For a long time, devotees of Lord Shiva have been eagerly waiting for the official announcement of the opening of Shri Kedarnath Dham, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. This sacred shrine remains closed during the harsh winter months and reopens every year after Maha Shivratri.
Kedarnath Temple Opening Date 2026
Every year, the opening date of Kedarnath Temple is decided on Maha Shivratri by the Onkareshwar Temple Committee in Ukhimath, following ancient rituals and traditions.
On this Maha Shivratri, it has been officially announced that:
- Kedarnath Dham Kapaat (doors) will open on 22 April 2026
- Time: 8:00 AM
- With full Vedic rituals and celebrations
This announcement is a major update for devotees and Char Dham Yatra planners.
Important News for Char Dham Yatra 2026 Pilgrims
With the declaration of temple opening dates, devotees can now plan and book their Kedarnath Yatra in advance. Pilgrims can visit Kedarnath with their family and friends to seek the divine blessings of Kedarnath Baba.
Kedarnath – A Part of Panch Kedar Yatra
Kedarnath Dham is also one of the five sacred shrines of the Panch Kedar Yatra, which includes:
- Kedarnath
- Madhyamaheshwar
- Tungnath
- Rudranath
- Kalpeshwar
Many devotees choose to complete the Panch Kedar pilgrimage along with their Kedarnath visit.
How to Reach Kedarnath Dham
There are three main ways to reach Kedarnath:
1. By Air (Helicopter Service)
- Helicopter services operate from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi
- Ideal for senior citizens and those with time constraints
2. By Trek (On Foot)
- The actual trek begins from Gaurikund
- Approximate trekking distance: 20 km
- Most preferred and spiritually rewarding route
3. By Pony or Palki
- Available from Gaurikund
- Suitable for pilgrims who are unable to trek on foot
Kedarnath Yatra Route Overview
- The Yatra usually starts from Haridwar
- From Haridwar, pilgrims can:
- Travel by government buses, or
- Hire a private taxi from a reputed tour and travel company
- From Guptkashi/Phata, helicopter services are available for Kedarnath
Char Dham Yatra 2026 Opening Dates
Now that all temple opening dates have been declared, pilgrims can plan their complete Char Dham Yatra 2026 confidently:
- Yamunotri & Gangotri: 19 April 2026
- Kedarnath: 22 April 2026
- Badrinath: 23 April 2026
