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Kedarnath Yatra

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LocationUttarakhand
Duration4 Days
Max Altitude11755 FT
Distance36 km (trekking) + driving
GradeModerate to Difficult
Overview

A Look at the Trek

The Kedarnath Yatra is a profound pilgrimage to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Located at a staggering altitude of 11,755 feet in the Garhwal Himalayas, the ancient stone temple stands majestically against the snow-capped Kedarnath peaks.

The journey demands a steep 18km trek starting from Gaurikund, alongside the rushing Mandakini river. It is an intense test of devotion and physical endurance, rewarding pilgrims with an incredibly powerful spiritual atmosphere.

Highlights

  • The 18km AscentTrek through rugged mountain paths, crossing waterfalls and deep gorges alongside the Mandakini river.
  • Kedarnath TempleWitness the magnificent 8th-century temple built by Adi Shankaracharya that survived the 2013 floods.
  • Bhairav Nath TempleA short 1km hike above Kedarnath to the guardian deity of the temple, offering stunning views of the valley.

Quick Facts

Base CampHaridwar/Dehradun
SeasonSummer | Autumn
MonthsMay | June | September | October | November
Rail HeadHaridwar/Rishikesh
AirportJolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Trail TypePilgrimage Route | Deep Himalayan trek.
Day by Day

The Itinerary

A carefully crafted journey ensuring you experience the best of the landscape while acclimatizing safely.

01

Haridwar to Guptkashi/Sonprayag

Morning pickup from Haridwar/Dehradun.
Drive approximately 200 km to Guptkashi or Sonprayag.
Check into hotel and rest to prepare for the trek.
02

Guptkashi/Sonprayag to Kedarnath

Early morning drive to Gaurikund.
Begin the steep 18km trek to Kedarnath. The trek takes about 7-9 hours on average.
Reach Kedarnath in the evening, check into your camp/guesthouse.
Attend the mesmerizing evening Aarti at the temple.
03

Kedarnath Darshan and trek down to Guptkashi

Wake up early for the morning Darshan at the temple.
Optional 1km hike to Bhairav Nath temple for panoramic valley views.
Begin the 18km descent back to Gaurikund.
Drive back to Guptkashi/Sonprayag for the night.
04

Guptkashi to Haridwar

Check out from the hotel and drive back to Haridwar.
En route visit Devprayag or Rishikesh if time permits.
Drop off at Haridwar railway station in the evening.
Preparation

Eligibility & Fitness

High altitude treks require a baseline of physical fitness. Review the criteria below and check your readiness.

Age RequirementMinimum 12 years. Strict fitness required for the steep trek.
Fitness Criteria
  • Ability to walk long distances on steep inclines.
  • Stamina to trek 18km in a single day.
Health & Awareness
  • Altitude sickness can be severe. Proper hydration and acclimatization are required.

Calculate Your BMI

Logistics

How to Reach

Details on arriving at the base camp and meeting points.

Meeting Point

Haridwar Railway Station

Drop Off

Haridwar Railway Station

Travel Options

  • 01Train/Bus to Haridwar from New Delhi.
  • 02Fly to Dehradun (Jolly Grant) and take a cab to Haridwar.
Pricing

Cost Terms

What is included and excluded in the expedition cost.

Inclusions

  • Accommodation in standard hotels/guesthouses.
  • Daily Breakfast and Dinner.
  • Dedicated transport (Innova/Tempo Traveler).

Exclusions

  • Helicopter tickets, pony/palki charges.
  • Lunches and personal expenses.
Equipment

Trek Essentials

A comprehensive packing list to ensure you are well-prepared for the expedition.

Basic Gear

Heavy woolen clothing.
Good quality trekking shoes with ankle support.
Raincoat/Poncho.
Personal first aid kit with AMS medication.
Policies

Cancellation Terms

Review our cancellation policies and refund options before booking.

Prior to 30 days

  • 90% refund

15 to 30 days

  • 50% refund

Less than 15 days

  • No refund

Emergency Cases

Rescheduling allowed up to 1 year for medical emergencies.

Important Notes

  • 01Helicopter refunds are entirely subject to the aviation operator's policy.

FAQ

Know before you go
It is highly recommended to book helicopter tickets online well in advance via the official IRCTC portal, as on-the-spot bookings are extremely rare due to high demand.
Temperatures can drop below freezing (0 to -5 degrees Celsius) at night, even in summer months like May and June.