How long does it take to reach Kedarnath by road? What is the best route? Is the trek difficult? Every year millions of people ask these questions before embarking on one of Indiaβs most spiritual and beautiful road trips. Let us dive into details about everything in this detailed guide for Delhi to Kedarnath Dham Yatra.
Kedarnath is at 3583 meters and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a part of the Chardham Yatra. The distance from Delhi is 450 km but the real challenge begins from Gaurikund where a 16 km trek or a helicopter ride awaits. This year the Kedarnath trek route has been improved with better facilities, shelter points and medical aid stations making the yatra safer and more comfortable. If you are planning to drive from Delhi to Kedarnath this guide will give you detailed insights, hidden travel tips and the latest updates to make your journey smooth and memorable.
What is the Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
Kedarnath Temple opens around April last week or the first week of May on Akshaya Tritiya and closes after Diwali. May and June are the best time to visit as the weather is pleasant and trekking season. Skies are clear and roads are open, itβs the peak time.
From July to August heavy rainfall increases the risk of landslides, road blockages and unpredictable trekking. Itβs better to avoid it if not necessary.
September and October are quieter and more peaceful times with crisp air and beautiful views of snow capped peaks. Itβs best for those who prefer less crowd and good weather.
During winter the temple is closed and Kedarnath is not accessible due to heavy snowfall. The deity is shifted to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath where devotees can continue their prayers. This year some additional safety measures have been introduced like better weather monitoring and trekking assistance to make the yatra safer and more organized.
Distance and Route Options from Delhi to Kedarnath
The total distance from Delhi to Kedarnath is around 450 km but this includes road and trekking. The motorable distance from Delhi to Sonprayag is 415 km. From Sonprayag, one has to take a shared taxi to Gaurikund which is the starting point of 16 km trek to the temple. The journey passes through some of the most beautiful places of Uttarakhand and offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, valleys and river confluences. Two routes connect Delhi to Kedarnath.
Via Haridwar and Rishikesh-
Delhi- Ghaziabad- Muzaffarnagar- Haridwar- Rishikesh- Devprayag- Srinagar- Rudraprayag- Guptkashi- Sonprayag- Gaurikund
This is the most preferred route that goes through the famous pilgrimage towns Haridwar and Rishikesh. There you can take a holy dip in the river Ganges at Haridwar or visit Rishikesh for a spiritual retreat. The road is good and has multiple options for overnight stays.
Via Kotdwar and Devprayag-
Delhi- Ghaziabad- Najibabad- Kotdwar- Devprayag- Srinagar- Rudraprayag- Guptkashi- Sonprayag- Gaurikund
This route is less crowded and goes through Kotdwar which is known for its scenic beauty and Siddhbali Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Devprayag where Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers meet to form Ganga is another spiritual site on this route. The road is good but has fewer options for accommodations and restaurants as compared to Haridwar Rishikesh route.
Do Not miss: Cost of Chardham Yatra from Delhi
Travel Time and Best Stops between Delhi and Kedarnath
The total travel time from Delhi to Kedarnath depends on roads, traffic and weather. On an average it takes 10-12 hours to reach Sonprayag by road. From Sonprayag a local taxi ride of 30-45 minutes will take you to Gaurikund. The last leg of the journey is a 16 km trek which takes around 6-8 hours depending on your fitness level and weather conditions.
For a comfortable journey take rest stops at the following places
Haridwar or Rishikeshβ A great place to relax, enjoy local food and watch the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri or Triveni Ghat.
Devprayagβ A spiritual site where Ganga originates with beautiful views of the river confluence.
Rudraprayagβ A scenic town where Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers meet with temples to visit.
Guptkashiβ A big pilgrimage stop with ancient Vishwanath Temple and Ardhnarishwar Temple.
Timing of Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath Temple has a fixed schedule for daily prayers and pooja. Temple opens at 4:00 AM with Maha Abhishek, so if you want to have darshan in peace before the crowd then you can come early. The temple remains open till 9:00 PM with a break from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM for poojas. The evening aarti is at 7:00 PM. Please follow the dress code and be silent inside the temple. In winter when the temple is closed, the idol is shifted to Omkareshwar temple in Ukhimath and the darshan continues. Temple has introduced online booking system for darshan slots to reduce the queue and crowd.
How to Travel from Delhi to Kedarnath
By Car
Car travel is best for comfort. The 415 km drive to Sonprayag via NH-7 is through scenic routes and important pilgrimage towns. Private vehicles have to be parked at Sonprayag as only local taxis are allowed to Gaurikund. You can rent a car from Delhi for your group for a comfortable journey.
By Bus
Government and private buses are available from Delhi to Rishikesh and Haridwar. The journey takes around 7-8 hours and the ticket price ranges from INR 550 to INR 800. From Rishikesh you need to take another bus or shared taxi to Sonprayag which will take additional 7-8 hours. This is the cheapest option but not so comfortable for long travel.
By Tempo Traveller
A Tempo Traveller from Delhi to Kedarnath is good for group travel. These vehicles have more space, luggage space and smoother ride than buses. The journey from Delhi to Sonprayag takes around 10-12 hours. You can travel with your group and split the cost while enjoying the route.
By Train
There is no direct train to Kedarnath. The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh which is 210 km from Sonprayag. Trains from Delhi to Rishikesh take 6 to 7 hours. From Rishikesh you need to travel by road using buses or taxis. Train travel is economical option but requires additional road transport.
By Air
Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun which is 235 km from Kedarnath. Flights from Delhi to Dehradun take around 1 hour. From the airport, taxis are available to Sonprayag and then the usual taxi ride to Gaurikund and trek to Kedarnath. Helicopter services from Phata, Guptkashi and Sersi are available for those who want to shorten the journey. Recently, Uttarakhand government has increased helicopter service to accommodate more passengers making it a viable option for senior citizens and those with time constraint.
Places to Visit Near Kedarnath
Once the Kedarnath yatra is complete you can explore other places that offer spiritual, historical and natural experiences.
Vasuki Tal
Vasuki Tal is located 8 km from Kedarnath and is a high altitude glacial lake surrounded by mountains. The trek to Vasuki Tal is challenging and recommended for experienced trekkers. You will find the lake has crystal clear water and reflects the surrounding mountains.
Chorabari Lake (Gandhi Sarovar)
At a distance of just 3 km from Kedarnath this glacial lake is famous for its views. It is called Gandhi Sarovar because Mahatma Gandhiβs ashes were immersed here. The trek to the lake is short but offers beautiful landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere away from the main temple area.
Bhairav Temple
This temple dedicated to Lord Bhairav is near the Kedarnath Temple. According to legend Lord Bhairav protects the area when Kedarnath Temple is closed in winter. The temple offers great views of Kedarnath valley and is a must visit for pilgrims.
Gauri Kund
Gauri Kund is the place where Goddess Parvati is believed to have meditated to win Lord Shivaβs heart. It is also the starting point of the Kedarnath trek. The hot water springs at Gauri Kund attract people who believe in its healing properties. Many pilgrims take a dip in these waters before starting their trek.
Shankaracharya Samadhi
Behind the Kedarnath Temple is the samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya, the great philosopher who revived Hinduism and established the Char Dham yatra. The site is historical and spiritual and attracts devotees and history enthusiasts. In recent years the Uttarakhand government has renovated the area making it more accessible for tourists.
