Kedarnath Yatra 2026: Temple Opening Date Confirmed

The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) confirmed the Kedarnath Kapat opening date for 2026 as April 22 at 8:00 AM. The date was announced on Maha Shivaratri at Shri Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, the winter seat of Lord Kedarnath, where the Rawal, Acharya, and Vedapathis determined the date through Panchang calculations. Devotees planning their Kedarnath yatra this year now have a confirmed start date.

Kedarnath Temple Opening Hours and Key Dates for 2026

• Kedarnath Temple Opening Date 2026: April 22, 2026 at 8:00 AM
• Morning Aarti: 4:00 AM to 7:00 AM
• General darshan: until 3:00 PM.
• The temple remains closed between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM
• Evening darshan: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Evening Arti from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
• Entry to the temple: free

Char Dham Yatra 2026: All Opening Dates

The Kedarnath kapat opening 2026 is part of the Char Dham Yatra 2026 season. All four shrine dates have now been confirmed:

• Yamunotri: April 19, 2026 (Akshaya Tritiya)
• Gangotri: April 19, 2026
• Kedarnath: April 22, 2026 at 8:00 AM
• Badrinath: April 23, 2026 at 6:15 AM

Kedarnath Yatra Booking 2026

Kedarnath Yatra registration in 2026 is mandatory for all pilgrims.

Pilgrims can complete their Kedarnath online ticket booking and registration at the official Uttarakhand government portal registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in.

For the Kedarnath yatra by helicopter, ticket booking can be done through the official heliservice portal and is separate from the standard registration.

Pilgrims should carry a valid photo ID and their registration confirmation throughout the journey. Slots usually fill quickly once the season registration window opens.

A Kedarnath yatra package from a registered operator may include travel, accommodation, and assistance with registration and logistics.

How to Reach Kedarnath Temple

• By Air

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From there, taxis and buses are available to Gaurikund, the base point for the Kedarnath trek. Distance from Dehradun to Gaurikund is roughly 250 km.

• By Train

Rishikesh is the closest major railway station. Taxis and buses from Rishikesh to Gaurikund are available. It takes approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on road conditions.

• By Road

The road journey from Rishikesh to Gaurikund typically takes several hours, depending on traffic, weather, and mountain-road conditions. Regular buses and shared taxis connect Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun to Gaurikund, and private vehicles can also be opted for.

• The Trek

The journey from Gaurikund to the temple covers 16 km on foot. Ponies, mules, and palanquins are available along the route for those who need them.

• By Helicopter

The Kedarnath Yatra by helicopter runs from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi and is a commonly chosen option among pilgrims who cannot manage the 16 km trek.

Booking in advance through the official government portal is recommended.

Government Preparations for Kedarnath Yatra 2026

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the state government is working on arrangements to ensure a smooth pilgrimage season for devotees visiting Kedarnath and other Char Dham shrines. The chief minister also underlined the need for thorough preparation before the yatra season begins.

BKTC Chairman Hemant Dwivedi extended a formal invitation to pilgrims across the country, describing the Kedarnath yatra as a blend of faith, tradition, and livelihood. The committee is coordinating closely with the state government to put in place secure and convenient arrangements for all devotees.

Before finalizing your trip, factor in the Kedarnath yatra cost, which typically includes travel, accommodation, and registration fees. Planning ahead keeps the experience smooth and within budget.