Rishikesh to Kedarnath Tour - Distance, Route & Cost Details
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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 Rishikesh as the Starting Point for Your Kedarnath Tour?
Rishikesh is one of the best-connected gateways for Kedarnath Yatra. The city has smooth highway connectivity from New Delhi, and frequent trains run from Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, Puri, and Varanasi, making it easy for pilgrims from all parts of India. Most taxi and cab services for Kedarnath and Char Dham tours also start from Rishikesh, giving travelers flexible options.
From here, the journey to Sonprayag is about 210 km (8 hours by road), followed by the 16–17 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple. With plenty of hotels for pre- and post-yatra stays, Rishikesh is especially suitable for families with children and senior citizens.
- Smooth highway drive from Delhi to Rishikesh
- 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
Rishikesh to Kedarnath Distance & Travel Time & Route
Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance is about 210 km by road plus a 16-18 km trek from Gaurikund. The drive takes 8–10 hours, passing through Devprayag, Srinagar and Rudraprayag before reaching Sonprayag by evening. From Sonprayag, a shuttle (local taxi) covers the 5 km distance to Gaurikund (trek start point). The 16 km trek to Kedarnath is usually started the next morning.
Rishikesh to Kedarnath Key Route Details
- Total Distance (Rishikesh to Gaurikund): Approx. 210 km
- Trek Distance (Gaurikund to Kedarnath): 16-18 km
- Total Travel Time: 08-10 hours by road + 7–9 hours trek
- Road Condition: Hilly terrain with mix of smooth roads, narrow mountain bends, and landslide-prone stretches during rains
- Altitude Gain: Rishikesh (372 m) to Kedarnath (3,583 m) – gradual but steep climb
Major Stopovers on Rishikesh to Kedarnath Route
- Devprayag (70 km from Rishikesh): 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 (200 km): Last motorable point for vehicles before Gaurikund.
- Gaurikund (210 km): Starting point of the 16 km trek to Kedarnath.
Travel Tips:
- Start early from Rishikesh (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.
Rishikesh to Kedarnath Distance Chart
| Route | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 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) | 16-18 Km | 7–9 hrs |
How to Reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh?
To Reach Kedarnath Temple you need to arrive at Rishikesh by train or road. The journey from Rishikesh to Kedarnath involves a road trip of about 210 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 Rishikesh.
- 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 Rishikesh 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 Rishikesh & Haridwar 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.
Taxi Services from Rishikesh to Kedarnath
Hiring a taxi from Rishikesh 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 200 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 |
Rishikesh to Kedarnath Trek Route
The trek to Kedarnath starts only after reaching Gaurikund, the last road-head. From Rishikesh, pilgrims travel by road through the Char Dham highway till Sonprayag, then shift to a government shuttle to reach Gaurikund. From here, the 16-18 km uphill trek to Kedarnath begins. This is the traditional and only way to access the temple by foot.
Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath
Rishikesh to Gaurikund (Road Journey)
- Distance: Around 210–210 km
- Travel Time: 7–8 hours by car/taxi, slightly longer by bus
- Common Stopovers: Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, Sonprayag
- Transport Options:
- Private taxi/cab (Dzire, Ertiga, Innova, SUV, Tempo Traveller)
- State-run buses from Rishikesh/Haridwar 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: 16-18 km uphill from Gaurikund to Kedarnath
- Average Time: 9–10 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 Rishikesh
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.
Yatra Registration & Emergency Contacts
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 get a fitness certificate before attempting the trek.
Packing List for Rishikesh 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.
Planning Kedarnath Yatra with Keds or Elderly? Read this first!
Travel Tips for Rishikesh 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
Rishikesh to Kedarnath Tour Package Cost & Inclusions
Travel Vaidya offers all-inclusive Rishikesh 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 Rishikesh 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 Rishikesh to Kedarnath Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Rishikesh - Guptkashi (200 km drive/7-8 hrs)
We’ll meet you at Rishikesh 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 Rishikesh (200 km / 7–8 hrs)
After breakfast, check out and drive back to Rishikesh. Take a short break at Devprayag. By evening you’ll be back in Rishikesh for drop-off.
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From Our Experts
Hotel Stays During Rishikesh 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. How long does Kedarnath Yatra from Rishikesh take?
By road, it takes around 2 days to reach Kedarnath, followed by an 18 km trek from Gaurikund. A helicopter tour completes it in a single day. Travel duration depends on road conditions, weather, and crowd levels.
2. How can I travel from Rishikesh to Kedarnath?
You can travel by bus, taxi, or private car to Gaurikund. From there, you must trek, hire a pony/palki, or opt for a helicopter service from nearby helipads like Phata, Guptkashi, or Sirsi.
3. Is the road from Rishikesh to Kedarnath in good condition?
The Rishikesh to Kedarnath road distance is covered via well-paved but mountainous roads. During the monsoon season (July–August), landslides may cause disruptions.
4. Are there direct buses from Rishikesh to Kedarnath?
There are no direct buses to Kedarnath from Rishikesh. Buses run to Sonprayag, from where you take a shared taxi to Gaurikund, then continue on foot or via other transport options.
5. When is the best time to visit Kedarnath from Rishikesh?
The ideal time for the Kedarnath Yatra from Rishikesh is May–June and September–October. Monsoon (July–August) brings heavy rainfall and landslides, while winters (November–April) see heavy snowfall and temple closure.
6. How difficult is the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath?
The 16 km trek is moderate to difficult, with steep inclines. It takes 5–7 hours. Ponies, palkis, and helicopter services are available.
7. Are taxis or shared cabs available from Rishikesh to Kedarnath?
Yes, you can hire private taxis or shared cabs to Sonprayag. From Sonprayag, a local shared taxi takes you to Gaurikund.
8. Is the Kedarnath Yatra suitable for seniors and children?
Yes, but it can be physically demanding. Seniors and children can opt for helicopters, ponies, or palkis instead of trekking
9. What is the weather like in Kedarnath throughout the year?
Summer (May–June): Pleasant, 10–20°C.
Monsoon (July–August): Heavy rains, landslides.
Autumn (Sept–Oct): Cool, 5–15°C.
Winter (Nov–April): Snowbound, temple closed.
10. Are helicopter services available from Rishikesh to Kedarnath?
There are no direct helicopters from Rishikesh. However, services operate from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi. Kedarnath helicopter charges start from ₹5,500–₹7,000 per person (one-way) from Phata. For a complete tour package from Dehradun, prices start from ₹2,30,000 per person.
11. Where can I stay on the way from Rishikesh to Kedarnath?
Accommodation options are available in Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, Sonprayag, and Gaurikund. Limited stays are available at Kedarnath. Booking in advance is advisable.
12. What are the must-visit stops between Rishikesh and Kedarnath?
Key stops include Devprayag (Ganga confluence), Dhari Devi Temple, Rudraprayag, Guptkashi (Vishwanath Temple), and Triyuginarayan Temple.
13. 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
14. 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.
15. 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.