Accommodation Options During the Kedarnath Yatra – Complete Guide
Kedarnath Yatra offers limited but important accommodation options, catering to both pilgrims and trekkers. The availability depends on the time of year, weather, and distance from the Kedarnath Temple. Here’s a complete guide to the accommodation options you can consider during the Yatra:
1. Accommodation at Gaurikund
Gaurikund is the base camp from where the trek to Kedarnath begins. It has basic yet essential accommodations for pilgrims who wish to rest before starting their journey.
Types of Accommodation:
- Dharamshalas (Community Halls): Managed by temples and religious organizations, these are economical and basic stay options with shared rooms, common bathrooms, and simple meals.
- Guest Houses: Small guest houses offering private rooms with basic amenities like beds, blankets, and sometimes attached bathrooms.
- Budget Hotels: A few budget hotels are available with limited comfort but better facilities than Dharamshalas.
Booking Tip: It’s advisable to pre-book your stay in Gaurikund during peak season as they get fully booked quickly.
2. Accommodation Along the Trek Route
During the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, several pit-stops offer temporary accommodations for trekkers.
Options Along the Trek:
- Tent Stays: Tents are set up at Rambara, Bhimtaal, and Linchauli, offering basic facilities like sleeping bags, food, and water.
- Dharamshalas: Some religious organizations have temporary shelters along the trail where trekkers can rest overnight.
- Trekking Lodges: At certain higher elevation points, small lodges provide shelter with minimal bedding and meals.
Booking Tip: These accommodations are first-come-first-serve, so be prepared to reach early to secure a spot.
3. Accommodation at Kedarnath
Kedarnath is the final destination where pilgrims visit the Kedarnath Temple and seek blessings.
Options Available:
- Dharamshalas: There are community-run shelters that offer free or low-cost lodging to pilgrims. These provide shared rooms and common washrooms.
- Tent Stays: Tent accommodations are available near the Kedarnath Temple, providing a more comfortable stay during the pilgrimage.
- Small Guest Houses: Limited small guest houses are available with basic amenities like beds, blankets, and water.
Booking Tip: Stay options at Kedarnath are limited and high in demand. It is best to carry essentials such as sleeping bags, extra food, and warm clothing.
4. Accommodation Post-Kedarnath (Return Route)
After completing the Kedarnath darshan, trekkers will return to Gaurikund, where accommodation options remain similar to what you find on the way up.
Options Available:
- Guest Houses: Mid-range accommodations offering better amenities compared to Gaurikund.
- Tent Stays: Return trekkers can opt for tent stays with food services and minimal comfort at various points like Linchauli.
- Dharamshalas: Similar to what you find on the way up, they provide basic shelters for overnight stays.
5. Accommodations During Off-Peak Season (Winter)
During winter months (November to April), Kedarnath Temple remains closed and limited services are available in the region. Accommodations are minimal, mostly closed, and trekkers must be self-sufficient during this time.
Accommodation Options:
- Temporary Shelter: Some volunteer groups set up temporary shelters in Gaurikund or on the way during winter to offer limited relief to trekkers who still wish to visit.
- No Hotels: Hotels and guest houses are typically not operational in winter, and most options are closed until the snow clears.
6. Online Bookings
For trekkers, pilgrims, and travellers, booking services are available online or through mobile apps, making it easier to find accommodations in advance:
- Yatra Apps: Many pilgrimage-related apps offer real-time accommodation availability for Kedarnath.
- Booking Websites: Platforms like Goibibo, MakeMyTrip, and Yatra.com kedarnathyatra.com provide details on stay options around Gaurikund, Sitapur, and Kedarnath.
7. Tips for Accommodation During Kedarnath Yatra:
- Pre-booking: Especially during peak season, accommodations get full quickly. It’s wise to book in advance.
- Carry Essentials: If you’re staying in temporary shelters (like tents or community halls), carry your own bedding, toiletries, warm clothing, and water bottles.
- Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated and acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness.
- Limit Services: Accommodations beyond Gaurikund are basic and limited, so ensure you have adequate supplies.
