Snowfall in Kedarnath — Complete Guide 2026
📅 Updated: August 2026 · ⏱️ 7 min read · ✍️ By Kumar Raj
Kedarnath sits at 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas. Snow is not just a winter phenomenon here — it can snow in April, May, and even October while the temple is open. This guide covers exactly when snowfall happens, how heavy it gets, how it affects your trek, and what to expect in each month.
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❄️ Snowfall Month by Month
November – March HEAVY SNOW
Snow depth: 3-6 feet | Temple CLOSED
This is deep winter in the Himalayas. Kedarnath receives massive snowfall — the temple, lodges, and the entire trek path are buried under several feet of snow. The temple closes in October/November and the idol is moved to Ukhimath for winter worship. The area is completely inaccessible. Only the Bhairavnath Temple remains as the solitary guardian through winter. Temperatures drop to -15°C.
April LINGERING SNOW
Snow on trail: Moderate | Temple OPENS (Akshaya Tritiya)
When the temple opens in late April, snow still covers parts of the trek path. The first few hundred pilgrims each year trek through snow — it's part of the adventure. The path is cleared by BRO and temple authorities, but icy patches remain. Ponies operate but may struggle in deep snow sections. Trekking stick with a metal tip is essential. Temperatures: 0°C to 12°C.
May RESIDUAL SNOW
Snow on trail: Light (early May) to None (late May)
Early May still has snow on the higher sections (above Rambara). By mid-to-late May, the trek path is mostly clear. Snow remains on surrounding peaks — Kedarnath Peak, Kedar Dome — creating spectacular views. This is the best time for photographers. Vasuki Tal (4,150m) remains partially frozen until late June. Occasional light snowfall is possible but rare.
June – August NO SNOW
Snow on trail: None
No snow on the trek path at all. The trail is completely clear. Surrounding peaks still have snow caps — great for photos. June is the warmest month (8-20°C). July-August brings monsoon rain instead of snow. If you want a snow-free trek, this is the window. But be aware: July-August monsoon brings landslides, not snow.
September NO SNOW
Snow on trail: None
Post-monsoon, the trek path is clear and the mountains are lush green. Best month for trekking. Clear skies, comfortable temperatures (8-18°C), and no snow on the trail. Surrounding peaks begin getting fresh snow dusting at the very end of September — beautiful to see but doesn't affect trekking.
October FIRST SNOWFALL
Snow on trail: Light (late October) | Temple CLOSES (Bhai Dooj)
This is when things get interesting. Early October is still clear and beautiful — golden autumn colors, crisp air. By mid-to-late October, the first snowfall of the season arrives. It's usually light (1-3 inches) but can be sudden. The temple closes around Bhai Dooj (October/November). If you're trekking in late October, be prepared for snow and check weather daily. Temperatures drop to 2-14°C, nights below freezing.
🥾 How Snow Affects Your Trek
| Condition | Impact | What to Do |
|---|
| Light snow on path | Slushy, slippery sections | Waterproof boots + trekking stick essential |
| Moderate snow | Path partially covered, slower progress | Start early, follow other trekkers' footprints |
| Heavy snow | Trek dangerous, ponies may refuse | Postpone trek, wait for path to clear |
| Fresh snowfall | Beautiful but disorienting | Stay on main path, don't take shortcuts |
| Ice on path | Extremely slippery, risk of falling | Trekking stick with metal tip, walk slowly |
👕 What to Wear in Snow Conditions
- Waterproof trekking boots — non-negotiable. Snow means wet feet. Wet feet mean blisters and frostbite risk.
- Multiple layers: Thermal innerwear → Fleece → Down jacket → Waterproof outer shell. You can remove layers as you warm up trekking.
- Waterproof pants — jeans are dangerous in snow. They get wet, heavy, and freeze.
- Woolen socks (carry an extra pair in a sealed plastic bag).
- Gloves — waterproof, not woolen (wool gets wet).
- Trekking stick with metal tip — tests the ground ahead for ice and provides stability.
- Sunglasses — snow blindness is real. The reflection off snow is intense even on cloudy days.
🏔️ Does Vasuki Tal Have Snow?
Yes — much more than the main trek. Vasuki Tal sits at 4,150m, over 500m higher than Kedarnath Temple. The lake remains partially frozen until late June and you'll walk on snow even in summer if you attempt this trek. The surrounding peaks hold snow year-round. If you're trekking to Vasuki Tal in May or June, expect significant snow on the path.
⚠️ Snow Safety Tips
- Start early (by 5-6 AM): Snow is harder and less slippery in the morning. It gets slushy and dangerous as the day warms up.
- Follow footprints: If there's fresh snow, follow the tracks of trekkers ahead of you. Don't create your own path.
- Watch for ice: Clear ice is nearly invisible. If the path looks wet but the temperature is below freezing, assume it's ice.
- Ponies may refuse: In deep snow, pony handlers may decline to go further. Have a backup plan.
- Check weather daily: Snowfall can happen suddenly in the mountains. Check our live weather page before starting.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Does it snow in Kedarnath in May?
Early May may have residual snow on the higher trek sections. By late May, the path is usually clear. Fresh snowfall in May is rare but possible.
Can I trek to Kedarnath in snow?
Yes, in April and early May, but you need proper gear — waterproof boots, trekking stick, warm layers. Ponies may not operate in deep snow.
When is the heaviest snowfall in Kedarnath?
December through February. The temple is closed and the area is buried under 3-6 feet of snow. No access.
Is there snow in Kedarnath in October?
Early October: usually no snow. Late October: first light snowfall of the season is common. Check weather before traveling.