temperature at kedarnath

Kedarnath Temperature & Weather Guide 2025 – Monthly Averages, What to Expect

Before embarking on your sacred pilgrimage to Kedarnath Temple, it is crucial to understand the temperature at Kedarnath and the region’s unique climatic conditions. Nestled at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 ft) in the breathtaking Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Kedarnath experiences a wide range of weather variations throughout the year. The extreme cold, sudden rain showers, and occasional snowfall make it one of the most challenging yet spiritually rewarding destinations in India. Due to heavy snowfall during winter months, the Kedarnath Temple remains open only for about six months, from May to October, when the weather is relatively mild and safe for pilgrims.

Familiarizing yourself with Kedarnath temperature and seasonal conditions is essential for planning a comfortable and safe visit. Understanding the temperature at Kedarnath helps you pack appropriate clothing, prepare for sudden weather changes, and ensure that your pilgrimage is smooth, memorable, and spiritually fulfilling. With proper preparation, you can fully embrace the divine serenity of the Kedarnath Temple and the majestic Himalayan surroundings without facing unnecessary hardships.

Summer (May to June): Best Time for Kedarnath Yatra

Summer is considered the most favorable season to visit Kedarnath Temple, as the weather becomes relatively pleasant and the trek more manageable. During this time, the temperature at Kedarnath typically ranges between 5°C to 17°C, providing comfortable conditions for both trekking and performing darshan. With the melting snow, the surrounding valleys come alive with blooming flowers, adding vibrant colors to the majestic Himalayan landscape. The temple reopens in May, welcoming devotees after months of winter closure, making it an ideal time for a spiritually uplifting pilgrimage.

Tips for Travellers:

  1. Carry light woolen clothes and waterproof jackets to stay warm during sudden weather changes.

  2. Book your accommodation in advance, as summer attracts a large number of pilgrims.

  3. Try to reach the temple in the early morning for darshan to avoid long queues and make the most of your visit.

Planning ahead while keeping the Kedarnath temperature in mind ensures a comfortable, safe, and memorable pilgrimage experience.

Monsoon (July to September): Risky but Scenic

During the monsoon season, Kedarnath experiences moderate to heavy rainfall, making the region both lush and challenging for travel. The temperature at Kedarnath during this period fluctuates between 3°C to 15°C, creating cool and damp conditions. While the valleys turn vibrant green and rivers flow with renewed energy, the risk of landslides and slippery trails increases significantly, making travel to the Kedarnath Temple potentially hazardous. For this reason, visiting during monsoon is generally not recommended for safety reasons.

 

Tips for Travelers:

  1. Avoid trekking during heavy rain, as trails become treacherous.

  2. Always check weather updates before planning your journey to stay informed about possible hazards.

  3. Carry rain gear, waterproof clothing, and protective covers for electronics to safeguard against rain and moisture.

Being mindful of the Kedarnath temperature and monsoon conditions helps ensure that your pilgrimage remains safe, comfortable, and spiritually fulfilling.

Autumn (October to November): Cold & Crystal Clear

Autumn in Kedarnath is a brief yet mesmerizing season, offering pilgrims and photographers the perfect opportunity to experience the Himalayan beauty in its full glory. With clear skies, crisp air, and unobstructed views of snow-capped peaks, this season provides a serene and picturesque backdrop for a spiritual journey. The temperature at Kedarnath during autumn ranges from 0°C to 10°C, and nights can be particularly freezing, requiring adequate warm clothing. The Kedarnath Temple usually closes shortly after Diwali, signaling the onset of the harsh winter months.

 

Tips for Travelers:

  1. Carry heavy woolens, gloves, and warm accessories to stay comfortable in cold temperatures.

  2. Since days are shorter, plan your trek and temple visits early to make the most of daylight hours.

  3. If visiting in October, don’t miss the Kedarnath Kapat closing ceremony, a spiritually significant event that marks the temporary closure of the temple.

Autumn offers an ideal blend of favorable Kedarnath temperature, clear weather, and divine ambiance, making it one of the most memorable times for a pilgrimage to this sacred shrine.

Winter (December to April): Frozen Wonderland

During winter, Kedarnath transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, but extreme cold and heavy snowfall make it inaccessible for most pilgrims. The Kedarnath Temple remains closed, and the idol of Lord Kedarnath is ceremoniously moved to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath for winter worship, allowing devotees to continue their spiritual practices safely. Temperatures during this season can drop to as low as -15°C, and roads are often blocked, making travel extremely challenging. Only experienced trekkers or locals venture into the region during this harsh period.

 

Tips for Travelers:

  1. Visit Ukhimath to seek the blessings of Lord Kedarnath during winter.

  2. Wear multi-layered clothing to stay warm if traveling to nearby areas.

  3. Keep track of weather reports for towns like Guptkashi or Chopta to plan safe travel and avoid snow-related hazards.

Being aware of the Kedarnath temperature and winter conditions ensures that your spiritual journey remains safe, comfortable, and fulfilling even when the temple itself is closed.

Best Time to Visit Kedarnath

The best time to visit Kedarnath is between May and June, and again from September to October when the weather is calm, skies are clear, and the temple remains open for devotees. These months are considered the most favorable for both spiritual seekers and adventure travelers, as the roads are accessible, and the temperature at Kedarnath remains pleasant enough for comfortable travel and darshan.

During May and June, the temperature at Kedarnath generally ranges between 5°C to 18°C, offering an ideal climate to trek or fly by helicopter. The snow begins to melt, revealing lush green meadows and panoramic views of the snow-clad Himalayas, making this season perfect for photography and spiritual reflection alike.

Post-monsoon, between September and October, the temperature at Kedarnath drops slightly, averaging between 3°C and 15°C, creating a cool and refreshing atmosphere. The monsoon clouds clear, the surroundings look washed and vibrant, and the serenity of the temple heightens the divine experience.

Pilgrims are advised to avoid visiting during the monsoon months (July and August) due to heavy rainfall and frequent landslides that can disrupt travel routes. Similarly, winters from November to April are extremely harsh, with the temperature at Kedarnath often dipping below freezing point, and the temple remains closed during this time.

For a safe and memorable journey, plan your Kedarnath Yatra during the summer or post-monsoon season, check the latest temperature at Kedarnath before traveling, and carry warm clothing even in warmer months, as the high-altitude weather can change quickly.

Tips for Kedarnath Temperature, Weather & Travel

  1. Travel in the Best Season: Visit between May to June (summer) or September to October (autumn) for clear skies, moderate temperatures, and safer trekking conditions.
  2. Pack Appropriately: Carry woolens, thermals, gloves, waterproof jackets, and sturdy trekking shoes to stay warm and comfortable.
  3. Stay Hydrated & Eat Light: Drink plenty of water and consume light meals to cope with high-altitude conditions.
  4. Altitude Preparation: Arrive 1–2 days early to acclimatize, and carry oxygen tablets or portable oxygen cans if prone to breathing issues.
  5. Plan for Contingencies: Be ready for delays due to weather, landslides, or road closures. Keep alternative travel options like helicopter services in mind.
  6. Early Morning Darshan: Reach the Kedarnath Temple early to avoid long queues and maximize daylight hours for trekking.
  7. Keep Emergency Essentials: Carry a first-aid kit, rain gear, and waterproof covers for electronics to stay safe during sudden rain or snow.
  8. Stay updated with Char Dham Yatra registration and official weather alerts.

Conclusion

The temperature in Kedarnath is a crucial factor to consider when planning your pilgrimage to this sacred Himalayan shrine. Summers, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 17°C, provide the most favorable conditions for trekking, darshan, and exploring the surrounding natural beauty. The monsoon season, however, brings heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and potential landslides, making travel risky. In winter, the Kedarnath temperature can drop as low as -15°C, and the temple remains closed, with only locals or experienced trekkers venturing into the snow-covered region.

 

By understanding the temperature in Kedarnath and seasonal variations, pilgrims can pack appropriately, plan their travel itinerary, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety. This knowledge allows you to fully experience the divine aura of Kedarnath Temple, enjoy smooth trekking, and make your spiritual journey to Lord Shiva’s Himalayan abode safe, comfortable, and truly unforgettable.

FAQs

Does it snow in Kedarnath?

Yes, Kedarnath receives heavy snowfall from November to April, often exceeding several feet, which leads to the temple’s seasonal closure.

No, the temple is closed due to heavy snow. You can visit Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, where the Kedarnath deity is worshipped during winter.

May and early June are ideal for pleasant weather. October offers clear skies but colder nights.

January is the coldest month, with temperatures dropping to -15°C or below.