Every year, as April turns to May, something remarkable happens in the Garhwal Himalayas. The snow that has blanketed Kedarnath for six long winter months begins — slowly, reluctantly — to retreat. The roads clear. The trail from Gaurikund becomes walkable. And the ancient stone temple of Kedarnath, dedicated to Lord Shiva and standing at an altitude of 3,583 metres, opens its doors to the world once again.
For hundreds of thousands of pilgrims and travellers, May marks the beginning of the most anticipated journey of the year.
But here is the question that almost everyone asks before they book: How cold is Kedarnath in May?
The honest answer is — colder than most people expect. This is a high-altitude Himalayan destination, and the weather in May reflects that reality. May is a cool month in Kedarnath, with average temperatures ranging between a maximum of 12.8°C and a minimum of 0.9°C.
That does not mean it is uncomfortable or inaccessible. In fact, May and June are considered the most preferable time to do the Kedarnath Yatra, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10 to 15°C — clear skies, manageable temperatures, and the 16 km Gaurikund trek is safe.
But preparation is everything. This complete guide will walk you through exactly what the temperature does in May, what the weather patterns look like day to day, what to pack, and what you can see and do during one of Kedarnath’s most beautiful months.
Average Temperature in Kedarnath in May — The Actual Numbers
May temperatures in Kedarnath vary between a high temperature of 12.8°C (55°F) and a low temperature of 0.9°C (33.6°F).
But within the month, there is meaningful variation — the temperature climbs as May progresses:
| Period | Average High | Average Low |
|---|---|---|
| Early May (1–10) | 4°C to 6°C | -5°C to -2°C |
| Mid May (11–20) | 5°C to 8°C | -4°C to -2°C |
| Late May (21–31) | 7°C to 13°C | -3°C to 1°C |
The warmest day of May in Kedarnath is typically around May 27, reaching 7.5°C, while the coldest day is around May 2, dropping to as low as -5.9°C. By month’s end, average highs are near 7.3°C with lows around -3.1°C.
What these numbers mean in practical terms:
- Daytime (10 AM to 4 PM): Pleasantly cool in late May, reaching 10°C to 15°C on clear days. You may find yourself comfortable in a light fleece during sunny afternoon hours.
- Morning (before 8 AM): Cold. 2°C to 6°C. Wind can make it feel colder. This is when pilgrims line up for early darshan — dress warmly.
- Night (after sunset): Genuinely cold. Nights drop to 0°C to 4°C. It feels cold, especially after sunset. Pack thermal inners, a heavy fleece, and a windproof jacket regardless of the daytime reading.
- Early May specifically: May in Kedarnath brings low temperatures, with highs of 8°C and nights around -3°C. Temperatures remain on the cold side all day. A proper warm jacket is worth having, not just for evenings. With overnight lows of -3°C, temperatures fall below freezing at night.
Temperature Week by Week — What to Expect Through the Month
Week 1 (May 1–7): The Cold Opening
Early in the month, average high temperatures are 4.5°C and lows are -5.2°C. The first week of May is the coldest of the month. If the temple has just opened for the season (usually late April or the first days of May), the snow is still very much present at higher elevations. The trail from Gaurikund may have icy sections in the early morning.
Think of this week as winter’s last stand. You need full winter preparation — thermals, heavy jacket, warm hat, gloves — for early May visits.
The upside: the newly opened temple has an extraordinary spiritual energy in these first days, and the snow-covered landscape around the temple is genuinely beautiful.
Week 2 (May 8–14): Slight Warming
Mid-month values show highs around 5.8°C and lows at -4.1°C. Temperatures inch upward but remain firmly cold. The snow at higher elevations continues melting. Some of the glacial blue begins appearing around the base camp area. Clear days in mid-May offer some of the clearest views of the Kedarnath glacier and surrounding peaks.
Week 3 and 4 (May 15–31): The Sweet Spot
Toward the end of the month, average highs are near 7.3°C with lows around -3.1°C.
Late May is when Kedarnath weather is at its most visitor-friendly. Daytime temperatures on clear days can reach 10°C to 15°C. The meadows below the temple begin showing the first green. The rhododendrons that make the lower trail sections so beautiful are in bloom. The Mandakini River is full and fast-moving from snowmelt.
May has an average temperature between 12°C and 18°C with lots of sunlight in the lower valley areas. Remember that this reflects conditions at lower altitudes along the route — the temple itself remains cooler.
Things to Do at Kedarnath in May
Despite the cold, May is one of the most rewarding months to visit Kedarnath. Here is what you can do:
Kedarnath Temple Darshan
The temple is newly opened and the spiritual energy in May is exceptional. The crowds, while significant, are more manageable than June. Early morning darshan (starting from around 4 to 5 AM) gives you the most peaceful experience with the best light on the temple’s stone facade.
Vasuki Tal Trek
Trek to the tranquil Vasuki Tal, a high-altitude glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush greenery. Located 8 km from the Kedarnath temple at an altitude of 4,135 metres, this day trek offers extraordinary views of the Kedarnath peak and surrounding glaciers. Note: this trek requires good physical fitness and should only be attempted in late May when trail conditions are safer.
Glacier and Peak Viewing
The Chorabari Glacier (visible from near the temple), the Kedarnath Peak (6,940 metres), and the surrounding snow-covered ridges create a landscape that is at its most dramatic in May when the snow is still extensive. May and June have the best chances of good weather with clear skies for viewing the surrounding peaks.
Bhairavnath Temple
Moreover, near the Kedarnath temple, the Bhairavnath Temple is worth a visit. Dedicated to Bhairav — the protector of Kedarnath — the temple sits on a ridge above the main shrine, thus offering outstanding views of the entire valley.
Key Weather Warnings for May Visitors
Start the trek early: The weather is most stable before noon. Start from Gaurikund by 5 to 6 AM at the latest.
Never underestimate the cold at night: Even if daytime feels pleasant, nights drop to 0°C or below. Warm sleeping arrangements are essential.
Watch afternoon cloud buildup: Clear mornings can turn to rain within two hours. Always carry your rain gear on the trek.
Icy patches in early May: The trail can be slippery before mid-May. Trekking poles and waterproof boots with good grip are essential.
The wind increases the cold significantly: A 10°C reading with mountain wind can feel like 3°C or 4°C. Your wind protection layer matters as much as your thermal layers.
Conclusion
Kedarnath in May offers a beautiful balance between winter and summer, making it one of the best times to begin the yatra. While the temple reopens and the snow starts melting, the region still holds onto its cold Himalayan charm. Daytime temperatures are generally pleasant, but mornings and nights remain quite cold — something many travelers underestimate.
If you plan well, pack properly, and start your trek early, May becomes an incredibly rewarding time to visit. You get clear mountain views, spiritual energy, manageable crowds, and a safe trekking experience. Whether you’re visiting for devotion or the journey itself, Kedarnath in May promises an experience that is both peaceful and unforgettable.
