Reaching Kedarnath involves a combination of travel modes due to its high-altitude location. Here's a comprehensive guide:
Kedarnath By Air + Road + Trek
Flight from Delhi to Dehradun:
Take a direct flight to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 1.5 hours).
Dehradun to Sonprayag:
Hire a taxi or take a bus to Sonprayag (approx. 8-10 hours by road).
Sonprayag to Gaurikund:
Travel 5 km by local taxi to Gaurikund.
Gaurikund to Kedarnath:
Embark on a 16 km trek to Kedarnath Temple. Alternatively, pony, palki, or helicopter services are available.
Kedarnath By Train + Road + Trek
Train from Delhi to Rishikesh:
Multiple trains operate daily; journey time ranges from 4 to 7 hours.
Rishikesh to Sonprayag:
Hire a taxi or take a bus to Sonprayag (approx. 8-10 hours).
Sonprayag to Gaurikund:
Travel 5 km by local taxi to Gaurikund.
Gaurikund to Kedarnath:
Proceed with the 16 km trek or opt for alternative services as mentioned above.
Kedarnath By Road (Self-Drive or Bus) + Trek
Delhi to Sonprayag:
Drive or take a bus via NH334 and NH7, passing through Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Rudraprayag (approx. 452 km; 10-12 hours).
Sonprayag to Gaurikund:
Travel 5 km by local taxi.
Gaurikund to Kedarnath:
Undertake the 16 km trek or use available services.
Is Kedarnath Open Now?
Yes, the Kedarnath Temple opened for pilgrims on May 2, 2025, at 7:00 AM. The temple remains accessible until October 23, 2025, subject to weather conditions.
Helicopter Services to Kedarnath
For those seeking a quicker and less strenuous journey, helicopter services are available:
From Dehradun: Helicopter services operate from Sahastradhara Helipad.
From Phata, Guptkashi, and Sonprayag: Regular flights are available, providing a swift 10-15 minute journey to Kedarnath.
Note: Helicopter services are subject to weather conditions and may be canceled in case of inclement weather.
Kedarnath Yatra Route Map
The typical route for the Kedarnath Yatra from Delhi includes:
Delhi → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath
From Gaurikund, the final 16 km stretch to Kedarnath Temple is a trek through scenic mountainous terrain.
Travel Tips for Kedarnath Yatra
Registration: All pilgrims must register at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in.
Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October are ideal, avoiding the monsoon season.
Weather: Expect cold temperatures; carry warm clothing and rain gear.
Health Precautions: Acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness; stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival.
Accommodation: Limited facilities are available in Kedarnath; consider booking in advance or staying in nearby towns like Sonprayag or Gaurikund.
For a comprehensive pilgrimage experience, you might consider the Kedarnath Dham Yatra package, which offers organized tours covering transportation, accommodation, and guided treks