Kedarnath!
india-guide.in
india-guide.in
Population
2000
Best Time
May to June, September to October
Time Needed
3-4 days minimum
Currency
Rupee (₹)
Trip Planning pages built for fast decisions and deeper discovery.
Attractions, activities, and cultural experiences.
Best hotels and restaurants across all budgets.
How to reach and get around with complete transport details.
Hours, entry, and best times to visit.
Shrines, darshan timings and pilgrimage circuit.
Treks, difficulty levels, permits and activities.
Showcase Your Photography Skills • Help Thousands of Travelers • Get Featured with Credit
Kedarnath is a town located in the Garhwal Himalayan range in Uttarakhand, India. It is renowned for the Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Kedarnath offers stunning mountain scenery and a deeply spiritual experience. However, be prepared for a challenging trek, high altitude, and potential for unpredictable weather. The 2013 floods caused significant damage, and while rebuilt, infrastructure remains basic.
Visiting Kedarnath requires physical fitness and careful planning. Allocate at least 3-4 days to account for travel to Gaurikund (trek starting point), the trek itself, darshan at the temple, and acclimatization to the altitude.
May to June
5-18 degrees C
Pleasant and relatively dry weather. Clear skies offer excellent views of the surrounding mountains.
Why Visit:
This is the peak pilgrimage season with the most comfortable trekking conditions. The temple is open, and all facilities are operational. Expect a vibrant atmosphere and a manageable climate for trekking.
Tip: Expect large crowds and higher prices for accommodation and transport. Booking accommodation and helicopter services well in advance is essential.
September to October
2-15 degrees C
Cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. The landscape transforms with autumn colors.
Why Visit:
Fewer crowds compared to May-June, offering a more peaceful pilgrimage experience. The weather is still suitable for trekking, though colder, and the scenery is beautiful.
Tip: Some facilities may start closing down towards the end of October. Check the temple's closing date (usually around Diwali) before planning your trip.
November to April
-5 to 8 degrees C
Heavy snowfall and extremely cold temperatures make Kedarnath inaccessible.
Why Avoid:
The temple is closed during these months due to harsh winter conditions. Trekking is impossible, and the entire region is covered in snow.
Note: N/A - Kedarnath is completely inaccessible during these months.
The Kedarnath Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, believed to be built by Adi Shankaracharya. It is one of the Char Dham and Panch Ke...
Read more arrow_forwardDedicated to Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, this temple is located a short distance from the Kedarnath Temple....
Read more arrow_forwardA glacial lake, also known as Chorabari Tal, where some of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed. It offers serene views of the surrounding mountains....
Read more arrow_forwardA high-altitude lake surrounded by towering peaks. The trek is challenging but rewarding with stunning views....
Read more arrow_forwardA memorial dedicated to Adi Shankaracharya, who is believed to have attained salvation here. It's a small, serene place for contemplation....
Read more arrow_forwardLocated in Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath trek, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati....
Read more arrow_forwardSonprayag is a town located on the confluence of the Son Ganga and Mandakini rivers. It is a holy site for Hindus....
Read more arrow_forwardThe 16 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is the main activity. It involves a steep climb through scenic mountain terra...
Read more arrow_forwardA quick and convenient way to reach Kedarnath, avoiding the strenuous trek. Several helicopter services operate from nea...
Read more arrow_forwardA traditional way to travel to Kedarnath. Ponies and palanquins are available for hire at Gaurikund....
Read more arrow_forwardFind a quiet spot amidst the mountains and practice meditation or yoga. The serene environment of Kedarnath is ideal for...
Read more arrow_forward1 hour | Free
The morning aarti is a sacred ritual performed to invoke the blessings of Lord Shiva. It involves ch...
Read more arrow_forward2-3 hours | Free
The closing ceremony marks the end of the pilgrimage season. The idol of Lord Shiva is moved to Ukhi...
Read more arrow_forwardFlexible | Free
Chanting mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva is a common practice in Kedarnath. It is believed to purify...
Read more arrow_forwardVaries | Free
Several local festivals are celebrated in the Kedarnath region. These festivals offer a glimpse into...
Read more arrow_forwardHalf-day | Free
Take a day trip to nearby villages to experience the local way of life. Interact with the villagers ...
Read more arrow_forwardFlexible | Minimal
Kedarnath offers a chance to disconnect from the modern world and experience a simpler way of life. ...
Read more arrow_forward
A simple and satisfying meal of potato curry served with fried bread. Available at most roadside dhabas.
A simple restaurant serving vegetarian Indian meals. Offers a decent variety of dishes at reasonable prices. Located near the temple.
₹400-600 for two
A basic eatery serving simple Indian food. Popular with pilgrims on a budget. Located in Gaurikund.
₹300-500 for two
💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person
⚠️ Tips: Ensure the food is freshly prepared. Be careful of hygiene.
More restaurants & dishes from Kedarnath
The area around the temple is the most convenient place to stay, but expect basic accommodation. Best for pilgrims who want to be close to the temple.
Best For: Devout pilgrims
Gaurikund is the base camp for the Kedarnath trek and offers a range of budget accommodation options. Suitable for trekkers and budget travelers.
Best For: Trekkers, budget travelers
₹500-1500/night
📍 Near Kedarnath Temple
Basic but clean rooms with essential amenities. A reliable option managed by the government.
₹500-1500/night
📍 Kedarnath
Simple guesthouse offering basic accommodation. Offers decent value for money.
₹800-2000/night
₹2000-4000/night
📍 Kedarnath
Comfortable tents with attached washrooms. Offers a unique experience close to nature.
₹2000-4000/night
📍 Kedarnath
Well-maintained camp with comfortable tents. Provides good service and amenities.
₹2500-4500/night
N/A
📍 N/A
Due to the remote location and challenging terrain, luxury accommodation options are not available in Kedarnath itself. The nearest luxury options are available in Guptkashi or Phata.
N/A
📍 Guptkashi (45km from Gaurikund)
A luxurious resort offering comfortable rooms and modern amenities. Provides excellent service and stunning views.
₹8000+/night
Complete transport guide with routes, timings, costs, and local transport options.
Essential advice on safety, health, money, and local customs.
Smart strategies to experience Kedarnath without the rush
Arrive at opening time or during late afternoon hours when most tour groups have left.
Weekends and holidays bring domestic tourists. Visit Tuesday-Thursday for quieter experiences.
Discover lesser-known spots nearby that offer similar beauty without the tourist crowds.
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Help fellow travelers by sharing your authentic travel photos. Get credited with your name and social links!
Help us improve! Report incorrect information or suggest updates.
Know a hidden gem we're missing? Help us add it to the guide!
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Essential cookies are always enabled.
