Kedarnath, Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand, 246445
Listing Owner
Listing Description :
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (May to June): Ideal for clear weather and pleasant trekking conditions.
- Post-Monsoon (September to October): The best time for fewer crowds and spectacular views.
- Avoid Monsoon (July to August): Heavy rains can cause landslides and make trekking risky.
- Winter (November to April): The temple remains closed due to heavy snowfall, and the deity is moved to Ukhimath.
2. How to Reach Kedarnath
- By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (250 km).
- From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Gaurikund.
- By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh (230 km).
- Rishikesh is well-connected to major cities, and taxis or buses are available to Gaurikund.
- By Road:
- The last motorable point is Gaurikund. From there, it’s a 16 km trek to Kedarnath.
- State buses and private vehicles ply from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun to Gaurikund.
3. The Trek to Kedarnath
- Distance: 16 km from Gaurikund to Kedarnath.
- Modes of Travel:
- Trek: A moderately challenging trail offering stunning mountain views.
- Pony or Mule Rides: Available for hire at Gaurikund.
- Helicopter Service: Operates from Phata, Guptkashi, or Sersi for a quicker journey.
- Trekking Tips:
- Carry warm clothes, rain gear, and sturdy footwear.
- Stay hydrated and pace yourself, especially if unaccustomed to high altitudes.
4. Accommodations
- Near the Temple: Guesthouses, dharamshalas, and tents managed by GMVN and private operators.
- In Nearby Towns: Guptkashi, Sonprayag, and Gaurikund offer hotels, lodges, and homestays for varying budgets.
5. Key Highlights at Kedarnath
- Kedarnath Temple:
- Built over 1,200 years ago, it is a part of the Char Dham Yatra and the Panch Kedar.
- Attend the morning or evening aarti for a spiritual experience.
- Samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya: A memorial honoring the great saint who revived Hinduism.
- Bhairav Temple: Situated nearby, it offers panoramic views of the valley.
6. Essentials to Carry
- Valid ID for registration at Sonprayag.
- Comfortable trekking gear (shoes, backpack, jacket, and raincoat).
- Basic medical kit and personal medications.
- Power bank, torch, and extra batteries.
- Dry snacks and a reusable water bottle.
7. Important Tips for Tourists
- Health Precautions:
- Acclimatize yourself to the altitude to avoid AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
- Consult your doctor if you have heart or respiratory issues.
- Clothing: Wear warm, layered clothing even in summer as the temperature drops significantly.
- Registration:
- Mandatory biometric registration is required.
- You can register online or at designated counters in Sonprayag or Rishikesh.
- Photography: Respect the sanctity of the temple by refraining from taking photos inside.
8. Nearby Attractions
- Gaurikund: Known for its hot springs and the starting point of the Kedarnath trek.
- Triyuginarayan Temple (20 km from Kedarnath): A sacred spot believed to be the venue of Lord Shiva’s marriage to Goddess Parvati.
- Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar): A serene glacial lake about 3 km from Kedarnath.
- Vasuki Tal: A high-altitude lake offering breathtaking views.
9. Food Options
- Temple Area: Small eateries offering simple vegetarian meals (North Indian and Pahadi cuisine).
- Pack Snacks: Carry energy bars and dry fruits for the trek.
- Prasad: Don’t miss the sacred offerings at the temple.
10. Safety and Cultural Etiquette
- Respect the local traditions and maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage site.
- Do not litter and carry your waste back to designated bins.
- Avoid alcohol and non-vegetarian food, as they are prohibited in the temple region.
11. Approximate Costs
- Helicopter Ride: ₹2,500–₹3,000 per person (one way).
- Trek Costs: ₹1,000–₹2,000 (pony or mule charges).
- Accommodation: ₹500–₹5,000 depending on your choice of stay.
