Rishikesh to Kedarnath Distance
You can travel about 220–230 km by road from Rishikesh to Kedarnath, then hike 16–18 km to reach Kedarnath. Kedarnath temple.
The journey is a pilgrimage route. It takes tourists to the Garhwal mountains in Uttarakhand. Many consider it one of India’s holiest roads.
Rishikesh, often called the “Yoga Capital of the World,” is the starting point for many Char Dham devotees. Roads connect it to major cities such as Haridwar and Dehradun. From Rishikesh, travelers begin their journey to Kedarnath Temple.
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
It is also a key part of the Char Dham Yatra.
Table of Contents
kedarnath to Rishikesh Distance and Route
The road distance from Rishikesh to kedarnath yatra is about 220–230 kilometers, depending on your route.
Road travel is possible only up to Gaurikund, the last motorable point. The most common route is:
Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Agastmuni – Guptkashi – Sonprayag – Gaurikund
This route is a picturesque mountain roads that run that run along the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. The trip typically takes between 8 and 10 hours dependent on road conditions, traffic and weather. During the Char Dham Yatra season (April/May to October/November), traffic may greatly increase travel time.
Distance to Trek from Gaurikund
Once they have reached Gaurikund the pilgrims are required to make the 16-18 kilometre uphill hike towards Kedarnath Temple. The trail is well-maintained, and has amazing views of snow-capped peaks as well as waterfalls and valleys. It typically takes between 6 and 8 to 8 hours for the hike according to their fitness level.
For those who aren’t able to walk, there are options available. These include:
- Services for mule or pony
- Palanquin (doli) services
- Helicopter service from nearby helipads such as Phata, Guptkashi, or Sersi
Helicopters greatly reduce travel time. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to reach Kedarnath from the helipad.
Total Travel Time
If you travel by both trekking and roads the entire trip between Rishikesh to Kedarnath could take about 1 to two days. Many travelers stay in Guptkashi, Sonprayag, or Gaurikund before starting their trek early the next morning.
If you use a helicopter service, you can accomplish it in one day if conditions are favorable.
Best Time to Travel
Kedarnath Temple stays open for only six months each year. It usually opens in April or May and closes in October or November.
These dates depend on the weather. The most ideal time to visit is:
- From May until June (pleasant weather, but also busy)
- September through October (less busy as well as clear view)
The temple closes during winter because excessive snowfall occurs. The idol is moved to Ukhimath.
Rishikesh To Kedarnath Bus
Bus Service
- There is rarely a direct bus from Rishikesh to Kedarnath.
- Road buses only go as far as Sonprayag or Gaurikund.
- These are the last road stops before the trek. Buses depart from Rishikesh and go up to Sonprayag (about 210-220 km) approximately eight to ten hours.
- From Sonprayag, the next step is to take a shared taxi or jeep to Garikund. It is about 5 kilometers. Then hike up to the temple.
Bus Details & Timings
- Buses usually leave early in the morning, around 5 to 6 AM, from Rishikesh to Sonprayag.
- Overnight buses are usually not available, so most pilgrims go to the bus station in the morning.
Bus Fares
- Average fares range from between Rs400 and Rs1,000 for a person (varies depending on the type of bus as well as the operator).
Important Tips
- Bus seats often fill up fast during peak times. Therefore, it is best to arrive early at the bus station. This is especially true in the early morning.
- Once you have reached Sonprayag then plan the final part of the trek (taxi/jeep from Gaurikund plus trek/other choices).
Road Conditions and Travel Tips
The road that connects Rishikesh to Kedarnath is a mountainous road with sharp bends and tense stretch. Landslides are possible during monsoon season (July-August). Travelers should check weather updates before deciding on their travel plans.
Tips for a successful day:
- Get up early in the morning to avoid the rush hour.
- Wear warm clothing In summer, you should wear warm clothes.
- Keep copies of identity documents and registration papers to Char Dham Yatra.
- Keep hydrated and walk slow throughout the hike to prevent the effects of altitude sickness.
To reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh, travel about 220 to 230 kilometers.
Follow the route to Gaurikund via Rudraprayag and Guptkashi. From Gaurikund you can hike 16-18 kilometers uphill until you reach the holy Kedarnath Temple. You can also opt for horse, palanquin or helicopter rides to make a more efficient and pleasant journey.
Spiritual and Scenic Experience
The trip to Rishikesh to Kedarnath isn’t just about distance. An extremely spiritual and picturesque experience. The route winds through gorgeous Confluences of rivers (prayags) as well as thick forests and majestic Himalayan mountains. People chant prayers as they trek and create a special devotional ambience.
In sum, the total distance from 220–230 km from rishikesh by road.
The trek adds about 16–18 km.
So the total distance is about 236–248 km. While it’s not easy, this trek in India is truly enjoyable. The views are spectacular. The place is important.
Which airport is near to Kedarnath by flight?
closest airport closest airport Kedarnath Kedarnath is Dehradun Airport, also known by the name of Jolly Grant Airport. A domestic airport close to Dehradun serves as the primary air entry point for those heading for Kedarnath.
At Jolly Grant Airport, the distance by road from Jolly Grant Airport to Kedarnath (up from Gaurikund/Sonprayag) is around 238-39 km by road. This generally takes 7 to 8 an hour of driving. then you head towards the trek or by helicopter to get to the temple.
Helicopter services to kedarnath
Helicopter shuttles run from several helipads in Uttarakhand to Kedarnath and back. They help you avoid the long 16 to 18 km trek to Gaurikund.
Common routes include Phata, Sirsi, and Guptkashi. These are well-known boarding points for pilgrim flights. Flights usually land near the temple base in about 8 to 15 minutes.
Sahastradhara Helipad
Sahastradhara Helipad is an important helicopter base in Sahastradhara Road in Kulhan, Dehradun. The Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) operates it.
A key location for starting Chardham Yatra helicopter services. It also supports flights connecting pilgrims via other helipads to places like Kedarnath.
How it connects to Kedarnath:
While direct flights from Sahastradhara to Kedarnath are not frequent, helicopter tours usually start there. From there, helicopters take off to helipads at places like Phata, Sirsi, or Guptkashi.
These helipads then take visitors directly to the Kedarnath region.
Ticket Booking
- Tickets for helicopter flights are sold on the official IRCTC Heli Yatra portal This is the most secure method to stay clear of fraud.
- Flights usually start **extremely** early in the morning, around 6:00–6:30 AM.
- You must check in at least one hour before departure.
- The booking slots can fill quickly on busy travel dates, so you should reserve in advance.
Approximate Fares
Helicopter rates vary depending on the departure location:
- Phata to Kedarnath: roughly Rs2,500-Rs5,000 (one-way) per person.
- Sirsi and Guptkashi services are also available. They have the same time frames and prices. This depends on the operator and season.
Prices could change each year and some helipads provide the option of returning.
Safety & Weather Considerations
Helicopter service depends heavily on the weather the conditions and safety procedures. Airlines can shorten or halt flights during monsoons or bad weather to ensure passenger safety.
Operators
The authorized helicopter operators include companies like Pawan Hans, Aryan Aviation, Trans Bharat Aviation, and others. They all follow guidelines set by the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA).
Closest Railway station for Kedarnath
The closest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh Railway Station. It is about 220 kilometers from Kedarnath, via Gaurikund. From Rishikesh you can go by bus or taxi to the town of Sonprayag/Gaurikund, and then walk 16-18 kilometers to reach the temple.
Another option is Haridwar Junction railway station. It is well-connected and dependable. It is about 240 to 300 kilometers away. Haridwar is more frequently served by trains that run from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata as well as other cities.
From any station:
- Travel on the road until the Gaurikund (last motor-capable point)
- Then, trek or use helicopters until Kedarnath Temple
Haridwar Junction is generally the most popular railway option for pilgrims.
Must-Visit Places Near Kedarnath
1. Kedarnath Temple
The main attraction, and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas attributed to Lord Shiva. It is situated at 3,583m at the foot of the Himalayas. gives an intense spiritual experience, with snow-covered peaks.
2. Bhairavnath Temple
About 500m uphill to Kedarnath Temple. The belief is that Bhairavnath guards the Kedarnath shrine in the winter months. The views across Kedarnath valley from here is breathtaking. Kedarnath valley from this point is breathtaking.
3. Vasuki Tal
Beautiful glacial lake at high altitude located approximately 8 km away from Kedarnath. Ideal for trekkers looking for amazing Himalayan landscapes.
4. Gaurikund
The base camp of The base camp for the Kedarnath trek. People associate it with Goddess Parvati, and it has a hot water spring.
5. Triyuginarayan Temple
About 25 kilometers from Sonprayag. People believe this was the site of the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. People believe the flame that burns here forever has burned since the day of their wedding.
6. Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar)
A tranquil lake lies 3–4 km from Kedarnath. It is beautiful it was also a place to meditate.
7. Guptkashi
Located on the way to Kedarnath. It is famous for the Vishwanath Temple and stunning panoramas of Chaukhamba mountains.
Bonus Spiritual Stop
Rudranath Temple The most famous of Panch Kedar temples, known for its natural rock Shiva lingam as well as its tranquil surrounding.
These places close by will make your Kedarnath journey more than just an experience of pilgrimage, but a full spiritual and beautiful Himalayan journey.
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