When will kedarnath temple open in 2026? - Opening and Closing Dates
The Kedarnath Temple is expected to open on 22 April 2026, around 7:00 AM, on the auspicious occasion of Akshay Tritiya. The date is yet to be announced by the Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC). As always, the opening date of Kedarnath Temple will be declared on Maha Shivratri by the priests at Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath.
Kedarnath Temple usually closes on the occasion of Bhai Dooj every year. Accordingly, the expected Kedarnath temple closing date is to be 11 November 2026.
Kedarnath Temple Opening and Closing Dates in 2026
Opening date | 22nd April 2026 |
Closing date | 11 November 2026 |
Opening Timings | 7:00 Am |
Every year, lakhs of devotees wait for the official announcement of the Kedarnath opening date, as the shrine remains closed for nearly six months due to extreme winter conditions.
Also Check – When does Badrinath Yatra Starts? Temple Opening and Closing dates 2026
What happens on Kedarnath Yatra Opening Day?
On the opening day, the Kedarnath temple gates usually open around 7:00 AM early in the morning after special prayers and rituals are performed by the priests. These rituals are done before allowing devotees to enter the temple for darshan.
Once the prayers are completed, the doors of Kedarnath Temple are opened for pilgrims who have been waiting since early hours. Darshan on the opening day is usually well-managed because of large crowds and cold weather. For many devotees, visiting Kedarnath on the opening day is considered very special as it marks the start of the yatra season.
Is Kedarnath Open Now?
No. Kedarnath Temple is currently closed during winter.
The shrine closes every year around October or early November after Bhai Dooj, once heavy snowfall begins in the region.
During winter:
- The idol of Lord Kedarnath is shifted to Omkareshwar Temple
- Worship continues there until the temple reopens
Best Months to Visit Kedarnath After Opening
Even after the Kedarnath temple opens, not every month is best to visit.
Best Kedarnath yatra time:
- May & June: Pleasant weather, stable routes, peak season
- September & October: Clear skies, fewer crowd
Months to avoid:
- July & August (monsoon season) due to landslides and road obstructions
For a deeper breakdown, you can also explore our detailed guide on the best time to visit Kedarnath.
Types of Darshan at Kedarnath Temple
 Kedarnath Temple offers a various darshans for devotees to connect spiritually with Baba Kedarnath. Below are types of available darshan types:
1. General Darshan
This is the regular queue-based entry for all devotees. Waiting time depends on the crowd, especially during peak yatra months.
2. Live Darshan
If you cannot travel, Kedarnath live darshan allows you to watch temple rituals online during the yatra season and stay spiritually connected from home.
3. Abhishek / Special Darshan
Devotees can book special poojas like Abhishek for a closer and more peaceful darshan experience. These slots are limited and require advance booking.
👉 For step-by-step guidance, availability details, and updated process, visit our complete Kedarnath Darshan Booking Guide.
How to Plan a Safe Kedarnath Yatra
Planning a safe Kedarnath Yatra is less about speed and more about preparation. The journey to Kedarnath Temple involves high altitude, changing weather, and limited on-ground facilities, so small decisions can make a big difference.
First, time your visit wisely. Even after the temple opens, the first few weeks can be cold and unpredictable. Many experienced pilgrims prefer visiting after mid-May or in September, when weather conditions are more stable and routes are fully operational.
Second, complete your yatra registration in advance and carry both digital and physical copies. Registration helps authorities manage crowd movement and provides a basic safety net in case of emergencies.
Third, travel at a comfortable pace. Avoid rushing the trek or skipping rest days, especially if you are travelling with elders. Staying overnight at proper halt towns and allowing time for acclimatisation reduces the risk of altitude-related discomfort.
Fourth, monitor weather updates regularly during your journey. Landslides, rain, or sudden snowfall can affect movement, and it’s always safer to follow local administration advice rather than pushing ahead.
Finally, pack light but smart—carry warm layers, proper footwear, essential medicines, and keep emergency contacts saved offline. A calm, well-planned approach ensures that your Kedarnath Yatra remains not only spiritually fulfilling but also safe and manageable.
