How to Reach Kedarnath from Delhi: Kedarnath, nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India, stands as a revered Hindu pilgrimage site of profound spiritual significance. Home to the ancient Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, exuding divine energy and sanctity.
How to Reach Kedarnath from Delhi in 2024
Kedarnath temple, constructed amidst stunning mountain vistas, beckons devotees from far and wide to embark on a challenging trek through rugged terrain and scenic landscapes to seek blessings and absolution. With its rich historical legacy, the site resonates with echoes of Hindu mythology, tracing back to the epic Mahabharata era.
Kedarnath’s spiritual aura, complemented by its breathtaking natural beauty and serene ambiance, makes it a haven for seekers of solace, enlightenment, and inner peace amidst the pristine Himalayan wilderness.
How to go to Kedarnath from Delhi
By Air and Road
Fly to Dehradun or Jolly Grant Airport: Book a flight from Delhi to Dehradun or Jolly Grant Airport, which is the closest airport to Kedarnath. Both airports offer regular flights from Delhi.
Travel to Rishikesh or Haridwar: Upon arriving at the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Rishikesh or Haridwar, which are the nearest major cities to Kedarnath. The journey from the airport to Rishikesh or Haridwar takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour by road.
Take a Bus or Taxi to Gaurikund: From Rishikesh or Haridwar, you can take a state-run bus or hire a taxi to reach Gaurikund, the base camp for the trek to Kedarnath. The journey from Rishikesh or Haridwar to Gaurikund takes around 8-10 hours by road.
Trek to Kedarnath: Once you reach Gaurikund, you’ll need to trek approximately 16 kilometers to reach Kedarnath Temple. The trekking route is well-marked and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.
By Train and Road
Take a Train to Haridwar or Rishikesh: Alternatively, you can take a train from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh railway stations. Both stations are well-connected to Delhi by regular train services.
Travel to Gaurikund: Upon reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh, follow the same route as mentioned above. Take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Gaurikund, the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath.
Trek to Kedarnath: Embark on the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, enjoying the scenic beauty and spiritual ambience along the way.
How to go to Kedarnath from Delhi by road
Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh
Book a Train Ticket: Check the availability of trains from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh. Many trains operate between Delhi and these stations on a regular basis.
Choose the Train: Select a train that suits your schedule and preferences. There are several options ranging from express trains to passenger trains.
Board the Train: Arrive at the designated railway station in Delhi and board the train heading towards Haridwar or Rishikesh.
Travel Time: The train journey from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh typically takes around 5 to 7 hours, depending on the train and its route.
Haridwar/Rishikesh to Gaurikund
Arrival: Upon reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh, disembark from the train and proceed to the station’s exit.
Transport Options: From Haridwar or Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi, take a shared jeep, or board a state-run bus to reach Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath trek.
Travel Time : The road journey from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Gaurikund takes approximately 8 to 10 hours, covering a distance of around 200-220 kilometers.
Gaurikund to Kedarnath
Starting Point: Once you reach Gaurikund, prepare for the trek to Kedarnath Temple. Gaurikund is the last motorable point before the trek begins.
Trekking Route: The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple is approximately 16 kilometers long and usually takes around 6 to 8 hours to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level.
How to go to Kedarnath from Delhi by road
To travel from Delhi to Kedarnath by road, you can follow these steps:
Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh
- Start Your Journey: Begin your road trip from Delhi towards Haridwar or Rishikesh, which serve as the gateway to Kedarnath.
- Route Options: There are multiple routes you can take from Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh, including the NH334 and NH58 highways. Choose the route based on factors such as traffic conditions and your preferences.
- Travel Time: The road journey from Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh typically takes around 5 to 7 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions.
Haridwar/Rishikesh to Gaurikund
- Arrival: Upon reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh, take some time to rest and refresh yourself before proceeding further.
- Transport Options: From Haridwar or Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi, take a shared jeep, or board a state-run bus to reach Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath trek.
- Travel Time: The road journey from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Gaurikund takes approximately 8 to 10 hours, covering a distance of around 200-220 kilometers. The route passes through scenic landscapes and picturesque towns along the way.
Gaurikund to Kedarnath
- Starting Point: Once you reach Gaurikund, prepare to embark on the trek to Kedarnath Temple. Gaurikund is the last motorable point before the trek begins.
- Trekking Route: The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple is approximately 16 kilometers long and usually takes around 6 to 8 hours to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level.
How to go to Kedarnath from Delhi by car
To reach Kedarnath from Delhi by car, follow these steps:
Plan Your Route
- Decide on the route you want to take from Delhi to Kedarnath. The most common route includes Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Gaurikund (base camp for Kedarnath trek).
- Before starting your journey, check the current road conditions, especially during monsoon or winter seasons, as some roads may be affected by landslides or snowfall.
Prepare Your Vehicle
- Ensure that your car is in good condition. Check the engine, brakes, tires, lights, and fluids before embarking on the journey.
- It’s advisable to carry spare parts, a spare tire, and basic tools in case of emergencies.
Departure from Delhi
- Start your journey early in the morning from Delhi to avoid traffic congestion and make the most of daylight hours.
- Use GPS navigation or maps to navigate through the route. Signboards along the highways also guide travelers towards major towns and cities.
Travel to Gaurikund
- Travel from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh via NH58 or NH334, depending on your chosen route.
- From Haridwar or Rishikesh, drive towards Gaurikund, the last motorable point before the trek to Kedarnath begins.
Arrive at Gaurikund
- Park your car at the designated parking area in Gaurikund. Vehicles are not allowed beyond this point due to the rugged terrain leading to Kedarnath.
- If planning to stay overnight, find accommodation options in Gaurikund or nearby areas.
Trek to Kedarnath
Begin the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple. The trek is approximately 16 kilometers long and takes around 6-8 hours to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level.
Return Journey
- After visiting the temple and spending time in Kedarnath, trek back to Gaurikund.
- Retrieve your car from Gaurikund and drive back to Delhi, following the same route or exploring alternative routes if desired.