Kedarnath Yatra Route Map

The Kedarnath Yatra is a pilgrimage to the Kedarnath temple located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most sacred sites for Hindu devotees. The yatra typically begins from the town of Haridwar and takes around 7-8 days to complete.

The route map for the Kedarnath Yatra starts from Haridwar, and pilgrims travel to the town of Guptkashi by road. From Guptkashi, the journey continues to Gaurikund, which is the last motorable point of the yatra. Pilgrims then have to trek around 16 kilometers from Gaurikund to reach Kedarnath temple. The trek involves a steep climb and passes through beautiful scenery and several small villages. Once at the temple, pilgrims can offer their prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The return journey follows the same route back to Haridwar.

How to Reach Kedarnath

• By Air: The nearest airport to Kedarnath is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 238 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kedarnath.
• By Train: The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is in Rishikesh, which is around 216 km away. From Rishikesh, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Kedarnath.
• By Road: Kedarnath is well-connected by road and can be reached by taking a bus or hiring a taxi from major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun. The last motorable point is Gaurikund, from where you need to trek 16 km to reach Kedarnath.
• Helicopter Service: Helicopter services are also available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi for those who want to avoid the trek. These services operate during the pilgrimage season from May to October.

Road Distance Chart from Major Cities

Here is a road distance chart to Kedarnath from major cities:

• Delhi to Kedarnath: The distance between Delhi and Kedarnath is approximately 458 km. It takes around 14-15 hours to cover this distance by road.
• Haridwar to Kedarnath: The distance between Haridwar and Kedarnath is approximately 225 km. It takes around 10-11 hours to cover this distance by road.
• Dehradun to Kedarnath: The distance between Dehradun and Kedarnath is approximately 258 km. It takes around 11-12 hours to cover this distance by road.
• Rishikesh to Kedarnath: The distance between Rishikesh and Kedarnath is approximately 189 km. It takes around 9-10 hours to cover this distance by road.
• Guptkashi to Kedarnath: The distance between Guptkashi and Kedarnath is approximately 32 km. It takes around 2-3 hours to cover this distance by road.

Kedarnath Route Map from Major Parts of India

Here’s the route map to Kedarnath from major parts of India:

• Route map from Delhi: Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Gaurikund – Kedarnath.
• Route map from Mumbai: Mumbai – Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Gaurikund – Kedarnath.
• Route map from Kolkata: Kolkata – Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Gaurikund – Kedarnath.
• Route map from Bengaluru: Bengaluru – Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Gaurikund – Kedarnath.
• Route map from Chennai: Chennai – Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Gaurikund – Kedarnath.

Please note that the route map may differ depending on your starting point and mode of transportation. The last motorable point is Gaurikund, from where you need to trek 16 km to reach Kedarnath. Helicopter services are also available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi for those who want to avoid the trek. It is advisable to check the weather conditions and road status before planning your trip.

Travel Tips for Kedarnath Yatra

• Plan your trip in advance: Kedarnath Yatra is a seasonal pilgrimage that takes place from May to October. It is advisable to plan your trip well in advance and make all the necessary bookings beforehand.
• Check the weather forecast: The weather in Kedarnath can be unpredictable, and it is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip. It is also important to carry warm clothes as the temperature can drop significantly in the night.
• Carry essential items: While trekking to Kedarnath, it is important to carry essential items such as a water bottle, snacks, first aid kit, torch, and a warm jacket. It is also advisable to carry a walking stick for support.
• Hire a guide/porter: If you are not familiar with the terrain, it is advisable to hire a guide or porter who can assist you during the trek. They can also help carry your luggage.
• Follow the instructions: It is important to follow the instructions provided by the authorities during the yatra, such as the trekking time, the dos and don’ts, and the safety guidelines.
• Respect the local culture: Kedarnath is a holy town, and it is important to respect the local culture and traditions. Dress modestly and refrain from any behavior that can be considered disrespectful.
• Stay hydrated: It is important to stay hydrated during the trek, and it is advisable to carry a water bottle with you at all times.

Things to Carry for Kedarnath Yatra

• Warm clothes: Kedarnath is located at a high altitude, and the temperature can drop significantly in the night. It is advisable to carry warm clothes such as a jacket, shawl, gloves, and a hat.
• Trekking shoes: The trek to Kedarnath involves steep and rugged terrain, and it is important to wear comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes that provide a good grip.
• Water bottle: It is important to stay hydrated during the trek, and it is advisable to carry a water bottle with you at all times.
• Snacks: It is advisable to carry some snacks such as energy bars, dry fruits, and biscuits that can provide you with instant energy during the trek.
• First aid kit: It is advisable to carry a basic first aid kit that includes items such as band-aids, antiseptic lotion, pain relievers, and any prescribed medication.
• Torch/Headlamp: It is important to carry a torch or headlamp with you as there is no electricity in Kedarnath and the surrounding areas.
• Walking stick: It is advisable to carry a walking stick for support during the trek.
• Backpack: A lightweight backpack can be useful for carrying all the essential items.

FAQs for Kedarnath Yatra

What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?
The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and from September to November. The weather is pleasant during these months, and the skies are clear, making it easy to trek.

How to Reach Kedarnath?
The closest airport to Kedarnath is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 239 km away. The closest railway station is in Rishikesh, which is about 216 km away. From there, you can take a cab or a bus to reach Kedarnath.

Is there any restriction on the number of people who can visit Kedarnath at a time?
Yes, due to the fragile ecosystem of the region, the Uttarakhand government has restricted the number of people who can visit Kedarnath at a time. Only a maximum of 2000 pilgrims are allowed to visit the temple in a day.

Do I need to carry any special gear for the Kedarnath trek?
Yes, you need to carry warm clothes, a raincoat, a good pair of trekking shoes, and a trekking pole. You should also carry a first aid kit, a water bottle, and energy bars.

Is it safe to trek to Kedarnath?
Yes, it is safe to trek to Kedarnath, but you should be physically fit and mentally prepared for the trek. You should also follow the instructions of the local authorities and the trekking guides.

Are there any accommodation options in Kedarnath?
Yes, there are several accommodation options in Kedarnath, including guest houses, lodges, and tents. You should book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.

Is there any medical facility available in Kedarnath?
Yes, there is a primary health center in Kedarnath, which provides basic medical facilities. In case of an emergency, you can be airlifted to a hospital in Dehradun or other nearby cities.

Are there any restrictions on photography in Kedarnath?
No, there are no restrictions on photography in Kedarnath, but you should be respectful of the local customs and beliefs. You should also take care not to damage any of the structures or artifacts in the temple complex.

What are some of the other places to visit near Kedarnath?
Some of the other places to visit near Kedarnath include Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and the Valley of Flowers National Park.