Kedarnath Yatra is not just a pilgrimage — it is India's most dramatic spiritual journey. Located at 3,583 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, the Kedarnath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and part of the sacred Char Dham circuit. The 18km trek through alpine meadows, moraines, and Himalayan forests to reach the temple is a transformative experience that millions undertake each year.
Kedarnath Temple Opening Date 2025
Kedarnath Temple opens on Akshaya Tritiya (April 30, 2025) and closes on Bhai Dooj (October 22, 2025). The auspicious muhurat for portal opening is announced on Mahashivratri each year at Ukhimath, where the deity resides during winter months. In 2025, an estimated 15-20 lakh pilgrims are expected to visit Kedarnath.
How to Register for Kedarnath Yatra 2025 (Mandatory)
Biometric registration is MANDATORY for all Kedarnath pilgrims since 2022 under Uttarakhand Government regulations. Without registration, you will not be allowed entry at Sonprayag checkpoint.
- Online Registration: Visit registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in (opens March 2025)
- Offline Registration: Centers at Haridwar bus stand, Rishikesh ISBT, Sonprayag
- Documents Required: Aadhaar Card (mandatory), 1 passport photo, medical certificate (age 60+)
- Cost: Completely FREE — Uttarakhand Government does not charge for registration
- Print your registration QR code — show it at multiple checkpoints during Yatra
The 18km Kedarnath Trek: Complete Route Breakdown
The Kedarnath trek starts from Gaurikund (1,982m) and ends at Kedarnath Temple (3,583m) — 18km one-way with 1,600m total elevation gain. At a comfortable pace with rest stops, it takes 6-8 hours. The trail is well-maintained and paved with stone steps for most of the route.
- Gaurikund (1,982m) — Starting point. Hot sulphur kund for pre-trek dip.
- Jungle Chatti (2,628m) — 6km mark. Food stalls, rest points.
- Bheembali (3,000m) — 9km mark. Government facility, last major rest point.
- Lincholi (3,200m) — 11km mark. First views of Kedarnath valley.
- Kedarnath (3,583m) — 18km. The divine destination. Overwhelming spiritual energy.
The mountains are calling and I must go — but to Kedarnath, it is the soul that is called, not just the body. Every step of that 18km is a walking meditation.
Kedarnath Budget 2025 — Per Person Cost Breakdown
Complete budget for a 5-day Kedarnath Yatra from Delhi: Train tickets (Delhi-Haridwar-Delhi, AC Chair): ₹800-1,500. Shared taxi Haridwar to Guptkashi: ₹600-800. Hotel Guptkashi (per night): ₹800-2,500. Gaurikund to Kedarnath pony (optional): ₹2,500-4,000. Food on trek (per day): ₹400-800. Total budget trip: ₹9,000-13,000. With Humsafar all-inclusive package: ₹10,500 per person.