Kedarnath Temple Darshan Timings: Your Ultimate Guide

Every year, thousands of pilgrims make their way to the sacred town of Kedarnath, India to offer darshan (worship) to the Kedarnath Temple. As a seasoned visitor, here are my insights on the best times to plan your Kedarnath Yatra, based on personal experiences and talks with local guides.

Temple Opening and Darshan Timings

The Kedarnath Temple is situated at an elevation of 3583 meters above sea level, in the Garhwal Himalayas. The temple is primarily open for darshan from late April/early May to mid-November.

Best Time for Kedarnath Yatra

Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit Kedarnath, based on crowd levels, temperature, and prices:

April – May

Temple Opening: The temple usually opens during Akshay Tritiya, which is usually in the last week of April or the first week of May. Weather: Pleasant, with moderate temperatures. crowd: Large crowds due to the start of the pilgrimage season. Waiting Time: 6-7 hours for darshan. Prices: Higher due to peak pilgrimage season. Weather: Pleasant, with temperatures between 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).

June

Crowd: Still large but slightly reduced compared to May. Temperature: Pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Waiting Time: 5-6 hours for darshan. Prices: Still high due to peak season.

July and August – Monsoon Season

Recommendation: Not advised for general visitors due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides. Special Consideration: Visits can be done with extra caution and a 3-4 day buffer for delays. Weather: Heavy rain and potential road closures. Travel Risks: Dangerous trekking conditions, cancellations, and delays in transport.

September

Crowd: Reduced from the summer months. Waiting Time: 3-4 hours for darshan. Weather: Pleasant, with slightly cooler temperatures. Recommendation: Ideal for a more peaceful experience. Prices: Similar to May and June, with lighter crowds holding substantial value.

October – November

Crowd: Significantly smaller, with less than 1-2 hours waiting time for darshan. Temperature: Cold but manageable, with potential for snowfall. Recommendation: Perfect for snow enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful darshan. Avoid: Not recommended for elderly people or children under 5 years due to cold temperatures and challenging altitude. Travel Risks: Slippery path due to accumulating snow, making it difficult for those with mobility issues.

Conclusion

Whichever time of the year you decide to visit Kedarnath, the experience of witnessing the sacredness of the temple and enjoying the natural beauty of the Himalayas will be rewarding. Just make sure to plan accordingly to ensure a safe and comfortable yatra.