Located in Guptkashi, the Ardh Narishwar Temple is a unique shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in a single form—half male and half female. It symbolizes the balance of divine masculine and feminine energies. The temple is small but spiritually significant, attracting pilgrims en route to Kedarnath. Its peaceful setting and rare deity form make it a must-visit for spiritual seekers.
Kedarnath Temple
Trek to the abode of Lord Shiva’s blessings
Kedarnath Temple Guide
Kedarnath Temple is a famous Shiva temple and one of the Jyotirling in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, located at around 11,755 feet. To reach the temple, you have to trek nearly 16 km from Gaurikund, which is the last motorable point. The temple opens in early May and closes around mid-November, depending on weather conditions. From December to April, the area gets heavy snowfall and becomes completely inaccessible.
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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 Temple
To Reach Kedarnath Temple 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 Mandir, 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.
Planning your first Kedarnath Trek? Don’t make these mistakes!
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 Temple
The best time to visit Kedarnath Temple 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 Uttarakhand
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.
Kedarnath Temple Opening Date & Registration 2025
Kedarnath temple usually opens in late April or early May and closes by mid-November, depending on weather. For 2025, the shrine will open on 02 May 2025. Every pilgrim must complete mandatory registration to get the Yatra QR code, without which entry is not allowed. Registration can be done online or at designated counters in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Sonprayag.
Opening Date 2025: Declared on Maha Shivratri
Closing Date: Around Bhai Dooj (mid-Nov)
Registration: Mandatory for all pilgrims
Where to Register: Online portal + Haridwar/Rishikesh counters
Documents Required: Aadhaar/ID proof, mobile number
Yatra Pass: QR code issued after registration
Places To See In Kedarnath Temple
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
Kedarnath Temple Trek Route & Distance
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.
If you are planning your first Kedarnath trek then don’t ignore these common mistakes that many first-time travelers make.
- Mistake #1: Starting the Trek Too Late in the Day
- Mistake #2: Ignoring the Altitude and Cold
- Mistake #3: Underestimating Kedarnath Trek Distance
- Mistake #4: Not Booking Palki, Mule, or Helicopter Early
- Mistake #5: Wearing wrong shoes and slippers
- Mistake #6: Not Carrying Rain Protection
- Mistake #7: Carrying too much and too little
- Mistake #8: Not Doing Kedarnath Trek Registration
- Mistake #9: No Acclimatization or Physical Prepration
Mistake #10: Forgetting Medicines and Essentials
Kedarnath Trek Route & Safety
Kedarnath trek starts from Gaurikund and stretches about 16–17 km to the temple. The route passes Rambara and Linchauli before reaching the shrine. Trek difficulty is moderate but the high altitude (11,755 ft) makes it challenging for seniors or those with health issues. Facilities like pony, palki, and helicopter services are available for support. Always check your fitness and weather before starting.
Start Point: Gaurikund (reachable by road from Sonprayag)
Trek Distance: 16–17 km one way
Elevation Gain: Around 5,000 feet
Best Time: May–June & Sept–Oct
Facilities: Ponies, palanquins, helicopter options from nearby helipads
Safety Advisory: Read about trek safety for heart patients and planning Kedarnath Yatra with kids/elderly
About Travel Vaidya – Trusted Char Dham Yatra Experts
Travel Vaidya is a dedicated travel company in Dehradun, Uttarakhand with over 9 years of experience organizing Char Dham Yatras. Based in the region, our team offers on-ground expertise, good hotels, experienced drivers, and real-time yatra support. We’ve helped over 1,000 yatris annually with reliable, senior-friendly tour plans.
• 9+ years of experience in Uttarakhand pilgrimage tours
• Thoughtfully created travel plans
• Professional and experienced taxi drivers
• Handpicked selection of hotels for best experience
• Flexible booking and cancellation policy
• 24/7 on-ground support during yatra for route/weather issues
Key Highlights of Kedarnath Temple
| Location | Uttarakhand, 3,583m above sea level |
| History | 8th century, built by Adi Shankaracharya |
| Significance | 12 Jyotirlingas, Char Dham Yatra |
| Season | Opens Apr/May, closes Oct/Nov |
| Trek | 16–18 km from Gaurikund, heli service available |
| River | Mandakini flows beside temple |
| Nearest Town | Gaurikund, 16 km trek start point |
| Airport | Jolly Grant, Dehradun (239 km) |
| Rail | Rishikesh (221 km) |
| Altitude | 3,583m / 11,755 ft |
Places to See In Kedarnath Temple
When people hear about Kedarnath, the picture that comes to mind is always about the main temple, but if you look around, there are many more places to see in Kedarnath Temple that add depth to the yatra. Some are quiet corners where you hear nothing but the river and the wind, some are old shrines with stories the locals still tell, and a few are short walks that open up to big mountain views.
Where to Stay in Kedarnath?
If you’re visiting Kedarnath, stay near Kedarnath Temple as it makes things easier after the long trek. Most of the places near the shrine are dharamshalas that run only between May and November. These stays are owned by local Purohits and offer rooms with 4 to 8 bed sharing. Facilities include basic bedding, attached washrooms, and hot water. No luxury or online booking. Just basic shelter, food, and a place to rest before or after darshan.
Hotels Near Kedarnath Temple
Many people look for a hotel in Kedarnath Uttarakhand, but there are no regular hotels here. Most pilgrims stay in dharamshalas or tent camps managed by local Purohits. These dharamshalas also provide basic food to the people staying with them, usually simple vegetarian meals served within the premises. Tent stays start from ₹1000 per person on sharing basis, while a private room in a dharamshala can cost around ₹3000 per person.
Top-Selling Kedarnath Tour Packages
Check out these top-selling Kedarnath tour packages designed for spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike. These packages include the sacred Char Dham Yatra, Teen Dham tours (Kedarnath, Badrinath & Gangotri), and dedicated Do Dham options with Badrinath or Yamunotri. You can also experience scenic stays at places like Guptkashi and Chopta, offering both peace and adventure. Ideal for families, couples, and groups looking for a meaningful Himalayan journey filled with devotion, natural beauty, and lasting memories.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Where is Kedarnath Temple located?
Kedarnath Temple is in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, at an altitude of 11,755 feet near the Mandakini River. It’s one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and a major Char Dham site, accessible by a 16 km trek from Gaurikund.
Q2. Why is Kedarnath Temple so important?
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and forms part of the Char Dham Yatra. It’s believed Adi Shankaracharya revived it in the 8th century, making it a central pilgrimage in Uttarakhand.
Q3. How do I reach Kedarnath in Uttarakhand?
You can reach Kedarnath Uttarakhand via Rishikesh/Haridwar to Sonprayag by road, then continue by local jeep to Gaurikund and trek 16 km. Helicopter services from Phata, Guptkashi, and Dehradun are also available.
Q4. What is the climate like in Kedarnath Uttarakhand?
Kedarnath has a cold alpine climate. Summers (May–June) are cool and suitable for trekking, while monsoon brings landslides. September–October is again safe for yatra. Winters remain snowbound, and the temple stays closed.
Q5. How many days are needed for Kedarnath Dham Yatra?
Most pilgrims complete the Kedarnath Dham Yatra in 3 days — one day to reach Sonprayag/Gaurikund, one day for the trek and darshan, and one day to return. Those combining with Badrinath need at least 5–6 days.
Q6. How difficult is the Kedarnath Dham Yatra?
The Kedarnath Dham trek from Gaurikund is around 18 km, with steep stretches near Rambara and Linchauli. It’s moderately difficult, especially due to high altitude. Ponies, palkis, and helicopter services are available for those who cannot trek.
Q7. What are the darshan timings at Kedarnath Mandir?
The Kedarnath Mandir usually opens around 6:00 AM and remains open till evening aarti around 7:00 PM. Afternoon hours may have restricted entry for rituals.
Q8. Who built Kedarnath Mandir?
The Kedarnath Mandir is believed to have been built by the Pandavas and later revived by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
Q9. What can you see inside Kedarnath Temple?
Inside Kedarnath Temple, the sanctum houses a conical rock Shivlingam, representing Lord Shiva. The inner walls depict carvings of deities like Parvati and Pandavas.
Q10. Is photography allowed inside Kedarnath Temple?
No, photography or videography is strictly prohibited inside Kedarnath Temple. Pilgrims are only allowed to view and offer prayers.
Q11. What is the height of Kedarnath Temple in feet?
Kedarnath Temple is situated at an altitude of 11,755 feet (3,583 m) above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Q12. Does the height of Kedarnath affect pilgrims?
Yes, due to Kedarnath’s height in feet, many pilgrims face low oxygen and fatigue. Seniors and heart patients must consult doctors before traveling.
Q13. What is the best time to visit Kedarnath Temple?
The best time to visit Kedarnath is during May–June and September–October. Weather is stable, roads are open, and darshan is easier compared to monsoon.
Q14. Can I visit Kedarnath Temple in July or August?
Travel during July–August is not advised. Heavy monsoon rains cause landslides and road closures, making yatra unsafe.
Q15. How long does Kedarnath remain open?
Kedarnath Temple remains open for about six months each year — from late April/early May to mid-November.
Q16. Is registration mandatory for Kedarnath Yatra
Yes, Kedarnath Registration 2025 is mandatory for all pilgrims. Without a valid QR code/Yatra pass, entry is not allowed.
Q17. How to complete Kedarnath Yatra registration?
Pilgrims can register online on the official Uttarakhand Tourism portal or at counters in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Sonprayag. Aadhaar or valid ID proof is required.
Q18. What is the nearest railway station to Kedarnath?
The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh (approx. 210 km). Haridwar (around 240 km) is better connected with trains from major Indian cities.