Kedarnath Yatra – Complete Guide

Region

Uttarakhand

Trek Grade

Moderate

Trek Distance

22 Km

Highest Altitude

11,657 Ft.

Overview

The Kedarnath Yatra is one of the most sacred and spiritually uplifting pilgrimages in India. Nestled at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 ft) in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district, Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and part of the revered Char Dham Yatra. Surrounded by snow-clad Himalayan peaks and the Mandakini River flowing nearby, Kedarnath offers not just divine blessings but also an unforgettable trekking experience.

The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath (16 km) is moderate in difficulty but deeply rewarding, combining spiritual devotion with natural beauty. Pilgrims and trekkers alike walk through alpine meadows, gushing streams, and panoramic Himalayan landscapes, making this journey both soulful and scenic.

Short Itinerary (3N/4D)

  • Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh/Haridwar – Transfer to Guptkashi (220 km, 8-9 hrs)

  • Day 2: Drive to Gaurikund – Trek to Kedarnath (16 km, 6-7 hrs)

  • Day 3: Morning Darshan at Kedarnath Temple – Trek back to Gaurikund – Transfer to Guptkashi

  • Day 4: Drive back to Haridwar/Rishikesh – Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar/Rishikesh – Drive to Guptkashi
  • Pickup from Haridwar/Rishikesh.

  • Drive along the holy rivers Ganga and Alaknanda with scenic views of Devprayag and Rudraprayag.

  • Arrival at Guptkashi by evening.

  • Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 2: Guptkashi – Gaurikund – Trek to Kedarnath (16 km)
  • Early morning drive (30 km) to Gaurikund – the base camp of the trek.

  • Begin your 16 km trek to Kedarnath, passing Rambara, Jungle Chatti, and Bheembali.

  • Trek duration: 6–7 hours (mule/palki options available for those who need).

  • Evening arrival in Kedarnath.

  • Overnight stay in Kedarnath (guesthouse/dharamshala/camps).

Day 3: Kedarnath Darshan – Trek back to Gaurikund – Drive to Guptkashi

Kedarnath

  • Early morning darshan at Temple. Witness the divine aura amidst mighty Himalayan peaks.

  • Post darshan, trek back to Gaurikund.

  • Drive back to Guptkashi.

  • Overnight stay.

Day 4: Guptkashi – Rishikesh/Haridwar – Departure

Rishikesh

  • After breakfast, drive back to Rishikesh/Haridwar.

  • Trip concludes with sacred blessings and lifetime memories.

Inclusions – Everything We Take Care Of

  • Transport from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Guptkashi & return

  • Accommodation (hotel/guesthouse/camp) on twin/triple sharing basis

  • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner during the trip

  • Trek permits & entry fees

  • Experienced trek leader & support team

  • First aid & oxygen cylinder (for emergency use)

Exclusions – What’s Not Included?

  • Air/train fare to Haridwar/Rishikesh

  • Helicopter services, pony/mule/palki charges

  • Lunch during road journeys

  • Any personal expenses (tips, laundry, bottled water, etc.)

  • Travel insurance

  • Anything not mentioned under “Inclusions”

FAQs – We’ve Got All Your Questions Covered!

What is the best time for Kedarnath Yatra?

The temple opens in May (Akshaya Tritiya) and closes around October/November (Kartik Purnima). The best months are May–June and September–October.

How difficult is the trek to Kedarnath?

The 16 km trek is moderate. People with average fitness can complete it in 6–7 hours. Options like ponies, palkis, and helicopters are also available.

Can senior citizens undertake the Kedarnath trek?

Yes, but they should get a medical check-up before traveling. Senior citizens often opt for helicopter services to avoid the long trek.

What are the accommodation options at Kedarnath?

Dharamshalas, guesthouses, government camps, and tents are available. Advance booking is recommended during peak season.

Is medical assistance available during the yatra?

Yes, first-aid camps and health check posts are set up along the trek route. Our trek leader also carries basic first-aid support.

 

What should I carry for the Kedarnath trek?

Warm clothes, comfortable trekking shoes, raincoat/poncho, personal medicines, ID proof, and a small backpack.

Available Dates

2 sep to 30 sep

Tour Details

  • Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

  • Start/End Point: Haridwar / Rishikesh

  • Base Camp: Gaurikund

  • Best Time: May – June & September – October

  • Accommodation: Hotels at Guptkashi, Camps/Dharamshalas at Kedarnath

  • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner (Veg)

  • Transport: Private/Shared Vehicle

  • Services Included: Trek leader, support team, first aid, permits

  • Optional Add-ons: Helicopter, pony/mule/palki services

Tour Highlights

  • Darshan at Kedarnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas

  • Scenic drive through Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Guptkashi

  • Spiritual trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath

  • Panoramic Himalayan views and Mandakini river valley

  • Stay in camps or dharamshalas near Kedarnath

  • Guidance and support from experienced trek leaders

Price: ₹5,999 / per person