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Are you planning to visit Kedarnath for an adventurous holiday? Well, here’s a Kedarnath travel guide to help you enjoy the beautiful Himalayan land in its full glory. Known for its ancient Kedarnath Temple, snow-capped peaks, green meadows, and crystal-clear rivers surround the town. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings from the Kedarnath Temple or an adventurer exploring the Himalayan mountain range, this land of gods ensures a beautiful experience filled with spirituality, beauty, and tranquillity.
Location
Photo: Lokesh Kumar / Unsplash
Kedarnath, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, stands at an elevation of 3,583 meters. It is 256 km from Dehradun, 241 km from Haridwar, and 215 km from Rishikesh. Nestled near the Mandakini River, the picturesque Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary surrounds the sacred temple, offering a serene and majestic backdrop. This iconic destination combines spiritual significance with natural beauty, making it a must-visit for travellers and pilgrims alike.
How To Reach
Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, located 234 km from Gaurikund, the trek’s starting point.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, approximately 218 km away. From there, buses and taxis operate to Gaurikund.
By Road: Well-connected by road, regular buses and taxis run from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun to Gaurikund.
Places To Visit In And Around Kedarnath
1. Kedarnath Temple
Photo: Kiranmadhu.e / Wikimedia Commons
The holy Kedarnath Temple is one of the most sacred sites in Hinduism. People believe the Pandavas built the temple after the Mahabharata. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas found throughout India. While legends credit the Pandavas for its construction, historians believe the reverent Adi Shankaracharya built the temple in the 8th century.
Location: Kedarnath Town
Timings: 4 AM – 9 PM
Nearby Attractions: Vasuki Tal, Gandhi Sarovar
2. Bhairavnath Temple
Photo: Rajesh Dhungana / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Another important temple in Kedarnath is the Bhairavnath Temple, also known as Bhairon Baba Mandir. Located just 500 meters to the south of the Kedarnath Temple, this temple exalts the Bhairavnath incarnation of Lord Shiva. Bhairavnath is the protector deity of Kedarnath, believed to have the power to expel demons and bad energies. Thousands of devotees travel from various regions of India to ask for protection and safety from evil energies. Besides its religious significance, Bhairavnath Temple also offers a scenic view of the entire valley.
Location: Kedarnath Town
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Nearby Attractions: Triyuginarayan Temple, Kedarnath Temple
3. Gaurikund
Photo: Prateek as a traveller / Wikimedia Commons
Located at 1,982 meters (6,503 feet) above sea level, in the green valleys of the Garhwal region, Gaurikund is a popular tourist spot. It is the starting point of the Kedarnath trek. Gaurikund is believed to be the location where Goddess Parvati, who is also called Gauri, performed intense penance to win over Lord Shiva’s love. It is also believed to be the place where the goddess Parvati created Lord Ganesh from mud. All these myths and legends add a spiritual significance to the area.
Location: Kedarnath trek starting point
Timings: 24*7
Nearby Attractions: Rudra Cave, Sonprayag
4. Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar)
Photo: Hrishav398 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This glacier lake is one of the most beautiful natural phenomena in the world. Chorabari Tal, also known as Gandhi Sarovar, is located at a height of 3900 meters in the Garhwal Region. The region is a perfect getaway spot for those looking to relax in the Himalayas. You can enjoy the views of various Himalayan peaks, such as Kedarnath and Kirti Stambh, along with the beautiful Madhu Ganga waterfalls.
Location: 3 km from Kedarnath Temple
Timings: 24*7
Nearby Attractions: Kedarnath Glacier, Vasuki Tal
5. Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Snow Leopard Trust / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1972, is the largest animal sanctuary in the western Himalayas, spanning 975.20 square kilometres. The sanctuary houses over 30 species of animals, such as Musk Deer, Snow Leopards, Himalayan Black Bears, and Himalayan Tahrs. It is a perfect place to visit for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Location: Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Nearby Attractions: Tungnath Temple, Deoria Tal
Where To Stay
Photo: Kurt Kaiser / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation in Kedarnath caters to various preferences, from basic lodges to government-run guesthouses such as the GMVN Kedarnath Tourist Rest House. These options provide comfort and convenience for pilgrims and trekkers alike. To secure availability, pilgrims and trekkers should book in advance, especially during the busy pilgrimage season. With facilities designed to meet diverse needs, these accommodations offer a restful base to explore the spiritual and scenic beauty of Kedarnath.
Where To Eat
Photo: Prav2991993 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Food options in Kedarnath are limited, primarily offering simple vegetarian meals that align with the spiritual ambience of the place. Local dhabas and canteens, such as Annapurna Bhojanalaya, serve wholesome and satisfying food to help you refuel after your trek. As highlighted in this the travel guide, these eateries provide a perfect balance of nutrition and taste, ensuring you’re ready to continue exploring this serene and spiritually enriching destination.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Shagun Chaudhari / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The ideal time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to October, as the weather is pleasant and the temple is open for pilgrims. Avoid travelling during monsoons due to landslides and heavy rainfall and in winters when the temple and trekking routes are closed. For a smooth journey, follow a comprehensive Kedarnath travel guide to plan your trip during the best seasons for a safe and fulfilling experience.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Dariusz Sankowski / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
A Kedarnath travel guide suggests an average cost of ₹3,000 – 4,000 (~$35 – 50 USD) per person per day, covering accommodation, food, and travel.
Tips For Travellers
- Physical Fitness: Ensure good health to endure the trek.
- Essentials: Carry rain gear, trekking shoes, and warm clothing.
- Permits: Registration at Gaurikund is mandatory for trekkers.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Avoid littering and respect the environment.
So, here’s a complete Kedarnath travel guide to help your trip. Kedarnath is more than just a pilgrimage; it’s a journey into the heart of the majestic Himalayas. Nestled in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, this sacred town offers breathtaking views, spiritual solace, and thrilling trekking adventures. Whether you seek peace, adventure, or both, this Kedarnath travel guide ensures a seamless and fulfilling trip. Plan a trip with TripXL today for an enriching adventure!
Cover Photo: Akshay syal / Unsplash
