The Kedarnath Yatra in 2025: A Detailed Tourist Guide

The Kedarnath Mandir in Uttarakhand is one of the most significant pilgrimage places in Hindu culture. The holy shrine is visited by devotees to worship Lord Shiva. It is a 16-kilometre difficult trek, which begins at the Gaurikund. Known for its high spiritual vibrations and panoramic beauty all around, the Kedarnath Dham in Uttarakhand is a popular tourist destination. Its opening and closing date is based on the Hindu calendar. Vasuki Tal, Tungnath Temple, Gaurikund, and Guptkashi are other places near the Kedarnath trek that can be covered in this spiritual journey.

Kedarnath Mandir is a sacred shrine in Uttarakhand, which is one of the four dhams (Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath). It is included in Veena World’s Char Dham Yatra Package. Located in the Garhwal Himalayan range, this holy place has a huge significance in the Hindu religion. The name Kedar means 'powerful' and is one of the many names of Madadev. Every year, tens of thousands of devotees visit the Kedarnath temple during the pilgrimage season. Here’s all about the Kedarnath Temple:

Tourist Guide for Kedarnath Yatra 

• About the Kedarnath Temple   

• What is the Location of the Kedarnath Temple?  

• Information about the Kedarnath Yatra  

• When to Visit the Kedarnath Temple? 

• Kedarnath Temple Timing 

• Registration for Kedarnath Yatra 

• How to Reach Kedarnath Temple? 

• Accomodation  

• Places to Visit near Kedarnath Temple

• Gauri Kund  

• Vasuki Tal 

• Madhyamaheshwar Temple 

• Tungnath Temple 

• Guptkashi

• Top Travel Tips 

About the Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath is a Shiva temple, which was built in the 8th century AD. According to the legends, the Kedarnath mandir was built by Shri Adi Shankaracharya. It is interesting to know that popular folklores relate Kedarnath with Pandavas. It is believed that the Pandavas built a temple adjacent to the Kedarnath mandir in Uttarakhand. They were seeking forgiveness from Lord Shiva after the Kurukshetra war. Upon spotting Lord Shiva in Guptkashi, where the Lord was present in the form of Nandi (the bull), Bhima caught the trail of the bull. However, the bull disappeared underneath the ground and reappeared in several parts – Kedarnath, Rudranath, Tungnath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar.

What is the Location of the Kedarnath Temple?

The location of the Kedarnath Temple is Rudraprayag district in Uttarakhand. It is situated at the bottom of the Chorabari glacier in the Kedar valley. Surrounded by snowcapped mountains and panoramic views all around, the Kedarnath temple is one of the best spiritual places in India. Its rich history and mythological significance make it a must-visit place for those who seek peace and tranquillity.

Information about the Kedarnath Yatra 

When Can You Visit the Kedarnath Temple? 

The opening and closing dates of the Kedarnath Temple depend on the Hindu calendar. Celestial calculations are used to decide these dates. In 2025, the temple doors were opened on the auspicious day of Maha Shivratri (2nd May 2025). The Kedarnath temple closing date is 23 October 2025, this year. 

Kedarnath Temple Timings   

• Morning Aarti: 04:00 AM to 07:00 AM 

• Morning General Darshan Time: 07:00 AM to 03:00 AM 

• Evening Aarti Time: 06:00 PM to 07:30 PM 

• Evening General Darshan Time: 05:00 PM to 07:00 PM 

The temple is closed between 03:00 PM to 05:00 PM. There is no entry fee. 

Registration for the Kedarnath Yatra 

Important information about the Kedarnath temple yatra is it is mandatory to register before undertaking the journey. You can complete the registration process online or offline.

Online Registration 

For online registration, you can visit the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board website. You need to log in and select the Kedarnath yatra, enter yatra details, provide personal information, and upload the required documents to receive confirmation. 

Offline Registration 

You can register offline for the Kedarnath Dham yatra in Uttarakhand at the designated registration counters.  In case you want to attend aarti, make sure to have booked prior to registration. The official government website for the Badrinath-Kedarnath yatra has all the necessary information regarding travel advisories, puja bookings, and other important details.

How to Reach the Kedarnath Temple?

For a hassle-free Kedarnath temple darshan, you should opt for the Kedarnath tour package Veena World. We organise all-inclusive tours to the holy place so that you can experience the spiritually aligned atmosphere and unparalleled beauty around the temple. 

To reach Kedarnath Dham in Uttarakhand, Guptakashi is the starting point. When you book the tour with Veena World, we provide a Kedarnath tour guide so that you can trek along with fellow devotees to reach the temple. The Kedarnath temple trek begins at Gaurikund. The walking trail to reach the temple is around 18 km long. Here’s the yatra route:

• The trek begins at the Gaurikund. 

• Trek from Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti (6 KM). 

• Trek from Jungle Chatti to Bheembali (4 KM). 

• Trek from Bheembali to Linchauli (3 KM). 

• Reach the Kedarnath base camp from Linchauli (4 KM).  

• Kedarnath base camp to Kedarnath temple (1 KM).  

The Kedarnath trek is generally considered moderately difficult, as certain parts are slightly more strenuous due to their steepness and high altitude. The overall trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath temple involves an altitude gain of over 3,500 meters. This can lead to various kinds of altitude sickness, such as AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema), etc. Proper acclimatisation is required to avoid this and to ensure a safe and enjoyable pilgrimage. 

Accommodation 

For Kedarnath Yatra, you can find various stay options ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Here is a list of some good accommodation options that you can consider: 

• Kedar Valley Resort 

• Hotel Green View Inn 

• Himalayan View Resort 

• Hotel New Basera 

Or, you can also opt for tent accommodation, which is available in designated camping sites. While this type of stay will have limited facilities, it offer a more immersive experience. 

Places to Visit near the Kedarnath Temple 

Gauri Kund

Gauri Kund is the base camp of the Kedarnath mandir in Uttarakhand. It is a frequented Hindu pilgrimage site, which has a natural hot spring. It is believed that this hot spring has healing properties. Devotees visit this place in large numbers to bathe and take blessings from the almighty. The place is surrounded by scenic beauty and the Vasuki Ganga River, which makes it a magical place for tourists. 

Vasuki Tal 

Vasuki Tal is a lake located at an altitude of 4,135 metres above sea level. If you are an adventure seeker, visiting here will be one of the best experiences of your life. Steep ascents and rocky trails lead you to this beautiful lake in Uttarakhand. It has pristine blue water with a backdrop of sky-high mountains. 

Madhyamaheshwar Temple

Madhyamaheshwar Temple is one of the Panch Kedars. It is believed that this temple was built by Bhima (one of the Pandavas). It is situated in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and is frequented by many tourists to pay homage to Lord Shiva. 

Tungnath Temple

Tungnath Temple is the highest Lord Shiva temple in the world. It is one of the Panch Kedars, which you can reach by following a tough trekking path. According to the legends, Lord Shiva’s hands or limbs fell at this place. This is why it is called Tungnath Temple. You can begin your trek from Chopta to reach the temple, which takes about 3-4 hours. 

Guptkashi

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva disappeared from Guptkashi. This place is known for the Vishwanath Temple and Shivalingas. Guptkashi has an abundance of natural beauty and spiritual energy that attracts many tourists. 

Travel Tips for Kedarnath Yatra  

• You should pack warm and waterproof clothing for the Kedarnath temple trek. The weather can be unpredictable, so carrying a raincoat and heating pads for hands is recommended.

• Prepare a first-aid kit and carry necessary medications, which are recommended for any travel on long routes. 

• Carry your ID proof and yatra registration documents for a hassle-free trekking experience. 

• A walking stick comes in handy to navigate your route at high altitudes. 

• Make sure to hydrate and take short breaks to avoid overexertion. 

The Kedarnath Mandir in Uttarakhand has a divine aura. Spirituality and tranquillity are in the air at this place. The positive environment at the temple will take away your tiredness from the long journey. The Kedarnath Yatra is all about crossing challenging terrains to reach the top to meet the almighty. This yatra is all about thrill meeting spirituality. So, you must visit the Kedarnath Mandir at least once in your lifetime.

FAQs 

Q1. How do I reach Kedarnath Temple, and what is the trek distance? 

You need to first reach Gaurikund, which is the base for the trek. From there, it’s a 16–18 km trek to Kedarnath Mandir. You can trek on foot, hire a pony, palki, or even take a helicopter from Phata, Guptkashi, or Sirsi, depending on availability and weather. 

Q2. What is the best time to visit Kedarnath Temple? 

The temple is open from late April/early May to November, depending on the Hindu calendar. The best time to visit is May–June and September–October when the weather is relatively stable and the crowds are manageable. 

Q3. Are accommodations available near the temple or only at the base? 

Yes, there are GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) guesthouses, dharamshalas, and private tents or lodges available near the temple area itself. However, it’s best to book in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage season. Gaurikund and nearby towns like Sonprayag also offer stay options. 

Q4. What should I pack for the Kedarnath yatra? 

Weather is unpredictable, so pack warm clothes, a raincoat, comfortable trekking shoes, and a flashlight. Also carry energy snacks, basic medicines, and ID proof. Even in summer, it can get very cold at night near the temple. 

Q5. Can senior citizens or people with health issues visit Kedarnath? 

Yes, but only with proper preparation. Those with breathing or heart problems should consult a doctor before attempting the yatra. There are helicopter services, and palkis or ponies to assist those who cannot trek. Medical checkpoints are available along the route, but facilities are limited.