Reaching Kedarnath involves a mix of road, rail, and air travel, with most journeys beginning from Delhi or Dehradun. Since there are no direct trains or buses to Kedarnath, travelers first reach Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Haridwar, which serve as the main gateways. From Delhi, you can either fly to Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport, 1 hr) or travel by train/bus to Haridwar and Rishikesh. Buses also run from Delhi’s Kashmere Gate and Anand Vihar terminals to Dehradun, taking about 5–6 hours.
Once in Dehradun or Haridwar, you can continue by road towards Sonprayag, the last motorable point. A short local shuttle ride takes you to Gaurikund, the base camp for the trek. The final stretch is a 16–17 km uphill trek to Kedarnath Temple, with options of ponies, palkis, and seasonal helicopter services from Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi for those seeking quicker access.
- Helicopter: From Phata, Sersi, Guptkashi (seasonal)
- Airport: Jolly Grant, Dehradun – 238 km
- Railway station: Rishikesh – 216 km, Haridwar – 241 km
- Road: Motorable road till Gaurikund from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, Delhi
- Trek: 16–17 km from Gaurikund to Kedarnath
- Buses/Shared Jeeps: Regular services from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun
Kedarnath temple stays open May to October, with May–June and September–October being the best months. For seniors or those short on time, Kedarnath helicopter tours are a comfortable and time-saving option.
Table of Contents
What’s The Best Way To Reach Kedarnath ?
The best way to reach Kedarnath is by road till Sonprayag, then a shuttle to Gaurikund and a 16–17 km trek. From Dehradun (240 km / 8 hrs), Rishikesh (225 km / 7 hrs), and Haridwar (250 km / 8 hrs), taxis and buses run regularly. From Delhi (450 km / 12–13 hrs), yatris usually go via Haridwar/Rishikesh or fly to Dehradun, then continue by road. Helicopter services from Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi are faster options.
Distance & Duration to Kedarnath
| City | Distance | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Dehradun – Sonprayag | 240 km | 7-9 hrs |
| Rishikesh – Sonprayag | 200 km | 7-9 hrs |
| Haridwar – Sonprayag | 227 km | 7-9 hrs |
| New Delhi – Sonprayag | 450 km | 12–13 hrs |
From Dehradun, Rishikesh & Haridwar
These three cities are the most common starting points for Kedarnath. Road connectivity is good up to Sonprayag, from where a local shuttle takes you to Gaurikund, the trek starting point. The temple lies a 16–17 km trek from here.
- Dehradun to Sonprayag is about 240 km, Rishikesh 225 km, and Haridwar 250 km.
- Haridwar and Rishikesh have railway stations, while Dehradun has both rail and air links.
- From Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, the onward road journey takes 7–8 hours.
- During the yatra season, helicopter services are also available from Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi, all located just before Sonprayag.
From New Delhi
Pilgrims from Delhi usually reach Haridwar or Rishikesh first, then continue by road to Sonprayag.
- Overnight trains to Haridwar/Rishikesh take 5–6 hours.
- By road, Delhi to Sonprayag is around 450 km and takes 12–13 hours, usually split with a halt at Rishikesh or Guptkashi.
- A faster option is flying to Dehradun (1 hour from Delhi), then continuing 7–8 hours by road.
- Those looking for comfort and time-saving can combine a Delhi–Dehradun flight with a helicopter ride from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi to Kedarnath.
Why Visiting Kedarnath is Special?
Visiting Kedarnath is special as it is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, set high in the Himalayas at 3,583 m. The remote location, the 16 km trek, and the powerful spiritual aura make it a rare blend of faith, devotion, and natural beauty.
How to Reach Kedarnath by Road ?
Kedarnath is connected by road till Sonprayag, from where local shuttles take you to Gaurikund (5 kms), the trek starting point. The final 16 km trek leads to the temple. Roads from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun are well-traveled and act as the main gateways, while New Delhi connects further for long-distance travelers. The route passes through Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi before reaching Sonprayag.
How to Reach Kedarnath by Road From Rishikesh ?
Kedarnath is about 200 km from Rishikesh, taking 7–8 hours by road. Taxis, jeeps, and state buses run regularly. The road is smooth till Rudraprayag but turns narrow and hilly closer to Sonprayag.
- Distance: 200 km
- Duration: 7–8 hrs
- Route: Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Sonprayag
- Note: Smooth roads till Rudraprayag; narrower and steeper closer to Sonprayag.
How to Reach Kedarnath by Road From Haridwar ?
The distance is roughly 227 km with a travel time of 8–9 hours. Buses and shared jeeps are easily available. Pilgrims often choose Haridwar as the starting point due to its better train connectivity.
- Distance: 227 km
- Duration: 7–8 hrs
- Route: Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Sonprayag
- Note: Easy availability of private taxi service.
How to Reach Kedarnath by Road From Dehradun ?
From Dehradun, the distance to Sonprayag is around 240 km, taking 8–9 hours by road. Travelers also use Jolly Grant Airport, followed by a road journey. Road conditions are manageable, but hill driving requires caution.
- Distance: 240 km
- Duration: 8–9 hrs
- Route: Dehradun – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Sonprayag
- Note: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) is 35 km from Rishikesh for connecting flights.
How to Reach Kedarnath by Road From New Delhi ?
Kedarnath is about 450 km from Delhi, with a 12–13 hour drive. Most yatris travel first to Haridwar or Rishikesh by train or bus and then continue by road. Direct taxis are available but the long drive is usually broken with a night halt at Rishikesh or Guptkashi.
- Distance: 450 km
- Duration: 12–13 hrs
- Route: Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Sonprayag
- Note: Journey often split with a halt at Rishikesh or Guptkashi.
Delhi to Kedarnath Distance Route Map
| Kedarnath Road Route | Distance (in Km) | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi – Rishikesh | 238 km | 5–6 hrs |
| Rishikesh – Rudraprayag | 141 km | 5 hrs |
| Rudraprayag – Sonprayag | 70 km | 3 hrs |
| Sonprayag – Gaurikund | 5 km | 20 mins |
| Gaurikund – Kedarnath | 16 km trek | 5 hrs |
How to Reach Kedarnath By Air?
Kedarnath has no direct airport. The nearest is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (238 km away). From there, a 7–8 hr drive takes you to Sonprayag, followed by a short shuttle to Gaurikund and the 16–17 km trek to the temple. Helicopter services from Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi also operate in season.
From Dehradun, Rishikesh & Haridwar
- Dehradun is the only city among the three with an airport. Regular domestic flights connect it with Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other cities.
- Rishikesh (35 km) and Haridwar (37 km) have no airports but are close enough to Jolly Grant. Travelers can land at Dehradun and continue by road.
- Road journey to Sonprayag from these cities takes 7–9 hours depending on traffic and season.
From New Delhi
- Direct flights operate daily from Delhi to Dehradun (1 hr).
- After landing, continue by road to Sonprayag (7–8 hrs).
- Many yatris prefer combining the Delhi–Dehradun flight with a helicopter ride from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi for faster access.
How To Reach Kedarnath by Helicopter ?
Reaching Kedarnath by helicopter is the fastest and most comfortable way to complete the yatra, especially for those unable to trek the 16–17 km stretch from Gaurikund. Regular helicopter services operate from Phata, Sersi (Sirsi), and Guptkashi during the yatra season, flying directly to the Kedarnath helipad, located about 500 meters from the temple.
Kedarnath Helicopter Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Tariff (Round Trip) | ₹8,900 (Phata) | ₹8,500 (Sersi) | ₹12,444 (Guptkashi) |
| Timings | 6:30 AM – 2:00 PM (Morning flights more reliable) |
| Booking | Through official IRCTC Heli Yatra portal after Char Dham registration |
| Weight & Baggage | 80 kg per passenger | Extra ₹150–₹200/kg | 5 kg hand baggage only |
| Guidelines | Report 1 hr before | Weather-dependent | Refunds as per operator policy |
Kedarnath Helicopter Tour from Dehradun Helibase
For yatris seeking a premium, same-day darshan experience, helicopter tours operate directly from the Dehradun Sahastradhara Helibase. The package includes a same-day return trip, VIP darshan at Kedarnath Temple, and ground assistance.
- 2025 Tariff: Around ₹1,25,000 per adult.
- Schedule: Early morning departure from Dehradun, with a return flight by late afternoon.
- Highlights: No overnight stay required, VIP priority darshan arranged, all transfers handled.
This option is ideal for high-end travelers, NRIs, or yatris with limited time who want a seamless Kedarnath darshan experience in just one day.
How to Reach Kedarnath By Train ?
Kedarnath does not have its own railway station. The nearest railhead is Rishikesh Railway Station (approx. 210 km from Gaurikund), which is well connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Lucknow. Regular trains run to Rishikesh, making it the most convenient starting point for those traveling by rail.
From Delhi, you can board an overnight train to Haridwar or Rishikesh (5–6 hrs). On arrival, the onward journey to Kedarnath is completed by road and trek:
Trains from Delhi to Haridwar, Rishikesh & Dehradun
Shatabdi Express (12017/12018)
Route: Delhi → Haridwar | Frequency: Daily | Duration: 4.5 hrs
Jan Shatabdi Express (12055/12056)
Route: Delhi → Haridwar | Frequency: Daily | Duration: 5 hrs
Mussoorie Express (14041/14042)
Route: Delhi → Haridwar | Frequency: Daily | Duration: 6.5 hrs
Yoga Express (19031/19032)
Route: Delhi → Rishikesh | Frequency: Daily | Duration: 6.5 hrs
Nanda Devi Express (12401/12402)
Route: Delhi → Dehradun | Frequency: Daily | Duration: 6 hrs
Dehradun Shatabdi Express (12017/12018)
Route: Delhi → Dehradun | Frequency: Daily | Duration: 6 hrs
Mussoorie Express (14041/14042)
Route: Delhi → Dehradun | Frequency: Daily | Duration: 8 hrs
How To Reach Kedarnath from Haridwar ?
Haridwar is a major starting point for the Kedarnath Yatra, located about 225 km from Sonprayag, the last motorable point. From here, a short shuttle takes you to Gaurikund, followed by the 16–17 km trek to Kedarnath. Pilgrims can choose between taxis, shared jeeps, and buses for the journey from Haridwar.
How To Reach Kedarnath from Haridwar By Taxi ?
Private taxis are available from Haridwar railway station and bus stand for direct transfers to Kedarnath. A round trip Haridwar–Kedarnath–Haridwar costs around ₹12,000. One-way fares are generally higher as operators charge for the return journey as well. Taxis are a comfortable option for families and groups looking for flexibility and privacy.
Travel Vaidya helps arrange private taxis and full Kedarnath tours that suit families, senior citizens, and pilgrims coming from different states. With over 10 years of local experience in Uttarakhand, the focus stays on safe drivers, reliable vehicles, and practical planning so the journey feels easier and more comfortable for everyone.
How To Reach Kedarnath from Haridwar By Shared Jeep ?
Shared jeep taxi service to Sonprayag usually start early morning between 5:00–6:00 AM, carrying 6–8 passengers per vehicle. They are a budget-friendly option, costing less than private taxis, but comfort is limited since the ride is shared. Ideal for solo travelers or small groups seeking an economical transfer.
How To Reach Kedarnath from Haridwar By Bus ?
Government and private buses depart daily from Haridwar Bus Stand around 5:00–5:30 AM. Most buses run up to Guptkashi or Sonprayag, and the fare is about ₹400–₹500 per passenger. This is the cheapest way to travel, though the journey is longer and less flexible compared to taxis.
How To Reach Kedarnath from Delhi ?
The journey from Delhi to Kedarnath is one of the most common routes for pilgrims. Since there are no direct buses or trains, travelers first reach Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun. From there, the road goes up to Sonprayag, followed by a shuttle to Gaurikund and the 16–17 km trek to the temple. The total Delhi to Kedarnath distance is about 450 km by road, plus the trek.
How To Reach Kedarnath from Delhi By Flight ?
Taking a flight reduces travel time and is the fastest way to cover the Delhi to Kedarnath route. You fly to Dehradun and continue the journey by road or helicopter.
- Delhi → Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport): 1 hr flight
- Dehradun → Sonprayag: 7–8 hrs by road
- Sonprayag → Gaurikund: short shuttle ride
- Gaurikund → Kedarnath Temple: 16–17 km trek
- Helicopter rides available from Phata, Sersi, Guptkashi
How To Reach Kedarnath from Delhi By Taxi ?
A taxi from Delhi to Kedarnath is a long journey of about 450 km till Gaurikund that usually takes 12–14 hours. Travelers are advised to split the trip with a night halt at Haridwar or Rishikesh, as covering the stretch in one go often leads to motion sickness and fatigue. Private taxis are preferred by families and groups for flexibility and comfort.
- Distance: ~450 km (Delhi to Gaurikund)
- Duration: 12–14 hours, with a night halt at Haridwar/Rishikesh
- Round trip fare: ₹26,000–30,000 (Sedan AC), ₹36,000–40,000 (SUV – Innova Crysta), ₹50,000–60,000 (12-seater Tempo Traveller)
- Route covers Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag
How To Reach Kedarnath from Delhi By Train ?
The Delhi to Kedarnath train route involves reaching Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun first. These are the nearest railheads with good connectivity.
- Duration: 5–6 hrs by train from Delhi
- Stations: Haridwar (238 km), Rishikesh (241 km), Dehradun (270 km) from Kedarnath
- Popular trains: Shatabdi, Jan Shatabdi, Mussoorie Express
- Onward travel: taxi/jeep/bus to Sonprayag → shuttle to Gaurikund → trek
How To Reach Kedarnath from Delhi By Bus ?
The Delhi to Kedarnath bus route is ideal for budget travelers. Overnight buses from Delhi connect you to Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun, from where the onward road journey continues.
- Departure: Delhi ISBT (Kashmere Gate, Anand Vihar)
- Duration: 6–8 hrs to Haridwar/Rishikesh/Dehradun
- Fares: ₹600–₹1,200 depending on bus type (government, Volvo, deluxe)
- From these cities: continue by road to Sonprayag → shuttle → Gaurikund → trek
How To Reach Kedarnath from Dehradun ?
The journey from Dehradun to Kedarnath is among the most convenient routes as the city has both an airport and railway station. Dehradun to Kedarnath distance is about 240 km by road till Sonprayag, followed by a shuttle to Gaurikund and the 16–17 km trek to the temple. Pilgrims can choose private taxis, government buses, or helicopter services depending on budget and time.
How To Reach Kedarnath from Dehradun By Private Taxi ?
Taxis are the most flexible and comfortable option for families, seniors, or small groups traveling from Dehradun to Kedarnath.
- Distance: ~240 km to Sonprayag
- Duration: 8–9 hrs drive
- Cost: ₹12,000–₹14,000 round trip (sedan/SUV)
- Route: Dehradun → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag
- From Sonprayag: shuttle to Gaurikund → 16–17 km trek
Travel Vaidya helps arrange private taxis and full Kedarnath tours that suit families, senior citizens, and pilgrims coming from different states. With over 10 years of local experience in Uttarakhand, the focus stays on safe drivers, reliable vehicles, and practical planning so the journey feels easier and more comfortable for everyone.
How To Reach Kedarnath from Dehradun By Bus ?
Buses are the cheapest way to reach Kedarnath from Dehradun, though the ride takes longer and is less comfortable.
- Daily buses from Dehradun ISBT to Guptkashi/Sonprayag
- Fare: ₹500–₹600 per passenger
- Duration: 9–10 hrs by road
- From Guptkashi/Sonprayag: shuttle to Gaurikund → trek
How To Reach Kedarnath from Dehradun By Helicopter ?
Helicopter services from Dehradun make Kedarnath darshan possible in a single day, ideal for high-end or time-bound pilgrims.
- Helibase: Sahastradhara, Dehradun
- Cost : ~₹1,15,000 per person (same-day return)
- Includes VIP darshan, ground handling, meals
- Departure: early morning | Return: late afternoon
- Suitable for NRIs, senior citizens, or yatris with limited time
How To Reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh ?
Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance is about 225 km by road till Sonprayag. From there, pilgrims take a short shuttle to Gaurikund and begin the 16–17 km trek. Rishikesh is a key gateway for Kedarnath, offering both private taxis for comfort and government buses for budget travelers.
How To Reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh By Private Taxi ?
Taxis from Rishikesh are the most convenient for families and groups, offering door-to-door service up to Sonprayag.
- Distance: ~225 km to Sonprayag
- Duration: 7–8 hrs by road
- Cost: ₹6,000–₹8,000 round trip depending on vehicle type
- Route: Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag
- From Sonprayag: shuttle to Gaurikund → 16–17 km trek
Travel Vaidya helps arrange private taxis and full Kedarnath tours that suit families, senior citizens, and pilgrims coming from different states. With over 10 years of local experience in Uttarakhand, the focus stays on safe drivers, reliable vehicles, and practical planning so the journey feels easier and more comfortable for everyone.
How To Reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh By Bus ?
Government buses run daily from Rishikesh bus stand to Guptkashi and Sonprayag, suitable for budget travelers.
- Departure: Early morning (around 5–6 AM)
- Fare: ₹400–₹500 per passenger
- Duration: 8–9 hrs by road
- From Guptkashi/Sonprayag: shuttle to Gaurikund → trek
How To Reach Kedarnath from Mumbai?
The journey from Mumbai to Kedarnath is long and involves multiple modes of transport since there are no direct buses or trains to the shrine. Travelers usually first reach Dehradun, Haridwar, or Rishikesh by flight or train, and then continue by road to Gaurikund, followed by the 16–17 km trek to Kedarnath temple. The total distance from Mumbai to Kedarnath is about 1,900 km by road, so flights are the most practical choice to save time.
How To Reach Kedarnath from Mumbai By Flight
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel. You can take a direct or connecting flight from Mumbai to Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport). From there, continue by road and trek to reach Kedarnath.
Mumbai to Dehradun Direct Flights
IndiGo
Route: BOM → DED
Departure: 05:15 AM
Arrival: 07:30 AM
Duration: 2h 15m
Frequency: Daily (7/week)
Air India
Route: BOM → DED
Departure: 04:05 PM
Arrival: 06:20 PM
Duration: 2h 15m
Frequency: Several days/week
- Mumbai → Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport): ~2.5 hours by direct flight (multiple airlines operate daily)
- Dehradun → Sonprayag: 7–8 hours by taxi/bus
- Sonprayag → Gaurikund: Short shuttle ride (last motorable point)
- Gaurikund → Kedarnath Temple: 16–17 km trek, pony, or palki
- Helicopter options: Available from Phata, Sirsi, and Guptkashi helipads near Gaurikund
How To Reach Kedarnath from Mumbai By Train
Mumbai has several long-distance trains to Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun, which are the main railheads for Kedarnath. From there, continue by road.
- Duration: 30–32 hours from Mumbai to Haridwar/Dehradun
- Nearest stations to Kedarnath: Haridwar (238 km), Rishikesh (216 km), Dehradun (270 km)
- Popular trains: Dehradun Express, Bandra Terminus–Haridwar Express, Mumbai LTT–Haridwar Mail
- Onward travel: Taxi/bus from station → Sonprayag → shuttle to Gaurikund → trek to Kedarnath
Direct Trains from Mumbai to Dehradun / Haridwar / Rishikesh
| Train Name | Train No. | Route / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dehradun Express | 19019 | Runs daily from Bandra Terminus (Mumbai) → Dehradun |
| Golden Temple Express | 12903 | Fast option from Mumbai to Dehradun / Haridwar |
| Bandra Terminus Haridwar SF Express | 22917 | Direct Mumbai → Haridwar service |
| Mumbai LTT Haridwar AC SF Express | 12171 | Lokmanya Tilak Terminus → Haridwar |
| TVCN YNRK SF Express | 22659 | Via Haridwar → Yog Nagari Rishikesh |
How To Reach Kedarnath from Mumbai By Bus
There are no direct buses from Mumbai to Kedarnath. However, you can reach Delhi by bus or train and then continue to Kedarnath via Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun. From these cities, state-run and private buses go up to Sonprayag.
- Mumbai → Delhi: 18–20 hours by Volvo/sleeper bus
- Delhi → Haridwar/Rishikesh/Dehradun: 6–8 hours by bus
- Haridwar/Rishikesh/Dehradun → Sonprayag: 8–10 hours by bus/taxi
- Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath Temple: shuttle + trek
How To Reach Kedarnath from Mumbai By Taxi
A direct Mumbai to Kedarnath taxi is not practical due to the long distance (over 1,900 km). Instead, travelers book taxis from Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun for the final stretch to Kedarnath.
- Delhi to Gaurikund distance: ~450 km (12–14 hours by road)
- Haridwar to Gaurikund distance: ~240 km (10–12 hours by road)
- Round trip taxi fare:
- Sedan (AC): ₹26,000–30,000
- SUV (Innova Crysta): ₹36,000–40,000
- Tempo Traveller (12-seater): ₹50,000–60,000
Kedarnath Temple Distance from Other Temples
Distance from Kedarnath to Badrinath
| Kedarnath – Badrinath Route | Details |
|---|---|
| Road Distance | Around 218 km, usually 8–9 hrs by road |
| Helicopter Distance | Approx. 34 km aerial distance |
| Nearest Airport (Kedarnath side) | Jolly Grant, Dehradun – about 239 km away |
| Nearest Airport (Badrinath side) | Jolly Grant, Dehradun – about 311 km away |
Distance from Kedarnath to Gangotri
| Kedarnath – Gangotri Route | Details |
|---|---|
| Road Distance | Approx. 408 km, travel time 9–10 hrs |
| Helicopter Distance | Roughly 31 km aerial distance |
| Nearest Airport (close to Kedarnath) | Jolly Grant Airport – about 239 km |
| Nearest Airport (close to Gangotri) | Jolly Grant Airport – about 250 km |
Distance from Kedarnath to Yamunotri
| Kedarnath – Yamunotri Route | Details |
|---|---|
| Road Distance | About 387 km, takes nearly 9 hrs |
| Helicopter Distance | Around 66 km aerial link |
| Nearest Airport (from Kedarnath side) | Jolly Grant Airport – roughly 239 km |
| Nearest Airport (from Yamunotri side) | Jolly Grant Airport – roughly 210 km |
Best Travel Route for Kedarnath from Delhi
The best way to travel from Delhi to Kedarnath is by breaking the journey into parts. Most pilgrims first reach Haridwar or Rishikesh, then continue by road through Guptkashi and Sonprayag. The last motor point is Gaurikund, from where the 16 km trek to Kedarnath starts. The total road distance from Delhi is roughly 450 km, and depending on traffic, it can take anywhere between 12–14 hours to reach Gaurikund.
Route Map – Delhi → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath
| Route | Distance | Conveyance |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Haridwar | 206 km | Train / Bus |
| Haridwar to Rishikesh | 20 km | Bus / Taxi |
| Rishikesh to Guptkashi | 183 km | Bus / Taxi |
| Guptkashi to Sonprayag | 30 km | Jeep / Bus |
| Sonprayag to Gaurikund | 5 km | Shared Jeep / Shuttle |
| Gaurikund to Kedarnath | 16 km trek | On foot / Pony / Palki |
Best Travel Route for Kedarnath from Dehradun
Dehradun to Kedarnath route is one of the most convenient route because the city is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Pilgrims usually drive or take buses through Rishikesh, Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi before reaching Sonprayag. From here, a short shuttle goes to Gaurikund, the base point of the 16 km trek to Kedarnath. The overall distance from Dehradun to Gaurikund is about 240 km, which takes 8–9 hours by road.
Route Map: Dehradun → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath
| Route | Distance | Conveyance |
|---|---|---|
| Dehradun to Rishikesh | 45 km | Bus / Taxi |
| Rishikesh to Devprayag | 70 km | Bus / Taxi |
| Devprayag to Srinagar | 35 km | Bus / Taxi |
| Srinagar to Rudraprayag | 33 km | Bus / Taxi |
| Rudraprayag to Guptkashi | 44 km | Bus / Taxi |
| Guptkashi to Sonprayag | 30 km | Jeep / Bus |
| Sonprayag to Gaurikund | 5 km | Shared Jeep / Shuttle |
| Gaurikund to Kedarnath | 16 km trek | On foot / Pony / Palki |
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
The best time to visit Kedarnath is May & June for those who prefer better weather conditions, and October & November for those who want lesser crowd at temples and can bear the cold. In May and June, days stay fairly warm and nights are cool, which works well for families and senior citizens. The only drawback is the rush, as most people travel in these months. After monsoon, in October and November, the weather turns cold with freezing nights, but the temple and trek routes are much quieter, making darshan easier and more peaceful
What to Expect in May & June
This is the most popular time for Kedarnath Yatra, with comfortable weather for families and seniors. Days are fairly warm, nights are cool, and the trek remains stable. The only downside is the heavy rush.
- Daytime: 12°C–26°C, Nights: –7°C–11°C
- Good for families and senior citizens.
- Stable trek conditions, fewer weather issues.
- Expect heavy crowds at temple and along trek routes.
- Hotels fill early — advance booking is a must.
What to Expect in July, August & September
These are the monsoon months, and travel gets tricky. Trek routes turn slippery, landslides can block roads, and delays are common. September improves with clearer skies and lighter crowds.
- Daytime: 18°C–25°C, Nights: 7°C–12°C
- July–August: frequent rains, landslide risk is high.
- Trek becomes difficult due to slippery paths.
- September: 9°C–22°C daytime, 2°C–8°C nights.
- Post-monsoon September is quieter with fewer pilgrims.
What to Expect in October & November
Post-monsoon, the weather turns very cold. Days are short and crisp, while nights often drop to freezing or below. Crowds are minimal, making darshan peaceful. By mid-November, the temple closes for winter.
- Daytime: 4°C–15°C, Nights: –8°C–4°C
- October is manageable if you carry proper winter gear.
- November nights often drop below zero, with limited facilities.
- Very few pilgrims — quiet temple atmosphere.
- Temple closes mid-November until next season.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Kedarnath from Delhi by road and how long does it take?
Kedarnath is about 450 km from Delhi till Gaurikund, the trek base. The drive takes 12–14 hours, usually split with a night halt at Haridwar or Rishikesh.
Can I reach Kedarnath from Delhi in a single day by taxi?
It is not recommended. The journey is long and tiring, and most travelers break it with a night stay in Haridwar or Rishikesh before proceeding.
What is the taxi fare from Delhi to Kedarnath for a round trip?
A private taxi from Delhi to Kedarnath and back costs about ₹26,000–30,000 for a Sedan, ₹36,000–40,000 for an SUV (Innova Crysta), and ₹50,000–60,000 for a 12-seater Tempo Traveller.
How many days should I plan if I’m traveling to Kedarnath from Delhi by car?
Most travelers need 6 days — 2 days for the road journey (Delhi–Haridwar/Rishikesh–Gaurikund), 2 days for the trek and darshan at Kedarnath, and 2 days for the return trip.
What is the road distance from Haridwar to Kedarnath and average travel time?
Haridwar to Gaurikund is about 240 km, taking 10–12 hours by road, followed by a 16–18 km trek to Kedarnath.
How much does a private taxi cost from Haridwar to Kedarnath?
Round trip taxi fares from Haridwar to Kedarnath are about ₹12,000–15,000 for a Sedan and ₹18,000–22,000 for an SUV.
Is it better to stay overnight at Haridwar or Rishikesh before going to Kedarnath?
Yes, breaking the journey at either Haridwar or Rishikesh is better, as it helps avoid motion sickness and fatigue during the long mountain drive.
What is the distance from Rishikesh to Kedarnath and how long is the drive?
Rishikesh to Gaurikund is about 210 km, taking 8–9 hours by taxi. From there, the trek or pony ride leads to Kedarnath temple.
What are the usual taxi charges from Rishikesh to Kedarnath and back?
A round trip costs roughly ₹11,000–14,000 for a Sedan and ₹16,000–20,000 for an SUV, depending on the season and demand.
How far is Kedarnath from Dehradun and what travel options are available?
Kedarnath is about 250 km from Dehradun to Gaurikund, a 9–10 hour drive. You can take a private taxi, bus, or book a helicopter service from nearby helipads like Phata or Sirsi.
What is the typical taxi fare from Dehradun to Kedarnath for families?
Round trip fares are around ₹13,000–16,000 for a Sedan and ₹20,000–25,000 for an SUV, suitable for families traveling together.
How much time does it take to drive from Dehradun to Kedarnath’s base point, Gaurikund?
The road journey takes about 9–10 hours, covering 250 km through Rishikesh, Srinagar, and Rudraprayag.
Which route is better for Kedarnath travel — via Haridwar or via Rishikesh?
Both routes merge after Devprayag, but starting from Rishikesh saves time as it is closer to the hills. Haridwar is preferred if you want to include a Ganga aarti stop.
Are tempo travellers available from Delhi or Haridwar for Kedarnath trips, and what is the cost?
Yes, 12-seater Tempo Travellers are widely available. A Delhi to Kedarnath round trip costs ₹50,000–60,000, while from Haridwar it is slightly cheaper.
Do I need to break the journey to Kedarnath with a night stay, or can it be done without halts?
It’s strongly advised to stay overnight at Haridwar or Rishikesh before heading further. Non-stop travel often leads to severe tiredness and motion sickness.
