Where is Kedarnath Temple ?

Kedarnath is a town located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, at an altitude of about 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level. It is best known for the Kedarnath Temple, which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas (sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva). This temple is a prime pilgrimage site, especially for those following the Char Dham Yatra.

How to Reach Kedarnath

To Reach Kedarnath you need to arrive at Haridwar or Rishikesh by train or road. From there, drive 220 km to Gaurikund, the last point accessible by vehicle. The final 16 km to Kedarnath Temple is covered on foot, pony, palki, or helicopter. Helicopter rides from Phata or Sersi take around 8–10 minutes. Trekking takes 6–8 hours depending on pace and weather.

By Road:

To start your journey to Kedarnath, you will first need to reach Haridwar or Rishikesh (both easily accessible from major cities in India like Delhi and Mumbai).

Haridwar to Gaurikund: From Haridwar (about 225 km), the nearest road access is Gaurikund. You can either take a private vehicle or bus to reach Gaurikund.
Rishikesh to Gaurikund: If you’re coming from Rishikesh, the journey is about 180 km.

From Gaurikund, the trek to Kedarnath begins. It’s a 16 km trek uphill, but don’t worry—there are plenty of spots to rest, and the path is surrounded by beautiful views of the mountains.

By Trekking:

The 16 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is the most common and popular way to reach the temple. The path is clear and easy to follow, but it gets steep in some parts. Because of the high altitude, the walk can feel tough, especially if you’re not used to it. Most people take around 6 to 8 hours to finish the trek, depending on their pace.

Ponies and Palanquins: If the trek seems too daunting, you can hire a pony or palanquin to carry you for part of the journey. This can be especially helpful for elderly or less physically fit travelers.

By Helicopter:

For people who can’t walk the whole way or want a more comfortable option, helicopter services are a good choice. You can take a helicopter to Kedarnath from places like Phata, Guptkashi, or Sersi. The ride takes around 10 to 15 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and you also get to see amazing views of the mountains from above. But it does cost more than other options, and seats can get booked fast during the season. It’s best to book early.

Best Time to Visit Kedarnath

The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to November when the weather is mild and the temple is open for pilgrims. During this period, the region enjoys clear skies and comfortable temperatures. From November to April, the temple is closed due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather, making it difficult and unsafe to visit.

Different Seasons In Kedarnath

Summer (May to June): In summer, temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C during the day, which makes it the best time for trekking and sightseeing. It’s warm enough to enjoy the outdoors, but not too hot. Nights can get chilly, so it’s a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater.

Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings heavy rain, which can cause landslides and make the trekking path slippery and dangerous. It’s not the safest time to visit, as the weather can be unpredictable and challenging. It’s best to avoid traveling during these months.

Winter (November to March): Winter temperatures can drop below -10°C, making it extremely cold. Snow covers the area, and the paths become difficult or impossible to walk on. During these months, the temple is closed, and no pilgrimage is allowed due to the harsh weather conditions. It’s best to stay away from Kedarnath in winter.

Places To See In Kedarnath

Kedarnath has more to offer than just temple darshan. If you’re here for a day or two, there are a few short walks you shouldn’t miss. Bhairavnath Temple is just 1 km away. Gandhi Sarovar is a 3 km scenic trail. If you’re up for it, Vasuki Tal is an 8 km trek through pure mountain silence. Great for nature lovers and spiritual folks alike.

Kedarnath Temple: Timings 4 AM–9 PM. Free entry.
Bhairavnath Temple: 1 km hike, scenic location
Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi: Right behind the temple
Gandhi Sarovar: 3 km walk, small glacial lake
Vasuki Tal: 8 km trek, for fit travelers

How to Trek to Kedarnath

Trekking to Kedarnath is a 16 km uphill walk from Gaurikund, climbing from 6,500 ft to 11,755 ft. It takes 6–9 hours. Oxygen levels drop as you go higher, so walk slowly and take breaks. Weather can change quickly—carry raincoats and warm clothes. The cemented trail has food stalls, first-aid points, and rest shelters. Ponies and palkis are available for ₹3,500–10,000 if walking feels too tough.

Difficulty: The Kedarnath trek is moderately tough with some steep parts, especially after Rambara. The high altitude makes it more tiring, and some people—especially seniors—can feel breathless or dizzy. Walk slowly and take breaks when needed.

Facilities on the Trek: There are plenty of stops along the route with tea stalls, water, snacks, and even first-aid points. You’ll also find mules and palkis available for hire if walking gets too hard.

Preparation Tips: Wear good-quality, waterproof shoes with grip. Carry a refillable water bottle, a light jacket or woolens, and basic medicines. Start early in the morning to avoid afternoon crowds and sudden weather changes.