Kedarnath Temple, nestled in the breathtaking Garhwal Himalayas, is set to reopen its doors to devotees on May 2, 2025, after its six-month winter closure. The shrine, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites, is part of the revered Char Dham Yatra, attracting thousands of devotees each year.
Kedarnath Temple Opening Date and Timings
The gates of Kedarnath temple will open at 7 AM on May 2, 2025, as confirmed by Vijay Prasad Thapliyal, the CEO of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee. The auspicious date was determined on Mahashivratri after traditional prayers at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, where Lord Kedarnath is worshipped during the winter months.
Chota Char Dham 2025 Dates
With the Kedarnath temple opening date now announced, the dates for all four shrines of the Chota Char Dham Yatra have been finalized. Please find below Chota Char Dham 2025 Dates for the reference of devotees:
- Gangotri Dham: April 30, 2025 (Akshaya Tritiya)
- Yamunotri Dham: April 30, 2025 (Akshaya Tritiya)
- Kedarnath Dham: May 2, 2025
- Badrinath Dham: May 4, 2025
These shrines form a sacred pilgrimage circuit, drawing spiritual seekers, adventure lovers, and devotees to the pristine heights of Uttarakhand’s Himalayas.
The opening date of Kedarnath temple was decided through traditional rituals and Vedic chants by Hindu saints and Vedpathis at Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath, where Lord Kedarnath’s idol is worshipped in winter. The Kedarnath Rawal (chief priest) Bhimshankar Ling, along with local officials, MLA Asha Nautiyal, temple committee members, and hundreds of devotees, witnessed the spiritual proceedings.
Why Visit Kedarnath Temple in 2025?
Kedarnath, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is not just a pilgrimage but a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Surrounded by the majestic snow-capped peaks, the temple is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) near the Mandakini River. Here’s why you should plan your visit:
- Spiritual Awakening: Seek blessings at one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
- Scenic Trek: A stunning 16 km trek from Gaurikund takes you through alpine forests, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
- Divine Energy: The spiritual aura of Kedarnath temple and its surroundings is truly soul-stirring.
- Best Time to Visit: May to June is the ideal period before monsoon sets in.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (250 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (241 km).
- By Road: Drive or take a bus to Gaurikund, the last motorable point before the trek to Kedarnath.
From Gaurikund, pilgrims undertake a 16-kilometer trek to reach the temple. The path is adorned with picturesque views of the Himalayas, lush green forests, and cascading waterfalls. For those unable to trek, helicopter services are available from locations such as Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi.
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