Snowfall Time in Kedarnath: A wonderland in the Himalayas

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Snowfall Time in Kedarnath: A Wonderland in the Himalayas

High in the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath transforms into a magical white paradise during winter. Known for its deep spiritual aura, Kedarnath becomes even more enchanting when snow blankets its mountains, trails, and sacred temples. The snowfall time in Kedarnath reveals a quieter, more mystical side of this holy land—far removed from the bustling Char Dham season.


Kedarnath in Winter (October to March)

Winter in Kedarnath begins in October and lasts until March. As temperatures drop sharply, the region experiences heavy snowfall, sub-zero nights, and long spells of silence broken only by mountain winds.

  • Which month snowfall in Kedarnath starts?
    👉 Usually from late October or early November

  • Is there snowfall in Kedarnath?
    👉 Yes, Kedarnath receives heavy snowfall every winter

During these months, Kedarnath shifts from a lively pilgrimage destination into a serene, snow-bound Himalayan retreat.


Why Kedarnath Temple Is Closed in Winter

One of the most common questions pilgrims ask is:

Why is Kedarnath Temple closed in winter?

Due to:

  • Heavy and continuous snowfall

  • Temperatures dropping below -15°C

  • Blocked trekking routes and roads

The Kedarnath Temple becomes inaccessible and unsafe for pilgrims. As a result, the temple closes annually around October–November (Kartik month) and reopens in April–May (Vaishakh month).

Kedarnath Uttarakhand India
Kedarnath Uttarakhand India

Is It Snowing in Kedarnath Today?

  • ❄️ Is snowfall in Kedarnath today?
    Snowfall depends on current weather conditions and cannot be predicted without live updates.

  • ❄️ Is there snow in Kedarnath during winter?
    Yes, from November to March, Kedarnath remains under thick layers of snow.

👉 Travelers should note that Kedarnath is not accessible during active snowfall months.


Snowfall in Kedarnath by Month (Winter Temperature Guide)

October

  • Temperature: 1°C to 5°C

  • Early snowfall possible

  • Snowfall in Kedarnath in October: Light to moderate

November

  • Temperature: -10°C to 4°C

  • Heavy snowfall begins

  • Temple closes

December

  • Temperature: -15°C to -2°C

  • Routes blocked due to snow

  • Kedarnath Yatra fully closed

January

  • Temperature: -18°C to -4°C

  • Peak winter, deep snow cover

February

  • Temperature: -17°C to -3°C

  • Frequent snow showers

March

  • Temperature: -12°C to 1°C

  • Snow still present, area remains closed


Snowfall in Kedarnath in May – Is It Possible?

  • Snowfall in Kedarnath in May: ❌ Very rare

  • By May, snow starts melting and the temple prepares for reopening

  • Occasional light snow at higher elevations may occur early in the month, but not regular snowfall

The Holy Land of Divinity– Ukhimath and Joshimath
The Holy Land of Divinity– Ukhimath and Joshimath

Kedarnath’s Winter Abode – Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath

During snowfall time in Kedarnath, the sacred idol of Lord Shiva is moved to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.

  • Omkareshwar Temple becomes the winter home of Lord Kedarnath

  • Worship continues here for six months

  • Pilgrims can visit Ukhimath even during winter to seek blessings

This ritual preserves spiritual continuity despite the harsh Himalayan winter.


Exploring Kedarnath’s Snow-Clad Beauty

While pilgrims cannot visit the temple during winter, the region’s snow-covered peaks, frozen rivers, and untouched landscapes create a surreal Himalayan scene.

  • Ideal for photography lovers

  • A dream destination for snow enthusiasts

  • Accessible only to locals, researchers, and trained trekkers (with permission)

⚠️ Tourism is not allowed during heavy snowfall for safety reasons


FAQs: Snowfall Time in Kedarnath

Which month snowfall in Kedarnath is maximum?
👉 December and January

Is there snowfall in Kedarnath in October?
👉 Yes, light snowfall may begin in late October

Is Kedarnath dangerous in winter?
👉 Yes, due to avalanches, extreme cold, and blocked routes

Is snowfall in Kedarnath today?
👉 Depends on live weather conditions (winter months only)

Conclusion

The snowfall time in Kedarnath transforms this sacred land into a silent, snow-draped wonderland. Though the temple doors remain closed, the spiritual energy never fades—it simply shifts to Ukhimath. Kedarnath in winter is not about pilgrimage, but about witnessing the raw, divine beauty of the Himalayas in their purest form.

For most travelers, the best way to experience Kedarnath is during the open yatra season. But knowing what happens during winter helps you understand why Kedarnath is not just a destination—it’s a living, breathing Himalayan legend.

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About me

I am Om. I am a Travel Consultant and a licensed Tourist Guide ( Approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), I am living in Rishikesh. I set up this blog to share my tips and experiences for traveling to inspire and help you to travel Himalayas & Spiritual Places in India.

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