Kedarnath Opening Date 2026 Announced – Complete Yatra Guide for Pilgrims
The most awaited announcement for devotees has arrived. Kedarnath Temple Opening Date 2026 has been officially declared, and preparations for the sacred Char Dham Yatra have already begun across Uttarakhand.
Every year, lakhs of pilgrims visit Kedarnath Dham to seek blessings of Lord Shiva and experience the divine Himalayan journey. If you are planning your Kedarnath Yatra 2026, this complete blog will guide you with opening date, travel tips, registration details, and best time to visit.
Kedarnath Opening Date 2026
Kedarnath Temple will open for devotees on 2 May 2026 on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya period.
The opening date is announced every year on Mahashivratri at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, where Lord Kedarnath is worshipped during winter months.
Important Dates
- Kedarnath Temple Opening: 2 May 2026
- Char Dham Yatra Start: May 2026
- Temple Closing: Expected November 2026 (Bhai Dooj)
- Best Time to Visit: May–June & September–October
Why Kedarnath Yatra Is So Special
Kedarnath Dham is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a major part of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. Located at an altitude of 3,583 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath offers a spiritual and adventurous journey for pilgrims.
Devotees believe that visiting Kedarnath cleanses sins and brings peace and spiritual growth. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and the Mandakini River, Kedarnath Temple is among the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India.
🚁 Kedarnath Yatra 2026 Registration & Booking
To manage heavy crowd and ensure safety, registration is mandatory for Kedarnath Yatra.
Registration Details
- Online registration required for all pilgrims
- Carry valid ID proof
- Medical fitness recommended
- Registration via official Uttarakhand tourism portal
Helicopter Booking 2026
- Booking starts 2–3 months before opening
- Routes: Phata, Guptkashi, Sirsi
- Limited seats available
- Advance booking recommended
🏔️ Kedarnath Travel Route Guide
From Haridwar/Rishikesh
Haridwar → Rishikesh → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath trek (18 km)
Pilgrims can reach Kedarnath by:
- Trekking
- Helicopter
- Pony/Palki services
🏨 Hotels & Stay in Kedarnath 2026
Due to huge rush in May and June, hotels and camps get fully booked quickly. Pilgrims are advised to book in advance for:
- Guptkashi hotels
- Sonprayag hotels
- Kedarnath camps & guest houses
