarnath changes throughout the year. Some seasons are good for travel, while others can be risky. It is important to choose the right time for your trip. In this article, we will discuss the best time to visit Kedarnath based on different seasons.
Kedarnath’s Climate and Seasonal Variations
Kedarnath has extreme weather conditions. The temple is located at a high altitude, so the climate is cold for most of the year. The region experiences four main seasons: summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter. Each season has different challenges and advantages for visitors.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
Summer (May to June) – Ideal Time for Pilgrimage
The summer season is the best time to visit Kedarnath. The weather is pleasant, and the temple is open to devotees.
- The temperature ranges between 5°C to 18°C.
- The snow melts, and the roads become accessible.
- Pilgrims can trek comfortably without facing extreme cold.
- The temple doors open in late April or early May.
- Accommodation is available as hotels and lodges start operating.
If you want to visit Kedarnath without facing extreme weather, summer is the best season.
Monsoon (July to September) – A Risky Choice
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to the Kedarnath region. Landslides and floods make travel dangerous.
- Rainfall can cause roadblocks and delays.
- Landslides may lead to accidents and injuries.
- Trekking routes become slippery and difficult.
- Temperature remains between 6°C to 15°C.
Many tourists avoid visiting Kedarnath during monsoon due to safety concerns. If you plan a trip during this time, check the weather forecast and take extra precautions.
Autumn (September to October): Best for Scenic Beauty
Autumn is another good time to visit Kedarnath. The rains stop, and the surroundings become clear and beautiful.
- The temperature remains between 4°C to 14°C.
- The sky is clear, offering a great view of the Himalayas.
- The weather is perfect for trekking.
- There are fewer crowds compared to summer.
If you love nature and peaceful surroundings, autumn is a great time to visit Kedarnath.
Winter (November to April): Temple Closure & Snowfall
During winter, Kedarnath experiences heavy snowfall. The temple is closed, and the region becomes inaccessible.
- The temperature can drop to -10°C or lower.
- The entire area gets covered in thick snow.
- Trekking becomes impossible due to extreme cold.
- The temple deity is shifted to Ukhimath for worship.
Since the temple remains closed, tourists cannot visit Kedarnath during winter. However, adventure lovers who enjoy snow trekking can explore nearby regions with proper guidance.
Things to Consider Before Planning Your Trip
Before visiting Kedarnath, you should keep some important points in mind:
- Check Weather Reports – The climate can change suddenly. Always check the weather before traveling.
- Book Accommodation in Advance – Hotels and lodges get full quickly during peak season.
- Carry Warm Clothes – Even in summer, nights can be cold. Pack warm jackets and woolens.
- Prepare for Trekking – The trek to Kedarnath is 16 km. Practice walking long distances before your trip.
- Health Precautions – The high altitude can cause breathing problems. Carry necessary medicines and consult a doctor if needed.
Conclusion
The best time to visit Kedarnath is during summer (May to June) and autumn (September to October). The weather is pleasant, and travel is safe. Monsoon is risky due to heavy rainfall, and winter is not suitable as the temple remains closed. Planning your Kedarnath trip at the right time ensures a smooth and memorable pilgrimage. Always check the weather, book your stay in advance, and take necessary precautions for a safe journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The temple opens in late April or early May, depending on Akshaya Tritiya.
No, the temple remains closed due to heavy snowfall.
No, monsoon brings heavy rain and landslides, making travel unsafe.
May, June, September, and October are the best months.
The temperature can drop to -10°C or even lower.