These festivals, steeped in tradition and devotion, offer a unique opportunity for pilgrims to experience Kedarnath in its most festive and divine ambiance. If you are planning your Kedarnath Yatra, visiting during these festivals will provide you with an unforgettable spiritual experience, blending ritual, culture, and the breathtaking beauty of the region.
1. Badri Kedar Festival
Month: (May-June)
The Badri Kedar Festival, held annually in Kedarnath and Badrinath during May or June, is a vibrant celebration of the rich culture, traditions, and spirituality of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. For eight days, the region comes alive with music, dance, and artistic performances by singers, dancers, and painters from across Uttarakhand. This grand festival not only showcases the local cultural heritage but also offers pilgrims and tourists a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s history, beliefs, and traditions. The festival blends religious rituals with cultural performances, creating an enriching experience that highlights the spiritual ethos and cultural diversity of the sacred Char Dham destinations.
2. Vinayak Chaturthi
Month: (Sep-Oct)
Vinayak Chaturthi is celebrated with great devotion at Kedarnath, as Lord Ganesha is believed to be the son of Lord Shiva. Devotees flock to the Kedarnath Temple during this time to offer prayers and seek blessings for happiness, prosperity, and the removal of obstacles. The temple is a sacred destination for those wishing to experience a unique and spiritually enriching pilgrimage. The festival is marked by chanting, rituals, and a deep sense of devotion, making it an important occasion for worshippers seeking the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha.
3. Kedarnath Kapat Opening Ceremony
Month: (Apr-May)
The Kedarnath Kapat Opening Ceremony marks the grand reopening of the temple after the winter months, signaling the start of the Char Dham Yatra. The temple is beautifully adorned with flowers and vibrant decorations. The ceremony includes a grand procession, led by priests, as they perform sacred rituals to invoke Lord Shiva’s blessings. Outside the temple’s main door, army band and rhythmic drumbeats, creates a festive atmosphere. Thousands of pilgrims gather to witness this divine moment, filled with chanting, devotional music, and a sense of unity. The backdrop of the majestic Himalayas enhances the spiritual experience, making it a deeply moving and auspicious occasion for all who attend.
4. Kedarnath Kapat Closing Ceremony
Month: (Nov)
The Kedarnath Kapat Closing Ceremony marks the end of the temple’s annual pilgrimage season, usually in early November. During this sacred event, the temple doors are closed for the winter months, and a significant ritual is performed. The doli, which carries the idol of Lord Kedarnath, begins its journey to the winter seat at Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath. The temple is beautifully decorated, and the atmosphere is filled with reverence as priests conduct elaborate pujas. The ceremony is accompanied by rhythmic drumbeats and chants, adding to the festive yet solemn atmosphere as devotees bid farewell to the deity until the next season.
5. Samadhi Pooja
Month: (Nov)
Samadhi Pooja at Kedarnath is a significant ritual dedicated to Adi Guru Shankaracharya, who established the Kedarnath shrine. The pooja takes place at his samadhi, located behind the main temple, to honor his teachings and contributions to Hindu philosophy and the Char Dham pilgrimage. This ritual is held on the temple’s closing day, marking the end of the pilgrimage season. The event is a grand celebration with lights, music, and processions, bringing together devotees who offer prayers and express gratitude. After the pooja, the Kedarnath Temple’s doors are closed for the winter, and the idol of the presiding deity is moved to Ukhimath. This ceremony is not only a tribute to Shankaracharya’s legacy but also a spiritually enriching experience for all pilgrims present.
6. Shravani Annakoot Mela
Month: August
The Shravani Annakoot Mela in Kedarnath, celebrated in August during the Shravan month, honors Lord Krishna with offerings of food (Annakoot) symbolizing the divine feast. The festival features grand processions, devotional singing, and offerings to the deity. It includes the Bhatuj (Annakoot) fair, held the night before Rakshabandhan, where the Linga of Baba Kedar is coated with rice, jangora, and Koni grains. The temple doors stay open overnight, allowing devotees to visit, and the grain coating is later washed into the Mandakini River, symbolizing purification by Lord Shiva.
7. Diwali
Month: (Oct-Nov)
Diwali in Kedarnath is a unique and deeply spiritual celebration, attracting pilgrims and visitors alike. The temple and surrounding areas are beautifully decorated with vibrant flowers and over 5,000 diyas, creating a divine atmosphere. This event marks not only the festival of lights but also the closing of the temple for the winter. Pilgrims gather to offer prayers, light lamps, and participate in rituals in honor of Lord Shiva. The celebrations include traditional music, devotional chanting, and a sense of unity among the people. The stunning backdrop of snow-covered peaks adds to the sacred beauty of the occasion. Kedarnath Diwali offers an unforgettable spiritual experience, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage.
8. Shravan Shivratri
Month: (Aug)
Shravan Shivratri is a significant Hindu festival celebrated during the auspicious month of Sawan. During this time, the Kedarnath Temple is beautifully decorated, attracting thousands of pilgrims. Devotees offer Ganga water to the Shivling as part of their prayers, seeking blessings and spiritual purification. Pilgrims visit Kedarnath during Shravan Shivratri to participate in this sacred celebration, making it a deeply spiritual experience.
