Kedarnath Trek.
Difficulty: Easy
Best Time to Visit:
- For Snow: January to March
- For Spring: April, May, and September
Temperature:
- Day: -1°C to 10°C
- Night: -8°C to -3°C
Highest Altitude: (~3,583 m)
Pickup Point: Haridwar
Kedarnath Temple Trek the India’s Most Popular Destination in Uttarakhand Himalayas, Complete information 2025 Yatra trek
Kedarnath Trek is a renowned pilgrimage destination, forming part of the ‘Char Dham’ in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district. Situated at 3,583 meters, near the Chorabari Glacier—the source of the Mandakini River—Kedarnath is encircled by majestic snow-capped peaks, including the notable Kedarnath Mountain. Annually, thousands of devotees from across India visit this sacred site. Many Peoples thinks the Kedarnath Trek and Kedarkantha Trek are the same but these both are different Treks and also located in different location. Kedarnath Trek located in Rudraprayag district and Kedarkantha Trek located in Uttarakashi district in Uttarkhand. In local dialect ‘Kedarnath’ means ‘lord of fields’; according to a local legend it is believed that Lord shiva hid in an assumption of a bull trying to avoid the Pandavas. Bhima, one of the brothers from Pandavas, recognized lord Shiva and tried to capture the bull through its tail and hind legs. Just before Bhima could fully grasp the bull, it disappeared into the ground only to later appear in many forms across the region. The hump of this bull appeared in Kedarnath where it is believed that Pandavas built the temple and later worshipped it. Kedarnath should not be mistaken as any easy trek, hikers not accustomed to long journeys and altitudes might face some problems, hence it is generally advisable that trekkers practice a reasonable amount of physical fitness.
Kedarnath Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. Here are some of the highlights of the temple:
Ancient Temple: Kedarnath Temple is one of the oldest temples in India, believed to have been built by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most important deities in Hinduism.
High Altitude: The temple is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest temples in India.
Magnificent Architecture: The temple’s architecture is a beautiful blend of ancient and modern styles, featuring intricate carvings and a unique design.
Unique Rituals: The temple has several unique rituals, including the Abhishekam ceremony, in which the idol of Lord Shiva is bathed with water, milk, and other offerings.
Char Dham Yatra: Kedarnath Temple is one of the four shrines that make up the Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage tour that is considered one of the most sacred in Hinduism.
Importance in Hindu Mythology: According to Hindu mythology, Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered to be the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. It is also believed to be the place where Lord Shiva absolved Pandavas of the sin of killing their own brothers during the Mahabharata war.
Overall, Kedarnath Temple is a significant pilgrimage destination for devotees of Lord Shiva and Hinduism, and a beautiful site for tourists to visit and admire the ancient architecture and natural beauty of the surrounding region.
Key Points of Kedarnath Trek
Duration 3 Nights 4 Days from Haridwar to Haridwar or Rishikesh to Rishikesh (please keep a day or two spare for the schedule considering, acclimatization and weather conditions)
Terrain Type: Trails, steep at points
Temperature: Day (13°C to 18° C) Night (0°C to 7°C)
Altitude: 3583 m
Trek Weather Winters are covered with snow summits and peaks whereas summers experience higher temperatures
Best Time: May, June, September, October, Nov- and post monsoon season, which occurs after and before the temple gates open and close.
Trek Level: Moderate
Trek distance: 30 km on foot and 423 km by taxi
Group Size: A minimum group size of 4 people and a maximum of 30 people. (In case anyone wants to book a private tour for their friends and family we provide a different procedure for it)Short itinerary of Kedarnath Trek
Day 1:Drive from Haridwar via Rishikesh to Guptkashi/ Sonprayag 202 km by taxi (1982 m overnight stay hotel
Day 2:Early Morning 3:00 am Drive from Guptkashi/ Sonprayag to Gaurikund same day trek to Kedarnath temple 15 km (8/9 hours) (3553 m) overnight camp stay
Day 3:After Arti Darshan trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund same day drive to Sonprayag/Guptkashi over night stay Hotel
Day 4:Drive from Sonprayag to Haridwar via Rishikesh 202 km
Note: – Our service will remain from Rishikesh to Rishikesh – for more details please check includes or excludes
Things Triptoo Recommend
As previously stated, a camera, as well as spare batteries and memory cards, are recommended. We can assure and guarantee that you will be stopping frequently along the trail to observe the grandeur of the trekking experience.
We strongly recommend trekkers to prepare beforehand for the journey ahead. Regular practicing physical fitness and mental endurance will surely assist trekkers in great time.
After the trek, we strongly encourage trekkers to tag us on social media when they post any memories from the trip; this will not only prove invaluable to us with our work, but will also serve as a motivational example for all of our experts.
Why you should choose us
We’re here to give you the greatest experience possible through the eyes of highly skilled and qualified specialists who have a passion for adventure sports. We are community members attempting to promote our favorite adventure sports while also supporting local businesses. We, at Triptoo, dedicate ourselves to providing you with an unforgettable experience.
Choosing to trek to Kedarnath with Triptoo can be a rewarding decision for several reasons:
Expertise and Experience
Experienced Guides: Triptoo employs experienced guides who are well-versed with the terrain, weather conditions, and local culture. Their knowledge ensures a safe and informative journey.
Reputation and Track Record: As a reputable trekking company, they have a strong track record of successfully organizing numerous treks in the Himalayan region. Safety and Support
Safety Measures: They prioritize safety with well-planned itineraries, proper acclimatization schedules, and emergency protocols.
Support Staff: The presence of support staff like porters, cooks, and assistants ensures that trekkers are well taken care of throughout the journey.
Comprehensive Packages
All-Inclusive Packages: Triptoo offers all-inclusive packages that cover permits, meals, accommodation, and transportation. This convenience allows trekkers to focus solely on the experience.
Customized Itineraries: They offer flexible itineraries to cater to different fitness levels and preferences, ensuring a personalized trekking experience. Local Knowledge and Cultural Insight
Cultural Immersion: The company provides insights into the local culture, traditions, and history of the Kedarnath region, enriching the overall experience.
Community Connections: Their strong connections with local communities can offer unique interactions and authentic experiences that independent trekkers might miss. Eco-Friendly Practices
Sustainable Trekking: Triptoo promotes eco-friendly practices such as responsible waste management and minimal environmental impact, contributing to the preservation of the pristine Himalayan environment.
Customer Testimonials and Reviews
Positive Reviews: Many trekkers have shared positive reviews and testimonials about their experiences with Triptoo, highlighting the company’s professionalism, hospitality, and attention to detail.
By choosing Triptoo, you can ensure a well-organized, safe, and enriching trek to Kedarnath, allowing you to fully enjoy the spiritual and natural beauty of this sacred pilgrimage.
- Pickup to you Haridwar 07:00 am Drive to Guptkashi via Rishikash , to Guptkashi
- The distance from Haridwar to Guptkashi via Rishikesh is approximately 210 kilometers (130 miles), and it usually takes around 10-11 hours to cover this route by car, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
- Here’s a general itinerary for your journey:
- 07:00 am: Pickup from Haridwar 08:00 am Rishikesh pickup Time
- Drive to Rishikesh: Enjoy the scenic views along the way. Rishikesh is around 20 kilometers from Haridwar and should take about 30-45 minutes to reach, depending on traffic.
- Short stop in Rishikesh: You might want to take a break here to visit some of the famous temples, such as the Triveni Ghat or the Beatles Ashram.
- Continue the journey to Guptkashi: After your brief stop in Rishikesh, continue your drive towards Guptkashi. The distance between Rishikesh and Guptkashi is around 180 kilometers (approximately 112 miles), and it usually takes around 6-7 hours to reach, again depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Enjoy the scenic beauty along the route: The drive from Rishikesh to Guptkashi offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys.
- Arrival in Guptkashi: You should reach Guptkashi by late afternoon or early evening, depending on your pace and any additional stops you make along the way.
- The trek from Guptkashi to Kedarnath via Gaurikund is one of the most popular pilgrimage routes in Uttarakhand, especially for those visiting the Kedarnath Temple. Here’s a brief outline of your journey:
- Early Morning Departure from Guptkashi to Gaurikund: Guptkashi to Gaurikund is approximately 30 kilometers (about 19 miles) by road and usually takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the road conditions and traffic.
- Gaurikund to Kedarnath Trek: From Gaurikund, you’ll start your trek to Kedarnath. The trekking distance is around 16 kilometers (approximately 10 miles), and it typically takes 6-8 hours to complete, depending on your pace and weather conditions.
- Scenic Views along the Trek: The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape, with snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, and gushing rivers along the way. You’ll pass through picturesque villages, dense forests, and serene meadows as you ascend towards Kedarnath.
- Route Highlights: Some notable landmarks along the trek include Rambara, where you’ll find a bridge over the Mandakini River, and Linchauli, a beautiful meadow surrounded by rhododendron forests. As you approach Kedarnath, you’ll catch glimpses of the temple nestled amidst the mountains.
- Arrival in Kedarnath: You should reach Kedarnath by late afternoon or early evening, depending on your pace. Take some time to rest and rejuvenate before visiting the sacred Kedarnath Temple and exploring the surrounding area.
- Early morning 2:30 am visit kedarnath temple join Arti pooja , then after breakfast then back to gaurikund same day to Guptkshi ?
- Your plan to visit the Kedarnath Temple for the morning Aarti Pooja sounds divine! Here’s how you can structure your day:
- Early Morning Visit to Kedarnath Temple:
- Wake up around 2:00 am to prepare for the visit.
- Start your trek to the Kedarnath Temple by 2:30 am. The trek from your accommodation in Kedarnath to the temple takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your location.
- Arrive at the temple in time to participate in the morning Aarti Pooja, which typically starts around 4:00 am. Experience the spiritual atmosphere as you offer your prayers and witness the beautiful rituals.
- After the Aarti Pooja, take some time for personal prayers and meditation within the temple premises.
- Breakfast and Exploration:
- Once you’ve completed your spiritual rituals at the temple, head back to your accommodation for breakfast. Enjoy a hearty meal to refuel after the early morning activities.
- After breakfast, you can explore the area around Kedarnath, taking in the majestic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and enjoying the serene atmosphere of this sacred pilgrimage site.
- Return Journey to Gaurikund and Guptkashi:
- Start your trek back to Gaurikund after breakfast. The descent usually takes less time than the ascent, so you should reach Gaurikund by late morning or early afternoon.
- From Gaurikund, take a vehicle back to Guptkashi. The journey from Gaurikund to Guptkashi by road takes around 1-2 hours.
- Arrive in Guptkashi by late afternoon or early evening, depending on the road conditions and traffic.
- you’ll be traveling back from Guptkashi to Haridwar via Rishikesh. Here’s your itinerary for the day:
- Morning Departure from Guptkashi:
- After breakfast at your accommodation in Guptkashi, prepare for your journey back to Haridwar.
- Start your drive from Guptkashi to Rishikesh. The distance is approximately 180 kilometers (about 112 miles), and it usually takes around 6-7 hours to cover, depending on the road conditions and traffic.
- Scenic Drive to Rishikesh:
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayan foothills as you make your way towards Rishikesh. The route offers breathtaking views of the mountains, rivers, and valleys, providing ample opportunities for photography and relaxation.
- Stopover in Rishikesh:
- Make a brief stop in Rishikesh to stretch your legs, grab some refreshments, and explore the town if you have time.
- You might want to visit some of the famous landmarks in Rishikesh, such as the Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, or attend a Ganga Aarti ceremony by the banks of the river.
- Continuation to Haridwar:
- After your stop in Rishikesh, continue your drive to Haridwar. The distance from Rishikesh to Haridwar is approximately 20 kilometers (about 12 miles), and it usually takes around 30-45 minutes to reach, depending on the traffic.
- Arrival in Haridwar:
- Arrive in Haridwar by late afternoon or early evening, depending on your pace and any additional stops you make along the way.
- You can spend the evening exploring Haridwar, attending the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, or simply relaxing by the sacred Ganges river.
🚩 How to Reach Kedarnath 🚩
By Air
🛫 The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, located around 250 km from Kedarnath. Regular flights are available from Delhi.
🚗 From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gaurikund, the base point for the Kedarnath trek.
By Train
🚆 The nearest railway stations to Kedarnath:
- Rishikesh Railway Station (243 km away)
- Haridwar Railway Station (230 km away)
- Dehradun Railway Station (257 km away)
🚖 From these stations, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Sonprayag or Gaurikund.
By Road
🚌 Regular bus services are available from major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun to Sonprayag, the nearest motorable point to Kedarnath.
🚖 From Sonprayag, shared taxis are available to Gaurikund (5 km), the starting point of the trek.
Trek from Gaurikund
🚶 The trek to Kedarnath from Gaurikund is about 18 km. You can choose to trek on foot, hire a pony, or take a palanquin.
🚁 Helicopter services are also available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi.
⚠️ Important Notes:
- ✅ Registration for Kedarnath Yatra is mandatory.
- 🚁 Helicopter tickets should be booked in advance.
- 🏔️ Start your trek early in the morning to avoid rush hours.
- 🛏️ Accommodation is available at Sonprayag, Gaurikund, and Kedarnath.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- 🏕️ Accommodation in well-equipped camps on a twin/triple sharing basis.
- 🍽️ Meals: Breakfast and Dinner as per the itinerary.
- 🚍 Transportation from Haridwar to Haridwar in a comfortable vehicle.
- 🚐 All internal transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary.
- 🕉️ Darshan assistance at major pilgrimage sites.
- 🏞️ Guided sightseeing tours as per the itinerary.
- 🔥 Bonfire (subject to weather conditions, where applicable).
- 🛡️ Basic First-Aid and safety measures.
Exclusions
- ✈️ Airfare, train, or bus tickets to and from Haridwar.
- 🚖 Personal expenses such as tips, laundry, and extra activities.
- 🍽️ Lunch and any meals not mentioned in the inclusions.
- 🎟️ Entry fees for temples, parks, and any paid attractions.
- 🛶 Pony/Palki/Doli charges (if required during the yatra).
- 🩺 Travel insurance or medical expenses.
- 📜 Anything not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.
⚠️ Important Notes:
- ✅ Carry valid ID proof for check-in at camps.
- 🚫 Bonfire and music may be restricted due to government regulations.
- 🛏️ Camp accommodation is subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives.
- 🛕 Respect local customs and temple guidelines during the pilgrimage.
