Rudraprayag: More than half of December has passed, but Kedarnath Dham has yet to see snowfall. The last snow was recorded on November 20, and since then
the shrine has remained snowless.
In previous years, Kedarnath would typically be buried under more than five feet of snow by this time, halting all work. This year, however, construction continues.
Around 150 workers battle extreme cold to continue work
Around 150 laborers are present at the shrine, braving extreme cold and working only five to six hours a day. Cement‑related work has been hindered due to freezing conditions, but underground pipelines for drinking water and electricity are being laid.
Freezing conditions without snow
According to Rajveer Singh, Executive Engineer of PWD Guptkashi, the temperature in Kedarnath drops to minus 10°C at night, making work difficult. Sunlight reaches the shrine only after 10 am, offering limited relief. Despite the absence of snow, the cold winds are severe, forcing workers to adjust their schedules.
Snow is not visible even on the peaks surrounding Kedarnath, including the shrine itself. Since the temple doors closed, laborers have continued to arrive, ensuring that the second phase of reconstruction work moves forward.
Rambada‑Garudachatti path reconstruction
In addition to shrine development, reconstruction is underway on the Rambada‑Garudachatti walking path, which was destroyed in the 2013 disaster. Around 80 laborers are engaged in railing and pathway work. Officials say that by the 2026 pilgrimage season, devotees will be able to travel easily via the old route, reducing difficulties faced on the current walking path.
Artworks on giant boulders
Large boulders brought to Kedarnath during the Chaurabari disaster are now being used for artistic purposes. Skilled workers are engraving images of temples, animals, birds, and deities including Lord Ganesha, Shankar, Vishnu, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Parvati, Kartikeya, and the five Pandavas. These artworks depict gods and goddesses in various postures, enhancing the grandeur of Kedarnath.
Rudraprayag DM Prateek Jain confirmed that reconstruction work is ongoing and will continue as long as the weather remains clear. He added that the stone artworks behind the Kedarnath temple are already impressing visitors. Pilgrims in the upcoming season will be able to see these engravings on many boulders, adding cultural and spiritual value to their journey.
Changing weather patterns
The absence of snow in December is unusual and reflects changing weather patterns in the Himalayas. While Kedarnath is known for heavy snowfall during winter, this year’s dry spell has allowed construction to continue. Experts say such changes highlight the growing impact of climate variability in the region.
