How Can I Reach Kedarnath Temple? Complete Guide
To reach Kedarnath Temple, pilgrims and trekkers generally follow a set route that involves several modes of transportation and trekking. Here’s a complete guide on how to reach Kedarnath:
1. Starting Point: Haridwar or Rishikesh
The Kedarnath Yatra typically begins from either Haridwar or Rishikesh, two prominent spiritual hubs in Uttarakhand.
- From Haridwar:
Haridwar is the nearest major railway station and road head.
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- Distance from Haridwar to Kedarnath: 216 km (approximately 7-8 hours by road)
- From Rishikesh:
Rishikesh is a slightly closer starting point and is famous for its ashrams and spiritual retreats.
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- Distance from Rishikesh to Kedarnath: 186 km (approximately 6-7 hours by road)
2. By Road to Guptkashi/Sitapur
- Travel Route:
Most pilgrims take a drive from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Guptkashi or Sitapur, which are the base camps for Kedarnath.- From Haridwar, drive via Devprayag, Rudraprayag to reach Guptkashi or Sitapur.
- From Rishikesh, the drive passes through Srinagar, Rudraprayag to reach Guptkashi/Sitapur.
3. From Guptkashi/Sitapur to Gaurikund
- Drive:
From Guptkashi or Sitapur, you need to take a short drive to Sonprayag (16 km), and then drive to Gaurikund (2 km).
Gaurikund is the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath.
4. Trekking to Kedarnath Temple
- Distance: The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is approximately 16-17 km and takes around 6-7 hours depending on your speed and stamina.
- Route:
The trek route is scenic and goes through various pilgrim shelters, hot water springs, beautiful valleys, and forests. It’s well-marked and has pit-stops like Rambara, Linchauli, and Bhimba Gaad.
5. Kedarnath Temple – Arrival
- Altitude: Kedarnath Temple is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level.
- Temple Darshan:
Once you reach Kedarnath, you will have Darshan of the Kedarnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can attend the evening Aarti at the temple, offering prayers, and seeking blessings.
6. Return Route
After your spiritual visit to the Kedarnath Temple:
- Trek back: Return from Kedarnath to Gaurikund via the same route (approx. 16-17 km).
- From Gaurikund, you can again drive back to Guptkashi/Sitapur and from there proceed to Haridwar or Rishikesh.
Alternate Options
- Helicopter Services:
For pilgrims who prefer a quicker and less physically demanding journey, helicopter services are available from Guptkashi, Phata, and Sonprayag directly to Kedarnath.- Helicopter service providers include Pawan Hans, Global Vectra, and others. This is an expensive but convenient option.
Key Tips for Kedarnath Yatra
- Physical Fitness: The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is physically challenging, requiring good stamina and preparation.
- Altitude Sickness: Be cautious of altitude sickness. Take proper rest, stay hydrated, and acclimatize well before beginning the trek.
- Clothing: Carry warm clothing as the temperature at Kedarnath can drop significantly, even in summer evenings.
- Accommodations: Basic accommodations like guest houses, dharamshalas, and tent stays are available near Kedarnath. Pre-booking is advisable, especially during peak season.
- Puja and Aarti: Participate in the morning and evening Aarti at the temple to seek blessings.
Important Considerations:
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October are the most favorable months to undertake the Kedarnath Yatra.
- Monsoon Caution: Avoid visiting during July-August due to heavy rainfall, landslides, and trekking path closures.
- Travel Permits: Make sure all necessary permits (if any) are obtained before starting your journey to Kedarnath.
