Kedarnath Yatra 2026 – Complete Planning Guide
Kedarnath Temple Timings 2026 are important to know before starting your pilgrimage to Kedarnath Dham. From early morning puja and darshan to evening aarti, devotees should plan their trek and temple visit according to the daily schedule.
Kedarnath Temple is one of the most important Shiva temples in Uttarakhand and a major destination of the Char Dham Yatra. Located at an altitude of around 3,583 metres in Rudraprayag district, the temple can only be reached after travelling by road to Sonprayag/Gaurikund and continuing on foot or by approved pony, palki or other available services. Uttarakhand Tourism describes the route as a medium-to-steep mountain trek.
For 2026, the Kedarnath Temple kapat opened on 22 April 2026 at 8:00 AM. The official Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee website also lists 22 April 2026 as the Kedarnath opening date.
Quick Kedarnath Temple Timings 2026
Temple Activity | Approximate Timing |
Morning temple rituals | Early morning |
Morning puja | Around 4:00 AM onwards |
General darshan | After morning rituals and as per temple arrangements |
Afternoon temple hours | As per daily temple schedule |
Evening aarti | Evening |
Temple closing rituals | Night |
Kapat opening 2026 | 22 April 2026 |
Kapat opening time | 8:00 AM on 22 April 2026 |
Important: Temple timings, darshan arrangements and special puja availability can change according to religious ceremonies, crowd management, weather and instructions from the temple administration. Always check the latest information from the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee before your journey.
Kedarnath Temple Opening Date 2026
The Kedarnath Dham kapat opened on 22 April 2026 at 8:00 AM for the 2026 pilgrimage season. The date was announced on Maha Shivratri after traditional Panchang calculations at Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, the winter seat associated with Lord Kedarnath.
The Panchmukhi Doli of Lord Kedarnath started its ceremonial journey from Ukhimath on 19 April and reached Kedarnath before the kapat opening.
Kedarnath remains an important part of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, along with Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.
Kedarnath Temple Darshan Timings
Darshan timings at Kedarnath should not be treated as a fixed clock schedule for every day. The temple follows a daily religious routine, and the actual public darshan window can be affected by puja, aarti, special ceremonies and crowd management.
If you want to attend early morning darshan, reaching Kedarnath one day before is a better option than completing the trek on the same morning.
For pilgrims staying overnight in Kedarnath, an early start gives more time to complete darshan before returning towards Gaurikund.
Best Time for Kedarnath Darshan
The early morning hours are generally preferred by pilgrims who want a quieter temple experience. However, the number of devotees can be high during weekends, holidays and peak Char Dham Yatra months.
During busy periods, keep extra time for queues and temple arrangements.
Kedarnath Aarti Timings 2026
Kedarnath Temple Activity | Timings | Kedarnath Yatra Information |
Mangala Aarti | 4:00 AM – 6:00 AM | An early morning worship ritual for pilgrims starting their Kedarnath Yatra. |
General Darshan | 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Main Kedarnath Temple darshan hours for devotees. |
Midday Break | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Temple darshan may remain closed during the afternoon break. Plan your Kedarnath Yatra accordingly. |
Sandhya Aarti | 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Evening worship at Kedarnath Temple, ideal for pilgrims staying overnight in Kedarnath. |
Shayan Aarti | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Evening closing rituals before the temple closes for the night. |
Temple Closing | 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM | The temple closes after the final daily rituals. |
Important: Temple timings, Kedarnath Temple darshan arrangements and special puja availability may change due to religious ceremonies, crowd management, weather conditions and instructions from the temple administration. Pilgrims planning a Kedarnath Yatra 2026 should always confirm the latest timings and arrangements with the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) before travelling.
Note: The timings shown above are useful for travel planning based on the provided schedule. For your website, it is best to label them as “Typical Timings – Subject to Change” rather than presenting them as fixed timings.
Kedarnath Temple Puja Timings and Rates 2026
The following Kedarnath Temple puja timings and rates are arranged in separate tables for easy reading. These details can help pilgrims planning their Kedarnath Yatra 2026 and looking to book special puja or aarti services.
Early Morning Puja at Kedarnath Temple
Puja Name | Timing | Persons Allowed | Rate (INR) |
Mahabhishek Puja | 4:30 AM – 6:30 AM | 1 | ₹5,500 |
Abhishek Puja | 4:30 AM – 6:30 AM | 1 | ₹5,300 |
Early Morning Puja: 4:30 AM – 6:30 AM
Special Puja at Kedarnath Temple
Puja Name | Timing | Persons Allowed | Rate (INR) |
Entire Pujas of the Day | 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM | 1 | ₹15,000 |
Srimad Bhagwat Saptah Path | 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM | 1 | ₹1,00,000 |
Special Puja Timing: 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Day Puja and Path at Kedarnath Temple
Puja / Path Name | Timing | Persons Allowed | Rate (INR) |
Ved Path | 7:30 AM – 12:00 Noon & 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | 1 | ₹3,100 |
Geeta Path | 7:30 AM – 12:00 Noon & 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | 1 | ₹3,100 |
Day Puja Timing: 7:30 AM – 12:00 Noon and 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Evening Aarti/Puja/Path at Kedarnath Temple
The evening Kedarnath Temple aarti and puja schedule includes several short rituals and paths. These services are useful for pilgrims staying overnight during their Kedarnath Yatra.
Aarti / Puja / Path | Timing | Persons Allowed | Rate (INR) |
Kapoor Aarti | 6:00 PM – 6:10 PM | 1 | ₹501 |
Chandi Aarti | 6:15 PM – 6:30 PM | 1 | ₹701 |
Swaran Aarti | 6:30 PM – 6:45 PM | 1 | ₹901 |
Ashtotari Puja | 6:45 PM – 7:00 PM | 1 | ₹701 |
Vishnu Sahasranam Path | 7:00 PM – 7:20 PM | 1 | ₹1,001 |
Vishnu Sahasranamawali | 7:20 PM – 7:45 PM | 1 | ₹1,001 |
Evening Aarti/Puja/Path: 6:00 PM – 7:45 PM
Kedarnath Temple Closing Puja
Puja / Path Name | Timing | Persons Allowed | Rate (INR) |
Shayan Aarti with Geet Govind Path | As per temple schedule | 1 | ₹5,001 |
Note: The timing for Shayan Aarti with Geet Govind Path may vary according to the temple’s daily schedule and religious rituals.
The evening Kedarnath Temple aarti and puja schedule includes several short rituals and paths. These services are useful for pilgrims staying overnight during their Kedarnath Yatra.
Important Note on Kedarnath Puja Rates
Kedarnath Temple puja timings, rates and booking availability may change. Pilgrims planning their Kedarnath Yatra 2026 should check the latest details with the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) before booking.
How to Book Kedarnath Puja Online
Pilgrims can book Kedarnath Temple puja online through the official Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) portal. Select the puja type, date and number of devotees, then complete the booking as per availability.
Tip: Check the latest Kedarnath puja rates and booking rules before payment, as timings, prices and availability may change.
Kedarnath Yatra Route From Haridwar
Main Route:
Haridwar / Rishikesh → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath
Trek Details:
- Gaurikund to Kedarnath distance: 16–18 km trek
- Route condition: Well-maintained but steep at some points
- Options: Trek / Horse / Palki / Helicopter
Kedarnath Trek Distance 2026
The Gaurikund to Kedarnath trek is around 16 km one way. The route is uphill and includes steep sections, stone paths and changing mountain weather. For your Kedarnath Yatra 2026, plan for a moderate-to-challenging trek and allow enough time for regular rest breaks.
Kedarnath Trek Difficulty, Route & Fitness Tips
Kedarnath trek difficulty: Moderate to challenging for many pilgrims.
The difficulty depends on:
- Age and fitness
- Trekking experience
- Weather
- Crowd conditions
- Altitude
- Rest and hydration
- Backpack weight
Uttarakhand Tourism describes the trail as medium to steep.
First-time trekkers should avoid rushing and take regular breaks.
Kedarnath Trek Route and Main Padav
The Kedarnath trek route from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple is around 16 km. The main trek stops help pilgrims plan rest breaks and manage the uphill journey.
Gaurikund → Jungle Chatti → Bheembali → Linchauli → Kedarnath Base Camp → Kedarnath Temple
1. Gaurikund – Kedarnath Trek Start Point
Gaurikund is the traditional starting point of the Kedarnath trek and the last major road-access point.
Distance to Kedarnath Temple: Around 16 km
Kedarnath trek difficulty: Moderate to challenging for many pilgrims.
2. Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti
Jungle Chatti is an early Kedarnath trek stop where pilgrims can take a short rest before continuing uphill.
Distance: Around 4 km from Gaurikund | 12 km remaining to Kedarnath
3. Jungle Chatti to Bheembali
Bheembali is an important rest point on the Kedarnath Yatra trek route, with facilities depending on current arrangements.
Distance: Around 3 km from Jungle Chatti | 9 km remaining to Kedarnath
4. Bheembali to Linchauli
Linchauli is a higher-altitude stop and a useful place for pilgrims to rest before the final sections of the trek.
Distance: Around 4 km from Bheembali | 5 km remaining to Kedarnath
5. Linchauli to Kedarnath Base Camp
The trail continues uphill from Linchauli towards the Kedarnath Base Camp, located close to the temple area.
Distance: Around 3 km from Linchauli | 2 km remaining to Kedarnath Temple
6. Kedarnath Base Camp to Kedarnath Temple
The final section takes pilgrims from the Kedarnath Base Camp to Kedarnath Temple, completing the main uphill trek.
Distance: Around 2 km | Total Gaurikund to Kedarnath: Approximately 16 km
Note: Trek distances are approximate and may vary with route changes and current operational arrangements.
Kedarnath Nearby Places to Visit
Kedarnath Yatra can be combined with several nearby attractions depending on your itinerary.
Bhairavnath Temple
Bhairavnath Temple is located around 500 metres from Kedarnath Temple and is traditionally associated with the protection of Kedarnath Dham during the winter months.
Gaurikund
Gaurikund is the starting point of the Kedarnath trek and is also known for its hot water spring and connection with Goddess Parvati.
Triyuginarayan Temple
Triyuginarayan Temple is a popular nearby pilgrimage destination associated with the traditional wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It can be added to a customised Kedarnath itinerary depending on route and available time.
Chopta
Chopta – The Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand is famous for its lush green meadows, snow-capped Himalayan views, and peaceful mountain scenery. It is a popular destination for the Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Chopta is an ideal choice for trekking, nature lovers, and mountain getaways in Uttarakhand.
Dhari Devi Temple
Dhari Devi Temple is a revered shrine on the banks of the Alaknanda River and is believed to be the protector of Char Dham pilgrims in Uttarakhand. It is an important spiritual stop on the Char Dham Yatra route, especially while travelling towards Kedarnath and Badrinath.
Devprayag
Devprayag is a sacred town in Uttarakhand, known as the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi Rivers, where the Ganga takes its name. It is an important spiritual stop on the Char Dham Yatra route, offering beautiful Himalayan views and a peaceful pilgrimage experience.
Kedarnath Yatra Registration 2026
Pilgrims planning the Kedarnath Yatra 2026 should complete the required Char Dham Yatra registration before starting their journey. Keep your registration details and identification documents safely available during the trip.
Documents Required for Kedarnath Yatra Registration
- Valid Aadhaar Card or Government ID
- Mobile Number linked with the registration
- Yatra Registration/QR Slip
- Passport-size Photograph, if required
- Travel and accommodation details, if requested
- Emergency contact details
Important: Registration requirements may change for the 2026 Yatra. Check the latest instructions on the official Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) website before travelling.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath in 2026
The Kedarnath pilgrimage season generally runs from spring to autumn, between the opening and closing of the temple.
May to June
May and June are popular because of relatively favourable road and trekking conditions, but these months can be crowded.
July to August
The monsoon season can bring heavy rain, landslides and road delays in Uttarakhand. Travellers should check weather and road conditions before departure.
September to October
September and early October are often preferred by travellers who want cooler weather and, depending on conditions, less crowd than the peak summer period.
Always check the latest weather and route advisories before travelling.
How to Reach Kedarnath Dham
Kedarnath is not directly connected by road. The road journey ends at the Sonprayag/Gaurikund area, after which pilgrims continue towards Kedarnath by trek or permitted support services.
By Road
Haridwar and Rishikesh are two popular starting points for a Kedarnath Yatra.
A typical road route is:
Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Kund → Guptkashi → Phata → Sitapur → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath
Uttarakhand Tourism confirms that Gaurikund is connected by road with Rishikesh and other major destinations of Uttarakhand.
By Train
The nearest major railway connection for Kedarnath travellers is Rishikesh. From Rishikesh, travellers continue by road towards the Kedarnath route.
By Flight
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, from where travellers continue by road towards the Kedarnath route. Uttarakhand Tourism lists the airport at about 238 km from Kedarnath.
How Many Days Are Required for Kedarnath Yatra?
A Kedarnath Yatra usually takes 3 to 4 days from Haridwar or Rishikesh, depending on the itinerary and travel pace.
Day 1: Haridwar/Rishikesh → Sersi/Guptkashi
Day 2: Sersi/Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Kedarnath
Day 3: Kedarnath → Sonprayag → Sersi/Guptkashi
Day 4: Sersi/Guptkashi → Haridwar/Rishikesh
3N/4D is a comfortable option for pilgrims who want enough time for the Kedarnath Temple visit and return journey without rushing.
Kedarnath Yatra for Senior Citizens
Senior citizens can visit Kedarnath, but the high altitude and long uphill trek require careful planning.
Consider:
- Adding an extra rest day
- Choosing a suitable travel pace
- Carrying essential medicines
- Avoiding heavy luggage
- Taking regular breaks
- Checking with a doctor before high-altitude travel if needed
- Using authorised pony or palki services where appropriate
Do not plan the trek based only on the distance. The steep sections and altitude can make the journey physically demanding.
Available Package Options
We offer different Char Dham tour packages based on your travel preferences.
| Package | Duration |
|---|---|
| Char Dham Yatra Package from Delhi | 11 Nights / 12 Days |
| Char Dham Yatra Package from Haridwar | 09 Nights / 10 Days |
| Do Dham Yatra Tour Package | Kedarnath & Badrinath Tour | 05 Nights / 06 Days |
| Kedarnath Yatra Package | 03 Nights / 04 Days |
| Customized Private Char Dham Tour | As per requirement |
FAQs – Kedarnath Yatra 2026
1. What are the Kedarnath Temple timings in 2026?
Kedarnath Temple timings vary during the yatra season. Darshan and puja schedules may change based on temple arrangements, weather and crowd conditions.
2. What time does Kedarnath Temple open for darshan?
Morning darshan begins after the early morning puja. Pilgrims should check the latest temple schedule before visiting.
3. What time is Kedarnath morning puja?
Early morning pujas such as Mahabhishek and Rudrabhishek are performed in the early hours. Advance booking and specific time slots may apply.
4. What is the Kedarnath Temple evening aarti timing?
The evening aarti is generally held around 6:00 PM onwards during the summer season. The exact timing may change.
5. Can I book Kedarnath Temple puja online?
Yes, selected Kedarnath pujas can be booked through the official temple committee’s online puja service.
6. Which puja can be booked at Kedarnath Temple?
Devotees can book pujas such as Mahabhishek, Rudrabhishek, Laghu Rudra-Abhishek, Shodashopachar and evening aarti, subject to availability.
7. How early should I reach Kedarnath Temple for puja?
For booked morning pujas and aarti, pilgrims should reach the temple area 15–30 minutes before the scheduled time.
8. Is Kedarnath Temple open throughout the year?
No. Kedarnath Temple is open mainly during the annual pilgrimage season and remains closed during the winter months because of heavy snowfall.
9. Do I need registration for Kedarnath Yatra 2026?
Yes, pilgrims should complete the required Kedarnath Yatra registration before starting their journey and carry the required documents.
10. Can Kedarnath Temple timings change?
Yes. Puja, aarti and darshan timings can be changed or rescheduled by the temple authorities due to weather, religious events, crowd conditions or other arrangements.
11. How can I book Kedarnath Yatra package?
You can book your Kedarnath Yatra Package by contacting the SafarXpert travel team through website www.safarxpert.com and Call or WhatsApp at +91 9220431165. Our team can help you choose a suitable itinerary, vehicle, hotel, and travel plan according to your requirements.
