Overview
Kedarnath sits at 3,583 m. Even in June the nights are cold, the weather turns quickly, and the thin air makes the climb harder than the distance suggests. This guide covers the weather month by month, the state health department's advice for high altitude, and what to pack.
Weather by month
| Month | Day | Night | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Late April – May | 10–15°C | Around 0–5°C | Cold, clear days; snow possible early in the season |
| June | 14–18°C | 5–9°C | The mildest month, and the busiest |
| July – August | 12–16°C | 6–9°C | Monsoon: daily rain, fog and landslide risk on the roads |
| September | 12–15°C | 5–8°C | Clear skies return after the rains |
| October – November | 5–12°C | Below 0°C | Very cold nights; the temple closes on Bhai Dooj |
Weather on the route can change within the hour, especially in July and August. Watch the India Meteorological Department forecast for Rudraprayag and the district's yatra updates before you set out.
Altitude and health
The advice below follows the health advisory issued by the Uttarakhand health department for Char Dham pilgrims. It is general guidance, not medical advice — if you have a health condition, see your doctor before you travel.
The health department asks pilgrims with heart disease, breathing problems, diabetes or high blood pressure to take extra care, and senior citizens with these conditions to consider whether to make the journey.
Avoid strenuous effort at altitude and keep exertion light for your first 48 hours. Break the climb with regular rests.
Drink at least two litres of fluid a day; hot, sweet drinks are best. Don't start the trek on an empty stomach.
Both make altitude harder on the body.
Headache, dizziness, drowsiness, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, coughing or fast breathing can mean altitude sickness. Stop climbing and get medical help straight away.
104 is the state health helpline and 108 calls an ambulance. Medical relief posts are set up along the trek and at Kedarnath during the season.
What to pack
FAQ
Many elderly pilgrims make the yatra by pony, palki or helicopter. The health department advises extra caution for anyone with heart, lung, diabetes or blood-pressure conditions — a check-up with your doctor before booking is the safest start.
Children travel to Kedarnath every season, often in a pitthu basket for the trek. Pack extra warm layers for them, keep them well fed and watered, and watch closely for the warning signs above, since children may not describe them.
Yes. The state runs medical relief posts along the trek and a hospital facility at Kedarnath during the season. In an emergency dial 108 for an ambulance or 104 for the health helpline.