How to Visit Kedarnath Temple: A Complete Travel Guide
The Kedarnath Temple is one of the most sacred places for Hindus and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, set in the beautiful Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. Thousands of devotees and adventurers visit this holy place every year. Kedarnath is a great place to visit, but planning is very important to visit due to the isolated area and difficult terrain. This guide will help you with everything you need to know about Kedarnath Temple tour and make it a smooth and fulfilling visit!
When to visit kedarnath temple
The temple is open on just six months of the year, from late April or early May to November. Kedarnath Temple best time to visit in May – June and September – October The weather is more stable during these months, which facilitates the trek. The monsoon months (July-August) should be avoided as a lot of rains occur in this region, causing landslides and roadblocks.
How to Get to Kedarnath Temple
Getting to Kedarnath requires one of several modes of transport — flights, trains, roads and treks.
By Air
Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest air terminal located about 238 km from Kedarnath. You can take a taxi or a bus from the local airport to Gaurikund, the starting point of the Kedarnath trek.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, 216 km from this location. You can either take the bus or book a cab for this half day ride to Sonprayag, which is the last motorable go point before Gaurikund.
By Road
Sonprayag can be accessed by road from popular places like Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun. Shared taxis/local transport from Sonprayag takes you to Gaurikund, the base of the trek.
Kedarnath Temple Trek
The distance from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is approximately 16 km and can be completed in 6-8 hours, depending on your fitness level. Climbing steep slopes, narrow paths, and lots of wildlife and mountain scenery.
Trek Route & Stops
Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti (4 km): A moderate ascent along picturesque trail.
Jungle Chatti to Bheembali (3 km): Same as above, a stiff climb with rest stops.
Bheembali to Linchauli (4 km): A rough stretch that has beautiful views of the mountains.
Linchauli to Kedarnath Base Camp (3 km): The last climb before reaching the temple.
Base Camp-Kedarnath Temple (1 km): A steep 1 km climb to the holy shrine.
Appendix F: Other Routes to the Temple
For those who can’t hike, alternative options include:
Pony & Doli Services**: Local porters and taxi services are available for rent (for a fee).
Heli Services:* Multiple private operators provide helicopter rides from *Phata, Guptkashi and Sirsi** to Kedarnath which is about a 10-15 minutes journey.
Ideal Stay Options in Kedarnath
With basic but adequate accommodation near the temple. Options are government-run guesthouses, dharamshalas and budget hotels. GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) guesthouses can be trusted for reasonable interval for lodging. Reservations are recommended, especially during seasons when traffic is busy.
Those looking for better accommodation should head to Guptkashi, Sonprayag, and Gaurikund.
Important Notes to Remember When Visiting Kedarnath Temple
Start Early: Start your trek early in the day to avoid harsher afternoon weather and have more relaxed climbs.
Travel Light: Stuff warm clothes, rain jackets, trekking shoes, energy bars, and a first-aid kit.
Hydrate Well: Make sure to have sufficient water and short breaks while trekking to prevent altitude illness.
*Register Online: Before embarking on the journey, pilgrims are required to register on the official Uttarakhand tourism website.
Preserve the Environment: Do not litter and follow all eco-friendly policies to keep the Himalaya clean.
Check Weather Updates: A sudden change of weather can affect travel plans, so ensure you are updated on current conditions.
Kedarnath Temple Darshan and Puja Timings
Morning Darshan:** 4 am to 3 pm
Evening Darshan:** 5:00 PM — 9:00 PM
Special Rudrabhishek Puja: Early morning (Requires advance booking)
Nearby Attractions
If you are on a visit to Kedarnath Temple, you can also visit these nearby attractions:
Vasuki Tal:** A beautiful high-altitude lake located around 8 km away from Kedarnath.
Bhairavnath Temple:** Not far from Kedarnath at about 500 meters uphill, this temple provides a 360-degree view.
Triyuginarayan Temple:** The mythical wedding place of Lord Shiva and Parvati.
Conclusion:-
Kedarnath tripis not only a pilgrimage but an extraordinary journey that rejuvenates at a soul level with the spellbinding views, divine vibes, and closeness to nature. Understanding the way to visit Kedarnath Temple enables you to plan your journey better and undertake the pilgrimage in a easy method. Regardless if you trek, pony or take a helicopter to lingam, you will be blessed with the divine presence of lord Shiva and the serenity of the Himalayas.
Do Plan well, Travel Safe and Enjoy the divine experience at Kedarnath!