Jyotirlinga
Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, India
Deity: Shiva
Last updated: 2026-03-01 · Source: Uttarakhand Tourism, temple committee, divineRoutes.ai curation
Temple Overview
Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and part of the Char Dham Yatra. The temple sits at 3,583 m in the Garhwal Himalayas. Darshan is possible only between April/May and October/November; the temple closes for winter.
Darshan Timings
- General Darshan(4:00 AM – 9:00 PM (seasonal))
Queue-based darshan during opening season.
- Special Darshan(As per booking)Booking required
Faster entry with prior registration.
Aarti Schedule
- Mahamrityunjaya Jaap4:30 AM – 5:00 AM
- Shodashopachar Puja5:00 AM – 6:00 AM
- Sringar Darshan7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
- Shayan Aarti6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
How to Book Darshan
Register for Char Dham Yatra on the official Uttarakhand government portal. Helicopter services to Kedarnath can be booked from Phata, Guptkashi, or Sersi. Temple darshan is queue-based; special darshan can be booked through authorized channels.
How to Reach
By Air
Nearest airport: Jolly Grant, Dehradun (~238 km). Helicopter from Phata/Guptkashi/Sersi to Kedarnath.
By Rail
Nearest major station: Haridwar or Rishikesh. Then road to Gaurikund and trek or helicopter.
By Road
Drive to Gaurikund (accessible by vehicle). From Gaurikund, 16 km trek or helicopter to Kedarnath.
Best Time to Visit
May to October (exact dates depend on weather and temple opening). Avoid peak monsoon (July–August) for trekking. May–June and September–October are ideal.
Festivals
- Kedarnath opening(Apr–May)
- Shravan(Jul–Aug)
Travel Tips
- Acclimatize at Guptkashi or Phata before heading to Kedarnath to avoid altitude issues.
- Book helicopter in advance during season; walk-in may have long waits.
- Carry warm clothes, rain gear, and essentials; facilities are limited at the shrine.
Quick answers
FAQ
How to book Kedarnath helicopter service?
Helicopter services to Kedarnath can be booked from Phata, Guptkashi, or Sersi. Book in advance during the opening season via authorized operators or government portal.
When does Kedarnath temple open and close?
Kedarnath temple typically opens in late April or early May and closes around Diwali (October/November), depending on weather. Exact dates are announced by the temple committee.
How to reach Kedarnath from Haridwar?
From Haridwar, drive to Gaurikund (about 8–10 hours). From Gaurikund, either trek 16 km to Kedarnath or take a helicopter from Phata/Guptkashi/Sersi.
Source: divineRoutes.ai · Author: divineRoutes.ai · Publisher: divineRoutes.ai