Haridwar to Kedarnath Tour - Distance, Route & Cost Details
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Are you planning a trip from Haridwar to Kedarnath? The road distance to Gaurikund is about 250 km, and from there, you’ll need to trek 18 km to reach Kedarnath Temple. Most people finish the journey in 3 nights and 4 days. In this guide, you’ll find details about the route, travel time, suggested itinerary, taxi fares, hotel options and our all-inclusive Kedarnath tour packages from Haridwar.
Travel Vaidya offers All-inclusive packages starting from ₹40,000 – ₹60,000 Per Couple, which covers a private car for the entire tour, hotel and dharamshala stays, breakfast and dinner, tolls, parking, fuel and driver TA/DA. Guests only pay extra for lunch, helicopter, or pony/palki charges. These packages are especially preferred by couples, families with children and senior citizens.
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Why Choose Haridwar as the Starting Point for Your Kedarnath Tour?
Haridwar is the most preferred starting point for the Kedarnath Yatra due to its excellent rail connectivity, nearby airports, comfortable hotels, and convenient road access to Char Dham route.
From here, the journey to Sonprayag is about 240 km (8 hours by road), followed by the 18 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple. With plenty of hotels for pre- and post-yatra stays, Haridwar is especially suitable for families with children and senior citizens.
- Smooth highway drive from Delhi to Haridwar
- Frequent trains from major cities across India
- Starting point for most Kedarnath & Char Dham taxi services
- Around 240 km drive to Sonprayag, then trek from Gaurikund
- Ample hotels for before and after the yatra
Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance, Travel Time & Route
The distance from Haridwar to Kedarnath is approximately 250 km by road to Gaurikund, followed by a 18 km trek to Kedarnath Temple. The total journey usually takes 8–10 hours by road, excluding the trek.
Popular Route from Haridwar to Kedarnath
| Destination | Distance | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Haridwar → Rishikesh | 25 km | 45 min |
| Rishikesh → Rudraprayag | 140 km | 5 hrs |
| Rudraprayag → Guptkashi | 47 km | 2 hrs |
| Guptkashi → Sonprayag | 30 km | 1 hr |
| Sonprayag → Gaurikund | 5 km | 20 min (Shuttle) |
| Gaurikund → Kedarnath | 18 km | Trek (9–10 hrs) |
Major Stopovers on Haridwar to Kedarnath Route
- Rishikesh (20 km from Haridwar): Gateway to the Char Dham route and last major city with good facilities.
- Devprayag (70 km from Haridwar): Famous confluence of Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers.
- Srinagar (105 km): A big town for fuel, meals, and short breaks.
- Rudraprayag (140 km): Another sacred river confluence and a common halt point.
- Guptkashi (205 km): Popular for overnight stay with good hotels.
- Sonprayag (220 km): Last motorable point for vehicles before Gaurikund.
- Gaurikund (239 km): Starting point of the 16 km trek to Kedarnath.
Travel Tips:
- Start early from Haridwar (before 8 AM) to reach Sonprayag by evening.
- Night driving in the hills is not permitted by Uttarakhand police.
- Keep buffer time for traffic jams at Rudraprayag and Sonprayag check-posts.
- Book your Heli shuttle tickets in advance during peak season.
- Carry some snacks and water, as food options are limited after Rudraprayag.
Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance Chart
| Route | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Haridwar → Rishikesh | 20 Km | 40 min |
| Rishikesh → Devprayag | 70 Km | 1.5–2 hrs |
| Devprayag → Srinagar | 35 Km | 1 hr |
| Srinagar → Rudraprayag | 33 Km | 1–1.5 hrs |
| Rudraprayag → Guptkashi | 45 Km | 2.5–3 hrs |
| Guptkashi → Sonprayag | 28 Km | 45 min |
| Sonprayag → Gaurikund (local taxi) | 5 Km | 15 min |
| Gaurikund → Kedarnath (Trek) | 16 Km | 7–9 hrs |
How to Reach Kedarnath from Haridwar?
To Reach Kedarnath Temple you need to arrive at Haridwar by train or road. The journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath involves a road trip of about 240 km till Gaurikund, followed by a 16-18 km trek to reach the temple. Most pilgrims choose the road route, while those looking for a faster way prefer helicopter services from nearby helipads in Dehradun, Guptkashi, or Phata.
By Road (Private Car or Taxi)
- The most comfortable and flexible option.
- Cars like Dzire, Ertiga, Innova Crysta or SUVs are commonly hired from Haridwar.
- Takes 8–10 hours to reach Sonprayag (about 220 km). From there, a government shuttle drops you to Gaurikund.
- Ideal for families who want door-to-door pickup and freedom to stop on the way.
By Bus
- Uttarakhand Transport (GMOU) and private buses run from Haridwar bus stand.
- Buses usually go till Guptkashi or Sonprayag.
- Cheapest option, but long and tiring. Not advised for senior citizens or children.
By Shared Jeep / Tempo Traveller
- Shared jeeps and tempo travellers operate from Haridwar and Rishikesh for pilgrims.
- More economical than a private cab, but less comfortable for the hilly roads.
- Often used by groups or budget travelers.
Trek from Gaurikund
- From Gaurikund, every pilgrim must cover the 16-18 km trek to Kedarnath.
- Options:
- On foot (5–7 hrs depending on stamina)
- Ponies / Horses (for senior citizens or those unfit to walk)
- Palkis / Dandis (carried by porters, suitable for elderly)
- Trek route is steep, so an overnight halt at Sitapur or Guptkashi is recommended before starting.
By Helicopter (Phata, Guptkashi, Sirsi)
- Helicopter services operate from multiple helipads:
- Phata, Sirsi, Guptkashi: Short 7–10 minute flights to Kedarnath helipad.
- After landing, it’s a short 500 m walk to the temple.
- Best suited for senior citizens, kids, or short-time travelers.
Which Taxi is Best for Haridwar to Kedarnath Tour?
Hiring a taxi from Haridwar to Kedarnath is the most convenient option for families and senior citizens. Taxis provide flexibility, comfortable travel, and doorstep pick-up for the yatra. The route covers about 240 km by road till Sonprayag, followed by a short shuttle to Gaurikund and then the trek to Kedarnath. Below are the approximate taxi fares:
| Vehicle Type | Capacity | Fare (Round Trip) |
| Sedan (Dzire/Etios) | 2-3 persons | ₹12,000 – ₹16,000 |
| SUV (Ertiga) | 4-6 persons | ₹18,000 – ₹24,000 |
| SUV (Innova Crysta) | 5-6 persons | ₹24,000 – ₹28,000 |
| Tempo Traveller | 8-12 persons | ₹28,000 – ₹32,000 |
Haridwar to Kedarnath Trek Route
The trek to Kedarnath starts only after reaching Gaurikund, the last road-head. From Haridwar, pilgrims travel by road through the Char Dham highway till Sonprayag, then shift to a government shuttle to reach Gaurikund. From here, the 16 km uphill trek to Kedarnath begins. This is the traditional and only way to access the temple by foot.
Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath
Haridwar to Gaurikund (Road Journey)
- Distance: Around 235–240 km
- Travel Time: 9–11 hours by car/taxi, slightly longer by bus
- Common Stopovers: Rishikesh, Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, Sonprayag
- Transport Options:
- Private taxi/cab (Dzire, Ertiga, Innova, SUV, Tempo Traveller)
- State-run buses from Haridwar/Rishikesh up to Sonprayag
- Shared jeeps for budget travelers
- Sonprayag to Gaurikund: The last 5 km stretch is covered by government shuttle service, as private vehicles are not allowed beyond Sonprayag.
Gaurikund to Kedarnath (Trek Route)
- Trek Distance: 16 km uphill from Gaurikund to Kedarnath
- Average Time: 5–7 hours on foot (depending on stamina and breaks)
- Altitude Gain: From 1,982 m at Gaurikund to 3,583 m at Kedarnath
- Path Conditions: Gradual climb at the start, steep sections closer to Kedarnath, paved pathway with railings in many areas
- Facilities En Route: Tea stalls, food points, resting shelters, GMVN camps, first-aid and medical posts at key spots like Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, and Linchauli
Trekking Options
- On Foot: For fit pilgrims, takes 5–7 hrs
- Ponies / Horses: Widely available, charges around INR 7000 – 9000 for up and down terk
- Palki / Dandi: Carried by porters, often chosen by elderly or unfit travelers
- Helicopter (from Phata/Guptkashi/Sirsi): Option for those who want to skip trekking altogether
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath from Haridwar
The best time to visit Kedarnath Temple is from May to November when the weather is mild and the temple is open for pilgrims. Kedarnath Temple runs from late April/early May till Diwali (October–November). The peak travel months are May, June, September, and October when the weather and route conditions are most favorable.
April – Early May: Temple opens, weather is very cold, snow near temple, night temperature close to zero. Suitable only for those ready for harsh cold.
May – June (Peak Season): Most popular months. Clear roads, manageable trek, daytime 10–15°C, nights 2–5°C. Best for families and senior citizens, but very crowded.
July – August (Monsoon): Heavy rains, frequent landslides, unsafe trekking paths. Travel not advised.
September – October (Peak Season): Post-monsoon months with clear skies, comfortable weather, and lighter crowds than May–June. Highly suitable for families and elderly.
Late October – November: Temple closes after Diwali. Very cold, nights below freezing. Travel possible but tough conditions.
Key Takeaways
Best Months: May, June, September, October.
Avoid: July and August (monsoon).
Families & Seniors: Choose May–June or September–October.
Advance Booking: Essential in peak season due to high demand.
Kedarnath Temple Darshan & Aarti Timings
Pilgrims should be aware of the darshan hours and daily aarti schedule at Kedarnath Temple so they can plan their visit properly.
Morning Darshan: 4:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Evening Darshan: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Morning Aarti (Abhishek Aarti): Starts around 4:00 AM. Devotees can attend by special booking.
Evening Aarti (Shayan Aarti): Around 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM before temple closes for the night.
⚠️ Timings may shift slightly depending on season and daylight. During peak yatra months, queues are long, so reaching early morning or late evening is advised for smoother darshan.
Emergency Contacts & Yatra Registration
Every pilgrim is required to complete biometric registration before starting the Kedarnath Yatra. Without registration, entry is not allowed beyond Rishikesh/Haridwar checkpoints.
Yatra Registration
Modes: Online (Char Dham Yatra official website) or Offline (registration counters at Haridwar, Rishikesh, Guptkashi, Sonprayag).
Requirement: Valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License).
Why Mandatory: Helps government track pilgrims for safety and disaster management.
Key Emergency Contacts
Yatra Control Room / Disaster Helpline: 1070, 1077
Police Helpline: 100
Ambulance / Medical Emergency: 108
GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) Enquiry: +91-135-2746817
Sonprayag / Gaurikund Help Desk: Available at local check posts during yatra season
Medical Facilities on Route
Base Camps with First Aid: Guptkashi, Sitapur, Sonprayag, Gaurikund
En-route Medical Posts: Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, Linchauli
Kedarnath Temple Area: Emergency camp and government doctors available during yatra months
⚠️ Senior citizens and those with heart, asthma, or blood pressure conditions should consult with their doctors before attempting the trek.
Packing List for Haridwar to Kedarnath Yatra
Weather in Kedarnath is unpredictable, it can be warm during the day and freezing at night. Since the temple is located at a high altitude with limited facilities, packing the right things can make a big difference. Keep your luggage light but don’t miss out on essentials. Here’s a practical list for a safe and comfortable yatra.
- Warm Clothing: Even in summer, mornings and evenings are very cold. Carry thermals, a fleece jacket, woolen socks, gloves, and a warm cap. If you’re traveling after September, layer up properly.
- Rain Gear: Weather can change quickly, especially in the afternoon. A poncho or raincoat is a must. A small foldable umbrella is optional but useful.
- Trekking Shoes: Choose waterproof shoes with strong grip. The trek path can be slippery, especially after rain. Avoid open footwear or basic sneakers.
- Medicines & First-Aid Kit: Carry your regular medicines along with tablets for cold, headache, nausea, and altitude sickness. Add a few bandages, balm, and ORS sachets.
- Reusable Water Bottle & Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized. Pack a refillable bottle, dry fruits, energy bars, and glucose powder for the trek.
- Torch & Power Bank: Power supply is limited at high altitude. A small flashlight or headlamp is useful at night. Carry a charged power bank for your phone.
- Yatra Registration & ID Proof: These are checked multiple times during your journey. Keep both documents easily accessible and safe from rain.
- Basic Toiletries: Bring your own soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, tissues, and hand sanitizer. These are often not available on the trek or near the temple.
Travel Tips for Haridwar to Kedarnath Yatra
- Start early, night driving not allowed
- Pre-book hotels, limited stay options
- Carry warm clothes, even in summer
- Keep medicines and first-aid handy
- Travel light, avoid heavy luggage
- Drink water, eat simple meals
- Carry cash, ATMs not reliable
- Jio/Airtel work, others don’t
- Expect long shuttle queues at Sonprayag
- Doctor check-up advised for elderly
Haridwar to Kedarnath Tour Package Cost & Inclusions
Travel Vaidya offers all-inclusive Haridwar to Kedarnath packages priced at ₹40,000 – ₹60,000 Per Couple, which includes private taxi, skilled drivers, comfortable hotel stays with breakfast & dinner along with local expertise and darshan assistance.
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3 Types of Packages from Haridwar to Kedarnath
| Package Category | Package Price | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | ₹40,000 per couple | Travellers comfortable with clean, basic hotels |
| Deluxe – Most Booked | ₹50,000 per couple | Families and couples looking for better available hotels |
| Premium | ₹60,000 per couple | Travellers seeking the best available hotels available on the route |
Day-Wise Haridwar to Kedarnath Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Haridwar - Guptkashi (200 km drive/7-8 hrs)
We’ll meet you at Haridwar railway station and head straight towards Sitapur. The drive takes about 7–8 hours via Srinagar (Dhari Devi Temple). Reach by evening, check into the hotel, have dinner, and rest for the night.
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Day 02: Sitapur to Kedarnath (Drive + 17 km trek)
Early morning you leave for Sonprayag, then a short local taxi to Gaurikund. From here your 17 km trek to Kedarnath starts.By evening you’ll be at the temple. Join the darshan and evening aarti, then stay overnight near the temple.
Day 03: Kedarnath to Sitapur (17 km trek back)
Early morning you can go for darshan again if you missed earlier and visit nearby places. After that, trek back down to Gaurikund, take the local taxi to Sonprayag, and drive back to Sitapur. Dinner and night stay at the hotel.
Day 04: Sitapur to Haridwar (200 km / 7–8 hrs)
After breakfast, check out and drive back to Haridwar. Take a short break at Devprayag. By evening you’ll be back in Haridwar for drop-off.
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From Our Experts
Hotel Stays During Haridwar to Kedarnath Tour
We carefully select hotels based on cleanliness, location, food quality, guest reviews and proximity to the travel route. Every hotel is chosen to provide a comfortable overnight stay for families, senior citizens and first-time pilgrims.
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Hotel names may change depending on availability, but we always provide the same or a higher category. Every stay is personally verified by our local team for quality and comfort.
Explore Hotels Options In Kedarnath Route
Guptkashi and Sersi provide practical stay options for Kedarnath — from simple budget rooms to premium hotels located close to the Sersi helipad.
At Kedarnath, only GMVN tents and private Dharamshala rooms are allowed, and we arrange the safest available rooms for night stays.
These hotels are not luxury-focused, but they are comfortable, reliable, and suitable for seniors, families, and first-time pilgrims. With the right stay plan, your Kedarnath journey becomes simpler, less tiring, and much easier to manage.
Sonprayag – New Mandakini Resort (2 Nights)
Kedarnath – Private Dharamshala (1 Night)
Kedarnath stays are basic due to altitude. We book private rooms in Dharamshalas (no GMVN shared tents).
Guptkashi (Sersi) – Hotel Manni Shri (2 Nights)
Kedarnath – Private Dharamshala (1 Night)
Kedarnath stays are basic due to altitude. We book private rooms in Dharamshalas (no GMVN shared tents).
Guptkashi (Phata) – Hotel Sun Inn by Amritara (2 Nights)
Kedarnath – Private Dharamshala (1 Night)
Kedarnath stays are basic due to altitude. We book private rooms in Dharamshalas (no GMVN shared tents).
How to Book This Tour?
6 simple steps to book your Kedarnath Yatra
Select between Budget, Deluxe, or Premium plans based on your comfort.
Finalize the total number of travelers joining the trip.
Share your Arrival & Departure details for planning.
Receive all travel details instantly via Email or WhatsApp.
Secure your booking by making a small 25% advance payment.
Receive your final voucher 7 days prior to your arrival.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the total distance from Haridwar to Kedarnath?
The distance from Haridwar to Kedarnath is approximately 250 km by road to Gaurikund, followed by a 16 km trek to Kedarnath Temple. The total journey is around 266 km, including the trek.
2. How many hours does it take to travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath?
The road journey from Haridwar to Gaurikund takes around 8–10 hours, depending on traffic and weather. After reaching Gaurikund, pilgrims complete the 16 km trek, which usually takes 6–8 hours.
3. What is the best route from Haridwar to Kedarnath by road?
The most popular route is Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath. This is the fastest and most preferred route for private vehicles and tour packages.
4. Can I reach Kedarnath from Haridwar in one day?
No. Although the road journey can be completed in a day, the 16 km trek and temple timings make a same-day return impractical. Most pilgrims choose a 3 Nights / 4 Days itinerary for a comfortable visit.
5. How much does a Haridwar to Kedarnath tour package cost?
A Haridwar to Kedarnath tour package typically starts from ₹20,000 per person, depending on hotel category, vehicle type, and group size. Premium packages with upgraded hotels and private transport cost more.
6. What is included in a Haridwar to Kedarnath tour package?
Most packages include private transportation, hotel accommodation, breakfast, dinner, driver allowance, toll taxes, and parking charges. Helicopter tickets, pony, palki, and personal expenses are generally excluded unless mentioned.
7. Is Haridwar to Kedarnath tour suitable for senior citizens?
Yes. The tour is suitable for senior citizens with proper planning. Many pilgrims choose private taxi packages, comfortable hotels, and helicopter services or pony/palki options to reduce physical exertion.
8. Can I travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath by helicopter?
Yes. Pilgrims can travel by road from Haridwar to Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi and then take a helicopter to Kedarnath. Helicopter tickets can be booked through the official IRCTC HeliYatra portal, subject to availability and weather conditions.
9. Which is the best month to travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath?
The best time to travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath is May–June and September–October, when the weather is pleasant, roads are accessible, and trekking conditions are generally favourable. Avoid the peak monsoon season due to landslide risks.
10. Where can I stay on the way from Haridwar to Kedarnath?
Accommodation options are available in Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, Sonprayag, and Gaurikund. Limited stays are available at Kedarnath. Booking in advance is advisable.
11. What are the must-visit stops between Haridwar and Kedarnath?
Key stops include Rishikesh, Devprayag (Ganga confluence), Rudraprayag, Guptkashi (Vishwanath Temple), and Triyuginarayan Temple.
12. Do I need any permits for the Kedarnath Yatra?
Yes, Yatra registration is mandatory and can be done online or at registration counters in Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Sonprayag
13. Are medical facilities available on the Kedarnath route?
Yes, primary health centers are in Guptkashi, Sonprayag, and Kedarnath. Medical aid posts are also available along the trek.
14. Where can I find food on the way to Kedarnath?
Yes, primary health centers are in Guptkashi, Sonprayag, and Kedarnath. Medical aid posts are also available along the trek.