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Kedarnath – How to plan a trip [Complete Travel Guide]

Kedarnath is a divine Hindu settlement situated in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is one of the Char Dhams located in the Himalayas, and is situated at an astounding height of 3584 meters above sea level near the head of Mandakini River.

The Kedarnath temple lies amidst the majestic snow-capped Garhwal Himalayan ranges and is thronged by thousands of tourists and pilgrims each year. Also, the Kedarnath trek is stunningly beautiful and quite eclectic, even in the trekking circuit.

Famous for the ancient shrine devoted to Lord Shiva, it offers a calm atmosphere with a beautifully painted backdrop thanks to the rhododendron woods, snow-covered mountains, and splendid sights of nature. An amalgamation of devoutness and adventure is what makes it incomparable. A MUST VISIT for one and all.

Let's quickly dive into the details:

About Kedarnath

Kedarnath literally means the Lord of the field, and it is so called because the “crop of liberation” grows here. While it is not certain who constructed the temple or when! One of the earliest references of Kedarnath is in the 7th or 8th century. It is also believed that Adi Shankara died near the sanctuary.

History & Mythology

It is believed that post the battle of Kurukshetra, Pandavas went on a journey to Banaras in order to repent killing their own and seek blessings from the Lord. But, Shivji wanted to avoid meeting with the brothers, and thus, took solace in Guptakashi.

However, Pandavas were relinquishing in their search for the Lord and when they found him, Shivji decided to take the form of buffalo so that they couldn’t recognize him. Now, when Shivji saw the Pandavas approaching closer, he wanted to hide even further.

Thus, He took the decision to also become invisible by way of going underground. However, brother Bhīma tried hard to stop him from leaving by holding on to the legs and tail of the bull. Unfortunately, the Lord dived and evaporated at that place leaving behind his hump which is now worshipped at Kedarnath Temple.

It is however believed that through cosmic energy, the Pandavas were exempted from their sins and Shivji informed that from then onwards He would be present in Jyotirlinga form at Kedarnath.

Located in the Rudraprayag district, Kedarnath is the most remote of all Chota Char Dham sites. Situated near the Chorabari Glacier – the source of the Mandakini river, Kedarnath is flanked by snow-capped peaks – most prominently the Kedarnath mountain (6,940 mts) and the Kedar Dome (6,831 mts). Located at a distance of 223 KM from Rishikesh, the town is built on a barren stretch of land on the shored of the river.

The town unfortunately suffered extensive destruction during 2013 due to flash floods caused by torrential rains in Uttarakhand. The temple magnificently survived the harsh calamities!

In line with the Himalayan weather, Kedarnath experiences cool summers while the winters are extremely difficult and harsh. Summer is ideal for all sight-seeing, temple visits and experiencing nearby attractions as well. The average temperature is around 17 degrees in the summer.

Monsoon months are difficult and the area has suffered extreme rainfall many times, particularly in 2013. Monsoon weather is around 12 degrees. Winters are cold, complex and inhabitable. The palki of Lord Kedarnath is transferred to its winter abode near Guptakashi – Ukhimath from November to April. Weather in this season is always in the negative!

Dheeraj Sharma

Best time to visit Kedarnath

Right at the beginning of the season in April till the onset of monsoons and post-monsoon till close of the season. Kedarnath has a cold climate for most part of the year and the best months to travel are May, June, September, October.

How to get there

Kedarnath is well connected with most of the important towns of Uttarakhand. The nearest road head to Kedarnath is about 18 KMs later, Gaurikund.

Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the closest airport, at a distance of 238 KMs. The airport is well connected to Delhi with daily flights. Taxis are easily available from the airport to Gaurikund.

The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh, at a distance of 216 KMs before Kedarnath on NH58. Further, Gaurikund is well connected by motorable roads with Rishikesh. Taxis and buses are easily available to reach Gaurikund.

Prior to reaching Kedarnath, the last motorable point is Gaurikund. From there on out, you’ll be trekking for 16-odd-km. Gaurikund is connected with major destinations in North India. Buses and shared cabs are available from Haridwar, Rishikesh & Rudraprayag to Sonprayag, the last point until which private vehicles are allowed.

Buses to Rishikesh and Shrinagar are available from ISBT, Kashmiri Gate. From Sonprayag, there is a shared cab facility offered by the government, where the cab will drop you in Gaurikund for a fee.

Helicopter Options

You may even get a helicopter ride if you’re not into trekking (although I strongly recommend the trek!). The services are available from different helipads such as Guptkashi, Sersi, Phata etc.

What to do in Kedarnath

Given that Kedarnath is a religious destination, clearly the centermost attraction are places with mythological connotations.

Kedarnath Temple

Enveloped in the mighty Garhwal Himalayas, the Kedarnath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kedarnath Temple is among the 275 temples of Paadal Petra Sthalams (the most powerful Shiva temples in the world) and is also the most important among the Panch Kedars.

With fresh air synonymous with the hills and stunning views that you have to earn – you will lose all sense of time here! For thousands of year, this place has been worshipped and the energy of the region is that of positivity, hope and beliefs for the future.

Inside the temple, you’ll be greeted with a small hall with images of Parvati as well as the Pandavas. The hall is decorated with statues of Krishna, Pandavas, Draupadi, Virbhadra and many other deities! There is a conical rock inside the temple which is worshipped as the Sadashiva (forever Shiv).

Made from grey stones which are interlocked with the use of iron clamps – the temple is truly striking in the backdrop of Himalayas.

Gandhi Sarovar

Gandhi Sarovar is a small crystal clear lake, also known as Chorabari Tal. This is so because it is situated on the mouth of Chorabari Bamak glacier. Gandhi Sarovar lies on the foot of Kedarnath and Kirthi Stambh peak at an astounding altitude of 3,900mts above sea level. The lake comes after completed further 4 KMs trek from Kedarnath Temple.

Kalimath is a religious place located on the banks of Saraswati river. Located at a height of 1800 mts, Kalimath is one of the 108 Shakti Peeths in India. Kalimath lies on lap of nature offering salubrious and divine environment. Goddess Kali Temple is located in Kalimath. Legends believe that after killing Raktbeej, Kali Goddess went underneath the ground at this place!

Bhairav Temple

Bhairavnath Temple or Bhairon Baba Mandir is situated south of the Kedarnath temple on the eastern hill of the lofty Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated to Bhairav – the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva associated with destruction and devastation. The temple offers some stunning views of the Himalayas and it is a beautiful portion of your journey to Kedarnath!

Gaurikund Temple

Gaurikund temple is a temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati. According to myths and legends, this is the place where Goddess Parvati did penance involving ascetic and yoga practices to win over Shiva’s heart. It is believed that Lord Shiva admitted his love for the Goddess here and they then married at Triyuginarayan temple.

Shankaracharya Samadhi

Adi Shankaracharya was a philosopher, credited with unifying and establishing the main thoughts in Hinduism. At the age 32, he decided to attain moksha at Kedarnath and merged under with the land near the Kedarnath Temple. The samadhi is situated right behind the temple.

What to do around Kedarnath

There is so much to explore around the Kedarnath Temple. So, remember to keep some time at hand to truly immerse yourself into the experience!

Vasuki Tal Lake

Vasuki Tal is a high glacial lake situated at an impressive altitude of 14,200 feet above sea level near Kedarnath Dham. One can spot Brahma Kamal and other Himalayan flowers blooming around the placid lake, making for some spectacular views.

Ideally, I would suggest you complete the route in the day time itself, and spend the night at Kedarnath! The trek distance from Kedarnath temple is 8 KMs, initial 3-4 KMs is easy before the ascend begins. The icy Vasuki Tal is just 900 meters downhill from Vasuki top.

Guptkashi is situated 47kms before the holy shrine of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath. It is located on the route to Kedarnath on a ridge on the west side of the Mandakini river valley at an elevation of 1,319mts above sea level.

Guptkashi is a religiously important town of Uttarakhand as it houses ancient temples like Vishwanath temple and Ardhnareshwar temple. A highly revered attraction, Manikarnika Kund is where two streams of the Ganga and Yamuna meet.

Kedarnatha Trek

Kedarnatha trek is in one of the most significantly religious areas, especially in the Hindu Mythology. The Temple of Lord Kedarnatha (Shivji), which sits at the base of the summit, has stood the test of time and is revered amongst spiritual believers.

Millions of pilgrims move mountains to offer their prayers and seek blessings of the Hindu Deity each year. The temple itself lies at the base of the Kedarnath Peak, facing the Kedar Parvat. A beginner level trek, Kedarnath is especially beautiful in the winter months.

One of the most remarkable crests in the Himalayan region, both nature lovers and ardent trekkers tend to enjoy the experience.

Char Dham Yatra

The Chota Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand is the four abodes of holy shrines – Badrinath , Kedarnath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri . All four of these temples are situated within the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The prominence of the Charm Dham Yatra is immense amongst Hindus.

Moreover, it is believed that every Hindu should do Char Dham Yatra at least once in their lifetime. The Great Reformer and Philosopher, Adi Shankaracharya, gathered together these Holy Pilgrimage places into a spiritual circuit around the 8th century.

Generation followed generations and hundreds of thousands of devotees have kept up the tradition of covering these pilgrimage spots every year. Thus, it is very common to complete the circuit in one religious pilgrimage!

Best places to stay near Kedarnath

There is a huge government-run tented colony along with cottages as well as rooms run by GMVN. These are sufficient to home more than a thousand pilgrims and visitors. Also, there are hotels, guest houses, and Dharamshala as well.

A lot of folks have started taking the journey via helicopters and thus stay locations can be Phata, Rampur, Gaurikund, Sitapur etc.

Best places to eat

Unfortunately, the only option for decent food here is the food stalls and roadside dhabas. Food available is mostly north Indian cuisine. Of course, given the highly revered place in Hinduism that Kedarnath holds, it should come as no surprise that alcohol and non-vegetarian food is not served/ is prohibited.

Things to keep in mind

• As instructed by the Uttarakhand government, it is necessary for every traveler to do bio-metric registration. The facility is available online as well. Alternatively, you may also do the same at Sonprayag.
• You can easily find mules & porters to accompany you on your journey. Do remember to check the prices officially posted so as to avoid paying a larger sum
• Also, if you are hiring porters or mule owners – remember to check their official IDs
• It is always wise to avoid the hilly terrain in the monsoon season. Especially given the tragedy of 2013, and how badly Kedarnath was hit. If you are still heading there in the monsoon period – do check with officials and local authorities
• Photography is not allowed in the temple premises. Be mindful of the fact and abide by the rules of the temple authorities.

Tips when travelling to Kedarnath

• The trek is 16 KM long and will take you 6 hours, depending on your health
• Try to start your trek early in the morning to avoid the harshness of the afternoon sun
• Remember to eat a hearty (though not heavy) breakfast
• Drink water and stay hydrated. However, do remember to carry your own water bottles.

If connecting with nature and the Gods, rejuvenation and some adventure is on the cards for you on your next holiday – head on over to Kedarnath. This place will take you back to a time of simplicity and authenticity.

You will fall in love with the quaint life of the hills and revered by the sheer power of belief. If you have any questions regarding this beautiful wonderland – do comment below and I will be happy to answer any of your queries.

Happy travelling!

Shefali spends most of her time day dreaming about her next big vacation. A happy-go-lucky personality, she is an amalgamation of all the places she’s lived in and experienced! She is always confused as to where to call home, having lived in Chandigarh, Shimla, Dehradun, Mumbai, Hyderabad in India and Vancouver, Abbotsford in Canada. Her love for travel is only challenged by her love for reading and eating delicious food! In order to sustain her dreams, she brought out her inner geek, got an MBA and has a job in the corporate world crunching numbers. Do follow @notravelplans on Instagram for updates on her next great adventure.

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Hi Shefali, Your article about Kedarnath is really good and contains all the necessary details to plan a trip there. However, I had one query – is it a good idea to plan the trip in the 1st or 2nd week of July this year? Actually I am having some other schedule in May, June and in September and October 2021. So, thinking of going there in July 1st or 2nd week.

July shall be fine to visit Kedarnath, just keep a check on the weather and usually, it shall be OK to visit before mid of July

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• One of the most revered temple towns of India
• Home to the sacred Kedarnath temple
• A scenic destination located high up in the Himalayas
• A trekker's paradise
• Famous for Rudra cave, where PM Narendra Modi had meditated

WHAT TO KNOW

One of the most revered temple destinations of India, Kedarnath town is nestled in the mighty Garhwal Himalayas. The town, built around the revered Kedarnath temple, is located at an altitude of 3,580 m, near Chorabari glacier, which is the source of the Mandakini river. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the ancient temple has exquisite architecture and is built of extremely large but evenly shaped grey stone slabs. A conical rock formation inside the temple is worshipped as Lord Shiva in his “Sadashiva” form.  The Kedarnath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a part of Char Dham  pilgrimage circuit, and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India. Behind the Kedarnath temple, stand the Kedarnath peak, Kedar Dome and other Himalayan peaks.

The historical name of this region is "Kedar Khand" and legend says, the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata, after having defeated the Kauravas, felt guilty of having killed so many people and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for redemption. The Lord eluded them repeatedly and took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull. The Lord dived into the ground, leaving his hump on the surface at Kedarnath. The remaining portions of Lord Shiva appeared at four other places and are worshipped there as his manifestations. The arms of the Lord appeared at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, the belly at Madmaheshwar and his locks (hair) at Kalpeshwar. The Kedarnath and four above mentioned shrines make the revered Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit . To register for a pilgrimage, visit For more details and booking:  https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/signin.php.

Kapat is open now for darshan.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

From May to October is the best time to visit Kedarnath. During winter months, the town remains closed due to heavy snowfall. The temple has been shut for the winter of 2021-22.

Where to stay

KEDARNATH (Rudra Meditation Cave)

Kedarnath (Swargarohini Complex)

Itineraries

Char dham yatra.

*/ Destinations: Haridwar, Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath Duration: 10 days, 10 nights Source: GMVN Distance: Over 1,500 kms from Haridwar; For Family and Group Travel Experiences: Trekking Budget: Approximately between INR 18,000 and 25,000 (per person) For details, Click Here Alert! × This link shall take you to a page outside the UTDB website. For any query regarding the contents of the linked page, please contact the webmaster of the concerned website. CancelConfirm

Attractions

Chorbari Bamak Glacier

Mount Kedarnath

Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi

Sumeru Parbat

Mayali Pass

Gandhi Sarovar

Kedarnath Temple

Bhairav Nath Temple

Rudra meditation cave

The Kedarnath trek located within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, a 16-km route from Gaurikund to Kedarnath temple, is the most popular here. The trail meanders through forest-covered mountains, glaciers and is criss-crossed by numerous waterfalls. It is a medium to steep trek. There are fixed timings for the trek; 4 am to 1.30 pm, to coincide with the time slots of the sanctuary. The 800-m uphill trek from Kedarnath to Bhairavnath Temple or Bhairon Baba Mandir also falls on this route and offers magnificent views of the Kedarnath Temple and the verdant Kedarnath Valley. From Kedarnath, one can also trek to Chandrashila, a summit located 32 km away.

One can also enjoy the natural beauty of the region by setting up tents near Kedarnath town. Experience the divine surroundings with the towering Kedarnath peak looming large and star-filled sky during night.

Rock Climbing

The Kedarnath peak and Kedarnath Dome both offer great rock climbing opportunities with rocks, ice walls, crevasses, etc, attracting professional climbers. Both peaks have relatively easy routes on their northwest sides. The east face of Kedar Dome is more challenging to climb

Get Direction

How to reach

Jolly Grant is the nearest airport to Kedarnath situated at a distance of 238 kilometers. Jolly Grant Airport is well connected to Delhi with daily flights. Gaurikund is well connected by motorable roads with Jolly Grant Airport. Taxis are easily available from Jolly Grant Airport to Gaurikund.

The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh. Rishikesh railway station is situated 216 kilometers before Kedarnath on NH58. Rishikesh is well connected by railway networks with major destinations of India. Trains to Rishikesh are frequent. Gaurikund is well connected by motorable roads with Rishikesh. Taxis and buses are easily available from Rishikesh to Gaurikund.

Gaurikund is the point where the road to Kedarnath ends and an easy trek of 14km begins. Gaurikund is well connected by motorable roads with major destinations of Uttarakhand and northern states of India. Buses to Rishikesh and Srinagar are available from ISBT Kashmiri Gate in Delhi. Buses and Taxis to Gaurikund are easily available from major destinations of Uttarakhand like Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Pauri, Tehri, Uttarkashi, Srinagar, Chamoli, etc. Gaurikund lies on National Highway 109 which connects Rudraprayag with Kedarnath.

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Kedarnath Trek - A Complete Travel Guide & Tips

Introduction

The best time to visit, the trek itinerary, highlights of the journey, things to keep in mind, things to carry, frequently asked questions (faqs), what is required for kedarnath trekking.

The Kedarnath trek is of moderate difficulty and would require you to carry: A 20-30L capacity rucksack, warm clothes ( jackets , windcheater, and thermal wear), accessories like head gear, gloves, and muffler, personal medical kit and rain cover.

How difficult is the Kedarnath trek?

It is quite easy to cover the Kedarnath Trek, especially since there are multiple transport options available there to make it smoother.

How long is Kedarnath trek?

The Kedarnath Trek covers a distance of 16km and takes almost 6 hours to complete.  

Which month is best for Kedarnath?

April-June is the best month to undertake the Kedarnath Trek as the days are quite pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 15 and 25°C with cool breezes.

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A Complete Guide for Kedarnath Trek

Are you planning on taking the Kedarnath Yatra? If yes then make sure that you are equipped with the right knowledge about your destination which will take you through one of the most spiritual and holy pilgrimages of 16 kms to this holy temple. This guide will allow you to enjoy the Yatra journey in complete comfort and allow you to have a tranquil experience. Here is a detailed guide to a journey of a lifetime that will make your Yatra even more easy and joyous.

How to Reach Kedarnath by Road (up till Sonprayag):

In case you are planning to reach Kedarnath via a road journey then you will be required to book a taxi or bus service that are run privately by the GMOU ltd. In order to reach Kedarnath Dham from Delhi you will be required to first reach till Dehradun either by road, train or by air. From Dehradun you will be making your way to Haridwar and from this holy city you will be taking the route heading for the path leading to the Kedarnath trek.

Here is a brief route map that you will be taking on your journey to Kedarnath from Delhi:

New Delhi – Haridwar (206 km) – Rishikesh (24 km) – Devprayag (74 km) – Srinagar (34 km) – Rudraprayag (33 km) – Gaurikund (via Augustmuni – Guptkashi – Phata  – Sitapur – Sonprayag 74 km) – Kedarnath by trek (16 km)

You can also make your way to Kedarnath Dham by taking a direct bus from the bus stand at Kashmiri Gate in Delhi that will drop you to Gaurikund. These services are run on a regular basis by the Uttarakhand Transport Corporation. Once you reach Gaurikund you will be completing the journey on foot via trekking up to the main temple of Kedarnath.

How to Reach Kedarnath by Air:

In case you decide on taking up the Kedarnath Dham yatra journey by air then you have the option of availing the Kedarnath helicopter yatra service. This service can be undertaken from Dehradun, Haridwar as well as Rishikesh.

From Dehradun – You will be traveling till Sahastradhara helipad at Dehradun from where the chopper service will drop you till your final destination within 40 minutes.

From Haridwar / Rishikesh – I case you decide on traveling to Kedarnath from the holy cities of Rishikesh / Haridwar via a helicopter journey then you will be traveling from Haridwar / Rishikesh to Phata via a taxi service which will be covering a distance of almost 200 kms.

How to Reach Kedarnath via Trekking:

Once you make your way till Sonprayag you will be required to travel in a shared cab that charges Rs. 20/- per person and is one of the cheapest ways of traveling. This shared cab will take you to Gaurikund and once you debark at Gaurikund your trekking journey to Kedarnath will commence and given below are the detailed directions for Kedarnath trek.

Trekking Distance for Kedarnath:

The trekking journey to Kedarnath is an overall distance of 16 kms that starts from Gaurikund and concludes at Kedarnath Dham. The trekking routes had changed and rebuilt ever since the sudden and devastating flash flood disaster had hit this region in 2013.

Here is a Detailed Route Map of the Trekking Journey to Kedarnath:

The 16 kms of the trekking journey to Kedarnath Dham commences from Gauri Kund. Earlier, prior to the disastrous flood, the trekking route had made its way through Rambara which was well developed with strong fencing and properly facilitated routes. However, now the government has made changes in this route leading up to Kedarnath Dham by creating a new trekking trail and now the old trekking route is now completely erased.

Given Below is the New Trekking Route for Kedarnath Dham:

• Reach Gaurikund via taxi from Sonprayag (approx. 6 kms)
• Gaurikund – Jungle Chatti via Rambara bridge (4 km)
• Jungle Chatti – Bheembali (3 km)
• Bheembali – Linchauli (4 km)
• Linchauli – Kedarnath base camp (4 km)
• Kedarnath base camp – Kedarnath temple (1 km)

Important Features of Kedarnath Trek:

The 16 kms of trekking distance that leads up to Kedarnath temple requires the pilgrim to be tough and a good level of physical fitness, therefore, prior to commencing the trekking journey each pilgrim should get themselves properly checked up and get to know if you are eligible to complete this trekking journey or not. The Kedarnath trek from Gaurikund starts at 4 am early in the morning and goes on till 1:30 pm in the afternoon and these timings are fixed since Kedarnath Dham is located inside the Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary and this is the reason why pilgrims are not allowed to trek any time after this. After the said time no pilgrims are allowed to leave. Since this trekking journey is high altitude and it is advised to the pilgrims who are suffering from respiratory problem should consult the doctor prior to taking up the trekking journey.

Facilities at Kedarnath Trek:

The Kedarnath trek is equipped with a number of facilities and services like Palki or Doli, Kandi, and mules or ponies that serve as alternate methods of travelling to main Kedarnath Dham. People can book these services at various booking counters at Gaurikund or Sonprayag. The cost for the services differ with distance covered for example – a Palki service from Gaurikund to Kedarnath will cost around Rs.4,450/-, a kandi service will cost you around Rs.3,350/- and a pony journey will cost you around Rs. 4,100/-. Amidst this entire trekking journey there are various proper services available in the form of tented accommodation, clean drinking water as well as small shops, restaurants and Dhabas. Helicopter services are also available from the helipad at Kedarnath to the helipad at Phata and others.

Things to Remember Prior to Going on Your Trek to Kedarnath:

• Prior to going on Kedarnath trek you should get a complete medical checkup done.
• People suffering from respiratory disorders and high BP problems should not go on this trekking journey to Kedarnath Dham.
• In case you decide on travelling to the Dham via a Kandi, pony or a palki then make sure that all your bookings are done way before hand at the booking counter present in Gaurikund or Sonprayag.
• The pilgrims are permitted to trek only between 4 am and 1:30 pm as per the government rules.
• In case you have some time constraints and you won’t be able to cover the entire trekking route then you can take the services of palki or ponies to get to your destination. You also have the option of staying in camps or tented accommodation that are present along the trekking routes of Jungle Chatti, Bheembali and Linchauli for the night and you can start your journey, early in the morning next day.

Trekking Tips and Guide

• Gaurikund is the place from where you can hire a palanquin or a pony service to kedarnath which can be availed by paying a fixed rate to the porters directly which will cut down on your walking journey. If you hire some alternative travel options form someone other than the government approved ones then make sure that they are registered with a government number.
• Per pony only up to 10 kgs of travel luggage is permitted and in the same way only 5 kgs of luggage is allowed in Helicopter services in kedarnath. This is done to regulate the weight distribution and make the journey eventually a comfortable experience for you.
• Remember that the temple is situated at a height of 11,000-12,000 feet above sea level and it is not a good idea for people suffering from respiratory or heart diseases to make the journey due to low oxygen levels in the air there. You can choose to make yourself fit for the journey by practicing pranayama, breathing exercises, yoga or other forms of physical activity to prepare yourself for these difficult conditions.
• At all costs avoid wearing sarees for the journey since it will definitely cause a hindrance to your holy journey. You can choose to wear salwar kameez along with a good pair of sneakers and spots shoes which will make your walking comfortable and you will be able to cover larger distances this way.
• Remember while trekking to Kedarnath not to tire you out or exert yourself too much. Do not lose your breath while walking and halt if you think that you are experiencing shortness of breath. To deal with this you should practice the famous breathing of Anulom Vilom on a daily basis till the commencement of the journey.
• You will definitely get hungry on your way which can be dealt with if you are carrying some packaged food items or dry fruits along with you. The routes are also lined with food stalls and eateries from where you can acquire drinking bottled water.

Overall Experience

Honestly speaking, the trekking journey will be extremely testing if you are not physically prepared for the journey. You should work out every half n hour at least 3 to 4 months before the commencement of the journey. But if you are in shape and love nature then your Kedarnath yatra experience will be extremely rejuvenating. For me, the journey was fairly difficult and it in fact reminded me to work out a little bit every day. The facilities here were helpful for the pilgrims and the routes were also well built that ensured I was kept safe and secure throughout the journey.

This trekking guide lets you analyze the entire trekking to Kedarnath situation and make your journey even more enjoyable and comfortable.

Suggested Tour

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• Kedarnath Yatra Package from Delhi
• Kedarnath Yatra by Helicopter
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How to Plan Kedarnath Itinerary?

Planning an itinerary for the Kedarnath Temple is crucial to ensure that you have enough time to complete the trek and explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Here is a suggested Kedarnath itinerary that you can follow to plan your trip to Kedarnath temple.

Here is an ideal itinerary that you can use as a guideline:

Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar or Rishikesh

• Day 2: Drive from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Gaurikund (8-9 hours)
• Day 3: Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath (16 km, 6-7 hours)
• Day 4: Explore Kedarnath and acclimatization
• Day 5: Trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund (16 km, 4-5 hours)
• Day 6: Drive from Gaurikund to Haridwar or Rishikesh (8-9 hours)

However, you can adjust the itinerary based on your preferences and fitness level.

Things To Keep in Mind Before the Kedarnath Trip

Here are some tips to help you plan your Kedarnath itinerary:

• Take enough time to acclimatize
• Plan for extra days
• Hire a guide or porter
• Check for seasonal closures
• Be prepared for emergencies
• Check for accommodation availability
• Carry enough cash

Take enough time to acclimatize: It is important to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. Plan for a rest day at Kedarnath or on the way up to Gaurikund.

Plan for extra days: Unforeseen weather conditions or travel disruptions may cause delays. Plan for extra days to avoid rushing through the trek or missing your return journey.

Hire a guide or porter: If you are not an experienced trekker, consider hiring a guide or porter who can help you navigate the trail and carry your backpack.

Check for seasonal closures: The Kedarnath Trek is closed during the winter season (November to April) due to heavy snowfall. Plan your trek accordingly.

Be prepared for emergencies: Carry a satellite phone, emergency contact numbers, and a first aid kit in case of any emergencies.

Check for accommodation availability: There are several options for accommodation on the Kedarnath Trek, but they can fill up quickly during peak season. Book your accommodation in advance.

Carry enough cash: There are no ATMs on the Kedarnath Trek, so carry enough cash to cover your expenses.

Kedarnath itinerary Plan

Planning a trip to Kedarnath, one of the most famous Hindu pilgrimage destinations in India, requires careful consideration of various factors such as travel time, weather conditions, accommodation options, and local transportation.

Kedarnath Trip Itinerary (Day 1-6)

Sure, here is a more detailed itinerary for the Kedarnath Yatra:

Day 2: Haridwar/Rishikesh to Gaurikund

Day 3: gaurikund to kedarnath trek (visit kedarnath temple), day 4: kedarnath to gaurikund, day 5: gaurikund to haridwar or rishikesh.

• Day 6: Departure from Haridwar/Rishikesh
• Reach Haridwar/Rishikesh by train or bus from Delhi or other nearby cities.
• Check into a hotel or guest house and rest for the day.
• Visit the Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening, which is a spiritual experience on the banks of the river Ganga.

Haridwar or Rishikesh is the closest major city to Kedarnath, and it is well-connected to other parts of India by train and road. You can take a train or bus from Delhi or any other major city to reach Haridwar or Rishikesh. Spend the day exploring the city and visiting popular attractions such as Har Ki Pauri, Triveni Ghat, and Laxman Jhula.

On the second day, start early in the morning and drive to Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the Kedarnath trek.

• The drive takes around 8-9 hours through scenic valleys and mountain roads.
• Check into a hotel or guest house in Sonprayag or Guptkashi and rest for the day.
• You can also explore the town and its surroundings.

It takes around 6-7 hours to reach Gaurikund from Haridwar or Rishikesh. From Gaurikund, you need to trek for around 16 km to reach Kedarnath. The trek is steep and can take anywhere between 6-8 hours depending on your fitness level. Upon reaching Kedarnath, check into your hotel and rest.

On the third day, visit the Kedarnath Temple, one of the most important shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters and is accessible only by foot. After darshan, spend the day exploring the town, visiting local markets, and trying out the local cuisine.

• Have an early breakfast and start the drive to Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the Kedarnath Trek.
• From Gaurikund, start the trek to Kedarnath, which is around 16 km and takes approximately 6-8 hours.

Must Read: Gaurikund To Kedarnath Trek Guide

• The trek takes you through a steep and narrow trail, passing through dense forests, waterfalls, and mountain streams.
• Reach Kedarnath by late afternoon or early evening and check into a hotel or guest house.
• Visit the Kedarnath temple in the evening and attend the evening puja ceremony.
• Wake up early in the morning and visit the Kedarnath temple for the morning puja ceremony.
• After breakfast, start the trek back to Gaurikund, which takes around 4-6 hours.
• From Gaurikund, drive back to Guptkashi and check into a hotel or guest house.
• Rest for the day or explore the town and its surroundings.

On the fourth day, trek back to Gaurikund. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the city or catching up on some rest.

• Have an early breakfast and start the drive back to Haridwar/Rishikesh.
• Reach Haridwar/Rishikesh by evening and check into a hotel or guest house.

Day 6: Departure from Haridwar or Rishikesh

On the last day, depart from Haridwar or Rishikesh to your next destination.

• Have breakfast and check out from the hotel or guest house.
• Catch a train or bus back to Delhi or other nearby cities.
• Your Kedarnath Trip ends here.

Note: This itinerary is only a suggestion, and you can modify it according to your preferences and requirements. Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind the weather conditions in the region, especially during the monsoon season, and plan accordingly.

Kedarnath itinerary (Distance from Major Cities)

Note: This distance is directly from the Kedarnath Temple including the Kedarnath Trek which comes after Gaurikund in Rudraprayag.

Click on Any Route below and you will redirect to a detailed Guide on that Route.

• ⦿ Dehradun To Kedarnath (266km) 
• ⦿ Haridwar To Kedarnath (252km)
• ⦿ Rishikesh To Kedarnath (22 7 km)
• ⦿ Delhi To Kedarnath (466km)
• ⦿ Mumbai To Kedarnath (1912km)
• ⦿ Chandigarh To Kedarnath (524km)
• ⦿ Jaipur To Kedarnath (758km)
• ⦿ Lucknow To Kedarnath (730km)
• ⦿ Ahmedabad To Kedarnath (1431km)
• ⦿ Banglore To Kedarnath (2558km)
• ⦿ Chennai To Kedarnath (2609km)
• ⦿ Kolkata To Kedarnath (1699km)
• ⦿ Pune To Kedarnath (1913km)
• ⦿ Hyderabad To Kedarnath (1685km)

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A complete itinerary for your 3 days in Kedarnath

Ayush mehrotra   , shagun chaudhary   .

• Kedarnath , situated in Uttarakhand 's Himalayan range, is a revered pilgrimage site known for its ancient Kedarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to October, avoiding the harsh winter and monsoon seasons.
• To reach Kedarnath, one can fly to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and then take a helicopter or drive to Sonprayag . From Sonprayag, a 20-kilometer trek leads to Kedarnath. Alternatively, one can reach Sonprayag by road from Rishikesh or Haridwar and then trek or hire a pony or palanquin for the onward journey.

Best Time to Visit

How to reach, where to stay, read more articles on.

• Uttarakhand
• Indiatravels
• Spend Three Days In Kedarnath

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Kedarnath trek and yatra: how to plan a trip - a complete travel guide.

Kedarnath is not just a pilgrimage site but a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The Kedarnath Trek and Yatra offer a spiritual journey combined with breathtaking landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from all walks of life. Get the best Kedarnath yatra packages and enjoy your time.

When to Start Your Kedarnath Trek and Yatra

The Kedarnath Trek and Yatra season typically starts in late April or early May, coinciding with the onset of summer in the region. This is when the snow starts to melt, opening up the routes for pilgrims and trekkers. The yatra usually continues until the onset of winter around October or November when heavy snowfall makes the region inaccessible.

For those planning a visit to Kedarnath, it's essential to check the weather conditions and the status of the trekking routes before embarking on the journey. The months of May to June and September to October are considered ideal for the pilgrimage, as the weather is relatively pleasant, and the routes are well-maintained.

How Long Does the Kedarnath Trek and Yatra Take?

The duration of the Kedarnath Trek and Yatra can vary depending on various factors such as the starting point of the trek, the pace of the trekker, and any additional stops along the way. On average, the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath temple takes around 2 to 3 days, covering a distance of approximately 16 kilometers.

For those opting for the traditional route, the trek begins at Gaurikund, which is accessible by road from major cities like Delhi. From Gaurikund, pilgrims trek to Kedarnath temple, stopping at designated campsites or guesthouses along the way for rest and refreshments. Let your weekend in Kedarnath by getting Kedarnath yatra packages.

Planning Your Kedarnath Yatra

Planning a successful Kedarnath Yatra requires careful consideration of various factors, including accommodation, transportation, and route options.

Choose the Right Time: As mentioned earlier, select a time between May to June or September to October for the Kedarnath Yatra when the weather is favorable, and the trekking routes are open.

Book Accommodation in Advance: Since Kedarnath is a popular pilgrimage destination, it's advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. Options range from guesthouses and campsites to dharamshalas near the temple.

Arrange Transportation: If you're traveling from Delhi or nearby cities, you can opt for a Kedarnath tour packages that includes transportation to Gaurikund, the starting point of the trek. Alternatively, you can reach Gaurikund by public transport or hire a private vehicle.

Pack Wisely: Pack light but essential items such as warm clothing, trekking gear, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and basic medical supplies. It's also recommended to carry a valid ID proof and keep your valuables secure.

Stay Hydrated and Rested: The trek to Kedarnath temple involves ascending steep slopes at high altitudes, so it's crucial to stay hydrated and take regular breaks to rest and acclimatize.

Respect the Environment: Kedarnath is not just a sacred site but also an ecologically sensitive area. Respect the surroundings, avoid littering, and follow the guidelines set by the local authorities.

Enjoy Your Weekend Kedarnath Trip

For those with limited time, a weekend Kedarnath trip from Delhi can offer a rejuvenating break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Opt for a Helicopter Ride: To maximize your time, consider taking a helicopter ride from Phata or Guptkashi to Kedarnath. This scenic journey offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and reduces travel time significantly.

Visit Nearby Attractions: In addition to the Kedarnath temple, explore nearby attractions such as Bhairavnath temple, Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar), and Vasuki Tal. These serene locations provide ample opportunities for meditation and relaxation.

Experience Local Culture: By getting Kedarnath tour package from Delhi , immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the region by interacting with locals, attending evening aartis at the temple, and sampling delicious local cuisine.

Capture Memories: Don't forget to capture the beauty of Kedarnath through photographs and videos to cherish the memories of your Kedarnath trip for years to come.

Get the Best Kedarnath Tour Package from Delhi to Make Your Trip Amazing

For travelers seeking convenience and comfort, booking a Kedarnath tour packages from Delhi is an excellent option. These Kedarnath package typically include transportation, accommodation, meals, and guided tours, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey without worrying about logistics.

Enlive Trips , a reputable travel agency, offers a range of Kedarnath tour packages from Delhi designed to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you're looking for a luxury retreat or a budget-friendly adventure, Enlive Trips can customize a Kedarnath package to meet your needs.

Things to Do on Your Kedarnath Trip from Delhi

Apart from visiting the sacred Kedarnath temple, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during your Kedarnath trip from Delhi :

Trek to Vasuki Tal: Embark on a trek to the stunning Vasuki Tal, a high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The trek offers mesmerizing views of the Himalayan landscape and is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

Explore Guptkashi: Take some time to explore the quaint town of Guptkashi, known for its ancient temples and natural beauty in this Kedarnath tour package from Delhi. Visit the famous Vishwanath temple and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Mandakini River.

Attend Evening Aarti: Witness the mesmerizing evening aarti at Kedarnath temple, where priests perform rituals accompanied by chanting and devotional songs. The spiritual ambiance is truly enchanting and offers a sense of peace and tranquility.

Indulge in Local Cuisine: Treat your taste buds to authentic Garhwali cuisine, including dishes like Garhwali dal, chainsoo, and mandua ki roti. Don't forget to try the local delicacy, Bal Mithai, a sweet made from khoya and sugar.

The Kedarnath Trek and Kedarnath Yatra offer a unique blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a memorable experience. Whether you're embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage or simply exploring the wonders of the Himalayas, Kedarnath promises to leave you awestruck with its majestic landscapes and serene ambiance.

With proper planning and preparation, you can make the most of your Kedarnath trip from Delhi and create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, embark on this soul-stirring journey, and discover the magic of Kedarnath for yourself.

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Kedarnath Yatra Tour from Delhi by Cab

4 Nights / 5 Days

Delhi(0N) → Haridwar(1N) → Guptakashi(2N) → Haridwar(1N)

₹ 15,500* per person

₹ 15,500*

per adult on twin sharing

Badrinath Kedarnath Tour Package from Haridwar

5 Nights / 6 Days

Haridwar(0N) → Guptakashi(1N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Rudraprayag(1N) → Badrinath(1N) → Rudraprayag(1N)

₹ 26,160* per person

₹ 26,160*

Spiritual Tour of Uttarakhand

7 Nights / 8 Days

Delhi(0N) → Haridwar(1N) → Guptakashi(1N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Rudraprayag(1N) → Badrinath(1N) → Joshimath(1N) → Rishikesh(1N)

₹ 23,340* per person

₹ 23,340*

Divine Char Dhaam Yatra by Road

9 Nights / 10 Days

Delhi(0N) → Haridwar(1N) → Barkot(2N) → Yamountri(0N) → Uttarkashi(2N) → Gangotri(0N) → Guptakashi(2N) → Badrinath(1N) → Rudraprayag(1N)

₹ 52,000* per person

₹ 52,000*

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3 Days Tour Package in India: Char Dham Yatra By Helicopter

2 Nights / 3 Days

Dehradun(0N) → Haridwar(1N) → Harsil(1N)

₹ 165,000* per person

₹ 165,000*

Holy Badrinath Kedarnath Tour Package

1 Nights / 2 Days

Badrinath(0N) → Kedarnath(1N)

₹ 10,500* per person

₹ 10,500*

Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra from Delhi

Delhi(0N) → Haridwar(1N) → Uttarkashi(2N) → Gangotri(0N) → Guptkashi(1N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Rudraprayag(1N) → Badrinath(1N) → Joshimath(1N) → Rishikesh(1N)

₹ 49,140* per person

₹ 49,140*

Char Dham Darshan Tour Package

10 Nights / 11 Days

Haridwar(0N) → Barkot(2N) → Gangotri(2N) → Kedarnath(2N) → Pipalcotti(2N) → Rishikesh(2N)

₹ 40,670* per person

₹ 40,670*

Uttarakhand Religious Tour Package

Mumbai(0N) → Haridwar(1N) → Barkot(2N) → Yamunotri(0N) → Uttarkashi(2N) → Gangotri(0N) → Guptkashi(2N) → Badrinath(2N) → Devprayag(1N)

₹ 55,250* per person

₹ 55,250*

Kedarnath and Badrinath Darshan via Helicopter

Dehradun(0N) → Guptkashi(2N) → Joshimath(1N) → Badrinath(1N) → Rudraprayag(1N)

₹ 45,000* per person

₹ 45,000*

Char Dham Yatra

Delhi(0N) → Haridwar(2N) → Barkot(2N) → Yamunotri(0N) → Uttarkashi(2N) → Gangotri(0N) → Sitapur(2N) → Pipalkoti(2N)

₹ 59,999* per person

₹ 59,999*

Religious Package - Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, Joshimath and Kedarnath

6 Nights / 7 Days

Rishikesh(2N) → Rudraprayag (1N) → Joshimath(1N) → Kedarnath (2N)

₹ 17,498* per person

₹ 17,498*

Chardham Yatra Special Tour Package

11 Nights / 12 Days

Haridwar(1N) → Barkot(2N) → Yamunotri(0N) → Uttarkashi(2N) → Gangotri(0N) → Guptkashi(1N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Guptkashi(1N) → Govindghat(2N) → Badrinath(0N) → Haridwar(1N)

₹ 65,500* per person

₹ 65,500*

Badrinath-Kedarnath Yatra Tour Package

Haridwar(1N) → Guptkashi(1N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Guptkashi(1N) → Badrinath(1N) → Govindghat(1N)

₹ 20,500* per person

₹ 20,500*

Senior Friendly Char Dham Yatra Package

Haridwar(1N) → Badkot(2N) → Yamunotri(0N) → Uttarkashi(2N) → Gangotri(0N) → Guptkashi(1N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Guptkashi(1N) → Badrinath(1N) → Govindghat(1N)

₹ 61,000* per person

₹ 61,000*

Haridwar Do Dham Tour Package

Haridwar(1N) → Guptkashi(1N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Guptkashi(1N) → Govindghat(2N) → Haridwar(1N)

₹ 22,500* per person

₹ 22,500*

Kedarkantha Trek Package

Dehradun(0N) → Sankri(5N)

₹ 16,450* per person

₹ 16,450*

Char Dham by Helicopter Luxury Package

Dehradun(1N) → Yamunotri(1N) → Gangotri(1N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Badrinath(1N) → Dehradun(0N)

₹ 177,000* per person

₹ 177,000*

Chardham Yatra Tour Package by Helicopter (5 Nights & 6 Days)

Dehradun(1N) → Yamunotri(1N) → Harsil(1N) → Gangotri(0N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Badrinath(1N)

₹ 180,000* per person

₹ 180,000*

Char Dham Yatra Tour Package 9 Nights 10 Days from Bangalore

Bangalore(0N) → Barkot(2N) → Uttarkashi(2N) → Guptkashi(2N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Badrinath(1N) → Rudraprayag(1N)

₹ 34,555* per person

₹ 34,555*

Char Dham Yatra Package by Helicopter - Ex Haridwar

Haridwar(0N) → Yamunotri(1N) → Gangotri(1N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Badrinath(1N) → Haridwar(1N)

Divine Char Dham Tour Package from Delhi by Road

Haridwar(2N) → Barkot(2N) → Yamunotri(0N) → Uttarkashi(2N) → Gangotri(0N) → Guptkashi(2N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Badrinath(1N) → Rudraprayag(1N)

₹ 68,000* per person

₹ 68,000*

Char Dham Yatra Package from Rishikesh

3 Nights / 4 Days

Rishikesh(0N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Badrinath(1N) → Rishikesh(1N)

₹ 18,000* per person

₹ 18,000*

Badrinath & Kedarnath by Helicopter Package from Dehradun

Dehradun(1N) → Kedarnath(1N) → Badrinath(0N) → Gangotri(0N) → Yamunotri(0N)

₹ 125,000* per person

₹ 125,000*

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Travel Guide line to Kedarnath -Uttarakhand journey

My trip to kedarnath was a long time coming. For some reason I kept delaying this kedarnath trip but then one day I was done with the mediocre life. I packed a few of my clothes and left for the mountain; it happened naturally. And called it a soul-searching journey. I would be lying, if i say my trip to kedarnath did not change me in person. Now when I look back, I believe it's one of the finest decisions I made in life. 

I may not be able to cover all my moments in this blog but this blog surely stores all of my life-changing experiences. Experiences worth taking risks for Kedarnath tour package .

Kedarnath: A Journey Through Time

Kedarnath open for visitors: get the inside scoop.

• What Are the Best Ways to Reach Kedarnath?

Traveling to Kedarnath Dham

Packing for the journey: tips for a stress-free experience.

Among the  char dhams of the north - Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri is Kedarnath. It's considered one of the highest and sacred of the 12 jyotirlingas in india. They say, it takes sheer patience and dedication to complete the trek in order to reach and upon my visit I can confirm the said fact to be true.

But upon my visit to kedarnath , I learnt that the kedarnath dates back to the time of Mahabharata. It all started with pandavas; right after the war the pandavas along with draupadi were searching for atonement from the Lord Shiva in the majestic mountains. They saw Lord Shiva exactly where the present-day Kedarnath temple stands.

Lord Shiva was not ready to let go of their sins. He dressed as a bull and buried himself in order to prevent his identity from being discovered.  It was not yet time for Lord Shiva to pardon them. In order to avoid being recognized, he dressed as a bull and buried himself in the earth. He was recognized by the Pandavas, nevertheless, and Bhima pulled at his tail and rear legs. In five locations—the hump at Kedarnath, the arms at Tungnath, the belly at Madhyamaheshwar, the 

face at Rudranath, and the head at Kalpeshwar—Lord Shiva reappeared from a deeper grave. All of these form the Panch Kedar.

At the end, the Pandavas constructed temples at each of these five locations, which relieved them of their crimes.

And so the devotees from around the globe make a trip to this holy place in order to offer prayers and seek forgiveness for their sins.

Because Kedarnath is based on the Hindu calendar, its opening and closing dates change annually. Currently, the temple is open from April to May on the first day of  Vaishakh and closes on the first day of  Karthik , which falls between October and November. 

The temple is no longer reachable when the winter wind starts blowing. The landscape and the temple get enveloped in thick layers of snow and enter a state of dormancy throughout the winter season. 

The temple is open during the day from 4 a.m in the morning to 3 p.m in the afternoon. It closes for lunch, then opens again at 5 p.m. and stays open until 9 p.m. The puja in the morning is held between 4:00.

What Are the Best Ways to Reach Kedarnath? 

Guptkashi! Travelers have to travel all the way to Guptkashi and then you will be able to come across several transportation options which will lead you to the Kedarnath Temple. 

Reaching Guptkashi

Guptkashi does not have an airport or a railway station. Thus, traveling by road is the only option. The nearest railway station is Yog Nagri Station in Rishikesh, while the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. Haridwar is an excellent substitute for Rishikesh if you are unable to locate a direct train there.

It is incredibly easy to reserve a car for yourself if you are traveling with a group. You may reserve a 4-seater or a 17-seater automobile or tempo traveler, depending on how many people are traveling. If you would prefer to travel by public transportation, you can take a bus from Rishikesh from the local bus stop. Daily buses depart from 6 am to 10 pm and travel to most locations in Uttarakhand, including Guptakashi and all the way to Gaurikund. A number of tour operators operate transportation services on this route, and you can easily find them online. Make sure your negotiated cost includes the driver's cost, parking, and toll charges.

Upon reaching Guptkashi, take a short break - I took the much needed break prior to the trek - and then head for your next stop. You can reach Kedarnath from Guptkashi in the following ways: 

By trek:  

Traveling this way to Kedarnath is the most natural option. The ultimate goal of a pilgrimage is often achieved through a difficult journey. You may locate a man-made route that leads from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, the starting point of the journey. From Sonaprayag or Guptkashi, you can take a shared local jeep to Gaurikund. Around 18 kilometers of foot route go to the top.

Pilgrims now find a safer and more convenient route, having been restored to its prior-2013 flood state. The path you would take would be as follows:

1. Start at Gaurikund (a shared taxi from Sonaprayag)

2. Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti (6km)

3. Jungle Chatti to Bheem Bali (4km)

4. Bheem Bali to Linchauli (3km)

5. Linchauli to Kedarnath Base Camp (4km)

6. Kedarnath Base Camp to Kedarnath Temple (1km)

It's regarded as a challenging trek. even for individuals who are accustomed to exercising. As you increase in altitude, things get more difficult. If you go during the monsoon season, the rain might put an end to any climbing activity. Many pilgrims find out that they have to turn around midway through. If you have to wait until the next day, make sure you have one or two extra days.

Along the journey, there are several eateries, tea shops, and guest rooms. There are sections with nothing but wilderness, yet there is also medical immediate help accessible. Only between the hours of 4 am and 1.30 pm are pilgrims permitted to begin their journey. Therefore, you must begin very early. 

By Palkis Or Ponies

This is only a second option to the one mentioned above. You can choose to take a pony if you are still interested in making the trek but aren't sure whether you'll have the time or the physical stamina. You can hire a pony at the Gaurikund booking office and ride it to the camps along the route or all the way to Kedarnath.

Not everyone has access to palkis, which are carried by four men. Palkis is only an option for little children and the elderly. If you are able to walk, you should consider what you can do. Pithu is a third possibility. It alludes to the men from the area who are seen riding about with a big basket on their backs.

As they ascend, they bear you on their back. And even if it seems harsh, it may not be the best decision for many, but it's a desperate one with no other options. Make sure to give them a generous tip.

By Helicopter

Taking the helicopter is the best alternative if you are certain that the trek is not for you. Numerous private organizations in the region have begun to operate in recent years. To reserve a helicopter from a base in Guptkashi to the helipad in Kedarnath, you can choose any of them.

Arrive early to your helipad and check in at the desk. After registering, it can take up to two or three hours for your turn. When you return from Kedarnath, you will also need to follow the same procedure. Thus, if you want to go back the same day, reserve a time slot in advance with the base.

Reaching the top  

You have to get off as early in the morning as possible if you are trekking to Kedarnath. In order to have enough time to easily reach the peak by the afternoon, try to be at the trailhead by 6 am. If you don't want to spend the night traveling, try not to start after 8 am. It's best to avoid being on the route after dark.

At Kedarnath

Once you get to Kedarnath, you can go to the main shrine by following the signs posted there. You may hire a pithu at the top if you are too old or physically unfit to travel this distance on your own. For some people, even a small oxygen deficit may result in discomfort.

As soon as you arrive at the shrine, try to get in line. It might take several hours to get your turn for the darshan at the shrine because there is barely any authority over the crowd. A few pilgrims leave without getting the darshan in order to get the last helicopter flight back before it shuts.

During the day, the shrine experiences its busiest hour. Try spending the night there if you want to ensure darshan. After 5 pm, when the helicopter services end for the day, the traffic lessens. Witnessing the aarti late at night or early the following morning is an equally amazing experience.

Take some comfort in the stunning views even if you do miss the main darshan. Adi Shankaracharya's statue is located behind the main temple. It is thought that he is still alive in spirit and that is where he himself got samadhi. Not to be missed is the generous Bheemshila, the large boulder that emerged during the 2013 floods and prevented harm to the temple. It is regarded as a sacred miracle.

Returning from the top

Again, try to get going as soon as you can if you are coming down from the top. It will take you somewhat less time to descend, but the route back is almost as difficult and lengthy. Do not travel after dark, please. 

Although my trip to kedarnath was impromptu; i did learn from my experience. A hassle-free trip to nowhere needs a smart packing and i have got you covered:

• Don't travel light while packing for this trip. Bring out your big-guns and prepare for the worst. Even though the weather varies, Kedarnath's mountaintop is often bitterly chilly. Bring clothing appropriate for extremely low temperatures, unless you are traveling in July or August, when the temperature may be a little lower.  
• After dark, the temperature decreases dramatically. Therefore, in case of any unexpected events, pack in case you have to spend the night in Kedarnath Camp. If you want to walk, pack in layers so you can easily remove your coats as the weather warms up in the middle of the day.  
• You should bring a change of clothes in addition to a sturdy rain jacket during the rainy season as you don't want to get soaked in the cold. Bring thick socks and warm shoes.  
• Food and basic facilities should be available at the top, but there won't be a store, regular supplies, or even money along the route. Thus, carry cash.

Conclusion 

I believe that this comprehensive kedarnath travel guide answers your queries and serves as a valuable resource for planning your pilgrimage to the holy site of lord shiva. doesn't matter if you traveled to kedarnath for a fresh restart or to witness the power of the almighty or simply for pleasant, aesthetic views; kedarnath crates to everyone. It's simply magnificent and drop-dead gorgeous. The kedarnath shrine top, the sacred rivers, picturesque quaint villages and every teeny-tiny detail of kedarnath is a sight to behold!

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About this Blog: Kedarnath Yatra is one of the most spiritual pilgrimages in India. Kedarnath, the abode of Lord Shiva attracts thousands of devotees within a span of 6 months when the shrine remains open. Kedarnath is a part of the sacred Char Dhams (4 pilgrimages) as well as a part of the Panch Kedars . This blog is about our experience of the Kedarnath Trek done in the month of October. Read on to know more about Kedarnath Yatra, how to reach and where to stay and other related information.

Kedarnath is not just a place of pilgrimage for me. The place has much more significance. It was the first place that I had ever travelled with my family. I do hear every now and then that I had been a very difficult 2-year-old during that time who gave a tough time to my parents. Well, what else to expect from a toddler! Now after almost three decades, I was again ready for Kedarnath Yatra again with Agni in tow. Only this time, we decided to go on foot from Gaurikund and I was quite excited about the Kedarnath trek.

This trip was going to be a special one, not for a singular reason. To be honest, I was way too excited to visit a place that has such nostalgic memories for me. The moment we told our families about this trip, my father started telling me stories about “that” Kedarnath Yatra that happened almost 30 years ago. By stories, he meant all the embarrassing episodes of a two and a half-year-old on a trip with the family. It seemed he divulged all my idiotic secrets to my husband, who of course, did not forget to tease me later.

My uncle was quite excited to know we were visiting Kedarnath and Badrinath. He recalled all the special places and even told me to take pictures in the same pose as we had done previously. So much for changes! Overall, going to Kedarnath was exciting not only for us, but also for my family.

For Agni and me, Kedarnath trek was important because we were again trekking the Himalayan trails after almost 2 years. All these years, we had done a few short treks in the Western Ghats and the David Scott Trail in Meghalaya. We thought Kedarnath trek might be the catalyst that would overcome the drought in our trekking trips. After all, it was after Amarnath Yatra that we had fallen for trekking! So enough of my ramblings, let us start with all the information you wanted to know about Kedarnath Yatra, Kedarnath Temple and of course our amazing experience there.

Table of Contents

Where is Kedarnath located?

Kedarnath Dham is a part of the Char Dhams Yatra (4 religious places) that also includes Gangotri, Yamunotri and Badrinath. Located in the Rudraprayag district of Garhwal region in Uttarakhand, the Kedarnath temple is located in the Kedar valley below the Chorabari glacier, which is the source of the river Mandakini.

Kedarnath – History, Legend and Stories

It is usually an obsession with me to find out about the past of any place that we visit, especially if the place happens to be a historical and religious place. For temples in India have numerous stories hidden in them. I did the same for Kedarnath.

It is believed that the Kedarnath shrine was buried under the snow for almost 400 years!

Like others, Kedarnath also has its fair share of mythologies and legends. There are various versions on the origin of the Kedarnath Temple. While there are claims that the temple was resurrected and built by the great Hindu seer Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century while others claim that it was built by the Hindu King Raja Bhoj of Malwa in the 2nd century AD. Well, as I said before, there are numerous versions.

Kedarnath finds mention in the great Hindu epic Mahabharata and this is where the legend of Panch kedar comes in. Did I mention before that Kedarnath is also one of the five (Panch) Kedars, the five holy places of Lord Shiva.

In the epic battle of Kurukshetra where the brothers fought against each other, the Pandavas defeated and killed their cousin brothers Kauravas. The Pandavas killed their own in the battle and were inflicted by self-remorse and guilt. They decided to ask for forgiveness from Lord Shiva, the master of the Universe. With this thought in mind, the Pandavas decided to go to Kashi to ask for forgiveness from God. Lord Shiva, on the other hand, was not too keen on forgiving the Pandavas for their carnage. He left his abode at Kashi and hid as a bull at Guptkashi. Bhima, the strongest of the Pandavas, however, was able to find Lord Shiva in the form of a bull. The bull again escaped and later rematerialized at five places and these 5 places came to be known as the Panch (five) Kedars.

Different parts of the bull materialized at different locations – the hump at Kedarnath, the arms at Tungnath , the navel and stomach at Madmaheshwar, the face at Rudranath and the hairs at Kalpeshwar. It is believed that the Pandavas had built temples at all the five locations and were freed of their sins. It is also believed that the front portion of the bull fell at Pashupatinath in Nepal. The Pandavas built temples at all five locations. It is believed that the Pandavas performed Yagna at Kedarnath before they left for Mahaprasthana (renouncing the world to attain salvation). Incidentally, the Mahaprasthana started from Mana village near Badrinath. That story is for some other time.

There is another story where Nara-Narayan, a Hindu deity worshipped Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He prayed to the Lord and asked him to stay at Kedarnath for the wellbeing of the human beings. Lord Shiva granted him his request and thus Kedarnath became the abode of Lord Shiva.

The Floods of 2013

Kedarnath is also now known for the devastating floods that occurred in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand in 2013. Surprisingly the Kedarnath Temple was one of the few structures that remained unscathed during the floods.

If the mythology is to be believed, then the temple was perhaps built almost 3000 years ago. However, there are inscriptions of the wall of the temple that dates towards a period in between 650 – 850 AD. How the temple withstood the ravages of the flood has been an area of interest for researchers.  The reason is apparently related to the glaciers of the region and the lichens grown there.

Ravinder Kumar Chaujar, a retired professor from Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun, studied lichens growing on the rocks of Chorabari’s moraines to determine the geological history of the place. Professor Chaujar found that the temple had remained submerged in ice or in the glacier for at least 400 years. This was perhaps one of the reasons for the resilience of the temple. It remained unharmed in the 2013 floods and will perhaps survive further such episodes of flooding.

Kedarnath Trek – Our Experience

As I have mentioned before that we decided to go on foot all the way to Kedarnath from the base point at Gaurikund. The journey started from Haridwar. Local buses from Haridwar to Guptkashi were very few because of the post-pandemic situation. So we rented a car for 5 days for a trip to Kedarnath and Badrinath.

We started early in the morning from Kedarnath and passed through the winding mountain roads. We had been to these parts a few times, but the scenery never failed to enchant me. The meeting of Mandakini and Alaknanda Rivers at Rudraprayag still makes us wistful of the unadulterated beauty of the mountain rivers.

The Mandakini River was our constant companion throughout the road to Kedarnath. We reached Guptkashi at around 3 PM and then decided to travel to Sonprayag. There are a number of hotels at Guptkashi and is one of the places to stay for the night if you reach late.

We reached Sonprayag soon and found a hotel to stay for the night. We found a number of hotels at Sonprayag well but the majority of them were closed. It seemed this season the number of pilgrims were lesser than previous years, the reason being obvious.

Earlier, Sonprayag was the starting point of Kedarnath Yatra. But now, a motorable road upto Gaurikund has been built and the 5 km distance from Sonprayag to Gaurikund can be travelled by a shared jeep.

We started quite early in the morning. Once we were at Sonprayag, we headed towards the Yatra Registration Counter. To conduct the Chardham Yatra in a controlled manner after the flash floods of 2013, the number of Yatris (pilgrims) visiting the Kedarnath shrine is regulated. Yatra registration can be done online and you get an e-pass. You can do it yourself or ask your agent to do it for you. There is also a counter for getting the Yatra e-pass at Sonprayag. A man was sitting with a laptop and was making the Yatra e-pass for a fee of Rs.50/-.

We had our Yatra e-pass with us and went to the Registration Counter directly. They recorded the e-pass number, did thermal screening and we were given the permission to start our Yatra. Every year, the pilgrims get a physical pass as well. We did not get it this year, perhaps because of the lesser number of pilgrims.

Sonprayag – Gaurikund

As soon as we got ourselves registered for Kedarnath Yatra, we walked towards the jeeps standing for taking the yatris to Gaurikund. We got our seats in the jeep and were soon at Gaurikund.  The jeep fare was Rs30 per head.

The Kedarnath trek route starts from Gaurikund and concludes at Kedarnath covering a distance of 16km. The trekking route had changed and rebuilt after the flash floods of 2013. The old trekking route has now given way to a better and wider trekking trail.

Kedarnath Trek Starts

The trek starts at Gaurikund. “Kund” literally means a reservoir and Gaurikund has a hot water spring where the pilgrims usually have a bath before embarking on the Yatra. The hot spring no longer exists after the floods of 2013. Now, there is a huge enclosure where pilgrims can take a bath.

Gaurikund is also known for the Gauri Temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati. Close to the Gauri Temple is the Uma Maheswar Temple where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of a rock.

Gaurikund is congested and there are a number of shops catering to all the needs of the travellers. There are a number of accommodation facilities as well at Gaurikund.

We started from Gaurikund at around 8 AM. The Mandakini River was gushing down with beauty and spirit. As much as I wanted to stay there and admire the sprightly river, we had to start our trek towards Kedarnath Temple.

About half a kilometer from the starting gate, is a booking office for horses, mules and palkis and Pitthus . Pitthus are basically men carrying the pilgrims on their back. Usually very old and young pilgrims take the service of Pitthus . There is a fixed rate for mules and Pitthus . You can book them from here. However, you will find mules almost entirely through the trail.

After a kilometer of trekking comes the Horse Point (Ghoda Pul) or the place from where you can get on your horses or mules to carry your journey. The horses are allowed from this point only. Upto this place, the trail is quite crowded with horses, mules and their owners. And don’t you forget, they will constantly ask you to get a mule for the journey! I had been told at least 15 times that I should take a horse to Kedarnath.

We trekked along the well-made trail. As usual, very soon we were quite tired and panting. Our legs were screaming for respite.  Well, this is what happens if you are out of any fitness regime and had not trekked for almost a year! Nevertheless, we continued to trek. Though I must admit that there were a couple of moments when I felt that I should have hired a mule.

The next significant stop on the trail is the Bheembali. The trekking route bifurcates at Bheembali – one for the trekkers and the other specially designated for horses and mules. Both the trails finally meet after Rambara.

Rambara was once one of the biggest settlements in the Kedarnath trek route. The floods of 2013 had completely wiped off the settlement. What remains now is the debris of the old trekking route which was pointed to us by a local shopkeeper. It is also here that we see the Mandakini River flowing down with force through the gorges.

The older route to Kedarnath was through the left of Mandakini River and that route is now completely destroyed. The new route has now been constructed at the right side of the river. A few more minutes of trekking and we reached Chhoti Lincholi. It was almost 12.30 PM at that time and we decided to take a lunch break there. This place can be roughly said to be the midpoint of the trail.

We had a good lunch of alu paratha at Chhoti Lincholi and were quite ready for our next stretch of the trek. And it was then, something sort of a miracle happened. It started snowing!  Well, not exactly all the big snowfall, but we could see the snowflakes on the tents and on us.

To be honest, it was a bright and sunny day when we started. The snowfall made all the people quite happy and a group started singing a local song. We were told that it was the second snow of the season and all the locals were quite happy to see the snow. We enjoyed the snowfall for almost half an hour after which it stopped.

The snowfall might have had us gushing like diehard romantics, but it definitely made the trail a bit difficult for us. We were already late for more than an hour and the weather became chilly. It was a lazy start after lunch and snowfall and gradually we trekked our way towards Kedarnath.

Finally, we reached Lincholi. There are a few accommodation options at Lincholi. You can stay here for the night. Kedarnath is about 6 km from Lincholi. As much as we were tempted to stop at Lincholi, we decided to trek all the way to Kedarnath. After trekking for another hour, we reached Kedarnath Base Camp.

There is a GMVN Guest house and cottages at Kedarnath base Camp. Kedarnath shrine is another 500 m from here. There is also a check post here where they check the registration slips. They only ask for the e-pass numbers and really do not check any slips. We trekked towards the shrine and finally we reached there at around 4PM. Once we reached Kedarnath, we tried to look for a place to stay. There are a number of places to stay near the shrine, mostly dormitories. We finally chose to stay at Bikaner House just behind the Kedarnath Temple.

We were quite in time for the evening Aarti at the Kedarnath Temple. The Aarti starts at 5.30 PM. After watching the Aarti, we went to our guest house, had our dinner and simply snuggled into our sleeping bags.

Kedarnath Temple – the end of the trek

We awoke early the next morning and went to visit the Kedarnath Temple. This time we saw the temple in all its glory. The main temple of the Kedarnath remained unscathed in the floods of 2013.

The interior of the temple is a bit dark. There are statues of the five Pandava brothers and Draupadi, their consort. Inside the main hall, there is a conical shaped stone that is said to be the hump of the bull that Lord Shiva transformed into (remember the story I mentioned before). There are statues of Lord Shiva and a few other deities inside the main hall as well.

We offered our prayers in the temple and then roamed around the place for some time. I had a few old pictures when I had visited Kedarnath Temple almost 3 decades back. I tried to connect the places with that of those pictures. Obviously, the place had changed, but the temple had remained intact.

Outside the temple, there is a statue of Nandi, the bull facing the temple. The entire place looks quite beautiful with the snow-covered Kedarnath peak (6940 m or 22,769 ft), the Kedar Dome (6,831 m 22,411 ft) and other peaks surrounding the temple on three sides.

Just behind the temple is a huge rock known as the Shri Divya Bheem Shila. It is believed that this stone had protected the temple from the waters of the flood in 2013. When the waters of Gandhi Sarovar carried large chunks of moraines and stones, this huge stone boulder tumbled down and anchored just behind the temple. This rock then diverted the flow of water to the sides and the temple remained intact.

You will invariably feel calmness at this place. All around the temple, you will see many ash-smeared saints and sadhus sitting with a trident (Trishul). They seem to be in a world of their own. It is quite interesting to see these sadhus all around the temple, sometimes singing while at other times having a pot of marijuana.

After spending some time around the Kedarnath Temple, we started our return journey towards Gaurikund at around 8.30 AM. We descended to Gaurikund after taking occasional breaks and reached there by 2 PM. Our car had been waiting for us at Gaurikund. We continued our journey towards Guptkashi and decided to stop there for the night before continuing our journey towards Badrinath.  Our visit to Badrinath remains for the next story.

Kedarnath Temple Timings:

The temple remains open from 4 AM to 9 PM everyday.

All that you need to know about Kedarnath Trek and Yatra

How to Reach Kedarnath?

Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun is the nearest airport and is located about 235 km from Kedarnath. Taxis are available from the airport to Sonprayag.

The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Haridwar or Rishikesh. From Haridwar and rishikesh, you will get direct buses to Guptkashi and Sonprayag. But these buses are few in number. You can check online bus sites to see the time of the buses. Buses to Guptkashi, Karnaprayag, Gopeshwar are now available from Delhi (ISBT) as well.

You can also hire a car to reach Guptkashi or Sonprayag. However, it is better to book a car for both Kedarnath and Badrinath or the entire Char Dham Package. The cars charge a lot more if you only ask them to drop at Sonprayag.

We had hired a car for 5 days to visit Kedarnath and Badrinath and it cost us about INR 11,000 for the 5 days (which I do consider to be cheap). We also stopped at Tungnath and Chopta on the way from Kedarnath to Badrinath.

If you are driving by your own car, you can follow the route:

Haridwar – Rishikesh – Pipalkoti – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Agastamuni – Guptkashi – Phata – Sonprayag

Sonprayag has a huge parking space where you can keep your car for the night. The Registration centre for the yatra is just a few metres ahead of the parking space.

The distance between Sonprayag and Gaurikund is about 5 km. You can start the trek from Sonprayag or else take the shared jeeps to Gaurikund. The jeep fare is INR 30 per head. The stretch of road from Sonprayag to Gaurikund is quite bumpy and rough.

Gaurikund serves as the base camp for the Kedarnath trek.

From Gaurikund, you can either trek or ride horses/mules to Kedarnath.

Kedarnath on foot (Kedarnath Trek)

The total trekking distance from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple is about 16-17 km.

Kedarnath Trek Route

• Gaurikund – Jungle Chatti (4 km)
• Jungle Chatti – Bheembali (3 km)
• Bheembali – Lincholi (4 km)
• Lincholi – Kedarnath base camp (4 km)
• Kedarnath base camp – Kedarnath temple (1 km)

The entire trail can be covered in a single day on foot. There are a few accommodation facilities in the middle.

Kedarnath by Horses/ Mules and Pitthus

Horses, palkis , kandis and Pitthus are available from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. There is a booking office just before the starting point of the trek from where you can get them. There is a fixed rate for horses and mules. The rate for pitthus and kandis vary with weight. While you will get them easily at Gaurikund, you will also get them on the way.

Tip on riding horses/mules: Bend forward while climbing upward and bend backward while climbing down and hold the saddle tightly.

Kedarnath by Helicopter

These days many people travel to Kedarnath by helicopter as well. The helipad is at Phata located between Guptkashi and Sonprayag. We found a couple of different operators providing helicopter services to Kedarnath. While Phata is the main place from where you can get helicopter rides, other helipads are found at Sersi and Sitapur. The helicopter would take you to Kedarnath Base Camp, about 1 km from the Kedarnath Temple. This distance has to be covered by foot. Even horses are not allowed beyond a certain point.

Things to remember for Helicopter ride to Kedarnath

• The helipads are at Phata, Sersi and Sitapur.
• Only 2 kg of luggage is allowed per person.
• Additional charges are levied if you weigh more than 80 kg and above 120 kg, 2 seats need to be booked.
• The price of the tickets depends on the helipad you are flying from. Usually a round trip cost somewhere between INR 5000 to 7000.
• If you get the round trip ticket for the same day, then they usually allot 2 hours to visit the temple and come back to the helipad.
• It takes roughly around 10 minutes to fly to Kedarnath Base Helipad and from there it is an easy trek of 15-20 minutes to the Kedarnath Temple.
• Helicopter services might stop at any time due to bad weather conditions.

Where to stay at Kedarnath?

There are plenty of hotels and guest houses at Sonprayag as well as Gaurikund. GMVN Guest Houses are also available and you can book them online.

GMVN Guest House and cottages are also available at Kedarnath Base Camp. There are a number of guest houses and dormitories available near the temple as well. We stayed at Bikaner Bhawan just behind the temple.

Accommodation options are also available on the way to Kedarnath. GMVN Guest Houses are available at Jungle Chatti, Bheemabali and Lincholi. Online booking is available at these guest houses and I would recommend you to book them beforehand if you opt to stay in between.

We stayed at Bikaner Bhawan in a double-bed room which cost INR 2000. Hot water is also available and a bucket would cost you around INR 60 – 70.

The rates of the guesthouses and hotels near the Kedarnath temple can change randomly. We would recommend you to book your stay beforehand if you are visiting with family.

Medical facilities on Kedarnath Trek

Medical centres and facilities are available throughout the way. You can find them in between Jungle Chatti, Bheemabali and Lincholi.

Food, Drinks, Shops and Restaurants on Kedarnath Trek

Most of the hotels, guest houses and GMVN Guest Houses provide food at reasonable prices. The food available is vegetarian and quite tasty. There are many shops available all through the trek route selling Maggi, parathas, snacks and hot beverages. You will definitely not go hungry on your trek to Kedarnath.

Toilet Facilities on Kedarnath Trek

Make-shift toilet tents are available on the way at various places in the trekking route.

Is there Mobile and Internet Service at Kedarnath?

Mobile services are available at Gaurikund till Lincholi. However, it is a bit rough at Kedarnath. We found Jio and Airtel services at Kedarnath while there was no mobile service for Vodafone.

Free wifi is available at the main areas like Jungle Chatti, Bheemabali, Lincholi and Kedarnath. However, do not rely much on the free wifi services. We did not get any during our stay at Kedarnath.

When is the best time to visit Kedarnath Temple ?

Kedarnath is a part of the Char Dham Yatra. The temple opens on the auspicious day of Akshay Tritiya (usually falls in April or May) and closes on the day of Bhai Dooj (falls in October or November). Kedarnath Dham can only be visited during this time.

Kedarnath is located at an altitude of 3553 m and remains cold most of the time. The weather is quite unpredictable in the mountains. Usually May to June and October to November is a good time for Kedarnath Trek. July to September are the monsoon months and there are chances for landslides during this time.

Places around the Kedarnath Temple

Bhaironath Temple

This temple is located at a very short distance from the Kedarnath Temple. It is believed that Bhaironath guards the Kedarnath Temple by keeping the evil at bay.

Shankaracharya Samadhi

This is the resting place of Adi Shankaracharya and is located near the Kedarnath Temple.

Gandhi Sarovar

About 3 km from Kedarnath Temple lies the Gandhi Sarovar that is fed by the Chorabari Glacier. If you wish to trek there, start early in the morning. The weather can change quite abruptly.

Vasuki Tal is located about 8 km from Kedarnath Temple. The trekking trail is quite steep and should be done with the help of guides. The Vasuki Taal offers a great view of the Chaukhamba ranges.

Rudra Meditation Cave

This is an interesting place. Located about 1.5 km from the temple, there is an underground cave available for meditation and isolation. The caves have a window that provides a direct view of the Kedarnath Temple. You can book the cave for yourself for the purpose of meditation for a maximum of 3 days. Obviously, only one person can stay inside the cave. The cave has all living facilities like water, electricity, heater, attached toilet and a phone to call the authorities in case of emergency.

Some interesting Facts about the Kedarnath Temple

• It is believed that the Kedarnath Temple is eternally protected and cannot be harmed.
• Bhaironath Ji is the protector of the Kedarnath Temple and is known as the Kshetrapal.  He is the fiery avatar of Lord Shiva and is known for devastation and destruction.
• Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlings of Lord Shiva. It is infact, the highest of all the Jyotirlings in India.
• After Bhai Dooj, when the temple is closed, the main deity is brought down to Ukhimath.
• The head priest of the Kedarnath Temple belongs to the Veerashaiva community of Karnataka and is known as Rawal. However, the head priest or Rawal does not conduct the ritual inside the temple. He only gives instructions to his assistants. The deity is transferred to Ukhimath during the winter. The puja is performed in Kannada language.
• The temple is said to have been buried under ice for almost 400 years.

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Hey! we’re Agni & Amrita.

We have been travelling together since the last 15 years and writing independent and personal travel content since 2014. Travel is one of the best teachers and through this blog, we aim to share our experiences and travel tips. We encourage you to travel more and see the world through your eyes and not through filtered templates.

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56 Comments

Descriptive blog about Kedarnath, valuable info shared for first-time travelers. Trekking in Kedarnath is an exciting and adventurous journey where you can avail all the accommodation as well as camping facilities with an awestruck top view from hills. Worth visiting along the trails to experience the local life.

This is by far the most amazing blog I found on Kedarnath yatra. All the information is quite helpful. I almost felt that I am right there with you on the trek.Thanks for writing.

Thank you so much, for your kind words.

I never heard of the Kedarnath and after this in-depth description and experience, I would love to do a trek here. I love a hike with beautiful mountains and culture combined and this has it. The backdrop to the temple is truly amazing and I would just go to the temple just to see that. A lot of information here to consider as well, so I have bookmarked this page as I hope to do some hiking in India once Covid clears off. This part of the world has been on my list for a long time.

Thank you Danik! Kedarnath is one of the spiritual places in India and is absolutely gorgeous.

Wow just look at those mountains. I would love to do this hike and when I visit India I need a long time to see the beautiful places in this country. This looks like a great 2 day and worth it and the views must be amazing during the whole trek. I hope I get to visit one day as it looks amazing.

That I totally agree to. You will need a lot of time to explore India! Thank you for the lovely comment!

This is a great comprehensive guide! We have never heard of Kedarnath Yatra, but it looks like an interesting place to discover. Spiritual, historic and hiking all in one trip? That sounds like our kind of thing. We’ll definitely include this in our India itinerary when it’s safe to travel.

Thank you so much!

What a fantastic experience! You provided so much information about Kedarnath, I feel like I could go and have a good idea of what to expect. I think the Kedarnath Trek sounds fascinating, although it must have been tiring the cultural experience and natural views must have been worth it.

Thank you Chloe! Kedarnath trek is quite an experience.

So interesting to read about the Kedarnath Yatra pilgrimage. And great to return to a trek that brings back special family memories. I can certainly see why the scenery along the river way to the start of your trek intrigued you. It looks like an interesting trek up to the Kedarnath Temple. Even if there was snow along the way. I might want to visit by helicopter and see those amazing views from above.

Helicopter ride is a good way to reach the place for those who cannot hike. Thank you Linda for the lovely comment!

What a great travel story and also a guide for those who want to do this trek. The views are absolutely breathtaking! And I love all those hidden little stories you mentioned. This trip also get a very personal feeling as other family members told you all those stories. The temples are all beautiful.

Thank you so much, Paula!

Oh my God! I am bookmarking this post. Kedarnath has been on the top of my list. I want to hike and visit this amazing place, especially to hike. And also take my mother as she loves these kinds of religious places even though I would send her to the temple by other means and not by hiking. Thanks for this post, I will try to visit it as soon as the pandemic is over.

Thank you, Raksha! I am sure you will love Kedarnath.

I’m hoping to go on Kedarnath Yatra after a couple of years. Good to know that they trek is about 16-17km and can be done in a day and there are also some accommodations on the way. Hahaha, it is funny and awesome that you visited Kedarnath as a kid and now your dad managed to give all the embarassing details to Agni. Now that I travel with my toddler, I have quite a bit of such funny and embarassing moments. Hoping to pass it on to her partner in future… Am I evil? Hahaha..

I bet you are! Just imagine my embarrassment when my dad gave all my secrets to my hubby. And he teases me with those till date!

I felt as if I were doing the trek with you as I read this. Beautifully covered with useful tips within. I have been meaning to get here and now am even more tempted. Loved your pics of the Sonprayag and the various trekking spots. The history and legends around this place really make it special. I knew the bit about Mahabharat and Shankracharya but did not know about how it was discovered

Thank you so much, Ami!

Amazing Blog, Thank for sharing this wonderful website with us.

this is a great read, very engaging and informative. I have a quick question regarding the stay at Kedarnath, you mentioned your stay at Bikaner house, is there any way to pre-book it?

Thank you so much for the comment. I think the stay at Bikaner House can be pre-booked. Please try calling +91-8191900012.

Hi, How can we book hotels near the temple in Kedarnath? You mentioned that it’s better if done ahead of the travel?

Can it be done online?

There are a few websites from where you can find out the contact numbers of the hotels near Kedarnath Temple. But I doubt whether it can be done online. There are also a number of travel agents in Haridwar and Rishikesh from where you can get your stay. Thank you for stopping by our blog. Keep reading!

One of my biggest dreams is to go to Kedarnath and in this blog, I got all the information for my next trip. And all the images are extremely beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing all this wonderful info with us.

Thank you so much Shivani! We are so glad you liked our blog.

Good Luck for the upcoming update.This article is really very interesting.

Amazing Blog… many things to learn. thanks for sharing.

It’s amazing blog and very informative about Kedarnath trek….. This blog will very helpfull for newbies.

Nice Blog…. This is really amazing. Great information about Kedarnath trek.

Woooow so nicely explain every minute details. This will help us a lot for sure for our planning.

Thank you for a very informative write up. One question, how long did it take you to trek back to Gaurikund? You mentioned you reached at 12.30, but not state the start time. Did you have time to look around in the morning before starting the trek back?

Hello Sharmila! Thank you for reading our blog! And thank you also for pointing out the time. We had reached Gaurikund by 2PM and not 12PM. It was typo error. Now we have corrected it. We had started around 8.30AM after attending the morning aarti and just roaming around the place.

Hi… felt like a movie … scenes passes thru my imaginative mind! Clear cut, lively explanation. I am visiting kedar, badri and tungnath this June. Plz help me with a trustable travel agency or travel agents number. We are from bangalore and will come thru flight. Thanks a lot I. Advance. I am inspired to write a page later.. ( in my son’s notebook.. not here 😉 ) ha ha. Will be waiting for the reply

Wonderfully done article..Pretty complete. I am planning to do the Kedar trek with kids 7&12 and planning to rent a car.

You have mentioned you rented a car for 5 days. Does it come with a driver or you drive on your own. Any preferred rental companies for Car?

We had rented a car with driver. We got the car from a rental service at Haridwar. It was near Haridwar Railway Station. Have a wonderful trip to Kedarnath.

Thankyou for the amazing informative content on kedarnath yatra. Everybody needs this informative content keep sharing.

thank you for such a nice, elaborate and interesting blog!! while we have been aspiring to visit Kedarnath and badrinath much in recent times, i was actually looking for a visitor’s experience and just came across yours… thank you once again.

Thank you poorna for the kind words.

Hi. Its very interesting to hear from you. Congratulation for the trek. Now I booked at gourikund . Can you provide any information the proceedings before start trek from Gourikund. Thanks again.

Thank you so much for your comment. Have a great trip and let us know how it went.

A captivating tale of the Kedarnath trek! The personal experiences you share make it feel like we’re trekking right alongside you. The spiritual and natural beauty of the region shines through your words. Thanks for taking us on this unforgettable adventure through your storytelling – it’s both inspiring and informative

Thank you so much for your kind words.

Very comprehensive and informative! I think these tips and advice are much helpful. Good you explained everything in detail it has been a great help.

Hi, beautiful article, wish had come across your article before, just couple of days back we trekked to kedarnath, myself 55 yrs old and my husband 58 yrs. It was dream come true for me at this age, can you with your rich experience share how to treat aching legs after trek. We use coconut oil, is there any other thing which can be of help. Thankyou. God bless both of you

Hello Ma’am! We are so glad to hear that you had trekked to Kedarnath. Time and again it os proved that age is just a number! As for treating aching legs, we recommend to apply ice pack on the aching area. It will help a lot. Also keep your legs elevated for few minutes every day. Hope this helps!

Beautiful content and very informative 🙂 Har har mahadev 🙏🏼

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It is the highest of the 12 “jyotirlingas” and the farthest situated “chota char dham”. The temple was talked about in the year 2013, when despite being the worst affected area during the flash floods, the Temple survived any major damages. Book Kedarnath tour packages and you’ll surely enjoy a great vacation at this pilgrimage site. The history, sanctity and nature around Kedarnath makes it a must-visit for all.

Enjoy a spiritual reconnection with your inner self. It’s not just about the temple, you’ll get a booster dose of adventure too with the amazing trekking trails and campsites in the region. The natural splendor of this region will leave you spell bound.

10 Best Tourist Places to Explore with a Kedarnath Package

1. kedarnath temple.

What’s Special: Scared site, breathtaking views, snow-capped mountains

Nearby Attractions: Vasuki Tal, Shankaracharya Samadhi, Agastyamuni, Chandrashila, Sonprayag, Triyuginarayan, Guptakashi, Chorabari Lake, Bhairavnath Temple

Timings: 4:00 am to 9:00 pm (closed from 3:00 pm to 5 pm)

Distance From City: NA

Transportation Options: The temple can be reached only while trekking

The sanctity and history of this temple make it a must-visit. It hosts lakhs of devotees per year. This lord shiva temple is also the highest of the 12 “jyotirlingas”. The architecture of the temple is also envious, with the inner walls showing carvings of deities and mythological stories. The temple is open for darshan from the end of April till the beginning of November leaving roughly 9 months to plan your Kedarnath trip.

2. Vasuki Tal

What’s Special: Photography, breathtaking views, beautiful and serene surroundings, trekking

Nearby Attractions: Kedarnath Temple, Kalpeshwar Temple, Gauri Kund, Shankaracharya Samadhi, Agastyamuni, Chandrashila, Sonprayag, Triyuginarayan, Guptakashi, Chorabari Lake, Bhairavnath Temple

Timings: Open throughout the day

Transportation Options: Vasuki Tal can be reached with a moderate trek

Another important place to include in your Kedarnath holiday packages is Vasuki Ta. An ideal climb for trekkers, this lake is situated at a height of 4135 meters. It has a backdrop of the beautiful Chaukhamba peaks situated close by. The glaciers from this lake line up the route of the climb right up to the lake. There are also mystic flowers blooming around the lake, one of them being the famous Brahma Kamal. Getting to the lake is treacherous as one has to ascend a long narrow track from Kedarnath and cross ravine filled glaciers in the path.

3. Shankaracharya Samadhi

What’s Special: Religious site, hot water spring

Nearby Attractions: Vasuki Tal, Bhairav Temple, Sonprayag, Chandrapuri, Kalimath, Phata, Kedarnath Temple, Kalpeshwar Temple, Gaurikund

Transportation Options: Cab, bus, car

Sri Shankaracharya, who brought forward the philosophy of Adwaita is believed to have established this shrine in the 8th century. He is also believed to have attained “moksha” here at the age of 32. Kedarnath was the last place he visited before leaving his mortal body behind. The place he attained nirvana is where the Shankaracharya Samadhi was built. Notably, the Spatika lingam has healing properties and is said to remove any kind of negative energy and effects of any illness.

4. Chandrashila

What’s Special: Trekking trails, picturesque views

Nearby Attractions: Kedarnath Temple, Kalpeshwar Temple, Gauri Kund, Shankaracharya Samadhi, Agastyamuni, Vasuki Tal, Sonprayag, Triyuginarayan, Guptakashi, Chorabari Lake, Bhairavnath Temple

Distance From City: 89 km

Transportation Options: The spot can be reached by an adventurous trek

This range offers a skiing track and trekking range all through the year, except during peak winters. One of the most popular places to visit in Kedarnath, Chandrashila is located at a height of 3679 meters and is adorned by a shiva temple at its peak. The trek to Chandrashila is steep and trekkers are required to complete a distance of 4.5 km from Chopta. Furthermore, Chandrashila also offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the Himalayan range and some famous peaks located in the region such as Trishul, Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba Peaks, and Kedar Peak.

5. Sonprayag

What’s Special: Place where the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati took place

Timings: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

Distance From City: 23.6 km

Transportation Options: Taxi, sharing jeep, bus, car

Sonprayag is a tiny settlement located at a height of 1829 metres. It is located at the meeting point of the rivers, Mandakini and Basuki. It is a popular spot for the pilgrims and they come here in the belief that a dip in this water will help them attain” nirvana”. The backdrop of snow-clad mountains, and mesmerizingly flowing rivers emit a unique charm while captivating vacationers from all across the globe.

6. Guptkashi

What’s Special: Holy temples, picturesque views, lush green forests

Distance From City: 48.2 km

Transportation Options: Chopper, car, the spot can be reached by trekking

Guptkashi is a beautiful town, located around 47 kilometres away from Kedarnath. The town is situated at a higher altitude offering picturesque views. The town is home to two holy temples named as Ardhnarishwar Temple and Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The town is settled in lush green surroundings and offers captivating views.

7. Agastyamuni

What’s Special: Religious site, beautiful vistas, impressive architecture

Nearby Attractions: Kedarnath Temple, Kalpeshwar Temple, Gauri Kund, Shankaracharya Samadhi, Agastyamuni, Vasuki Tal, Sonprayag, Triyuginarayan, Guptakashi, Chorabari Lake

Distance From City: 67 km

Transportation Options: Car, chopper, cab

Positioned at a height of 1000m above sea level, Agastmuni is a sacred town nestled on the banks of River Mandakini in Rudraprayag. This tourist spot is primarily known for the Agastyamuni temple which is named after the renowned sage who meditated here for one year. The temple is very famous for its architecture and has some beautiful wall art that adds to the beauty of this ancient temple.

8. Bhairavnath Temple

What’s Special: Scenic beauty, pilgrim site

Nearby Attractions: Chorabari Tal, Gangotri Glacier, Kedarnath Temple, Shankaracharya Samadhi, Agastyamuni, Vasuki Tal

Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm

Distance From City: 1 km

Transportation Options: Cab, bus, taxi

Perched on a hilltop and 500 m from Kedarnath temple, Bhairavnath temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav. The deity of this temple is said to be the protector of the Kedarnath temple. The temple is also equally important and where pilgrims visit Kedarnath Temple. Upon reaching the temple one can see the beautiful view that consists of hills and mountains covered with snow.

9. Rudra Meditation Cave

What’s Special: Tranquil spot, meditation techniques

Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm

Transportation Options: Cab, taxi

Positioned one and a half kilometres left from the Kedarnath Temple complex, Rudra Meditation Cave is a perfect place to calm your senses and feel the holiness of the place. This underground meditation cave was established and constructed by the Nehru Mountaineering Institute and is a part of Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam's Guest Houses chain. This unique cave pampers its guests with numerous modern amenities. While staying here, you can take advantage of consuming water and electricity. Notably, the price to enter the cave is INR 990. So, if you want to make the most of Kedarnath tour packages from Vadodara , make sure to spend a day at this majestic cave.

10. Gaurikund

What’s Special: Serene spot, holy hot water spring, the place of long tapa performed by Goddess Parvati

Nearby Attractions: Sonprayag, Triyuginarayan Temple, Kedarnath

Distance From City: 9.7 km

Positioned at an altitude of 1982 metres in the Garhwal Himalayas, Gaurikund is one of the most renowned Hindu pilgrimage sites. Also being the base camp of the trek to Kedarnath, this place is named after the Goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva. With a 16 km trek from here, travellers can reach the holy shrine of Kedarnath. The attraction also features numerous hot springs that are now converted to bathing spots for the visitors who are coming to Kedarnath. Interestingly, Gaurikund is also known to be a religious spot where Ganesha acquired the head of an elephant. While opting for the best Kedarnath package from Chandigarh , you can enjoy the charm of Gaurikund and make memories for a lifetime.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the summer- March to June. This is when the weather here turns out to be mildly warm. It is inaccessible during the winter due to which even the temple remains closed. The monsoons here vary from less to very heavy rainfall which is unpredictable. Hence it is advised to avoid. Read further to know the seasonal breakdown of the destination which will help you plan your Kedarnath tour.

Summer Season

The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the summers - April to June. This is when the weather here turns out to be mildly warm. One can enjoy all the outdoor activities easily, sightseeing becomes more enjoyable owing to the pleasant weather. The temperature during the summer season ranges from 15°C to 30°C.

Winter Season

It is inaccessible during the winter due to which even the temple remains closed. Winters start in October and stay till March. The temperature during the winter season fluctuates between 0°C to 20°C. The place also receives heavy snowfall in the months of December and January and the place becomes inaccessible for a few months.

Monsoon Season

The monsoons here vary to less to very heavy rainfall which is unpredictable. Hence it is advised to avoid. Monsoon begins in the month of July and stays till the end of September. The temperature in monsoon also ranges from 15°C to 30°C, but the changes of landslides and road blockages increases. It is recommended to avoid visiting Kedarnath during the monsoon season. Sightseeing and outdoor activities are also not advised in the monsoon season.

How to Reach Kedarnath?

Kedarnath is well accessed by cabs and buses from Dehradun and New Delhi. You can either hire a Cab or make use of the well-connected bus network from both these major cities. This goes only up to the highest motorable area, Gaurikund and you can trek your way up from there.

The closest airports to Kedarnath are New Delhi and Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. From here you can either hire a cab or use the bus services to reach Gaurikund and freak up from there. There are also helicopter services available directly to Kedarnath from New Delhi and Dehradun.

The rail station closest to Kedarnath is Rishikesh. It is very well connected to all parts of India and also to all major cities across the country. From here you can take a bus to Gaurikund and trek your way up to Kedarnath.

Kedarnath is truly a magical place that holds a lot of importance to people. It is very different from all the other pilgrims in the country hence attracts not just Indian but even foreign tourists. There are several temples in the area that are a part of Char Dham and visiting them on foot is challenging but worth it. Book a Kedarnath package and pay respects to one of the most popular temples and complete the most important dhams of India.

Bestselling Kedarnath Tour Packages

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Duration ( in Days )

Budget Per Person ( in Rs. )

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Showing 12 Kedarnath Tour Packages

Badrinath Kedarnath Gangotri Yamunotri Tour Package From Haridwar

₹ 34,124/- ₹ 36,693/-.

Per Person on twin sharing

• Religious Tour
• Kempty Falls
• Har ki Pauri
• Hill station

Hotel included in package:

• Haridwar (3D)
• Barkot (2D)
• Uttarkashi (2D)
• Sitapur (2D)
• Kedarnath (1D)
• Badrinath (1D)

A spiritual trip can always help you to live a peaceful and happy life. No matter how s....

Upto 2 Stars

Sightseeing

Char Dham Tour Package By Train From Jaipur

₹ 42,000/- ₹ 45,652/-.

Whenever one wants to feel the royalty of Rajputs and ancient India, there is only one ....

Take A Plunge Into The Divinity Of Kedarnath

₹ 12,000/- ₹ 13,043/-.

• Haridwar (1D)
• Sitapur (1D)
• Kedarnath (2D)

Best Char Dham Yatra Package From Rishikesh For An Unforgettable Trip

₹ 36,750/- ₹ 39,516/-.

Char Dham Yatra Tour Package From Mumbai

₹ 46,000/- ₹ 50,000/-.

• Adventure Activities
• Natural Beauty

Soulful Char Dham Yatra Tour Package From Chandigarh

₹ 34,125/- ₹ 37,092/-.

Embark on an exhilarating pilgrimage trip to the sacred char dhams in the lap of Himala....

Best-Selling Spiritual Trip To Char Dham By Train

₹ 36,749/- ₹ 39,945/-.

Delve Into The Divinity Of Kedarnath

₹ 18,000/- ₹ 19,565/-.

Chardham Tour Package From Haridwar

• Temple Tour
• Uttarakashi (2D)
• Guptkashi (1D)
• Pipalkoti (3D)

Indulge in the divine journey of Chardham with our Char dham yatra packages for....

Upto 3 Stars

North India Temple Tour Package From Chennai

₹ 19,949/- ₹ 21,684/-.

• Dehradun (1D)
• Yamunotri (1D)
• Gangotri (1D)
• Badrinath (2D)

Joining this North India temple tour packages from Chennai containing ....

Haridwar Rishikesh Kedarnath Badrinath Gangotri Yamunotri Tour Package

₹ 35,000/- ₹ 38,043/-.

In a land defined by its history of spirituality, teeming with shrines and monuments th....

North India Temple Tour Package From Bangalore

₹ 21,499/- ₹ 23,369/-.

• Best sellers

North India is the home to beauty and immense diversified culture. But one thing that b....

FAQs for Kedarnath

What is the cost of a kedarnath tour package.

The cost of your Kedarnath tour package depends upon the number of places included in the itinerary, duration of the yatra, and temples covered apart from the Kedarnath Dham. A budget-friendly Kedarnath trip for 11 days and 10 nights will cost between INR 35,000 to INR 37,000. The trip will include 3 days at Haridwar, 2 days at Barkot, 2 days at Uttarkashi, 2 days at Sitapur, 1 day each at Kedarnath and Badrinath. The package cost would also include temple visits, Ganga aarti, sightseeing tours, transfers, breakfast, and more.

Which month is the best for Kedarnath?

The best time to visit Kedarnath is between May to June and September to October. The weather remains ideal during this time, making your yatra a comfortable experience. Avoid visiting the temple during the monsoon as there are chances of landslides.

Is it safe to travel to Kedarnath?

Being a crowded spot it is safe but always advisable to take care of all your belongings.

Are there ATM machines available?

After the flash floods of 2013, there are no ATM services established as of now.

What is the general weather of Kedarnath?

Located on a mountain top, Kedarnath has cold and extreme winters but shows slight warmth during the summers.

Is there any permit required for visitation?

Yes, the Char Dham Biometric is compulsory.

Can children visit Kedarnath?

Children are allowed to visit Kedarnath and it is totally safe too.

How long is the Kedarnath Yatra?

Being the longest trek, it takes 10-12 days to cover all the temples. But now it’s much easier due to the helicopter service and you can visit all the temples in just 2 days too.

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Naveenaonly's 6 days trip to Char Dham

Naveenaonly

Sagarca's 7 days trip to Uttarakhand

Sourabh's 6 days trip to char dham.

Sourabh Parsekar

Sridharvecham's 6 days trip to Char Dham

Sridharvecham

Reshhjjkma's 5 days trip to Char Dham

Reshhjjkma P

Dpshah's 7 days trip to Char Dham

Ajay's 6 days trip to char dham.

Ajay Kharade

Aarav's 2 days trip to Uttarakhand

Chandusmart's 5 days trip to char dham.

Chandusmart

Toshanib's 7 days trip to Char Dham

Pratima Bhattacharjee

Best Things To Do On Kedarnath Trip

1. enjoy a helicopter ride.

You can book a helicopter to take you to Kedarnath. If you like some luxury or want to reach Kedarnath comfortably, this is among the best things to do in the region.

2. Trekking

If you're a trekking enthusiast, you may try the trek beginning from Gaurikund to Rambara. Enjoy the beautiful sights of the mountains and valleys.

Kedar tal is among the most splendid lakes in Uttaranchal. If you’re an adventure seeker, camping at Kedar tal must be on your bucket list.

4. Shopping at Tilwada Bazaar

Buy some amazing souvenirs and appreciate the value for money you get at Tilwada Bazaar. It is among the main markets at this pilgrimage site.

5. Enjoy a relaxation session at Vasuki Tal

If you want some peace, you can indulge in yoga or even a simple afternoon picnic at the Vasuki Tal.

Best Places To Stay In Kedarnath

1. verdant valley, kund-chopta, by himalayan eco lodges.

Offering perfect mountain views, this accommodation option is positioned in Rudraprayag. While staying here, travellers can enjoy all sorts of basic amenities. When experiencing hunger pangs, you can reach out to the on-site restaurant that serves Chinese, Asian, and Indian delicacies. The hotel also offers evening entertainment and makes arrangements for hiking. Some other services that guests can take advantage of include room service, parking, wake-up service, and more. One can also relax in the garden and enjoy while admiring the beautiful surroundings.

Location: Sansiri Village, Kund, 246469 Rudrapray?g, India

Price per night: INR 2,500

Trip Advisor ratings: 4/5

2. Green Valley Home Stay by StayApart

Ideally positioned in Ukhimath, Green Valley Home Stay by StayApart is a reasonably-priced accommodation option that has a garden. Guests have a private balcony. The rooms at the homestay are spick & span and have all the basic amenities to ease your stay. Besides this, the bathrooms are equipped with towels, toilet paper, and other toiletries.

Location: Temple Approach Road Bhiri Paldwari Road, Garhwal, Uttarakhand, 246419 Ukhimath

Price per night: INR 6,666

3. Laxmi Homes

Surrounded by nature’s beauty, Laxmi Homes are another cost-effective stay option for families as well as couples. The property features a terrace and a garden where you can spend some moments of tranquillity. The fully-equipped bathrooms have a shower, slippers, towels, and other essentials. The property features the rooms under Double Room with Mountain View where one family of 4 can be easily accommodated. Notably, Gaurikund is 19 km away from Laxmi Homes.

Location: Deoria Tal Road, Saari Village, 246469 Ukhimath, India

Price per night: INR 1,350

4. GMVN Guptkashi

GMVN Guptkashi is a 2-star hotel that provides its guests with numerous amenities to make their stay immensely comfortable. The hotel offer rooms under 3 categories including Deluxe Double Room, Deluxe Room, and Family Room. The on-site restaurants allow you to enjoy Indian, Italian, Asian cuisines. Besides this, the hotel also offers airport pick-up and drop-off at an additional cost. Another element that makes GMVN Guptkashi different from its competitors is the option of carrying pets to the hotel. So, if you want to bring your pet on your holiday, you can request the hotel.

Location: Kedarnath Rd, near DWD Guest House, Guptkashi, Uttarakhand 246439, 246439 Gupta K?shi, India

Price per night: INR 3,183

Trip Advisor ratings: 4.5/5

5. Kedar River Retreat

If you are looking for a resort-like experience, Kedar River Retreat is a perfect place to stay. Located 0.2 km away from the Mandakini River, this resort offers a wide range of luxurious amenities to make your stay a memorable one. With essential services like dry cleaning, shuttle service, currency exchange, luggage storage, and more, Kedar River Retreat promises to ease your stay. There is also a spa and wellness centre where travellers can indulge in soothing spa treatments and calm their senses. So, to enjoy a luxurious holiday, you can add this wonderful resort to your Kedarnath tour package from Vadodara .

Location: NH-107, Kedarnath Road Sitapur, P O- Rampur, 266471 Gaurikund

Price per night: INR 4,275

Tips For Booking Packages

• Plan your trip and all your bookings well in advance.
• Compare booking sites for the best deals.
• Look for an all inclusive holiday tour package.
• Check the weather reports of the place and time your visiting.
• Check the reviews and ratings of the company you’re booking with.

Kedarnath is one of the must visit places for the believers and a serene habitat of nature for the non-believers. Unwind and relax in the lap of nature of feel the adrenaline rush with the treks and skiing, there’s something for everybody here. Book Kedarnath tour packages from TravelTriangle and spend a few days in peaceful and tranquil ambiance.

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Once in a lifetime experience - Kedarnath Trek. #TripotoClicksHimalayas #Kedarnath #Himalayas

We, a group of 60 people started for the longest trek of our Himalayan Yatra on May 25,2018.The other places which we covered in this yatra was Rishikesh, Tunganath - Chandrashila, Ukhimat, Guptakashi, Kalimath and Haridwar. This was our second trek. The first trek was to Tunganath Chandrashila. The one main problem with Tunganath was the way was much more steep than in Kedarnath. But, the path was very clean in Tunganath, when compared to Kedarnath. There were many means of transport to reach the Kedarnath temple. There were helicopters, mules, doli (Four people will be carrying you in a chair) and also in baskets. The best option for a thrilling experience is the trek. We can't see those kind of beautiful scapes in our daily lives. The time taken to reach in average is 9 hours. For older people, it's best to opt the helicopter. You have to pre book because it's only during the summer time you can visit Kedarnath. So, basically there will be huge number of pilgrims visiting during summer. The pre booking for helicopters starts by January. Also the helipad is very near to the temple, so as far as what I have seen, this is the best option. It takes only 7 min to reach the top of the hill via helicopter. You can complete the Darshan and return in a maximum of 2 hours. The cost for double side was in and around ₹10,000/person (As of May, 2018).Coming to mules, I wouldn't recommend this to people who are having back pains. It's better to walk than going by mules. It's best to climb up in mule rather than climbing down. Climbing up will only consume more energy,also you have to be more careful with the balance while sitting in mule while climbing down. The cost for mule for one way was ₹1500(May, 2018). If you want to climb in a mule, better get a mule from the starting. We found it difficult to get one after a point called Bheembali,which was 7 kms from the starting point. Talking about the starting point of the trek, one can start from Sonprayag as well as from Gaurikund. If you start from Sonprayag, it will add another 5 kms to the distance and the path is not so attractive. Don't forget to take your Adhaar proof, since there is a verification done in Sonprayag. We had our breakfast in Sonprayag and had to wait in the queue for one and half hours to get into jeep to reach Gaurikund. We reached Gaurikund in 40 min. This is the starting point of the trek. It was 14 kms from here . The 1km way from there was very crowded with many shops, restaurants and was very dirty. But afterwards, there was this beautiful and wide spaced roads for the trek. We started walking at 11.00am. There was this beautiful river, called Mandhakini, which could be seen in Gaurikund. There was also a hot water spring, in Gaurikund. But the place was very dirty because of the huge population of pilgrims. So, we decided not to enter and continued with the trek. Please do ensure to get a stick from the shops in Sonprayag,as it will be very helpful in this long trek. We reached Bheembali at 4.00 pm. The path after Bheembali started to be steep and there were no more clean roads like what we saw from the starting point of Gaurikund. We found it very difficult to walk after 7.30 pm, as the paths were very narrow and it was pitch dark . Some people reached base camp by 9pm. Our camp was just 2kms from the temple. Some of us couldn't walk in a full stretch. So, we took accommodation at GMVN Tents after Lincholi.

The way from Gaurikund.

Path way of the trek.

Streams on the way.

After 5 hours of walking.

We started our trek at early morning,4.30 am. It was freezing cold, but we were more freshened up and energetic than in the evening. As, there were fewer people in the path, we were able to walk comfortably and reached the temple by 8.00 am. Since it was very cold, we took regular breaks in order to catch up on our breathing. There was a long queue as soon as we reached the temple. We spotted many Aghoris near the temple. Aghoris are people who says themselves as followers of Shiva. They have a very difficult culture than normal person. They even eat human flesh.Please do read about the places before you start the yatra to Himalayas. It will help you explore more and know about the places in detail. T he helipad was very close to the temple. There were medical assistance camps, good restaurants near the temple. The view from the temple was breath-taking. It was totally worth every strain which we went through the trek. We all were back energetic and happy that we were finally able to see this beautiful place.There was a huge Nandi in front of the temple. Many rituals were happening in front of the temple. We completed our Darshan and started our way back in mule by 10 am,as we are exhausted with trekking up in the early morning. It took approximately 3 hours to climb down to Gaurikund in a mule. We reached back Sonprayag in a taxi and waited for other people in the group to come back. It takes around 5 hours to climb down by walking.

During the winter time, Kedarnath will be closed and all the rituals will be done at Omkareshwar temple,in Ukhimat. It is believed that this is the place where Lord Krishna's grandson, Anirudh got married.

(Do contact me if you need any more information regarding the trek)

Kedarnath temple.

Omkareshwar Temple, Ukhimat

Tents on the way.

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• Kedarnath Trek: A Healing Retreat To Recharge My Soul

Kedarnath Trek: A Healing Retreat to Recharge My Soul

The lockdown is getting on our nerves now… But hey, let’s not forget… It’s not for the government’s, but our own safety. The more strictly we follow the rules laid down by the authorities, the earlier we’ll be able to beat the pandemic. However, in times when we can’t travel far and wide, physically, at least for some more days, we can certainly do so virtually or go back in time cherishing the beautiful memories we have made on our holidays earlier. At the end of the day, when it’s an intangible thing like travel, is it supposed to do anything different?! It’s memories we bring back from our holidays, only to be cherished for a lifetime, from wherever and in whatever circumstances we are at any given point in time. In this series of blogs, we bring to you some amazing stories of travellers who were left speechless when they travelled to their dream destinations, but have indeed turned out to be storytellers while narrating and sharing their experiences.

In this blog, we bring to you the story of Sanjiv Nandodkar, who goes back in time and shares his memories of the last trip he took before the lockdown.

My last trip before the lockdown was to the divine pilgrim centres of Kedarnath - which is one of the most famous Shiva temples in India , in fact, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, and Badrinath – which is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Both these temples along with Gangotri and Yamunotri together form the Chota Char Dham.

1. What did you love the most?

[gallery type="slideshow" ids="45592,45593,45598,45594,45612,45623"]

I loved the fact that I could make it to my dream destinations. Haha. Actually, it’s true. Many times your journey itself becomes your destination, and something similar happened with me on my trip to Kedarnath and Badrinath. My trip wasn’t a smooth highway but I enjoyed its crookedness just as I enjoyed the crooked roads up to the mountains on my journey. With train schedules going haywire, it led some strangers into my travel experience and they only added to the bliss. It was my solo trip, and I must say, as we wander about, looking for ways out of certain challenging situations we might find ourselves into, we get to meet so many new people, most of who are so friendly, helpful, and indeed come across as angels.

I had visited Kedar-Badri in the month of October. While in the nights the temperature in Kedarnath used to be sub-zero (the winters, we Mumbaikars always dream about), the morning weather used to be quite relaxed and pleasant.

From Rishikesh, on our route to Kedarnath, we passed by Devprayag, Shrinagar, Rudraprayag, Augustyamuni, Guptakashi, Sonprayag, and finally reached Gourikund, from where the actual journey towards Kedarnath begins, which is the Kedarnath temple trek. I reached Gourikund in the evening and was supposed to begin the trek the early next morning. In the hotel, where I checked-in in Gourikund, I happened to meet two travellers, who informed me that the weather at Kedarnath was quite cold and the temperature was at freezing 0 degrees Celsius. I geared up myself and my mind for the challenge of both the freezing cold and even the Kedarnath trek distance of a steep 16 kms. The next day when I started with the trek, I was quite determined that I will walk all the way, but it so happened that just 500 mts. into the trek and I was already out of breath and was feeling exhausted. I was wondering how am I going to ever reach Kedarnath. However, I continued with my resolve and my trek. As I was ascending further, nature was turning magical with every step. Be it the surrounding mountains, trees, the gushing Mandakini river below… I felt as if mother nature was re-energizing and charging me up to make it to the temple. I tasted magic for real when I spotted the temple’s dome with snow-capped mountains in its backdrop.  This very visual drained off all my exhaustion and after having taken almost 10 hrs. to complete the Kedarnath trek, I wouldn’t have minded trekking for 10 more hours.

So, be it the tedious steep trek up to the temple, which of course, later on, turned into one of the most cherished memories of my life along with the magical sunrise; a visit to the delightful Mana village – which is the last Indian village towards the eastern border of Uttarakhand; the divine darshan at Kedarnath and Badrinath temples; the vibrant Ganga Aarti that I attended in Rishikesh; the scenic vistas that I took in from atop the mountains; my beautiful bus journeys across the state of Uttarakhand; the small yet cosy hotels I stayed in; the unexpected truck journey that seemed to be straight out of a Bollywood movie; even the piping hot Maggi noodles I eat along my trek to Kedarnath… I may just lose count of things I loved on my trip. All in all, it was magic unfold, and just as they say, ‘When it’s magic, it’s ought to be all so lovely’. Being in the travel industry, I have had opportunities to travel to many exciting places, both on the professional and personal front, however, I must say, this trip of mine has been not just a trip of a lifetime but indeed an experience of a lifetime, so far. Uttarakhand is my second home and it’ll forever remain so.

2. More about your trip

[gallery type="slideshow" ids="45603,45601,45602,45610,45613,45614,45615"]

My aspiration of visiting Kedarnath and Badrinath had its roots back in 2014. I had worked on a project on Uttarakhand when I was studying tourism back then. Co-incidentally, Uttarkhand was also the destination where I happened to do my on-field internship and also my first job as a tour manager. Somehow, I never had an opportunity to visit these two destinations, as, even some of the best Uttarakhand tour packages used to take us along a fixed route of Haridwar – Rishikesh – Mussoorie – Nainital – Jim Corbett National Park – Delhi.

At Rishikesh, I always used to see the boards which read Kedarnath 216 Kms. and Badrinath 297 Kms. Meanwhile, when my dream of visiting both these places was still growing stronger after taking roots in my heart, I was promoted to become a tour manager for the international tours in 2018. It was in September 2019, when I had just returned from Bali and was travelling home from the office that I happened to call Pundirji – our associate local guide in Uttarakhand, with whom I used to work back then. I made up my mind to visit Kedarnath and Badrinath in a matter of just 30 minutes. It was that instant. And yes, I must mention it over here… It was the ‘Qaafirana’ song from the movie Kedarnath that triggered my long time wish of visiting there and now there was nothing that was to hold me back.

Moreover, had it not been for the recommendations by Pundirji, I would have missed out on smaller joys of travelling, which at the end of the day, prove to be the sweetest memories of the place we visit. The biggest example being the sunrise at Kedarnath. Even the ‘Mana’ village was a sweet accident. I just happened to read a milestone mentioning its name on my way and it instantly found a place on my bucket list.

I couldn’t thank the almighty enough, for making it all possible. I never lost faith and things just fell in place… Be it finding someone or other unexpectedly to help me out with the transportation on my way or even with regard to the natural phenomenon, like that of sunrise, which I had a strong desire to see in all its glory and which I could, in the clear skies, even when it was cloudy the evening before. This was my one solo trip on which I indeed lost my heart and found my soul.

3. The best thing about living in the mountains…

[gallery type="slideshow" ids="45606,45607,45608,45609,45616"]

The biggest perk of living in the mountains is the peace of mind that we badly miss amidst the hustle and bustle of our urban life. It’s in the mountains that we get to disconnect with the world and reconnect with ourselves. Being in the mountains never gets boring for me, rather it makes my soul happy. Every turn on the road has something to say. I think, if you want to get close to nature and need to experience every bit of it, mountains are the best places to be in.

4. Will travelling in the post-Covid-19 world be still the same?

My answer to this question is both Yes and No. Travelling in the post-Covid-19 world won’t be the same immediately, and will certainly take some time to get back to normal, with the ‘new normal’ in place. Having said this, travelling with friends would more or less be the same, because, I think, travelling is a kind of a stress buster for most of us. We travel to escape our normal routine life. I think nothing can ever replace the feeling of boarding a train, bus or flight on a trip. Wanderlust is something that’s eternal, be it in the pre-pandemic or post-pandemic world. Therefore, with all of us being more cautious and alert hereafter, personal hygiene and social distancing would be everyone’s top priority. One major difference that we would get to see is that most of our friends and family will probably be ‘masked’ out in pictures and selfies clicked on our trips

So this was Sanjiv Nandodkar, sharing his travel diary with us today. Stay tuned for many more such exciting and captivating stories in the days ahead.

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Places to visit in kedarnath.

Welcome to Kedarnath, a sacred destination nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand . Explore the enchanting beauty and spiritual significance of this divine place. Here are some must-visit places that promise a unique and fulfilling experience. Kedarnath is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India.  It is a pilgrimage destination and a place of great natural beauty. Apart from the main Kedarnath Temple, there are several other places to visit in Kedarnath. Lets explore.

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Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath Temple is located in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand state of India. Kedarnath Temple in 12th Jyotirlinga. Kedarnath Dham and temple surrounded by mountains on three sides. On one side is Kedarnath, about 22 thousand feet high, on the other side

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Kedarnath Yatra Travel Tips

Are you planning a spiritual journey to the sacred land of Kedarnath? Embarking on the Kedarnath Yatra is a profound experience that requires careful planning and preparation. In this article, we will provide you with essential tips and guidance to ensure a safe and fulfilling pilgrimage. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these tips will help you make the most of your Kedarnath Yatra.

Introduction

Kedarnath, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, holds immense spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. The Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is revered as a highly sacred place. Every year, thousands of devotees undertake the Kedarnath Yatra to seek blessings and find solace in the divine atmosphere.

• Suggested Tour : Kedarnath Dham Yatra Package

Preparing for the Yatra

Before embarking on the Kedarnath Yatra, it is crucial to prepare yourself adequately. Consider the following aspects:

Best Time to Visit

The Kedarnath Yatra is predominantly undertaken during the summer months, from May to June and September to October, when the weather is relatively pleasant and favorable for travel. It is advisable to avoid monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and landslides.

Weather Conditions and Clothing

The weather in Kedarnath can be unpredictable, with temperatures varying significantly. Carry layered clothing to accommodate temperature changes. Additionally, pack raincoats or waterproof jackets to stay protected during sudden showers.

Fitness and Health Requirements

The Kedarnath Yatra involves trekking at high altitudes, which requires a certain level of physical fitness. Engage in regular exercise and consult your doctor before embarking on the journey. Carry necessary medications for common ailments and first aid supplies.

Required Documents and Permits

Ensure you have all the required documents and permits for the yatra. Carry a valid photo ID, such as Aadhaar Card or Passport, for identification purposes. Obtain the necessary permits, such as the Char Dham Yatra permit, from the appropriate authorities.

• Also Read : Chardham Yatra Travel Tips

Choosing the Route

The Kedarnath Yatra offers multiple routes to reach the holy shrine. Consider the following factors while choosing your route:

Available Routes

The primary routes for the Kedarnath Yatra are the traditional trekking route from Gaurikund. route has its own advantages and challenges.

Accessibility Options

For individuals with limited mobility or health issues, helicopter services are available from Phata, Guptkashi, and other nearby locations. These services provide a convenient and time-saving alternative to trekking.

Pros and Cons of Route

The traditional trekking route from Gaurikund offers a scenic and immersive experience, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty of the region.

• Also Read : Kedarnath Yatra Route Map

Things to Carry

• Appropriate Clothing : Pack warm clothes as the weather in Kedarnath can be cold, especially during the pilgrimage season. Carry thermal wear, jackets, sweaters, socks, and gloves. Also, keep rain gear like a waterproof jacket and pants.
• Comfortable Footwear : Choose sturdy and comfortable shoes for walking and trekking, as you may need to traverse uneven terrain during the yatra. Additionally, pack extra pairs of socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
• Medications and First Aid Kit : Carry any necessary medications you require, including prescription drugs, pain relievers, antacids, and motion sickness tablets. It is advisable to have a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic ointment, adhesive tape, etc.
• Personal Identification: Carry your identification documents such as an ID card, Aadhaar card, or passport. These may be required for various purposes during your journey.
• Travel Documents: Keep your yatra registration documents, permits, and any other necessary travel documents organized and easily accessible.
• Backpack or Daypack: Carry a lightweight backpack or daypack to hold your essentials during the day, including water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a small umbrella.
• Personal Hygiene Items: Pack toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and toilet paper. It’s also recommended to carry a small towel.
• Flashlight or Headlamp: Since Kedarnath is located in the mountains, it is advisable to carry a flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries. This will be useful, especially during early morning or evening visits.
• Cash and Payment Options: Carry sufficient cash as ATMs may not be readily available in the region. Additionally, consider carrying a debit or credit card for emergencies.
• Snacks and Water: Carry some energy bars, dry fruits, and snacks to keep you energized during the journey. Also, carry an adequate supply of water or a water bottle that can be refilled along the way.
• Personal Comfort Items: If required, pack items like a sleeping bag, travel pillow, earplugs, or any other personal comfort items that can enhance your journey.
• Mobile Phone and Charger: Carry your mobile phone along with a charger and a power bank to stay connected and charged during your yatra.

Suggested Tour: Kedarnath Yatra by Helicopter

Accommodation Options

During your Kedarnath Yatra, you’ll find various accommodation options catering to different budgets and preferences. Consider the following:

Types of Accommodation

Guesthouses, ashrams, and hotels are available in the vicinity of Kedarnath Temple. From budget-friendly options to more luxurious stays, there is something for everyone. The most popular accommodation choices are located in Gaurikund, Sonprayag, and Kedarnath.

Popular Guesthouses and Hotels

Some well-known guesthouses and hotels near Kedarnath Temple include Bharat Sevashram Sangha, Punjab Sindh Awas, and GMVN Tourist Rest House. These establishments offer basic amenities and a comfortable stay for pilgrims.

• Also Read : Latest Kedarnath Yatra Trek Guide 2023

Booking Options

It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a suitable place to stay. Many guesthouses and hotels provide online booking facilities, while others offer on-the-spot bookings.

In conclusion, the Kedarnath Yatra is a spiritually enriching journey that requires careful planning and preparation. By considering the weather conditions, choosing the appropriate route, packing essential items, ensuring safety measures, and respecting the temple customs, you can make your pilgrimage to Kedarnath a memorable and fulfilling experience.

Plan your visit to Kedarnath with the tips provided in this article, and embark on a transformative journey to the abode of Lord Shiva.

FAQ 1: Can I visit Kedarnath all year round?

No, the Kedarnath Temple remains open for a specific period from April/May to October/November, depending on weather conditions. It is advisable to check the official website or consult local authorities for the exact opening and closing dates.

FAQ 2: Is it necessary to book accommodation in advance?

While it is not mandatory, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. This ensures you have a comfortable place to stay near the temple premises.

FAQ 3: Are there medical facilities available during the yatra?

Yes, medical facilities are available along the route and in nearby towns. However, it is advisable to carry essential medications and a first aid kit for common ailments. In case of severe health issues, seek immediate medical attention.

FAQ 4: Can I undertake the yatra without a guide?

While it is possible to undertake the yatra without a guide, hiring a local guide or a porter can be beneficial. They are well-versed with the terrain, can provide valuable insights, and assist in case of any emergencies.

FAQ 5: Is there any age restriction for the yatra?

There is no specific age restriction for the Kedarnath Yatra. However, considering the physical demands of the journey, it is advisable for elderly individuals and young children to consult their doctors and assess their fitness level before undertaking the pilgrimage.

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Travel Guide

Kedarnath – an unfathomable euphoria, read kedarnath travel experience shared by the traveller herself..

I marked the beginning of an odyssey, I had envisaged for a very long time, in the city of Rishikesh. Nestled in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand and approved for its label as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, Rishikesh was the quintessential point for me to commence my journey, after a revitalizing yoga session, at the crack of dawn. While on the move, looking at the umpteen numbers of vehicles on the road, I was convinced that, I was not the only one with the gusto to take a drive on one of world’s narrowest, scariest and dangerous sinuous roadways to land up at KEDARNATH – a Hindu shrine, distanced about two hundred kilometers afar, and a flabbergasting altitude of 11,755 feet above sea level, at a remote location, tucked deep within the mountain ranges.

Kedarnath, existent from time immemorial; has become a favourite and prized destination in recent years, among travellers, worshippers, adventurers , nature lovers and hikers, alike. It is hotly pursued in equal measure by those ardent followers who are extremely God-loving, as well as by those casual holidaymakers who crave for a mixed bag of experiences all in one place. Previously known for being frequented mostly by pious elderly folks, it is now visited more by zesty teenagers, adolescents and the middle-aged. Kedarnath has become the thirsting point of curiosity and exploration for avid wayfarers, both among Indians and foreigners.

Submerged below thick coats of snow, for nearly half a year, the temple at Kedarnath opens its mighty doors to the public only during the summer and monsoon seasons , when the ‘snow blankets’ meltdown. The much awaited annual ‘re-opening’ in the month of April/May, witnesses high amounts of festive pomp and gaiety, alongside stringent ritualistic procedures, to prepare the residing deity (a conical shaped rock believed to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva), for the people in the coming months, until the Temple’s closure again throughout winter.

1. The Pony Trek

After a journey that took unusually longer, due to bumpy and gravel routes dissecting the mountain slopes, I reached Sonprayag in the wee hours of the morning; Sonprayag is a scenic hamlet, whose location enroute to Kedarnath has become significant as the place to initiate the ‘yatra’ .

Standing where I was dropped off, I took a snapshot of the wide vista before me. It was beautiful! The early morning air that seemed fresh and pure, felt like a cool flurry over my face and hair. A pleasant tune attributing to the rustling leaves on trees echoed far into the sky. A thick, deciduous forested envelop, on the rocky and boulderous inclines of the towering green hilly topography, along with whispering white swirls of River Mandakini, gracefully cascading in-between, coming all the way down from its source at Kedarnath, was an ample eyeshot, enough to give every person a gist of what was to be expected in their expedition ‘upwards’, roughly for the next twenty kilometers.

Numerous individuals who get collected here, are transported in batches, in authorized ‘jeeps’ to another site which is 4-5 km further, called Gaurikund, the nearest motorable town, and hence the actual launchpad to get underway peregrinating. This is one of the most stuffy and suffocating rides one can go through, as the dingy cars are overloaded, to meet with the demand of excessive crowds of people showing up in long serpentine queues and patiently waiting for their turn.

I chose to ride a pony ! Trekking by foot looked very difficult considering, around 16 km of exhausting climb over terribly unstable pathways carved out of the mountain sides. Likewise, the other two modes appeared totally inhuman and torturous; unless children needed to be carried. I was taken to a stable by my pony owner with whom I had pre-booked. I was nonplussed to see a stud; hundreds of ponies were fed, catered to and prepared with comfortable seating to take their ‘passengers’ to the terminus – in this case, the Kedar base camp atop the ‘Garhwal’ range.

Soon, I was riding on a pony allotted to me along with a young trained boy who was supposed to walk with me, to ensure that the pony goes right on track and to pacify the animal when it loses its calm. As a rule, every pony was escorted by a ‘pony wala’ to ascertain the safety of its rider. Now, I was not sure if I did the right thing; on one hand, there was this handsome pony transformed into a beast of burden owing to my weight, and on the other, there was this pony guy simply walking up for my sake. But finally, I consoled myself that these people opted to work in this manner to earn their livelihood; however pitiful, they cheerfully fulfilled their duties as a selfless favour, rendered to countless groups of ‘pilgrims’, which indirectly is conceived as a service to God.

A few hours passed…I was clueless about how many sharp turns, blind corners, overhanging cliffs and steep slants I had gone through. As much as I wanted to revel in the astounding nature, I was constantly jolted into the actuality of the dangers looming large over my risky venture, by my prancing pony. The tapering trails snaking around the mountain faces, and zigzagging at several locations, were more strenuous than I had fantasized. Holding on tightly was the only yet not an adequate option while galloping on muddy surfaces and precariously built bridges connecting two mountains, which were extraordinarily slippery because of recurrent rainfall, haphazardly thawed snow, and of course pony dung strewn everywhere. There were a couple of times when my dear pony faltered on its legs, and skid, when I would have gone almost tumbling on the ground, if not for the highly alert ‘ponywala’ who tactfully caught my hand and the reigns of the pony simultaneously just in time. One mistaken step by this poor creature could literally mean hurling into the sheer drop and catapulting into the ravines, especially wherever the guardrails were missing. I saw several signboards cautioning of falling stones, the locale being used to landslides, and also warning signs of suffering breathlessness with the ascent.

But… glancing at other string of pony riders, pedestrians, palki and pittoo porters, helped me; the exuberance of the various kinds of trekking populations, invoked the zeal to brave all odds. Keeping all fears under wraps, everyone goes about chanting ‘Har Har Mahadev’ , determined to catch sight of the Lord’s abode, and greatly ignored the dashing and tearing of ponies against one another, provoked by the pony fellows, gaining speed and competing for space in the already crammed paths, in a bid to reach faster.

Even amidst these panicky situations, nobody forgets to admire the mesmerizing landscape which they are traversing…a nonstop presentation of hypnotizing sceneries one can ever imagine being in!

At last, after five long hours, my backbreaking ‘pony safari’ came to an end. I profusely thanked the bloke who dedicatedly accompanied me, gave me useful tips on the yanky pony riding, allowed me to relax for a bit when he halted at a particular point to give the pony a little rest, and often engaged in interesting conversations about the history and lifestyle of the local community at Kedarnath. I really wondered at his fast-paced energy levels whereas I was fatigued by this time. Left at his mercy for the past many hours, I was happy to have been lugged safely to the ‘Kedar base camp’. I murmured many thanks to my sturdy animal, while gently patting its neck, for unlamentingly enduring the tough trip for me.

2. At Kedar Valley

I took some time to sink in the fact that I had made it until here. The vegetation around had changed to grassy pastures, in stark contrast to tree-laden terrains so far. The graminaceous surroundings were truly a feast for the eyes! Patches of unmelted snow seen on the verdant turf of the mountain horns added to the lovely ambience; and farther away, I could also see completely snow-covered peaks, conspicuously touching the skies.

The base camp had a shelter where ponies were stationed till they got their next commuter to be transferred downhill, passing through the same ‘maze’ as the uphill tour. From here, the Kedar Valley where the Temple stood in its full form was at one and a half kilometre’s distance, which I wanted to cover by stretching my own limbs.

In the company of other co-travellers, I took my steps forward on the gradually ascending trackway. The gentle wind blowing at this height was chilly, despite the noon sun spreading its warm rays over the region. Owing to reduced gravity at higher elevations, walking this stretch seemed to be a drag requiring extra effort; moreover, the lowered atmospheric pressure made it harder to balance breathing and movement. Still, we plodded with un-squashed enthusiasm, feeling caged-in and dwarfed by the enormous mountain grid, from all sides as we advanced. Thankfully there were some ‘tented’ stalls selling refreshments on the way, where we could pause.

After treading half the length, I spotted the famous Kedar Valley! A low lying basin, clustered with plenty of small buildings, teeming with people in the alleys between them, and a handful of cattle grazing in the pastoral area nearby. The Temple tower got camouflaged in the assemblage and was visible faraway only through my zoomed-in camera lens.

Inching closer, first we get to see a helipad, behind which there are lots of government-sponsored camps adjoining a canteen, to accommodate ‘yatris’ who wish to stay for a night; then we came across a big platform after crossing a short bridge over a sprightly stream of water – presumed to be a confluence of rivers Saraswathi and Mandakini. From this platform, a long and broad corridor built with stairs at regular intervals, and bordered with many community guest houses and residential colonies on both sides, rose leading to the Temple verandah…. like a staircase to the ‘Kingdom of God’.

Moving ahead, amid joyfully scattered people who buzzed about nonchalantly, I ‘successfully’ arrived at ‘the top’ and stood face-to-face with the much talked about Kedarnath Temple!

I was staring at a pristine edifice… cradled in the lap of the Garhwal Himalayas… it was unquestionably stunning! Although quite simple in design, the Temple construction radiated an architectural brilliance, which is jaw-dropping even till today. I felt like as if I was being engulfed by its captivating aura! My head was reeling with ecstasy for this was not a dream!

The ancient structure is made out of heavy and smoothened stone slabs, which are interlocked into each other probably with iron clamps but without any mortar or cement, on a very strong foundation. Therefore, it is considered to be an exemplar engineering marvel, which has withstood a good deal of climatic cataclysms for more than a millennium.

Suddenly realizing that I was so tired after a continuous leg of travel and trek, I decided to check into one of the home-stays next to the Temple area, and get back to survey more in the evening after a catnap.

I woke up to loud noises of thunder and lightning outside my window. It was raining heavily, simultaneously creating a halo of mist in the atmosphere. The weather had turned shivery by now, and so the sheets and blankets on my bed felt cold too. There was also no escape from the frigid water flowing out of the taps in the bathrooms. Accommodations in Kedarnath were bereft of any kind of heating appliances, compelling every person to dress in multiple layers of warm clothes, woollens, jackets and boots, even whilst sleeping. At this time, there was a knock on my door, opening which I was treated to a sizzling hot plate of ‘Aloo Parathas’ and a steaming cup of ‘Masala Chai’ , by a kind attendant at the hotel. It was just what I needed to invigorate myself before stepping out, when the rains had fairly stopped.

Tiny ‘waterfalls’ trickled down on eroded portions of the mountain ramps after the downpour, giving a sublime appearance from the Temple courtyard. Those brave hearts who had a bigger appetite for quests, dared to go beyond, in search of cozy caves, natural lakes, venerating idols, glacial zones and more, at heights above the Temple realm. But I preferred to keep within the confines of the Temple complex, where I was engrossed in clicking as many ‘selfie pictures’ as I could.

Later, I went around the rear side, where I found ‘BhimShila’ – a boulder that acted as a saviour, by miraculously plonking itself precisely at an angle, to protect the Temple from a catastrophic deluge, by diverting the force of the flashfloods that came pounding from the slopey descents behind, after a massive cloudburst that happened in the year 2013. In spite of colossal damages that took place, the Temple remained intact and unscathed. Post this incident, tales of the superior powers of the ‘spirit of Kedarnath’ grew in leaps and bounds, drawing an ever-increasing count of devotees every year. There on, BhimShila is worshipped as a sacred rock whose chronicle is fondly narrated to lakhs of pilgrims.

At sunset, the stupendous locale altered into a tranquil setting, under a darkening sky showering light drizzles. Everyone present during this hour gathered, to watch the Temple now outlined with serial bulb lightings, silhouetted against the snowy peaks in the backdrop. This tantalizing scene was virtually reflective of an omniscient Shiva inhabited in His vault of snow in the ‘Greater Himalayas’, in a meditative form, like a ‘Yogi’ – a concept that is learnt from popular mythical sagas. An intense euphoria broke out amongst the masses when they heard the sound of tinkering bells from the Temple indicating that the priests had started their ceremonial prayers. Unable to control their emotions, many people danced in excitement as they crooned ‘Om Namah Shivay’ and ‘Jai Bholenath’ in chorus.

I joined a queue to enter the holy Temple; the inner sanctum of which houses the Jyotirlinga, deeply revered by ‘Shiv Bhakts’ as the omnipotent representation of God.

It was nightfall when I came out of the Temple. Due to minimal usage of electricity in the Kedar township, an eeriness descended on the environment. The air felt icy, numbing my nerves. A few fellow devotees who had fainted notwithstanding the hypothermic conditions, were being helped to an emergency medical centre right there. The only ones who were able to beat the biting cold and fog were the ‘sadhus’ who had religiously surrendered themselves to an ascetic living.

Still hungover from the rhapsodic events of the entire day, I strolled back to my room, popped in a ‘paracetamol’ pill in order to have a snug sleep and to wake up ‘healthy’ the next day.

3. Return by Helicopter

The morning that ensued was clear and balmy. The moods of the place were visibly merrier in the soft sunshine. Feeling abundantly contented, I ate a fine breakfast and proceeded towards the helipad.

The helicopter services were absolutely commendable. The super swift actions of the observant crew-in-charge were noteworthy. Quickly disembarking visitors from one side of the chopper, similarly assisting returners to get on the other side, and, loading and off-loading their respective bags from the backside – it all occurred by the snap of a finger.

I showed my ticket and fastened myself onto my seat; the pilot lifted the rotorcraft into the airspace and veered it away. This was a stirring moment for me…. I bent over to see the gorgeous mountains which we were flying past and the resplendent valley which we had left behind.

It was hard to fathom that this lively mini-town would shut down in the wintry period, turn into a snowfield, and become a ‘lost world’.

KEDARNATH… is nothing short of a perfect opportunity to experience a wonderful concoction of Divinity and Beauty, which will remain close to my heart forever…

4 thoughts on “Kedarnath – An Unfathomable Euphoria”

An enticing and brilliant narration of the most sacred journey which can be undertaken only by God’s willing. We are able to inhale the aura of nature that oozes out line after line.!!keep up this spirit always so that we too can have a great feast!

An enticing and brilliant narration of a journey which can be undertaken only by God’s willing. We are able to inhale the aura of nature that oozes out line after line !

Great post with excellent writing about the divine Dham Kedarnath.

So beautifully & powerfully written – I got goosebumps and tears while reading – . Thanks for sharing . I can feel the energies & Aura of that place . Har har Mahadev !-

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How to reach Kedarnath from Delhi?

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated : May 31, 2024, 23:22 IST

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Kedarnath, a revered pilgrimage site in India, offers a soul-stirring journey from Delhi. Learn how to reach Kedarnath from Delhi by air, train, or road for a spiritual experience.

Kedarnath, a revered pilgrimage site in India, offers a soul-stirring journey from Delhi. Learn how to reach Kedarnath from Delhi by air, train, or road for a spiritual experience. Read less

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102-year-old WWII vet from New York dies while traveling to D-Day ceremony in France

A 102-year-old World War II Navy veteran from New York died while traveling to France to take part in a ceremony to honor the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion that turned the tide of the war toward Allied victory.

Robert Persichitti was traveling to Normandy by ship with a veterans group, headed to the site of the historic June 6, 1944, war milestone.

On the ship, he suffered a medical episode and was airlifted to a hospital in Germany, where he died, Richard Stewart, the president of veteran organization Honor Flight Rochester, told NBC News on Thursday.

Stewart said he received the call informing him of Persichitti’s death on Friday — news no one expected as “he was active, sharp as a tack, right up [to the end].”

“His health was age appropriately very good up to 102. He had some heart problems, but he checked with his doctor, who said, ‘Absolutely go on the trip,’” Stewart said. “He passed away peacefully, he was around people.”

“The doctor found some Frank Sinatra music, which was his favorite,” Stewart added.

Persichitti, of Fairport, New York, was described as a “humble” man who “had a great life.”

His vibrant, centurylong journey began with his childhood in the Allegheny Mountains outside of Pittsburgh. He lived through the Great Depression, joined the Civilian Conservation Corps, and when World War II broke out he enlisted in the Navy, spending a year in New York City attending radio school and learning Morse code.

He spent 15 months at sea assigned to the command ship USS Eldorado in the Pacific as a junior radio operator through the end of the war, serving in Okinawa, Iwo Jima and Guam, Stewart said.

He witnessed the historic moment Marines raised the American flag atop Mount Suribachi during the battle of Iwo Jima in February 1945 — which was captured by photographer Joe Rosenthal and became one of the most iconic images of the war, Stars and Stripes reported.

He returned to Mount Suribachi in 2019 as part of a veterans program with the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, telling a Stars and Stripes reporter at the time, “When I got on the island today, I just broke down.”

Persichitti was named to the New York state Senate’s Veterans Hall of Fame in 2020.

After the war, he settled in Rochester, New York, where he spent 40 years as a shop teacher with the Rochester City School District, teaching carpentry and other technical skills to students, and where he joined Honor Flight Rochester, which takes veterans to visit D.C. memorials.

In 2015, he published the autobiography “Building an American Life.”

He also regularly visited students in Pittsford, New York, near Rochester, to speak about World War II. In April, the Pittsford Central School District shared photos of students celebrating Persichitti’s 102nd birthday.

Persichitti was an active part of Honor Flight Rochester, and most recently attended events in April and May, shaking the hands of hundreds of veterans.

“When Bob said he was going to be someplace to do an event to help spread the word with Honor Flight, he was there, he’d be in his orange shirt. He was a great volunteer for us,” Stewart said. “I think we all had every intention that if he got back from his Normandy trip on Father’s Day, he would have been there in June, shaking hands.”

Stewart noted that Persichitti’s wife had preceded him in death and he had no children.

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A Girls’ Trip to Costa Rica. But With No Phones, Did It Happen?

Travelers are signing up for phone-free tours, to try to escape technology’s tether on daily life. But would it make for a better experience?

By Christine Chung

We were on a quintessential girl’s trip to Costa Rica. Together, we gulped icy drinks by the hotel pool, were battered by waves during a surf lesson, had our tarot cards read aboard a catamaran, and danced our hearts out, powered by espresso martinis, to early 2000s anthems on a rooftop.

But we didn’t capture any of this on our phones. No Instagram stories were posted of the fun being had. No TikToks either. We didn’t text photos to friends and family in far colder climates back home.

And if there wasn’t a picture, well, did it happen? I had wondered if a vacation without my phone would reprogram my iPhone-addled brain, whether it might deepen the connections I made or improve my travel experiences. So, in mid-April, I joined a group of 10 other women in their 20s and 30s for a four-day, phone-free tour of Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province, on the country’s northwestern coast, a picturesque place of breathtaking beaches, tropical forests and, everywhere around you, the chance of a surreal wildlife sighting.

To document my vacation, I brought only a pen, a notebook and a disposable camera.

‘More present in the moment’

FTLO Travel , which started offering group tours in 2016 for solo travelers 25 to 39 years old, organized our phone-free trip. Most FTLO clients are women, said Tara Cappel, the company’s founder and chief executive, and the majority of them are traveling solo for the first time.

The company has long had a rule prohibiting phones at dinner, she said, and the phone-free trips, which began this year, are an extension of this. “Removing that sort of temptation has always helped facilitate better bonding and conversation,” said Ms. Cappel, 35.

The hope in providing an entirely phone-free experience, she continued, is that travelers could “be present in the experience and the destination and with each other.”

She added that FTLO’s phone-free trips this year, which start at $1,699 and also head to Iceland, Mexico, Cuba and Puerto Rico, are in strong demand . My Costa Rica trip was sold out and overall, the company anticipates about 3,000 travelers across the hundreds of trips they’re offering this year.

The interest in these trips stem in part from a growing trend among travelers to try to escape technology’s tether on daily life. Operators are moving beyond offering meditation retreats and truly remote locations — even cruises and hotels in buzzy vacation hot spots these days market their disconnection experiences. At the Grand Velas Resorts , on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, guests can opt for a detox concierge, who will remove the hotel room’s flat screen television and lock all personal electronics in a safe. With Unplugged , a company specializing in tech-free escapes, you can book a “digital detox cabin” to spend three tech-free days in the English countryside.

Heather Orton, a nurse practitioner and my roommate in Costa Rica, said that going phone-free was the main reason she’d booked the FTLO trip. She’d previously gone on two trips with FTLO, to Crete and to Morocco, experiences where she made lasting friendships.

“At work I have to always have my phone on, be responsive to texts, emails and calls,” said Ms. Orton, 37, of Ohio. “It’s nice to turn that off and get away.” She said she felt she was “more present in the moment” and fully immersed in Costa Rica.

A bit like sleepaway camp

We’d come from all over the United States, including Texas, Alabama, California and Minnesota, and most of us were meeting for the very first time.

It felt like sleepaway camp, or college orientation — it was a social situation structured around group activities that quickly gave rise to new friendships, even if they were brittle ones. Two ebullient trip leaders corralled us to various activities and recited facts about local flora and fauna, all adding to the feeling of a camp for adults, and at times like being chaperoned on a school trip.

They directed us to their favorite restaurants and watering holes, and attempted to draw everyone into conversation and ensure no one felt left out. One afternoon, Mandy, one of the co-leaders and a certified yoga instructor, led a trio of us in a restorative flow at our hotel. Dani, the other trip leader, who was born in Costa Rica, was on crutches because of a recent ankle injury, but he hobbled along energetically on nights out, swaying to dance music on one leg.

Companies targeting younger travelers, like FTLO, G Adventures , Flashpack and others, aren’t touting their ability to get you to a place, but the connection they can deliver.

“The inspiration was really to help people go abroad who had the desire but didn’t necessarily have people to go with,” Ms. Cappel said of creating FTLO.

Sambavi Venkatesen, a 32-year-old therapist who lives in Austin, Texas, told me she had booked the trip after turning to TikTok to research group travel for people of color.

“The opportunity to meet other diverse women is not something that’s easily accessible in your 30s. That was kind of a big appeal,” she said, adding that she felt a real connection to other tour participants by trip's end. “I genuinely want to see people again and hope they visit me.”

Unscheduled time

We were based in Tamarindo, a lively tourist playground set along the Pacific Ocean that spanned just a few blocks, making it easy to navigate without GPS. We were given a printed map of the town, which I barely used. With my phone and laptop locked in the hotel room safe, gone were all the tools I usually rely on while traveling (and check frenetically): map and translation apps, social media and internet, for restaurant and activity searches. But thanks to the tour, this work had already been done.

We spent an afternoon ziplining through canyons and then crossed a rickety suspension bridge to plunge into the icy, refreshing waters by a waterfall. We surfed and drank beer — two activities I do not generally voluntarily sign up for. We lounged on the netted deck of a catamaran, where we watched a deep-red sun sink into the sea. Nearly every night we frequented a different nightclub.

We started the trip knowing nothing about each other’s lives, from our ages to interests. Our first night was characterized by icebreakers (“share a fun fact about yourself”) and the occasional awkward silence. But by the third night, we were screaming the lyrics to Lil Jon’s “Get Low” in the club. And the conversation grew more nuanced, as we shared stories about jobs, relationships, beloved pets and the rhythms of lives back home.

Some of the best moments happened during the time left unscheduled, when I made my own decisions about activities. A highlight of the trip was an excursion my roommate and I booked on our own, through the hotel, to kayak in a mangrove-bordered estuary, where we spotted iguanas, howler monkeys and a crocodile, watchful and still in the murky waters.

A fuzzy food photo

Overall, I didn’t miss my phone. The absence of Slack notifications and countless other digital intrusions was bliss. Conversations unspooled more fluidly than I expected they would without the crutch of a phone for idly filling silence. I slept deeper than I had in months. But my phone’s phantom presence loomed large. I swiveled my head, a Pavlovian response, when I heard the ping of another tourist's phone. My bag felt too light, which made me feel uneasy.

Mainly, I missed a good camera. Others had wisely brought digital cameras along, but I had to ration the pictures on my disposable camera, and only allowed myself to take one food photo. It’s fuzzy.

Not everyone on the trip was fully committed to the screen time ban. One night, as I tried to capture sunset using my disposable, one of my trip mates pulled out her phone and took a picture. I’m sure her photo is better than mine.

Toward the end of the trip, I learned that some other travelers had surreptitiously used their phones throughout (to text and call their moms, mostly).

But we delighted in seeing a drowsy tapir, a large mammal almost mythical because of its rarity, wake from an afternoon nap in Hacienda Guachipelin , a private property by Rincon de la Vieja National Park . There were also dozens of howler monkeys perched atop mangroves swaying in the wind, and one night, a man who was absolutely shredding on the guitar at a beachfront bar. All were incredible moments that I’ve already revisited in my memory.

On the last day of the trip, we switched our phones back on, literally jolting us back to real life with pings and vibrations. We shared Instagram handles to connect online, and I returned, almost without realizing it, to a stream of information, push notifications, digital itineraries, unfettered scrolling and the expectation of a quick reply to a message.

I’ve tried, however, to maintain the feeling of being phone-free in Tamarindo: the delicious lack of immediacy, the way time seemed to expand languidly.

Simply put, I’m using my phone less.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

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