Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath Temple, one of the most revered shrines in Hinduism, is located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga, the holiest shrines of Lord Shiva. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, near the Mandakini River coverd with snow-capped peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas. This guide aims to provide detailed and comprehensive information to make your journey from Delhi to kedarnath as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Delhi to kedarnath distance
The total distance from Delhi to Kedarnath is approximately 450 kilometers. This distance includes both the road journey to Gaurikund and the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple. Here’s a breakdown of the journey:
1. Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh Distance
The first step of the journey is from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh. Both cities are well-connected by road, and several bus services operate between Delhi and these destinations. The distance from Delhi to Haridwar is about 220 kilometers, and it takes around 5-6 hours by bus. Rishikesh is slightly further, about 240 kilometers from Delhi, and takes approximately 6-7 hours by bus.
2. Haridwar/Rishikesh to Gaurikund Distance
From Haridwar or Rishikesh, you need to take another bus or hire a taxi to reach Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the trek to Kedarnath. The distance from Haridwar to Gaurikund is around 230 kilometers, and from Rishikesh to Gaurikund is about 210 kilometers. This part of the journey takes about 8-10 hours due to the mountainous terrain.
3. Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Distance
The final part of the journey is a 16-kilometer trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple. The trek is moderately challenging and takes about 6-8 hours to complete, depending on your pace and physical condition.
How to reach Kedarnath from Delhi by train
Reaching Kedarnath from Delhi involves a combination of transportation modes including train, bus, and trekking due to the temple’s remote location in the Himalayas. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach Kedarnath from Delhi:
1. Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh by Train
- Haridwar: Take a train from Delhi to Haridwar. Several trains run on this route, including the Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi, and Mussoorie Express. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours.
- Rishikesh: Alternatively, you can take a train to Rishikesh. There are fewer direct trains to Rishikesh compared to Haridwar, but you can easily find connecting options.
2. Haridwar/Rishikesh to Sonprayag by Bus/Taxi
- From Haridwar or Rishikesh, take a bus or hire a taxi to Sonprayag, the closest motorable point to Kedarnath. The distance from Haridwar to Sonprayag is around 240 kilometers, and from Rishikesh, it’s about 220 kilometers. The journey takes approximately 8-10 hours.
- Buses and shared taxis are available from Haridwar and Rishikesh to Sonprayag.
3. Sonprayag to Gaurikund
From Sonprayag, take a local jeep or shared taxi to Gaurikund, which is about 5 kilometers away. This is a short journey but may take some time depending on road conditions and traffic.
4. Gaurikund to Kedarnath by Trek
The last step of the journey is a 16-kilometer trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple. The trek is moderately challenging and takes about 6-8 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level and pace.
Delhi to Kedarnath By Road (Direct Bus/Taxi)
1. Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh by Bus
You can take an overnight bus from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh. Various state transport and private buses operate on this route, with travel times ranging from 6-8 hours.
2. Haridwar/Rishikesh to Sonprayag by Bus/Taxi
Follow the same route as mentioned above, taking a bus or taxi from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Sonprayag
3. Sonprayag to Gaurikund
Take a local jeep or shared taxi to Gaurikund.
4. Gaurikund to Kedarnath by Trek
Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple.
Delhi to Kedarnath By Air and Road
1. Delhi to Dehradun by Flight
Fly from Delhi to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport. The flight takes about 1 hour.
2. Dehradun to Sonprayag by Bus/Taxi
From Dehradun, take a taxi or bus to Sonprayag. The distance is around 250 kilometers, and the journey takes about 8-10 hours.
3. Sonprayag to Gaurikund
Take a local jeep or shared taxi to Gaurikund.
4. Gaurikund to Kedarnath by Trek
Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple.
How to reach Kedarnath by Helicopter
1. Phata or Guptkashi to Kedarnath by Helicopter
For a quicker option, you can take a helicopter from Phata or Guptkashi to Kedarnath. Helicopter services are available during the pilgrimage season, and the flight takes about 10 minutes. You can reach Phata or Guptkashi from Haridwar/Rishikesh by road.
Nearest railway station to kedarnath
The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh Railway Station, which is about 216 kilometers away. From Rishikesh, you can travel by road to reach Gaurikund, the base camp for the trek to Kedarnath.
Delhi to kedarnath trip plan
Planning a trip from Delhi to Kedarnath involves multiple transportation modes due to the temple’s remote location in the Himalayas. Here’s a comprehensive plan to help you navigate the journey:
Day 1: Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh
1. Departure from Delhi
- By Train: Book an early morning train to Haridwar or Rishikesh. Recommended trains include Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi, or Mussoorie Express. The journey takes around 5-6 hours.
- By Bus: Alternatively, take an overnight or early morning bus from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh. The journey by bus takes approximately 6-8 hours.
2. Arrival in Haridwar/Rishikesh
Check into a hotel and rest. Spend the evening visiting local attractions such as Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar or the Laxman Jhula and Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh.
Day 2: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Sonprayag
1. Early Morning Departure
Hire a taxi or take a bus to Sonprayag. The distance is around 240 kilometers from Haridwar and 220 kilometers from Rishikesh, with a travel time of 8-10 hours.
2. Scenic Drive
Enjoy the scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of Uttarakhand. You will pass through towns like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi.
3. Arrival in Sonprayag
Check into a guesthouse or lodge in Sonprayag. Rest and prepare for the trek the next day.
Day 3: Sonprayag to Kedarnath
1. Sonprayag to Gaurikund
Take a local jeep or shared taxi from Sonprayag to Gaurikund (5 kilometers).
2. Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath
Start the 16-kilometer trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. The trek can take 6-8 hours depending on your pace and fitness level. Along the way, enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains, waterfalls, and greenery.
3. Arrival in Kedarnath
Check into a guesthouse or one of the many dharamshalas available for pilgrims. If time permits, visit the Kedarnath Temple for the evening aarti.
Day 4: Kedarnath Temple Visit
1. Early Morning Darshan
Attend the early morning aarti at Kedarnath Temple and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
2. Explore Surroundings
Spend some time exploring the beautiful surroundings of Kedarnath. You can visit nearby sites such as Bhairav Temple.
3. Trek Back to Gaurikund
Begin your descent back to Gaurikund. The return trek usually takes 4-6 hours
4. Gaurikund to Sonprayag
Take a jeep or shared taxi back to Sonprayag. Check into a lodge and rest for the night.
Day 5: Sonprayag to Haridwar/Rishikesh
1. Morning Departure
Start your journey back to Haridwar or Rishikesh. Hire a taxi or take a bus for the 8-10 hour drive.
2. Arrival in Haridwar/Rishikesh
Check into a hotel for an overnight stay. Spend the evening relaxing or visiting any remaining local attractions.
Day 6: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Delhi
1. Return to Delhi
- By Train: Take a train from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Delhi. Book an early morning or late-night train to fit your schedule.
- By Bus: Alternatively, take a bus from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Delhi.
This detailed plan will help you navigate the journey from Delhi to Kedarnath, ensuring a spiritually enriching and memorable pilgrimage.
Difficulty level of Kedarnath trip
The difficulty level of the Kedarnath trip can vary based on the mode of transportation and your fitness level. Here’s a general overview:
By Road
- Easy: If you’re traveling by car or bus up to Gaurikund, it’s relatively easy.
- Moderate: The road journey can be tiring due to the hilly terrain and winding roads.
By Trekking
- Moderate to Difficult: The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple is about 16 km and can take 6-8 hours, depending on your pace.
- Altitude: The temple is at an altitude of 3,583 m (11,755 ft), so altitude sickness can be a concern for some.
Travel Tips
- Fitness: Good physical fitness is recommended for the trek.
- Preparation: Proper gear, including sturdy shoes and rain gear, is essential, especially during the monsoon season.
- Acclimatization: Take your time to acclimatize to the altitude to avoid altitude sickness.
Stay at Kedarnath
There are several accommodation options available at Kedarnath for pilgrims and tourists. However, due to the remote location and high demand, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak season. Here are some options:
Govt. Guest Houses
Managed by GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam), these guest houses offer basic amenities at reasonable prices. Booking can be done online or through GMVN offices.
Dharamshala
Several dharamshala provide simple accommodation at nominal rates. These are operated by various trusts and organizations.
Tents/Camps
During the pilgrimage season, many private operators set up tents and camps near Kedarnath. These offer a rustic experience and may have basic facilities.
Hotels/Lodges
A few hotels and lodges are available in the nearby areas like Gaurikund and Sonprayag. These offer more comfortable stay options but can be expensive and may require advance booking.
Note
Accommodation options directly at Kedarnath are limited and may not offer luxurious amenities. Due to the high altitude and cold temperatures, it’s advisable to carry warm clothing and sleeping bags, especially if staying in tents or basic accommodations.
How Solo Girl Traveller reach Kedarnath
Yes, a girl can go alone to Kedarnath. However, it’s important to take some precautions and plan the trip carefully, especially considering the remote location and sometimes challenging conditions. Here are some tips
- Safety: Ensure that you have a reliable mode of transportation to reach Kedarnath, especially if you plan to trek. Travel during daylight hours and avoid isolated areas.
- Accommodation: Book your accommodation in advance to ensure a safe and comfortable stay. Opt for reputable guesthouses, dharamshalas, or campsites.
- Health: Be prepared for the high altitude and cold temperatures. Carry necessary medications, warm clothing, and stay hydrated.
- Communication: Inform your family or friends about your travel plans and stay in touch with them regularly. Carry a fully charged mobile phone and a power bank.
- Local Help: In case of any emergency, seek help from local authorities, police stations, or other tourists/pilgrims.
- Travel Light: Pack only essentials and travel light, as you might have to carry your luggage during the trek.
- Respect Local Customs: Respect the local culture and customs, especially while visiting religious sites like Kedarnath Temple.
Trip Cost to Kedarnath temple from Delhi
The cost of a trip to Kedarnath can vary based on several factors such as mode of transportation, accommodation, food, and additional expenses. Here’s a general breakdown:
1. Transportation
- Bus: A bus journey from Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh can cost around ₹500 to ₹1,000 per person (one way). From there, you can take a shared taxi or bus to reach Guptkashi or Sonprayag, which can cost around ₹500 to ₹1,000 per person.
- Private Taxi/Car: Hiring a private taxi or driving your own car can cost around ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 (one way), depending on the type of vehicle and the season.
- Helicopter: Helicopter services are available from Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi. The cost can range from ₹7,000 to ₹9,000 per person for a one-way trip.
2. Accommodation
- Budget options like dharamshalas and guesthouses can cost anywhere from ₹200 to ₹1,000 per night.
- Tents/camps near Kedarnath can cost around ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per night.
- Hotels and lodges in nearby towns like Guptkashi and Sonprayag can range from ₹1,500 to ₹5,000 per night.
3. Food
- Basic meals can cost around ₹100 to ₹300 per meal, depending on where you eat.
- It’s advisable to carry some snacks and water during the trek as prices can be higher en route.
4. Miscellaneous
- Pony or palanquin services, if required, can cost around ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 for a one-way trip.
- Personal expenses like souvenirs, tips, and additional activities can vary.
5. Overall Cost Estimate
- For a budget trip, excluding helicopter services, you can expect to spend around ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per person for a 2-3 day trip.
- For a more comfortable trip with helicopter services and better accommodation, the cost can go up to ₹20,000 or more per person.
- It’s advisable to plan your trip and budget accordingly, keeping in mind your preferences and comfort level.
Cost of VIP Darshan in Kedarnath
The cost of the VIP Darshan pass itself can range from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 or more per person, depending on the season and availability.
Best time to visit Kedarnath
The best time to visit Kedarnath is from late April to early November. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant, and the temple is accessible by road or trekking. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
1. May to June
- The weather is mild and ideal for pilgrimage.
- Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 20°C, making it comfortable for trekking and outdoor activities.
- This is the peak season, so expect large crowds.
2. July to September
- Heavy rainfall and landslides are common, which can make travel challenging and risky.
- Trekking routes and roads may be disrupted, so it’s advisable to avoid this season for travel.
3. October to November
- The weather starts to cool down, and the landscape is lush and green after the monsoon.
- This is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds.
- It’s important to note that Kedarnath is closed to visitors during the winter months (November to April) due to heavy snowfall and extreme cold.
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