Summary:
Kedarnath Temple is a sacred pilgrimage nestled in Uttarakhand’s Himalayas, attracting devotees from May to October. This Complete Travel Guide to Kedarnath Temple everything from the best time to visit, how to reach, stay options, what to carry, and spiritual insights. Proper planning and safety precautions ensure a peaceful and memorable yatra.
Complete Travel Guide to Kedarnath Temple : Must read before go
Kedarnath Temple, a name which is not just a place but a symbol of faith, belief and devotion. This temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, which is situated on the peaceful and divine peak of Parvat in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand.
This temple attracts millions of devotees every year between May and October. A journey to Kedarnath is not just a journey but a spiritual experience which touches your mind, body and soul.
In this blog we will talk about a complete travel guide for Kedarnath Dham – like how to go, when to go, where to stay, what to take, and much more!
1. When does Kedarnath Yatra start?
Kedarnath Temple opens every year at the end of April or beginning of May on Akshaya Tritiya and closes on Dooj (October/November).
Best Time to Visit:
May to June (pleasant weather)
September to October (less crowd and beautiful scenery)
Avoid: July-August (there is a risk of rain and landslides)
2. How to reach Kedarnath?
There is no direct road connectivity to Kedarnath. You have to use many modes to reach here.
Step-by-Step Route:
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (250 km from Kedarnath)
From there, you have to take a taxi/bus to reach Gaurikund.
By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh or Haridwar
From there one can go to Sonprayag – Gaurikund by bus/taxi.
By Road:
Shared jeep or private taxi is available from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Gaurikund.
Trekking starts from Gaurikund onwards.
Trek:
Gaurikund to Kedarnath: 16-18 km trek
The hike is moderately strenuous, therefore adequate preparation is required.
Mule, palki or helicopter services are also available for elderly people or unfit travelers.
3. Helicopter to Kedarnath – Quick and Comfortable
If you cannot trek or want to reach quickly, helicopter service is a good option.
Helicopter Boarding Points:
Phata
Sersi
Guptkashi
Advance booking is recommended as demand is very high during peak season.
Official website: https://amarnath.heliservices.in/
4. Where to Stay in Kedarnath?
Basic to quality lodging is available in and around Kedarnath. Luxury options are limited.
Stay Options:
GMVN Guest Houses – Government-operated, budget-friendly, basic facilities
Private Tents & Camps – Scenic views, basic bedding and toilets
Dharamshalas – Religious and low-cost stays
Hotels in Sitapur / Guptkashi / Sonprayag – Better facilities and family-friendly
Pro Tip: It is extremely cold in Kedarnath, so definitely carry warm blankets and woolen clothes.
5. What to Carry in the Yatra?
Kedarnath’s weather is unpredictable, so smart packing is very important:
Essentials:
Woolen clothes, gloves, cap, thermals
Good quality trekking shoes
Raincoat or windcheater
Torch with extra batteries
Power bank and camera
First-aid kit, personal medicines
ID Proof, Yatra Registration Slip
Energy bars, dry fruits, glucose
6. Kedarnath Yatra Registration – Necessary!
The government has made registration mandatory for Char Dham Yatra.
How to register?
Visit official website
Register with ID proof
You are given an e-pass which has to be shown at the time of travel
Without registration, you will be denied permission to travel.
7. Importance and History of Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath temple was built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. This temple is the most prominent among the Panch Kedar of Lord Shiva.
It is said that after Mahabharata, Pandavas came to Himalaya to pray for their father, where they prayed to Lord Shiva for freedom. Lord Shiva took the form of an animal to save them and brought the animal’s stomach to Kedarnath – that is the temple of today.
8. Spiritual Experience – Not just devotion, but also peace
Kedarnath is not just a temple but an experience of inner peace.
You can join the morning aarti or evening prayer in the temple.
Sitting and meditating on the banks of the Mandakini River gives a different kind of peace.
The power of the devotees and the peaceful environment of the mountains together transform you from within.
9. Safety Tips – Do not go in Monsoon or Winter
There is a risk of landslides in July-August.
Extreme snowfall occurs after October-end.
It is important to stay hydrated and take rest while trekking.
Take a slow and steady walk to avoid altitude sickness.
Read this blog : 8-Day Spiti Valley Itinerary
FAQs : Complete Travel Guide to Kedarnath Temple
1. What is the best time to visit Kedarnath Temple?
The best time is from May to June and September to October, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer risks of rain or snow.
2. How long is the trek to Kedarnath from Gaurikund?
The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is approximately 16–18 km and takes around 6–10 hours depending on fitness level.
3. Can elderly people visit Kedarnath?
Yes, elderly devotees can use palki, mule, or helicopter services to reach the temple.
4. Is registration mandatory for Kedarnath Yatra?
Yes, registration is compulsory. You need to register online and carry your e-pass during travel.
5. Are there any good stay options near Kedarnath?
Yes, options include GMVN guesthouses, tents, dharamshalas, and hotels in Sitapur, Guptkashi, and Sonprayag.
