Kedarnath

5 Days
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Kedarnath is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site located in the state of Uttarakhand, India, nestled in the Himalayas at an altitude of about 3,583 meters (11,755 feet). It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and holds immense religious significance. The Kedarnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the key temples of the Chardham Yatra.

Overview

Itinerary

Including

FAQs

Map

Overview

Kedarnath is not only a major pilgrimage site for Lord Shiva devotees but also a place where spiritual seekers come to experience serenity amidst the Himalayas. It is believed that a visit to Kedarnath cleanses sins and leads to liberation (moksha).

Duration: The typical duration of the Kedarkantha trek is 4 to 5 days.

Location: Situated near the head of the Mandakini River, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, including the towering Kedarnath mountain.

Best Time to Visit: The temple opens in late April or early May and closes in October or November due to extreme winter conditions. During the winter, the deity is moved to Ukhimath, where worship continues.

Opening and Closing Dates: Kedarnath Temple opens every year on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, which usually falls in late April or early May. The temple closes every year on Bhai Dooj (Yam Dwitiya), which is two days after Diwali, typically in late October or early November.

Near by Kedarnath: “Gaurikund” 16 km from Kedarnath (starting point of the trek). “Vasuki Tal” 8 km from Kedarnath. “Triyuginarayan Temple” 25 km from Gaurikund. “Sonprayag” 20 km from Kedarnath. “Rudraprayag” 74 km from Kedarnath. “Chopta” 64 km from Kedarnath. “Bhairav Temple” 500 meters uphill from Kedarnath.

Travel Modes:

  • Rishikesh to Gaurikund: By bus, car, or shared taxi.
  • Distance from Rishikesh: Approximately 210 km by road to Gaurikund.
  • Gaurikund to Kedarnath: Trek, mule, or helicopter (from Phata).
  • From Gaurikund, you must trek 16 km to reach Kedarnath. The trek usually takes about 6-8 hours depending on your pace.

Itinerary

Day 1 :
Rishikesh to Guptkashi (200 km, 7-8 hours)

Route: Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi
Stop: Guptkashi for the night.
Guptkashi is a good stop for rest and acclimatization. You can explore the Vishwanath Temple here.

Day 2 :
Guptkashi to Gaurikund (35 km by road, 1.5 hours)

Route: Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund (base of the trek).
Stop: Gaurikund, where you can take a dip in the hot springs before starting the trek.

Day 3 :
Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath (16 km trek, 6-8 hours)

The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is about 16 km. You can either walk, hire a mule, or take a helicopter from Phata to reduce trekking time.
Stop: Kedarnath, where you can rest for the night after visiting the Kedarnath Temple.

Day 4 :
Trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund (16 km trek, 6-8 hours)

Return Trek: Kedarnath → Gaurikund (16 km) approx (7 hours).

Day 5 :
Return

Drive back from Gaurikund to Rishikesh (approx. 10 hours).

The Trip Cost Includes

  • Accommodation (Guest house, Home stay).
  • Meals while on trek ( only Veg).
  • All necessary entry fees and permits.
  • First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder.
  • Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader, guide, cook and support staff.
  • Porters / mules to carry central equipment.

The Trip Cost Excludes

  • Exclusion
  • Any kind of personal expenses.
  • Food during the transit.
  • Insurance.
  • Transport not included (can be arranged with an additional cost of 6500/- per vehicle for 4-6 persone
  • 7-12 @12000).
  • Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
  • Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Price Includes.
  • Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.

Frequently asked Questions

Where is Kedarnath located?

Kedarnath is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, in the Garhwal Himalayas, at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) near the head of the Mandakini River.

How can I reach Kedarnath?

To reach Kedarnath:

  • By Road: Travel from cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Dehradun to Gaurikund, the base for the trek to Kedarnath.
  • By Trek: From Gaurikund, you must trek 16 km to Kedarnath, or you can use mules or palanquins.
  • By Helicopter: Helicopter services are available from Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi to Kedarnath.

When is the best time to visit Kedarnath?

The best time to visit is between April/May and October/November. The temple remains closed during the winter months (November to April) due to heavy snowfall.

Is there any accommodation in Kedarnath?

Yes, there are guesthouses, lodges, and tents provided by the Uttarakhand government and private operators. Many pilgrims also stay at Gaurikund or Guptkashi, where more accommodations are available.

Can senior citizens visit Kedarnath?

Yes, senior citizens can visit Kedarnath. For those who may have difficulty trekking, there are options like helicopter rides, mules, or palanquins (dolis).

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Kedarnath