Plan your Kedarnath Yatra 2025 with this complete guide! Learn about registration, opening & closing dates, Darshan timings, entry fees, travel tips, and a detailed itinerary for hassle-free journey.
The Kedarnath Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India, drawing millions of devotees every year. Located in the stunning Garhwal Himalayas, the Kedarnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. This journey is not just about spirituality but also about experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. If you’re planning to visit Kedarnath in 2025, here’s a complete guide to help you plan your trip. We’ll cover everything from registration, opening and closing dates, Darshan timings, entry fees, how to reach, and a detailed itinerary.
Kedarnath Temple Opening and Closing Dates 2025
The Kedarnath Temple opens every year in summer and closes during winter due to heavy snowfall. For 2025, the temple will open and close on the following dates:
• Kedarnath Temple Opening Date: 2 May 2025 at 07:00 AM
• Kedarnath Temple Closing Date:3 November 2025 at 8:30 AM
The opening ceremony, called Kapat Opening, is a grand event attended by thousands of devotees. The closing ceremony, or Kapat Closing, marks the end of the pilgrimage season, and the deity is moved to Ukhimath for the winter.
Registration for Kedarnath Yatra 2025
To make your pilgrimage smooth and safe, the Uttarakhand government requires all pilgrims to register for the Kedarnath Yatra. Registration helps manage the crowd and ensures everyone’s safety.
How to Register:
1. Visit the official website of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB).
2. Fill in your details like name, age, address, and travel dates.
3. Upload a government-issued ID proof.
4. Pay a small registration fee (if applicable).
5. After registering, you’ll get a confirmation slip or Yatra Pass, which you must carry during your journey.
Note: Registration is free but mandatory for all pilgrims.
Kedarnath Temple Darshan Timings 2025
The temple follows a strict schedule for darshan and rituals. Here are the darshan timings for Kedarnath Temple in 2025:
| Activity | Timing |
|---|---|
| Morning Arti Timing | 04:00 AM – 07:00 AM |
| Morning General Darshan | 07:00 AM – 03:00 PM |
| Evening Arti Timing | 06:00 PM – 07:30 PM |
| Evening General Darshan | 05:00 PM – 07:00 PM |
The morning and evening arti (prayer) ceremonies are deeply spiritual. Devotees are advised to arrive early to get a good spot during the arti.
Entry Fees for Kedarnath Temple
There is no entry fee to visit the Kedarnath Temple. However, if you want to participate in special rituals or pujas, you may need to pay a small fee.Hire Force Urbania on rent These rituals can be booked online or at the temple office.
How to Reach Kedarnath
Reaching Kedarnath involves a mix of road travel and trekking. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 238 km from Kedarnath. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath trek.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, about 216 km from Kedarnath. From Rishikesh, you can take a bus or taxi to Gaurikund.
3. By Road Gaurikund is well-connected by road to major cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. You can drive or take a bus to Gaurikund.
4. Trekking to Kedarnath: From Gaurikund, you need to trek about 16 km to reach Kedarnath Temple. The trek is moderate and takes around 6-8 hours. For those who can’t trek, ponies, palanquins, and helicopter services are available.
Day 1 : Arrival in Haridwar/Rishikesh
• Arrive in Haridwar or Rishikesh.
• Visit local temples and attend the Ganga Aarti in the evening.
• Stay overnight in Haridwar/Rishikesh.
Day 2 : Travel to Guptkashi/Sitapur
• Start early and drive to Guptkashi or Sitapur (approx. 8-10 hours).
• On the way, visit Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and other scenic spots.
• Stay overnight in Guptkashi/Sitapur.
Day 3: Trek to Kedarnath
• Drive to Gaurikund (approx. 1 hour).
• Begin the 16 km trek to Kedarnath.
• After reaching, check into a guesthouse or campsite.
• Visit the temple for darshan and attend the evening arti.
• Stay overnight in Kedarnath.
Day 4: Return to Gaurikund and Drive to Rudraprayag
• Attend the morning arti and explore the temple premises.
• Trek back to Gaurikund and drive to Rudraprayag.
• Stay overnight in Rudraprayag.
Day 5: Return to Haridwar/Rishikesh
• Drive back to Haridwar/Rishikesh.
• Depart for your onward journey.
Tips for a Successful Kedarnath Yatra
- 1. Physical Fitness: The trek to Kedarnath is challenging, so make sure you’re physically fit.
- 2. Weather: Carry warm clothes as temperatures can drop, especially at night.
- 3. Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated and take precautions to avoid altitude sickness.
- 4. Eco-Friendly Practices: Avoid littering and respect the natural surroundings.
- 5. Helicopter Services: For those unable to trek, helicopter services are available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi.
Conclusion
The Kedarnath Yatra is a journey of faith, devotion, and self-discovery. With proper planning and preparation, you can make this pilgrimage a memorable experience. Don’t forget to register online, check the Darshan timings, and follow the suggested itinerary for a smooth journey. For a comfortable and luxurious travel experience, you can Hire Force Urbania on rent for this Yatra. This spacious and well-equipped vehicle ensures a hassle-free journey, allowing you to focus on the spiritual essence of the pilgrimage. Embark on the Kedarnath Yatra 2025 and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva amidst the serene Himalayas. Har Har Mahadev!
