Kedarnath Yatra Complete Guide
Deatiled Overview
The Kedarnath Yatra is a spiritual pilgrimage to one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the Char Dham Yatra sites, attracting millions of devotees every year. The temple is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, at an elevation of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, near the Mandakini River.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
- Opening: The Kedarnath temple usually opens during the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, which generally falls in late April or early May.
- Closing: The temple closes after Diwali, typically in October or November.
- Peak Season: May to June and September to October.
Routes to Kedarnath
- By Road:
- From Haridwar/Rishikesh → Guptkashi/Sitapur → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath
- Approx. 216 km from Haridwar
- 25 km from Sonprayag to Kedarnath, trek starts from here.
- By Helicopter:
- Helicopter services are available from places like Phata, Sersi, Guptkashi to Kedarnath.
- Shortens the travel time significantly.
Trekking to Kedarnath
- Trek Distance: Approximately 16-17 km from Gaurikund to Kedarnath.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to strenuous.
- Altitude: The trek begins at 6,380 feet in Gaurikund and reaches 11,755 feet at Kedarnath.
Things to Carry for Kedarnath Yatra
- Warm clothing (especially in early and late season)
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- Flashlights or headlamps
- Waterproof jacket and rain gear
- Medications and first-aid kit
- Energy bars/snacks
- Small backpack for essentials
- Identity proof and necessary permits
Accommodation
- Kedarnath Yatra offers basic accommodations such as guesthouses, dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses), and tents.
- Due to limited infrastructure, it’s advisable to book accommodation in advance during peak season.
Places to Visit in Kedarnath
- Kedarnath Temple: The main attraction, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s architecture and serene surroundings make it a place of deep devotion.
- Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary: If time permits, explore the nearby wildlife sanctuary, home to various Himalayan flora and fauna.
Key Tips for Kedarnath Yatra
- Health Precautions: Carry necessary medications, and take proper rest to acclimatize to high altitudes.
- Weather Conditions: Be prepared for sudden weather changes in the mountains.
- Physical Fitness: Trekking to Kedarnath involves long walking, so a reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended.
- Altitude Sickness: Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Stay hydrated and take it slow.
- Char Dham Yatra: Kedarnath is part of the Char Dham Yatra, along with Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri.
Key Highlights of the Kedarnath Yatra
- Sacred Kedarnath Temple: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is an architectural marvel with stunning surroundings.
- Gaurikund: The base camp where devotees take a holy dip in the hot water springs before starting their trek to Kedarnath.
- Mandakini River: The river that flows alongside Kedarnath, adding to its serene atmosphere.
- Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary: A biodiversity hotspot where you can spot various Himalayan wildlife.
Altitude and Weather in Kedarnath
- Altitude: 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level.
- Weather:
- Summer (May to June): Pleasant during the day, chilly at night. Day temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C.
- Monsoon (July to August): Heavy rainfall, landslides are common.
Kedarnath Yatra – Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Haridwar to Guptkashi / Sitapur
- Distance: Approx. 216 km
- Travel: Drive from Haridwar to Guptkashi/Sitapur (approximately 7-8 hours).
- Sightseeing on the Way: Devprayag, Rudraprayag
- Overnight Stay: Guptkashi / Sitapur
Day 2: Drive from Guptkashi/Sitapur to Gaurikund and Trek to Kedarnath
- Travel: Drive from Guptkashi/Sitapur to Sonprayag (16 km) and then to Gaurikund (2 km).
- Trek: Start the 16-17 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath (Approx. 6-7 hours).
- Puja and Darshan: Reach Kedarnath in the evening, participate in the evening Aarti (prayer ritual).
- Overnight Stay: Kedarnath
Day 3: Explore Kedarnath and Trek Back to Gaurikund
- Morning Darshan: Visit the Kedarnath Temple early in the morning for Darshan and Puja.
- Optional Exploration: Visit nearby sites like Triyuginarayan Temple (mythological significance).
- Trek: Return to Gaurikund (Approx. 16-17 km trek).
- Overnight Stay: Sitapur / Guptkashi
Day 4: Sitapur / Guptkashi to Haridwar
- Travel: After Breakfast, Drive to Haridwar (Approx. 216 km).
- Sightseeing: Optional visit to Devprayag or Rudraprayag on the way.
- Arrival: Reach Haridwar in the evening and conclude the Yatra.
