Is Kedarnath Open in December? You’ll Be Surprised What’s Actually Possible!

Read on to uncover the truth, your chances, and what travelers say.
Kedarnath stays closed in December, but its snowy silence and divine calm still call travelers seeking peace beyond pilgrimage. For LIH Travel, it’s a chance to turn winter stillness into a soulful Himalayan experience. You can have a splendid journey with our Chardham Yatra by Helicopter.

Why you’re asking “is Kedarnath open in December?”

Many dream of visiting the sacred Kedarnath especially in winter, when the mountains are blanketed in snow as you might be picturing a silent temple, fewer crowds, crisp air,and magical views but when you ask “is Kedarnath open in December” the real answer is more complex and that’s exactly what you’ll get here.

What the official situation is

• The temple of Kedarnath opens for devotees in early May 2025 and in 2025 it opened on 2 May at 7 am.
  
• The closing date for the 2025 season is around 23 October 2025 which is on the day of Bhai Dooj.
  
• So by December the temple’s main doors are closed for pilgrimage due to heavy snow, extreme weather and difficult access.
  
• During winter the idol of Lord Shiva from Kedarnath is moved to Ukhimath (Omkareshwar Temple) for worship.
  

What this means for you

• If you plan to reach Kedarnath in December and expect the regular temple darshan as that won’t be possible as the temple is officially closed.
  
• But if you still want to feel the aura of Kedarnath region in December:
  
  • You could visit the lower regions like Gaurikund, Sonprayag etc (weather and road conditions permitting).
    
  • You can also visit the winter abode at Ukhimath where the ritual worship continues.
    
• Note: Even if you could trek or reach the site, the facilities (roads, lodging, weather services) will be very limited or non-operational.
  

User experiences offer a reality check

• One traveller on Reddit asked:
  
  “Kya ham kapat band hone baad bhi Kedarnath ja sakte hai jese 23 October ko kapat band hone ja rahe is saal agar mujhe 2 ya 3 November ko jana hoto ja skate h.”
  The community response:
  “No nahi ja sakte hain”
  This shows people on the ground understand that once the “kapat” (doors) close, access is highly restricted.
  
  
• Another user noted:
  
  “If you want to see snow in Kedarnath, plan your trip for late November or early December — you’ll catch snow without extreme roadblocks. For heavy snowfall and full snow-covered views, go between December and March, but keep in mind the temple is closed in winter and the area isn’t easily accessible.”
  This is important: the view may be magical, but the pilgrimage part (temple access) will not be.
  
  

Surprising facts you must know

• The terrain around Kedarnath is at about 3,584 metres altitude so that means extreme weather conditions in December.
  
• Every year the closing date is linked to the festival of Bhai Dooj (after Diwali). For 2025 it’s 23 October.
  
• The authorities plan for winter closure weeks ahead for safety, avalanche risk, snow, accessibility and emergency services.
  
• Although the temple is closed, worship continues at Ukhimath: the idol is brought down and rituals happen there.
  

Why you might still consider December (but with caveats)

Pros

• Fewer crowds, peaceful environment, stunning winter views.
  
• If you are adventure-loving and equipped for snow/altitude then you should consider going as the region has its own magic.
  
• Unique photo opportunities: snow-covered peaks, crisp air and silent trails.
  

Cons

• Temple doors closed so you won’t get the full pilgrimage darshan.
  
• Trek/roads may be blocked or unsafe.
  
• Accommodation, food and emergency services may be minimal or not standard.
  
• Weather can be unpredictable: snowstorms, heavy cold and no guarantee of accessibility.
  

What to do if you must go in December

• Verify road/trek route status with local authorities or LIH Travel partner.
  
• Plan for accommodation at lower altitudes (avoid assuming full temple town facilities).
  
• Arrive prepared for snow, cold, limited services.
  
• Consider visiting Ukhimath instead of expecting full Kedarnath darshan.
  
• Choose flexible dates and backup plan.
  
• Communicate clearly to clients: “Temple not open, but region is accessible depending on weather.”
  

Key Takeaway (Summary)

So here is the crisp truth: No, Kedarnath is not open in December for regular temple darshan as the doors are officially closed after the autumn season (around late-October) but yes the region still calls with snow-covered peaks, spiritual energy and fewer crowds where for LIH Travel and your clients this means you pivot from a typical pilgrimage package to a winter-wonderland spiritual retreat. Highlight the difference, manage expectations, craft a unique experience—and you’ll turn a “closed temple” message into a compelling travel story. You can have a splendid journey with our Chardham Yatra by Helicopter

FAQs

1. Is Kedarnath accessible by road in December?
Generally not fully. Many roads/treks are closed or risky due to snow and weather.

2. Can a helicopter take me to Kedarnath in December?
Helicopter services usually stop or are severely limited in winter. Check latest announcements.

3. What is the other option if Kedarnath Temple is closed?
You can visit Ukhimath’s Omkareshwar Temple where the idol is shifted so you can explore nearby snow landscapes.

4. Are there accommodation options in Kedarnath town in December?
Very limited. Many lodges shut for the season; plan stays in lower altitudes or fallback destinations.5. When will Kedarnath open again for the next season?
The next opening is early May (in 2025, it opened 2 May) once weather allows and official rituals are done.