Kedarnath Dham can be accessed through road, rail, and air routes. Most journeys to Kedarnath Dham Yatra usually begin from Delhi. Since there are no direct trains or buses to Kedarnath, travellers often make a stop at Dehradun. From Delhi, you can reach Dehradun by flight, train, or road transport. If you wish to travel by bus, Delhi has two major bus terminals – Kashmere Gate Bus Terminal and Anand Vihar Bus Terminal. Regular buses operate from these terminals to Dehradun, and the journey generally takes around 5 to 6 hours. Many visitors enjoy the scenic drive along this route. After reaching Dehradun, you can opt for the CharDham Yatra by Helicopter or Do Dham Yatra by Helicopter package to Kedarnath and Badrinath Dham. The Chardham Yatra Route Map will assist you in selecting the most convenient route to Kedarnath from different locations.
From Dehradun, you can also book a taxi or take a bus to Gaurikund, which is the last motorable point on the way to Kedarnath Dham. From Gaurikund, devotees need to cover a 16 km trek that leads directly to the sacred Kedarnath Temple.
To complete the Kedarnath Dham Yatra by road, you can travel from Delhi to Rishikesh, covering around 238 km in 5 to 6 hours by bus or car. From Rishikesh, continue your journey to Rudraprayag, which is about 141 km and takes nearly 5 hours. After reaching Rudraprayag, proceed towards Sonprayag, located 72.8 km away and roughly a 3-hour drive. From Sonprayag, it is just 5 km (20 minutes) to Gaurikund, the last motorable point. From Gaurikund, a 16 km trek of about 5 hours will take you to Kedarnath. Travellers can choose to walk, or they may hire ponies and mules for the journey. Alternatively, helicopter services are available for the Kedarnath Yatra from the Sahastradhara Helipad in Dehradun. Kedarnath is a sacred pilgrimage site, home to the renowned Kedarnath Temple.
Kedarnath Dham is easily accessible by road. Begin your Yatra from Delhi NCR and follow the route that takes you through Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and Sonprayag before reaching Gaurikund and continuing towards the holy Kedarnath Temple.
| Route | Distance | Time | Mode of Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi – Rishikesh | 238 km | 5–6 hrs | Bus/Taxi/Car |
| Rishikesh – Rudraprayag | 141 km | 5 hrs | Bus/Taxi/Car |
| Rudraprayag – Sonprayag | 72.8 km | 3 hrs | Jeep/Taxi/Car |
| Sonprayag – Gaurikund | 5 km | 20 mins | Jeep/Taxi/Car |
| Gaurikund – Kedarnath | 16 km (trek) | 4–6 hrs | On foot/Pony/Mule/Helicopter |
There is no direct railway station in Kedarnath. The nearest railhead to Kedarnath is Rishikesh Railway Station, situated around 210 km from Gaurikund. This station is well-linked with major cities across India and operates regular trains daily. From Rishikesh, travellers can continue their journey by taking a bus or hiring a taxi to reach Gaurikund, the last motorable point before Kedarnath.
Kedarnath Train Route from Delhi begins from the Delhi Railway Station. From here, board a train to Rishikesh and then proceed by road to reach Kedarnath Dham.
| Route | Distance | Time | Mode of Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi – Rishikesh (by train) | 238 km | 5–6 hrs | Train |
| Rishikesh – Rudraprayag | 141 km | 5 hrs | Bus/Taxi/Car |
| Rudraprayag – Gaurikund | 78.9 km | 4 hrs | Jeep/Taxi/Car |
| Gaurikund – Kedarnath | 16 km (trek) | 4–6 hrs | On foot/Pony/Mule/Helicopter |
The nearest airport to Kedarnath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located about 250 km from Kedarnath Dham. This airport operates direct flights to major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, and Lucknow. Another option is to use helicopter services available from Sahastradhara Road in Dehradun. These services can take you directly to Sonprayag or Gaurikund. From there, you may either trek to Kedarnath Temple or hire a pony for ease and comfort.
Travelers can conveniently reach Kedarnath by helicopter from several locations in Uttarakhand. Popular helipads offering services include Dehradun, Guptkashi, Phata, Sitapur, and Sonprayag. The Government of Uttarakhand fixes the tariff for helicopter services every year to maintain uniformity and convenience for devotees.
Kedarnath Dham Route by Air begins from Delhi Airport, from where you can fly to Dehradun and then continue your journey towards Kedarnath.
| Route | Distance | Time | Mode of Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi – Dehradun (flight) | 202 km (aerial) | 1 hr | Flight |
| Dehradun – Sahastradhara Road | 30 km | ~50–60 mins | Taxi/Car |
| Sahastradhara – Gaurikund (helicopter) | approx. 100+ km (aerial) | ~30 mins | Helicopter |
| Gaurikund – Kedarnath (helicopter) | 16 km | 5–10 mins | Helicopter |
The most convenient way to reach Kedarnath is from Haridwar, which is also the starting point of the Chardham Yatra. The road distance from Haridwar to Kedarnath is about 252 km, including the trek from Gaurikund in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand. No matter where your journey begins, what truly matters is reaching the sacred destination.
For reference, the route from Haridwar to Kedarnath by road is:
Haridwar > Rishikesh > Devprayag > Srinagar > Agastamuni > Guptkashi > Sonprayag > Gaurikund. From Gaurikund, a 16 km trek will take you to the holy Kedarnath Temple.
The simplest way to travel is by hiring a taxi from Haridwar railway station or bus stand. The route passes through Gaurikund, and the fare is usually between Rs. 5000 to 6000 depending on the vehicle type (SUV or sedan). A taxi ride generally takes 8 to 9 hours to reach Kedarnath.
For a quicker and budget-friendly option, you can choose a Tata Sumo or shared Jeep. These vehicles are well-suited for hilly roads and are widely used for local transport in the region. Starting your trip from Rishikesh makes this journey easier.
The most suitable way to travel to Kedarnath from Delhi is by taxi or bus. The road distance between Delhi and Kedarnath is around 470 km, and the route is well-connected through national and state highways. Gaurikund is the final motorable point, after which devotees need to either trek or hire a Pony/Palki to reach the temple. The journey from Delhi to Kedarnath also passes through scenic locations and offers travellers a pleasant ride with several attractions along the way.
| Route | Distance | Time | Mode of Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi – Haridwar | 213 km | ~5 hrs | Taxi/Car |
| Haridwar – Rishikesh | 28 km | ~1 hr | Bus/Taxi/Car |
| Rishikesh – Rudraprayag | 138–141 km | ~4–5 hrs | Taxi/Car |
| Rudraprayag – Sonprayag | 72 km | ~3 hrs | Taxi/Car |
| Sonprayag – Gaurikund | 5–6 km | ~20–35 mins | Taxi/Car |
| Gaurikund – Kedarnath | 16 km (trek) | 4–6 hrs | On foot/Pony/Mule/Helicopter |
The closest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh Railway Station, located approximately 230 kilometers away. Pilgrims traveling to Kedarnath must first reach Delhi, from where they can catch a train to Rishikesh. Once they arrive in Rishikesh, they will need to continue their journey by road to Kedarnath. Below are the details regarding the train route from Delhi to Kedarnath:
| Route | Distance | Time | Conveyance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi Junction to Rishikesh Railway Station | 245 km (approx) | 6 hrs (approx) | Train |
| Rishikesh to Rudraprayag | 141 km | 5 hrs | Bus/Taxi/Car |
| Rudraprayag to Gaurikund | 78.9 km | 4 hrs | Jeep/Taxi/Car |
| Gaurikund to Kedarnath | 16 km trek | 4 hrs | On foot/Pony/Mule |
You can opt for a direct flight from Delhi to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is the nearest airport to Kedarnath Dham. The cost of a flight from Delhi to Dehradun typically ranges around INR 2400 per person. Once you land at Dehradun, you can hire a cab or taxi from outside the airport or take a bus to Rishikesh. From Rishikesh, you can begin your scenic road trip towards Kedarnath.
| Route | Distance | Time | Conveyance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi – Dehradun | 202 km (aerial) | 1 hr | Airplane |
| Dehradun – Sahastradhara Road | 30 km | 1 hr | Bus/Taxi/Car |
| Sahastradhara Road – Gaurikund | 130 km (aerial) | 30 min | Helicopter |
| Gaurikund – Kedarnath | 16 km trek | 4 hrs | Helicopter |
| Location | Accommodation | Meals Included |
|---|---|---|
| Padam Koti, Near Kedarnath | New Padam Koti | All Meals |
| Gaurikund – Trek Route | Kedarnath Malwar House | All Meals |
| Near Retas Kund | Himachal House Hotel | All Meals |
| Opposite Mandakini Ghat | Padma Ashram | All Meals |
| Near Gayatri Sadan | Sunil Guest House | All Meals |
| Route Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Kedarnath to Gangotri Distance by Road | 408 km |
| Kedarnath to Gangotri Distance by Flight | 31 km |
| Kedarnath to Gangotri Travel Time by Road | Approx. 9 – 10 hrs |
| Nearest Airport to Kedarnath | Jolly Grant Airport (239 km) |
| Nearest Airport to Gangotri | Jolly Grant Airport (250 km) |
| Route Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Kedarnath to Yamunotri Distance by Road | 387 km |
| Kedarnath to Yamunotri Distance by Flight | 66 km |
| Kedarnath to Yamunotri Travel Time by Road | Approx. 9 hrs |
| Nearest Airport to Kedarnath | Jolly Grant Airport (239 km) |
| Nearest Airport to Yamunotri | Jolly Grant Airport (210 km) |
| Route Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Kedarnath to Badrinath Distance by Road | 218 km |
| Kedarnath to Badrinath Distance by Flight | 41 km |
| Kedarnath to Badrinath Travel Time by Road | Approx. 5 hrs |
| Nearest Airport to Kedarnath | Jolly Grant Airport (239 km) |
| Nearest Airport to Badrinath | Jolly Grant Airport (306 km) |
Another well-known route to Kedarnath temple begins from Delhi, where you can travel to either Haridwar, Dehradun, or Rishikesh. From any of these locations, proceed to Guptkashi or Sonprayag, where you can park your vehicle. From there, your journey continues on foot, trekking towards Kedarnath via either Sonprayag or Gaurikund.
| Route | Distance | Conveyance |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Haridwar | 206 km | By Train |
| Haridwar to Rishikesh | 20 km | By Bus/Taxi |
| Rishikesh to Guptkashi | 183 km | By Bus/Taxi |
| Guptkashi to SonPrayag | 30 km | By Jeep/Bus |
| SonPrayag to Gaurikund | 5 km | By Jeep/Bus |
| Gaurikund to Kedarnath | 16 km | Trekking (hire a pony or a palanquin) |
ShrineYatra, a leading tour agency in India specializing in the Chardham Yatra, offers an incredible opportunity to experience the Kedarnath Yatra by helicopter with your loved ones. This option makes your journey effortless and comfortable. Additionally, you can opt for the exclusive Chardham Yatra package for VIP travelers, which provides luxurious amenities, a comfortable stay, and VIP Darshan.
Helicopter services are available from Sahastradhara Road in Dehradun. Do not worry about the rugged terrain of Kedarnath; soar through the skies with high spiritual energy, chant the name of Lord Shiva, and make your Kedarnath journey unforgettable with ShrineYatra. Do not miss out – complete your Kedarnath Yatra registration now!
Kedarnath Dham, one of the most revered places dedicated to Lord Shiva, lies at an elevation of 3,584 meters in the majestic Himalayas. The temple is nestled in a scenic town, flanked by the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges. Below is a detailed guide on how to reach Kedarnath Temple via road, train, or helicopter through various Chardham Yatra routes.
Discover nearby attractions during your Kedarnath Yatra, such as Gandhi Sarovar, Chorabari Tal, and Vasuki Tal, among others. Book your trip now for an unparalleled trekking experience amidst snow-capped peaks with ShrineYatra.
Many visitors leave Kedarnath after their darshan without noticing Bhairavnath Temple, which is located just a short uphill walk from the main temple—only about a kilometer away. Although the incline might seem a bit challenging, even older pilgrims can manage with slow steps. Locals believe that Bhairavnath guards the Kedarnath temple during the winter months. When you stand there, the peaceful atmosphere is unmistakable: no crowds, just the cold wind and serene silence. The temple itself is small—just a bell and a few stones—but the sense of tranquility is overwhelming. From the top, the panoramic view of the Kedarnath Valley is spectacular. This peaceful spot is often overlooked, but its energy is profound.
Vasuki Tal, located about 8 km from the temple, is not for everyone. The path to this lake is rocky and challenging, so only those in good health should attempt it. But if you’re up for the trek, it will leave an unforgettable impression. With no crowds around, the only sounds you’ll hear are the wind and your breath as you take in the pristine lake, said to have been visited by Lord Vishnu. There are no shops or signals, so plan your visit accordingly and make sure you’re with someone familiar with the route. If you love peaceful, off-the-beaten-path destinations, this place will be worth the effort.
Behind the Kedarnath temple lies the humble resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, marked only by a simple structure without any grand signage. It’s easy to miss, but it’s a significant site, as Shankaracharya is credited with revitalizing the Kedarnath temple centuries ago. This is not a tourist spot, so don’t expect any crowds or loud chatter. Just walk behind the temple, and you’ll find the samadhi. Spend a few quiet moments here—this place speaks through its silence, offering peace and reflection, especially if you visit early in the morning or after the crowds have left.
Located about 3 km from the Kedarnath temple, this lake is also known as Gandhi Sarovar because some of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed here. Locals refer to it as Chorabari Tal. While many pilgrims skip this quiet spot, those who make the short trek are rewarded with a serene, still lake reflecting the surrounding mountains. The area is peaceful with no infrastructure—just stones, grass, and fresh air. The lake is fed by a nearby glacier, and the water feels pure and chill. To fully appreciate the calm, visit early in the morning before the weather turns.
Known for its association with Prime Minister Modi’s visit, Rudra Cave is a quiet and spiritual place located near the Kedarnath temple. Unlike typical tourist destinations, this cave offers solitude and silence. A short walk from the temple leads to this small, basic space that is designed for introspection. It’s simple—equipped with just a bed, a light, and a buzzer to call for assistance. There are no phones, no TVs, no distractions—just you and the mountains. If you crave solitude, this cave is a perfect place to reflect.
Often overlooked by trekkers on their way to Kedarnath, Garud Chatti Waterfall is a refreshing stop. It’s a small waterfall, but the crystal-clear water cascading down the rocky slopes creates a serene environment. The air is fresh and cool, and the surroundings feel untouched. Nearby, there is a small temple, Garud Chatti, where you can rest or even offer a diya to the deities. Visit early in the morning to enjoy the golden light on the water and trees—it’s a peaceful spot to pause and gather your strength before continuing your trek.
When preparing for your Kedarnath journey, checking the weather is essential. It impacts road conditions, helicopter availability, and the ease of your trek. A favorable weather forecast often means a smooth trip, while poor weather can cause delays or cancellations. Below is a real-world breakdown of what each month feels like in Kedarnath.
The Kedarnath temple opens its doors in May, marking the start of the pilgrimage season. While the snow begins to melt, some areas remain covered in ice. Expect large crowds, especially in the early days.
It’s a great time to visit, but do prepare for cold temperatures and the potential for large crowds.
By June, the weather starts improving. The sun shines more frequently, and the snow cover is significantly reduced, making the trek easier. Nights, however, still bring cold temperatures.
June is considered one of the most favorable months for visiting Kedarnath, offering a balance of good weather and manageable risks.
The monsoon season sets in during July. This is generally not the best time to visit due to the high risk of landslides, road blockages, and slippery trekking conditions.
Helicopter services may also be canceled on occasion, making it a less ideal month for travel.
The monsoon is in full swing in August, bringing heavy rains that can disrupt road access at any time. The risk of getting stranded is higher.
Unless you’re comfortable with the risk of rain and potential disruptions, it’s better to skip this month.
With the monsoon winds down, September brings a break in the rain. The skies clear, and the serene Kedarnath you’ve been waiting for begins to reappear.
September is one of the most ideal months for a calm and scenic trip.
As October approaches, the weather grows colder, and snow may return towards the end of the month. The temple typically closes for the season during this period.
If you wish to visit Kedarnath before the temple closes, early October offers one last opportunity for a serene darshan.
For those want to reach Badrinath Dham, you can travel by road, rail, or air from various parts of India, including cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai, and Hyderabad. The journey typically begins from Rishikesh (the nearest railway station). The best months to visit Badrinath are between May and June, as well as September and October.
Interested in the Chardham Yatra from Mumbai? ShrineYatra offers premium Chardham Yatra packages, guiding you on a spiritual journey to explore Uttarakhand’s most revered shrines.
Q. Is the Kedarnath Dham trip challenging?
The difficulty of a trip to Kedarnath depends on factors like your physical fitness, the weather conditions during your journey, and the mode of transportation chosen.
Q. What should I wear during the Kedarnath Yatra?
For the Kedarnath Yatra, you should wear layers of woolen or thermal clothing, a waterproof jacket, trekking pants, and durable shoes or boots. Don’t forget to pack rain gear and a cap or hat for sun protection.
Q. Is the oxygen level low in Kedarnath Temple?
Above an elevation of 8,000 feet, the oxygen level decreases. At Kedarnath, the oxygen level is approximately 87%, making it important to prepare accordingly.
Q. Will my mobile work in Kedarnath?
Reliance Jio has become the first telecom provider to offer mobile and data services along the trek route from Gaurikund to Kedarnath.
Q. Is Kedarnath open every day?
Yes, the Kedarnath temple opens daily at 6 a.m. and closes at noon. It then reopens around 5 p.m., and the evening Aarti begins around 6-6:30 p.m. after which the temple shuts for the night.
Q. What is the distance between Rudraprayag and Kedarnath?
The distance from Rudraprayag to Kedarnath is approximately 51 kilometers.
Q. How far is Kedarnath from Uttarakhand?
Kedarnath is about 75 kilometers away from the main part of Uttarakhand.
Q. What is the best way to reach Kedarnath?
The quickest and easiest way to get to Kedarnath is by helicopter.
Q. Which is the closest airport to Kedarnath Dham?
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Kedarnath.
Q. How long is the Kedarnath temple open?
The Kedarnath temple remains open for six months, from May to October.
Q. How far is Delhi from Kedarnath by road?
The distance from Delhi to Kedarnath by road is approximately 452 kilometers.
Q. What is the distance from Dehradun to Kedarnath by road?
The road distance from Dehradun to Kedarnath is about 254 kilometers.
Q. How can I travel to Kedarnath from Delhi via Dehradun?
You can travel from Delhi to Dehradun by train, bus, or flight. The road journey from Delhi to Dehradun takes around 6 hours by taxi or bus. You can also catch a flight to Jolly Grant Airport. From Dehradun, you can travel to Phata by road and then take a helicopter to Kedarnath. Alternatively, you can trek on foot, although it’s quite challenging.
Q. What is the best time to visit Chardham Yatra in 2026?
The best time to go on the Chardham Yatra is during the summer months of May and June, which also coincides with the peak pilgrimage season.
Q. How much does the Chardham Yatra Helicopter Package cost in 2026?
The cost for the Chardham Yatra Helicopter Package is ₹2,25,000 per person (inclusive of taxes) for a 5-night and 6-day tour.
Q. Which travel agencies are most reliable for Chardham Yatra in India?
ShrineYatra is considered one of the top travel agencies for the Chardham Yatra in India.
Q. Where should I stay overnight in Kedarnath?
During peak season, it’s hard to find accommodation. It’s advisable to plan a stay at the Kedarnath base camp if you want to ensure a place to rest overnight.
