Planning a trip to Kedarnath is not just about visiting a temple; it is about experiencing one of the most spiritual and scenic journeys in India. Each step towards Kedarnath takes you closer to nature, faith, and the beauty of the Himalayas. This Kedarnath itinerary includes every detail, covering the route, costs, and travel tips, so you can enjoy your trip fully without missing any important experience.
Why Should You Visit Kedarnath?
Kedarnath is one of the most sacred pilgrimage places in India and an important part of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. Standing at a height of about 3,583 meters, it rests in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas. The journey is not only about visiting the temple but also about enjoying the breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks, green valleys, and the soothing sound of the Mandakini River flowing by your side. It is a trip where devotion blends beautifully with adventure.
How Can You Reach Kedarnath?
Kedarnath does not have direct access by train or air. The journey involves a combination of transportation modes. The last motorable point is Gaurikund, and from there, a trek of around 16 km begins.
1. By Road
Begin your trip at Haridwar or Rishikesh, both well-connected to Delhi by train or bus (around 450 km to Kedarnath). Travel by car or bus to Sonprayag, which is about 240 km from Haridwar, passing scenic places like Devprayag and Rudraprayag.
Note: The main road Rishikesh to Rudraprayag may be blocked, so take the alternate route via Tehri and Srinagar. Sonprayag to Gaurikund (5 km) requires a shared jeep or taxi due to limited parking.
2. By Trek
Gaurikund is the base for a 16 km trek to Kedarnath Temple. This moderate-to-difficult trail takes 6 to 8 hours and passes through Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, and Linchauli. Along the way, you will find tea stalls, rest points, and stunning views of forests and waterfalls.
3. By Helicopter
If you are short on time or prefer a comfortable ride, helicopter services operate between Phata or Sersi and Kedarnath. The flight takes around 15 minutes. Advance booking is advised, with fares ranging between ₹5,000 and ₹7,000 for a round trip.
4. By Air and Rail
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun, about 260 km away. Haridwar and Rishikesh are the closest railway stations. From Dehradun or Haridwar, you can take a taxi or bus to Sonprayag.
Pro Tip: Complete the required biometric registration at Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Sonprayag before starting your trek. It is quick and ensures a smooth pilgrimage.
Day-by-Day Kedarnath Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi to Rishikesh or Haridwar
- Drive Distance: Around 230 km to Haridwar / 250 km to Rishikesh
- Travel Time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours by car or bus
- Altitude: Haridwar – 314 meters | Rishikesh – 340 meters
Your journey starts early in the morning in Delhi to enjoy a smooth drive without heavy traffic. For the first night, you can stop at either Haridwar or Rishikesh, each offering a unique experience. Haridwar is kno wn for its religious ceremonies, while Rishikesh provides a calm riverside setting with yoga and adventure options, making it a perfect starting point in your Kedarnath Itinerary.
In the evening, you can attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar or Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh. Watching hundreds of oil lamps floating on the river is truly enchanting. You can also enjoy local street food such as aloo puri, kachori, and jalebi to make the evening more delightful.
Travel Tip: Staying overnight here helps break the long trip into comfortable parts and gives you time to prepare for the mountain roads ahead.
Day 2: Rishikesh/Haridwar to Guptkashi
- Drive Distance: Around 210 km
- Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours
- Altitude: Guptkashi – 1,319 meters
After an early breakfast, start your uphill drive into the Garhwal Himalayas. The road has many sharp turns and passes through lush valleys with stunning river views. On the way, you will pass Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Agastyamuni, each offering beautiful scenery and chances for short breaks. Guptkashi is a calm stop before the Kedarnath trek.
It is famous for the Vishwanath Temple and the Ardhanareshwar Temple. Many visitors spend the evening exploring these temples or relaxing while enjoying views of the Chaukhamba range.
Travel Tip: Staying here helps with better altitude adjustment and keeps you close to the starting point of the trek for the next day.
Day 3: Guptkashi to Gaurikund, Trek to Kedarnath
- Distance: 30 km (Guptkashi to Sonprayag by road) + 5 km (Sonprayag to Gaurikund) + 16 km (Trek to Kedarnath)
- Travel Time: 1-2 hours (road) + 6-8 hours (trek)
- Altitude: Gaurikund (1,982 m), Kedarnath (3,583 m)
The day starts early with a short drive to Gaurikund (₹30–₹50), the base camp for the Kedarnath trek. This place is known for the Gauri Temple and its natural hot water springs, where many pilgrims take a bath before beginning their journey.
The trek to Kedarnath goes through Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, Linchauli, and Rambara, each offering small stalls for tea, snacks, and short breaks. The trail is scenic but challenging, with steep climbs and changing weather.
For those who cannot walk the trail, options include pony rides, palanquins, or helicopter services available at Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi. Once you reach Kedarnath, check into a lodge or GMVN camp (₹500–₹2,000/night) to rest. The sight of the Kedarnath Temple with snow-covered peaks in the background makes every step of the journey worth it.
Travel Tip: Keep rain gear and warm clothes handy as weather conditions can change quickly at higher altitudes.
Day 4: Morning Darshan, Trek Back to Gaurikund, Return to Guptkashi
- Distance: 16 km (Trek back to Gaurikund) + 35 km (Gaurikund to Guptkashi by road)
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours (trek) + 1-2 hours (road)
- Altitude: Kedarnath (3,583 m) to Gaurikund (1,982 m)
Wake up at 5 AM and get ready for the morning darshan at Kedarnath Temple, which opens at 6 AM. The calm surroundings, along with the sound of sacred chants, make the experience truly special. Offer your prayers, feel the divine energy, and explore nearby spots like Bhairavnath Temple or the banks of the Mandakini River. Start the 16 km trek back to Gaurikund by 9 AM.
The walk downhill is more comfortable and usually takes around 5 to 6 hours. Take a short break for lunch at a small roadside stall, where meals cost about ₹100 to ₹150. Reach Gaurikund by around 3 PM, then board a shared jeep to Sonprayag for ₹30 to ₹50. From there, continue your journey to Guptkashi by taxi or jeep for ₹50 to ₹100.
Arrive by evening, check into a guesthouse with prices between ₹500 and ₹1,500 per night, and enjoy a warm, filling meal. End your day by thinking back on the spiritual moments and getting a good night’s rest.
Travel Tip: Book your return transport in advance to avoid last-minute delays, especially during peak season.
Day 5: Guptkashi to Rishikesh/Haridwar, Return Journey to Delhi
- Distance: 210 km (Guptkashi to Haridwar/Rishikesh) + 230-250 km (Haridwar/Rishikesh to Delhi)
- Travel Time: 7-8 hours (Guptkashi to Haridwar/Rishikesh) + 6-7 hours (to Delhi)
- Altitude: Guptkashi (1,319 m) to Haridwar (314 m) or Rishikesh (340 m)
Leave Guptkashi by 7 AM and travel by bus (₹400 to ₹600) or taxi (₹4,000 to ₹5,000) to reach Haridwar or Rishikesh by around 3 PM. Once you arrive, you can head to Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh to witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti or explore Haridwar’s lively markets for souvenirs. This final day of your Kedarnath Itinerary allows you to wind down your trip with a blend of spirituality and relaxation before heading home.
In the evening, take a bus (₹600 to ₹1,000) or train (₹800 to ₹1,200) to Delhi, reaching by 10 PM. You can also choose to spend the night in Haridwar or Rishikesh (₹500 to ₹2,000) and leave for Delhi the next morning.
Travel Tip: Keep some buffer time in case of road delays due to landslides or traffic on narrow mountain stretches.
How Much Will Your Kedarnath Itinerary Cost?
Transportation
- Bus Haridwar to Sonprayag (round trip): ₹1,000–₹1,500
- Shared jeep Sonprayag to Gaurikund (round trip): ₹100–₹200
- Helicopter (optional, round trip): ₹5,000–₹7,0000
Accommodation:
- Guptkashi (2 nights, budget guesthouse): ₹1,000–₹3,000
- Kedarnath (1 night, guesthouse/camp): ₹500–₹2,000
Trekking Support (optional)
- Mule/Palki for elderly: ₹2,000–₹4,000
- Porter for luggage: ₹500–₹1,000
Food: Simple meals at dhabas or stalls (3 days): ₹600–₹1,200
Miscellaneous: Permits, offerings, tips: ₹500–₹1,000
How to Register for the Kedarnath Yatra?
All pilgrims must complete the Kedarnath Temple Registration process. This can be done online through the official portal of the Uttarakhand Char Dham Devasthanam Board or offline at registration counters in Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Sonprayag. Carry a valid ID proof and keep a printed copy of your registration for verification.
🎒What Should You Pack
Clothing
- 1/2 cup Jhangora (Barnyard Millet)
- 1 liter full cream milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon green cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped almonds
- 2 tablespoons chopped cashews
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- A few strands of saffron (optional)
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup water
Essentials
- Reusable water bottle (1L)
- High-energy snacks (nuts, chocolates, energy bars)
- First-aid kit (bandages, painkillers, antiseptic)
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
- Power bank (10,000 mAh minimum)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50) and lip balm
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes)
Documents
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, passport, or voter ID)
- Biometric registration slip
- Medical certificate (if required for trekking)
Trekking Gear
- Walking stick or trekking pole
- Backpack (20-30L capacity)
- Rain cover for backpack
- Lightweight sleeping bag (for camps)
Final Thoughts
Kedarnath is more than just a place to visit. It is a journey filled with faith, adventure, and a deep bond with the Himalayas. With proper planning, you can enjoy each step, each view, and each moment at this sacred site. This detailed Kedarnath Itinerary offers the right tips and guidance to make your trip smooth, well-planned, and truly unforgettable.
Save this guide for your next visit and share your experiences or thoughts in the comments.
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