Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
Uttarakhand is a unique state in India that is spiritual and adventure packed. Among the top-rated destinations in Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is one very important and encouraging place that lakhs of Sanatan Dharma followers visit every year. Going to Kedarnath is a wish of every Hindu.
Since it is located at a very high altitude, and the approach road is difficult, Kedarnath is always considered a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage. However, in recent years, there has been a remarkable improvement in the infrastructure, and now it has become quite approachable. Modern-age facilities like a helicopter have become very convenient for elderly and physically challenged devotees.
As mentioned, Kedarnath is located at a very high altitude, nestled in the high folds of the great Himalayas. Therefore, it is important to know about the weather conditions during various parts of the year. Thus, you will not get disappointed, and you can successfully see the mesmerizing beauty and feel the spirituality of Kedarnath. Before you plan, knowing the Best Time to Visit Kedarnath is important.
Summer Season (April-June)
Summers in Kedarnath begin in May and last till June. The temperature hovers around 17°C. It is the perfect weather to pay a visit to the Kedarnath temple. Not just that, you can also indulge in sightseeing in some beautiful places in and around Kedarnath. The weather remains moderate during this period. And hence, this season is the Best Time to Visit Kedarnath.
It would be best if you carried all essentials, such as a pair of trekking shoes or comfortable walking shoes. Also, carry trekking pants, a windproof jacket, lightweight woolen clothing, sunglasses and sun caps, sunscreen lotion, lip balm, torch/flashlight with extra batteries, etc.
It would help if you carried walking sticks and personal toiletries. Do not forget to carry a water bottle. Along with that, you should carry some dry fruits and energy bars.
Kedarnath in Summer (April to June)
If you want to visit Kedarnath, the best time is April to June. It is because the temperature is moderate. Typically, it lies between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. In the daytime, you have bright and warm sunshine and a cool breeze from the snow-capped mountains. It makes the weather pleasant. Due to the good weather, you can go sightseeing. All the places other than the main temple are accessible and approachable.
If you want to have some adventure activities to test your nerves, you can explore several trails perfect for outdoor trekking and hiking scattered around the temple. In June, there is a colorful Badri Kedar festival when the whole region is festive. Various singers, painters, dancers, and other craftspeople perform and show their talent. However, this is when there is a maximum crowd in the region.
Monsoon Season (July-September)
Monsoons season hits Kedarnath during July, and it ends in August. The temperatures drop down to 12°C. In this season, Kedarnath has heavy rainfalls and landslides. Therefore, visitors are advised to be prepared for tough situations. This time is certainly not the Best Time to Visit Kedarnath. Keep some essentials to save yourself from the heavy rains.
Carry a day pack with a rain cover, waterproof trekking/hiking shoes, and trekking pants. You should carry a windproof/water-resistant jacket, woolen clothing, gloves, and thick woolen socks. Keep a walking stick, extra batteries, and personal toiletries. You should know How to visit Kedarnath.
Kedarnath in Monsoon (July to September)
The monsoon season is quite unpredictable in Kedarnath. Heavy showers result in landslides and possible roadblocks. You should travel to Kedarnath during the Monsoon season only if you are an adventurous person with a lot of physical strength. Even though the weather is not favorable and it is not a great time to visit, it still has several tourists who want some thrill. The temple remains closed during this time after the devastating floods of 2013.
The trekking and hiking would be very much challenging and thrilling. Go to Kedarnath during the monsoon season only if you are prepared to enjoy the raw beauty of the untouched land of Kedarnath. Some significant events take place during this time. There is Shravani Annakoot Mela. It is always better to carry spare clothes, extra batteries, dry fruits, and water bottles.
Winter Season (October-March)
Winters in Kedarnath begin in November and lasts till April. This season is not a good time to go to Kedarnath because roads get blocked due to heavy snowfall. Kedarnath Temple remains closed during the winter months. Winters are chilly when the temperatures go below zero degrees. Kedarnath remains covered with snow. Therefore, the place becomes inaccessible for a while.
Kedarnath in Winter(October-March)
Since you are going to the Himalayas, you should expect severe cold temperatures. This place will test the endurance of tourists and keep them thrilled always. The landscape is beautiful, but you must have sufficient physical strength and capability to sustain in low temperatures. There are sunny days during this time, but it is cold in Kedarnath in October.
Weather during this time is very tough and inhospitable. There is always heavy snowfall, and most roads get blocked. The temperature drops below zero, which could be very difficult if you are not accustomed to the cold weather. Winter season is not the Best Time to Visit Kedarnath.
As mentioned, the temple also remains closed all of winter. Not many localities also stay in Kedarnath during this period. When the temple closes for the winter, a special puja is conducted on the samadhi of Guru Adi Shankaracharya. This grand puja makes the day memorable.
On this day, the idol is shifted to Okhimath.
Since you may experience major roadblocks, it is essential to carry emergency day packs that contain extra clothes, waterproof jackets, gloves, a torch, extra cells, a water bottle, dry fruits,
Conclusion
Kedarnath is a prominent pilgrimage in India because a lot of spirituality and mythology surrounds it. Not only that, but it is also a place that brings several opportunities for thrill and adventure. When you book a tour to Kedarnath, ask the tour operator about the itinerary.
The place looks far-flung, but it is quite easy to reach. Make sure you follow handy hints and tips to make the trip successful. A good tour operator can offer the best Kedarnath tour packages from mumbai.