Introduction
Kedarnath Dham, one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage destinations, is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. Perched at an altitude of 3,583 meters, this divine site is surrounded by snow-covered Himalayan peaks and the serene Mandakini River flowing beside it.
Reaching Kedarnath involves a 16 km scenic trek from Gaurikund, filled with waterfalls, mountain landscapes, and breathtaking views. Travelers can also opt for helicopter services from Phata, Guptkashi, or Sirsi for a faster and more comfortable journey.
With its pure mountain air, cozy stay options, and local food stalls, Kedarnath offers both a spiritual and soulful travel experience. The temple remains open mainly from May to October, when weather conditions are favorable and routes are safe.
How to Reach Kedarnath
Kedarnath’s journey is a mix of road travel and trekking through beautiful Himalayan valleys. Here’s how to get there:
🛣️ By Road
- The last motorable point is Gaurikund, from where the trek to Kedarnath begins.
- Buses and taxis are available from Rishikesh (210 km), Haridwar (230 km), and Dehradun (250 km) to Guptkashi (190 km) or Sonprayag (200 km).
- From Sonprayag, shared jeeps cover the 5 km route to Gaurikund.
- Roads are narrow and hilly — daytime travel is recommended.
🚆 By Train
- The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, located about 210 km from Gaurikund.
- From Rishikesh, hire a taxi or take a bus to Guptkashi or Sonprayag, then continue to Gaurikund.
✈️ By Air
- The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 235 km from Kedarnath.
- The drive from Dehradun follows the route: Rishikesh – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Sonprayag – Gaurikund, taking around 8–9 hours depending on conditions.
🚁 By Helicopter
- Helicopter services operate from Phata (14 km from Guptkashi), Sersi, and Guptkashi.
- The flight takes about 8–10 minutes one way.
- Advance booking is highly recommended between May and October (peak season).
Trekking Route from Gaurikund to Kedarnath
The 16 km trek to Kedarnath begins at Gaurikund, the last motorable point. The trail passes through steep paths, waterfalls, and small villages with mesmerizing Himalayan views.
Trek Route Overview
| Route Point | Distance (from previous point) | Total Distance (from Gaurikund) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gaurikund | Starting Point | 0 km | Last motorable stop; hot springs & Gauri Temple |
| Bheembali | 4 km | 4 km | Rest stop with food stalls & pony services |
| Pancha-Tirthi | 3 km | 7 km | Scenic spot with forest trails |
| Linchauli | 6 km | 13 km | Stunning mountain views & tea stalls |
| Base Camp | 2 km | 15 km | Accommodation & medical assistance |
| Kedarnath Temple | 1 km | 16 km | Final destination – the holy Kedarnath Shrine |
Trek Highlights & Tips
- Well-paved and moderately steep trail — ideal for those with average fitness.
- Pony, porter, and palki services are available.
- Tea stalls and first-aid stations are found at multiple points.
- Start early morning to complete the trek before evening.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
The weather in Kedarnath changes quickly due to its high altitude, so it’s crucial to plan your visit in the right season.
Ideal Visiting Months
- May – June: Pleasant weather, snow starts melting, and clear mountain views.
- September – October: Post-monsoon clarity with moderate temperatures — great for trekking.
Months to Avoid
- July – August: Heavy monsoon rains can cause landslides and slippery trails.
- November – April: The temple and trek route remain closed due to heavy snowfall.
Travel Tips
- Visit during May–June or Sept–Oct for the best experience.
- Book stays and transport in advance — the route gets busy during Yatra season.
- Always check weather and road updates before your trip.
Weather and Climate in Kedarnath
Kedarnath’s high-altitude weather can be cold, unpredictable, and rapidly changing. Here’s a quick overview:
| Season | Months | Weather | Day Temp | Night Temp |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | May – June | Clear skies, ideal for trekking | 15°C – 25°C | 5°C – 10°C |
| Monsoon | July – August | Rainy, slippery roads | 12°C – 20°C | 4°C – 8°C |
| Autumn | Sept – Oct | Clear weather, great visibility | 10°C – 22°C | 2°C – 8°C |
| Winter | Nov – Apr | Heavy snowfall, temple closed | — | — |
Weather Tips
- Always carry warm layers and rain gear.
- Summer & Autumn are safest for travel.
- Check latest weather updates before departure.
Accommodation in Kedarnath Dham
Due to its altitude, accommodations in Kedarnath are basic but peaceful. Here’s a comparison chart to help you choose:
| Category | Cost (per night) | Distance from Temple | Facilities | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temple Dharamshalas | ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 | 0–200 m | Basic bedding, shared washrooms | Budget pilgrims |
| GMVN Guest Houses | ₹2,000 – ₹3,500 | Within 500 m | Warm blankets, clean rooms | Organized travelers |
| Private Lodges | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 | 200–700 m | Attached washroom, charging facility | Families & trekkers |
| Base Camp Tents | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 | Around 1 km | Common toilets, resting zone | Trekkers or late arrivals |
| Luxury Tents | ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 | 800 m – 1 km | Private washroom, cozy bed | Comfort travelers |
Accommodation Tips
- Always book in advance (especially in May–June or Sept–Oct).
- Carry warm clothes, power banks, and first-aid items.
- Electricity and mobile networks are limited.
- For reliable stays, Clan Stays provides organized bookings near Kedarnath.
Places to Visit Around Kedarnath Dham
Kedarnath is surrounded by sacred and scenic spots worth visiting:
| Place | Distance | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bhairavnath Temple | 500 m | Temple dedicated to Lord Bhairav with valley views | Short trek, photography |
| Vasuki Tal | 8 km trek | High-altitude glacial lake | Adventure trekking |
| Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar) | 3 km trek | Lake where Gandhi’s ashes were immersed | Nature walks |
| Shankaracharya Samadhi | Behind Kedarnath | Sacred site of Adi Shankaracharya | Spiritual seekers |
| Gaurikund | 16 km | Hot spring & Gauri Temple | Pilgrimage start point |
| Triyuginarayan Temple | 25 km from Gaurikund | Wedding site of Lord Shiva & Parvati | Cultural exploration |
| Guptkashi | 38 km | Vishwanath & Ardhnarishwar Temples | Peaceful pre/post Yatra stay |
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Plan Early: Visit between May–June or Sept–Oct.
- Trek Ready: 16 km trek – start early and go slow.
- Pack Warm Clothes: Even summer nights are cold.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry light snacks and water.
- Health First: Rest if breathless; keep medicines handy.
- Power Backup: Carry power banks; limited network near temple.
- Follow Rules: Only vegetarian food; no alcohol or smoking.
- Book Smart: For smooth arrangements, book with Clan Stays.
Transportation from Major Cities
| City | Distance (km) | Travel Time | Route | Best Mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 450 km | 10–12 hrs | Delhi → Rishikesh → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund | Taxi / Train / Flight to Dehradun |
| Haridwar | 240 km | 8–9 hrs | Haridwar → Rishikesh → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi | Taxi |
| Dehradun | 250 km | 8–10 hrs | Dehradun → Rishikesh → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi | Taxi / Helicopter |
| Rishikesh | 220 km | 7–8 hrs | Rishikesh → Srinagar → Guptkashi → Sonprayag | Taxi |
| Sonprayag → Gaurikund | 5 km | 20–30 min | Short mountain drive | Shared Jeep |
| Gaurikund → Kedarnath Temple | 16 km | 5–7 hrs trek / 10 min flight | Trek or Helicopter | On foot / Pony / Helicopter |
Hassle-Free Kedarnath Trip with Clan Stays
Conclusion
Planning a Kedarnath trip can be challenging due to steep treks and limited facilities — but Clan Stays Private Limited makes it easy.
We provide:
Comfortable stays near Kedarnath & Gaurikund
Safe taxi services from major cities
Assistance with trekking, ponies, palkis, and helicopter bookings
Whether you’re traveling for spiritual darshan, a family pilgrimage, or adventure, Clan Stays ensures a smooth, stress-free experience.
Call: +91-9627229848
Website: www.clanstays.com
Let Clan Stays make your Kedarnath Yatra safe, smooth, and memorable.
