How to Reach Kedarnath
Planning your journey to Kedarnath? Here's a complete travel guide on how to reach the holy shrine by road, rail, and on foot, starting from major cities to the sacred Mandir.
Kedarnath is not directly accessible by motorable roads. The nearest road head is Gaurikund, which is well-connected by buses and taxis from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, and other major towns of Uttarakhand. Haridwar to Gaurikund is about 240 km and takes approximately 10 hours. From Gaurikund, one must undertake a 16 km trek to reach the temple. The roads are scenic yet hilly, so it's advisable to travel during daylight. Regular government and private transport options are available throughout the Char Dham Yatra season.
The nearest railway stations to Kedarnath are Haridwar (approx. 240 km), Rishikesh (220 km), and Dehradun (250 km). Haridwar is well-connected to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Varanasi. From any of these stations, travelers can continue their journey via taxi or bus to Gaurikund. Train travel is preferred by pilgrims from distant states for its affordability and convenience. Advance booking during yatra season is recommended.
The closest airport to Kedarnath is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, which is approximately 235 km from Gaurikund. The airport is well-connected with major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. From the airport, one can hire a cab or use bus services to reach Sonprayag/Gaurikund. Though helicopter services are available from places like Phata and Guptkashi, Shree Ram Tourism's does not currently provide helicopter bookings. We recommend planning road travel with buffer time due to changing mountain weather.
Once at Gaurikund, a 16-kilometer trek leads to Kedarnath. The path is well-defined and maintained by local authorities, featuring checkpoints, resting areas, and first-aid services. The trail passes through Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, Linchauli, and Kedarnath Base Camp. Pilgrims can choose to trek on foot or opt for palkis, ponies, or mules available on hire. Trekking requires stamina and proper preparation, especially during colder months or after rainfall. Always carry essentials like warm clothes, snacks, and water bottles for a safe experience.
Plan your Kedarnath trip keeping in mind weather conditions and physical endurance. Carry ID proof, extra warm clothing, and basic medicines. Avoid traveling at night and always check route conditions before starting the journey. Register yourself online or at yatra counters for safety tracking. Stay updated with Uttarakhand tourism advisories and weather updates. Keep a power bank and offline maps handy, as mobile networks may be weak near higher altitudes. Most importantly, maintain spiritual discipline and environmental responsibility during your journey.