Kedarnath Trek Overview

Kedarnath trek is a remote trek that starts at Gaurikund, which is the base camp of the trek. It is a moderate-level trek and can be embarked on by even novice trekkers without any prior experience. The Kedarnath trek distance is 16 km and you will need to trek for 5 to 6 hours to reach the Kedarnath base camp at an altitude of 3583 m. Trekkers who are not accustomed to long journeys and high altitudes may find it difficult to complete the trek. Hence reasonably good physical fitness is required for this trek.

Experience the incredible natural beauty as you journey from Rishikesh to Sonpragyag. The first base camp of the Kedarnath trekking is at Gaurikund, which offers a magnificent range of himalayan range which can be explored by a jeep or shuttle feeling spellbound looking at the surroundings.

The trek from Gaurikund will start the next day and for 5 to 6 hours you will be captivated with the beauty of the surrounding mountains, running streams and greenery. See the tips of the snow covered mountains which will become more and more visible with your ascend. Witness the peaceful energy as you get to see the famous Kedar Nath Temple as your top destination. Get blessings from one of the temples of the Chota Char Dham of Uttarakhand which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There will be several points on the way where you will be able to make a stop including Jungle Chatti, Bheem Bali, Linchauli and finally Kedarnath Base camp.

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Highlights
  • Experience a thrilling and challenging trekking experience to the Kedarnath temple, built in the 8th century and standing at an elevation of around 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level.

  • Pass through some scenic trails and diverse terrains, including steep trails and rocky paths. Be amazed by breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini and Sumeru, and alpine meadows along the way.

  • Marvel at the wonderful architecture of Kedarnath Temple which is adorned with intricate carvings and designs. It stands as a symbol of ancient craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

  • Explore the Panch Kedar circuit, with Kedarnath being one of the five sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, and gain some insights into the significance of these sacred sites.

  • Take a remarkable journey to this sacred and revered Kedarnath Temple, which is believed to be a place of immense spiritual significance in the world.

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Must Know Before You Go
  • Avoid consuming any intoxicants in the course of the trek.
  • Consider consulting your physician before going for the trek.
  • Discard all wastes carefully and responsibly and avoid littering the trek.
  • Remember to carry a first-aid kit with basic medications along with you for the trek.
  • Remember to wear a pair of good quality trekking shoes that will be of much help in hiking through the steeper terrains.
  • Pay attention to the trek instructor and follow the traditional Kedarnath trek route.
  • This Kedarnath trek package is not recommended for pregnant women and people having knee, hip, shoulder, or heart problems.
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Quick Facts of Kedarnath Trek

Quick Facts of Kedarnath Trek

Kedarnath Trek Maximum Altitude: 3583 m

Grade: Moderate

Kedarnath Trek Duration: From Gaurikund to Kedarnath: 7 to 8 hours

Trekking distance: From Gaurikund to Kedarnath: 16 km

Trail type: Medium to steep

Railhead: Nearest Railway station is Rishikesh Railway station, 221 km from Kedarnath

Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, near Dehradun, about 239 km from Kedarnath.

Snow Season: November to April

Service from: Delhi

Base camp: Gaurikund

Best season: Summer (April to June)

Region: Garhwal Himalayan range near the Mandakini river, in the state of Uttarakhand, India.

Who can participate: Anyone who is physically fit can participate as there is no prior experience that is required for this trek.

Short Itinerary for Kedarnath Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Day 2: Travel from Delhi to Haridwar (By Train - 217.6 km)

Day 3: Drive from Haridwar to Guptkashi (Altitude 1,319 m) (By Road - 203.5 km)

Day 4: Travel from Guptkashi (Altitude 1,319 m) to Gaurikund (Altitude 1982 m) and then Trek to Kedarnath (Altitude 3583 m) (By Road - 15.3 km & Trek - 14 km)

Day 5: Trek to Vasukital( Altitude 4,135 m) (Trek - 8 km) and Back to Kedarnath(Altitude 3583 m) (Trek - 8 km)

Day 6: Trek to Gaurikund (Altitude 3583 m) (Trek - 14 km) - Drive to Rudraprayag (Altitude 690 m) (Drive - 41.2 km)

Day 7: Drive back to Rishikesh (By Road - 141.7 km)

Day 8: Travel back to Delhi

Kedarnath Trek Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 1

Arrival in Delhi

  • Your Kedarnath trek will start as soon as you arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.

  • You will be transferred to your hotel in a spacious and comfortable vehicle.

  • Check in for the night and take a rest in the hotel after enjoying a delicious dinner.

Things to Carry for Kedarnath Trek

Things to Carry for Kedarnath Trek

Mandatory Documents:

  • Original as well as photocopy of any government photo identity card such as Driving License, Aadhar Card, Voters ID, etc.
  • Passport and Visa need to be provided by International Travelers
  • Medical Certificate (the first part needs to be filled by a registered Doctor and you will need to fill up the second part)
  • Certificate of Declaration

Clothes:

  • Trek Pants will be more comfortable during the trek than jeans or trousers.
  • Jackets to protect you against chilly weather.
  • Warm clothing such as fleece or woollen layers for nights.
  • Thermals to keep you warm at night.
  • T-shirts which are more comfortable than shirts and dry fast.
  • Raincoat to keep you dry in case there is rain.
  • Head cover such as a cap or balaclava to protect your head during the trek.
  • Socks (woolen and regular)
  • Do not carry too many clothes as you have to carry them during your trek.

Footwear:

Get yourself sturdy well-fitted trekking footwear so that your feet do not hurt during the trek.

Other Essentials:

  • A strongly built 50 to 60 liters backpack with a good support is an absolute must for a trek. Ensure there is a rain cover as well.
  • Personal toiletry items such as toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, sanitiser etc. and must carry sunscreen to protect your skin.
  • Personal medical kit with items such as prescribed medicines and common ones for altitude sickness, pain relief, headache, fever, stomach problem, motion sickness, allergies, diarrhea, etc. Also an antiseptic cream, a pain relief spray, bandage and cotton for cuts.
  • Hiking pole for support during the trek.
  • Water bottle to refill with water to hydrate yourself during the trek.
  • Sunglasses for protecting the eyes.
  • Woolen and waterproof gloves to protect your hands.
  • Torch to use at night.
  • Camera with rechargeable batteries to capture the scenic beauty.

Know Before You Go for Kedarnath Trek

Tips for Kedarnath Trek
Trekking Route
Best Time To Go
How To Reach
Tips for Kedarnath Trek
  • Get your medical checkup done to ensure fitness before you go on a trek.

  • People with heart, respiratory and blood pressure problems should not go trekking without a doctor’s advice. The trek is also not recommended for pregnant ladies.

  • You will need to abide by government rules and complete the trek within the stipulated time frame of 4 am to 1.30 pm.

  • Pay attention to your trek instructor and follow the traditional Kedarnath trek route.

  • If you are unable to complete the trek in a day, there are several places in between where accommodations are available.

  • Carry some light snacks such as dry fruits to keep you energized. You can also stop at the several food stalls and eateries on the way to get some food.

  • Wear clothes and shoes that are comfortable for trekking.

  • Carry a medical kit which may come in handy for sprains, cuts etc.

  • Be careful as you walk. Do not get distracted while walking, which might result in losing your foothold and spraining your legs.

General Trivia About Kedarnath

General Trivia About Kedarnath
  • Kedarnath in local dialect means ‘lord of fields’, named after Kedar, the deity who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva who is considered to be the embodiment of all passions - love, fear, hatred, death and mysticism, expressed through his various forms.

  • Legend has it that Lord Shiva hid in a form of bull to avoid the Pandavas. One of the Pandavas, Bhima recognised him and tried to capture the bull from behind. But before Bhima could catch the bull, it disappeared, and later the hump of the bull appeared in Kedarnath and is worshiped since then.

Why to Go for Kedarnath Trek?

Going for the Kedarnath trek is one of the most popular and scenic treks in India, where you find beauty, peace, and amazing memories. It is a highly celebrated pilgrimage site and is one of the Chota Char Dham or Char Dham of Uttarakhand. The temple is located at an astonishing height of 3583 m and is very near to Chorabari Glacier, the birthplace of the Mandakini River. The whole area is covered with snow-capped mountains and is spectacular to look at. Once you start your journey from Rishikesh, you will be mesmerized by the stunning scenic view, first of the Ganges flowing along with you and then by the beauty of the famous Kedarnath Mountain. The trail is not too difficult, hence if you enjoy a good health condition, you can go for this trek, even if you are a novice.

FAQs of Kedarnath Trek

How difficult is the Kedarnath trek?

    Being at an elevation of 3583 m, Kedarnath trek may prove to be a moderate-level trek, which is strenuous for those trekkers who are beginners. Hence, it is strongly advised that they go for a medical fitness test to ensure that they are physically fit. They should also learn about altitude sickness and inform their trekking guides as soon as any symptom is noticed. People with heart, respiratory and blood pressure problems should not go trekking without a doctor’s advice. The trek is also not recommended for pregnant ladies. Those who feel that they will not be able to continue the trek for 5-6 hours may take a break at Bheembali or Linchauli and stay overnight and continue the journey the next day.

Is the Kedarnath trek safe?

Can the Kedarnath trek be completed in one day?

Can we do the Kedarnath trek at night?

What clothing should I wear for the Kedarnath trek?

Where should I stay while trekking in Kedarnath?

What are the common mistakes that you need to avoid while trekking?

Do I need to register with the Uttarakhand Government before going for the Kedarnath trek?

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