Kedarnath Temple Opening and Closing Dates 2026 – Complete Guide for Pilgrims
Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds immense spiritual significance in Hinduism. Located in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3,583 meters, the temple forms a crucial part of the Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand. Every year, lakhs of devotees visit this sacred jyotirlinga to seek blessings. Since the shrine remains inaccessible during winter due to heavy snowfall, pilgrims eagerly wait for the official Kedarnath opening and closing dates each year.
In this article, we bring you the Kedarnath Temple Opening Date 2026, expected closing date, significance of the ceremony, registration process, weather guide, and essential travel tips for planning your pilgrimage.
Kedarnath Temple Opening Date 2026
Every year, the gates of Kedarnath Dham open on the auspicious occasion of Akshay Tritiya, and the exact muhurat is decided after detailed astrological calculations in Ukhimath. For the year 2026, Akshay Tritiya falls on 18 April 2026 (Saturday). Thus, the Kedarnath Temple Opening Date 2026 is expected to be 18 April 2026 (tentative), early in the morning during a special puja ceremony.
The final announcement of the opening time is made during the winter puja of Baba Kedarnath at Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath, usually in February–March. Pilgrims planning their Kedarnath Yatra 2026 are advised to follow official notifications from the Kedarnath Management Committee.
Kedarnath Temple Closing Date 2026
Kedarnath Temple traditionally closes on Bhai Dooj, which marks the end of the Diwali festival. In 2026, Bhai Dooj falls on 16 November 2026 (Monday).
Therefore, the expected Kedarnath Temple Closing Date 2026 is 16 November 2026.
After closure, the holy idol of Baba Kedarnath is taken to Ukhimath, where winter worship is performed at the Omkareshwar Temple.
Significance of Kedarnath Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony of Kedarnath is not just a ritual but a spiritually uplifting event for thousands of devotees. The shrine’s sacred doli (palanquin) of Baba Kedarnath begins its journey from Ukhimath two days before opening. It travels through Guptkashi and Gaurikund before reaching Kedarnath, accompanied by priests, devotees, and traditional music.
On opening day:
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The temple is decorated with fresh flowers.
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A special Mahabhishek Puja is performed at Brahma Muhurat.
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Only a limited number of people are allowed during the first darshan.
This divine moment marks the beginning of the pilgrimage season in the Himalayas.
Kedarnath Yatra 2026 Registration
All pilgrims must register to visit Kedarnath. Registration helps manage the crowd and ensures safety during high-altitude travel.
How to Register for Kedarnath Yatra 2026
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Online registration is expected to open a few weeks before Akshay Tritiya.
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Pilgrims can register using a mobile number, ID proof, and date of travel.
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Offline registration counters will be available at Rishikesh, Haridwar, Guptkashi, Sonprayag, etc.
Required Documents
Weather Conditions During Kedarnath Yatra 2026
Kedarnath experiences harsh and unpredictable weather due to its high altitude. Understanding seasonal conditions is important for safe travel.
April – May (Opening Season)
June – July (Peak Season)
August – September (Monsoon)
October – November (Pre-Closing Season)
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Clear skies with breathtaking Himalayan views
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Very cold climate with sub-zero nights
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One of the best times for darshan
How to Reach Kedarnath in 2026
By Road: Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun are the main gateways. From Sonprayag, take a shuttle to Gaurikund, the trek starting point.
By Trek: Gaurikund to Kedarnath is a 16–18 km trek, which takes 6–8 hours.
By Helicopter: Helicopter services will operate from: Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi Helipad; Bookings will open online before the season begins.
Tips for Planning Your Kedarnath Yatra 2026
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Book your accommodation in advance—hotels fill up quickly.
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Wear proper winter clothing, trekking shoes, gloves, and windproof jackets.
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Keep a first-aid kit and necessary medications.
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Stay hydrated and avoid rushing during the trek.
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Senior citizens should undergo a medical checkup prior to travel.
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Always follow the guidelines issued by the Uttarakhand government.
The Kedarnath Temple Opening and Closing Dates 2026 mark the beginning and end of one of India’s most sacred pilgrimages. With the expected opening on 18 April 2026 and closing on 16 November 2026, devotees have nearly seven months to plan their spiritual journey. Kedarnath is not just a destination—it is a divine experience filled with faith, devotion, and the serene energy of the Himalayas.
Whether you are planning a solo yatra, family visit, or a guided pilgrimage, preparing ahead ensures a smooth and fulfilling darshan of Baba Kedarnath.
