A Detailed Travel Guide for Kedarnath Trip

In the heart of Uttarakhand, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, lies Kedarnath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by Hindus. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kedarnath temple draws millions of devotees and tourists annually. With its pristine natural beauty, a Kedarnath trip offers breathtaking views, especially the awe-inspiring Kedarnath hill and surrounding peaks. If you're planning a holy pilgrimage or seeking spiritual rejuvenation, our Kedarnath travel guide ensures an enriching Kedarnath trip. Explore our Kedarnath itinerary to make the most of your Kedarnath yatra experience.

How to Reach Kedarnath

Here's a table outlining different routes to reach Kedarnath from Delhi or any other part of the country.

Helicopter Options for Kedarnath Yatra:

In Kedarnath, helicopter services provide quick access to the sacred site for pilgrims and tourists. These services offer various options, including one-way or round-trip flights, different seating capacities, and packages with or without VIP amenities. Prices vary based on the route, duration, and level of comfort desired. Booking in advance is advisable due to high demand, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.

Best time to visit kedarnath:

The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the summer season between April and June. The weather is pleasant with a gentle cool breeze and a warm ambiance overall.

The below table outlines the different months and their characteristics to help you choose the best time for your Kedarnath visit.

Places to see in Kedarnath

Kedarnath, being a revered religious destination, is deeply intertwined with mythological significance, making its sacred sites the focal point of pilgrimage and exploration.

Kedarnath Temple

One of the holiest places for the Hindus, the Kedarnath temple is one of the four dwellings of the Char Dham Yatra. The naturally forming Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva is said to be more than 1000 years old. The temple, surrounded by the imperial Garhwal Himalayan ranges and the clear blue skies, is believed to bless the devotees with a state of salvation. According to Hindu mythology, the temple is believed to have been constructed by the Pandavas, the legendary heroes of the epic Mahabharata. Devotees undertake a rigorous pilgrimage to reach the temple, which involves trekking through challenging terrain.

Sonprayag

Located at a height of about 1820 metres above sea level and surrounded by the gleaming snow-covered peaks and natural bounty, the place is a small hamlet and one of the major attractions in Kedarnath. It is the place where River Mandakini flows into the dazzling river Basuki. There are mythological beliefs that it is the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married and therefore the place holds great religious importance.  

Gaurikund 

Gaurikund Temple, located near Kedarnath in Uttarakhand, India, is dedicated to Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. It is a significant stop for pilgrims embarking on the journey to Kedarnath Temple, with many devotees taking a ritual dip in the hot springs believed to be blessed by the goddess.

Shankaracharya Samadhi

The Shankaracharya Samadhi in Kedarnath is the final resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, a revered Hindu philosopher and saint who revived and propagated Advaita Vedanta. This sacred site is located near the Kedarnath Temple and holds immense religious significance for followers of Shankaracharya's teachings.

Gandhi Sarovar

Gandhi Sarovar, also known as Chorabari Tal, is a pristine glacial lake located near Kedarnath Temple in Uttarakhand, India. It is named after Mahatma Gandhi, who is believed to have meditated here during his visit to Kedarnath. The lake holds religious significance and is surrounded by picturesque Himalayan scenery, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

Kalimath

Kalimath is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site located near Kedarnath in Uttarakhand, India. It is renowned for its ancient Kalimath Temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. Devotees often visit Kalimath as part of their pilgrimage to Kedarnath, seeking blessings from the goddess.

Bhairavn Temple

The Bhairav Temple in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. It is situated near the Kedarnath Temple and holds significance as a protector of the area. Devotees often visit to seek blessings and protection before undertaking the pilgrimage to Kedarnath Temple.

Places to see around Kedarnath

Vasuki Tal 

Vasuki Tal is part of almost everyone’s Kedarnath travel plan. The stunning lake located at about 4135 metres above sea level, offers an enchanting trekking experience. The trek to the lake may not be easy, but it will surely be worth it. On your way up to seeing the lake, you can witness and enjoy the beauty of Vasuki and Chaturangi glaciers and the Chaukhamba peaks. 

Guptakashi

Guptkashi, located 47 kilometres before the revered Kedarnath shrine, rests on the western ridge of the Mandakini river valley at an altitude of 1,319 meters above sea level. This town is steeped in religious significance, boasting ancient temples such as the Vishwanath and Ardhnareshwar temples. Among its revered attractions is the Manikarnika Kund, where the sacred waters of the Ganga and Yamuna converge, adding to its spiritual allure. 

Kedarnatha Trek

The Kedarnath trek traverses through profoundly religious terrain, deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. At the base of the majestic Kedarnath Peak sits the revered Temple of Lord Kedarnath, a testament to enduring spirituality. Each year, millions of pilgrims undertake this journey, driven by faith to offer prayers and seek blessings from the Hindu deity. Facing the imposing Kedar Parvat, the temple holds a sacred presence at the summit.

Char Dham Yatra

The Chota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand encompasses the four sacred shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri, all nestled within the Garhwal region. This pilgrimage holds immense significance among Hindus, with Adi Shankaracharya consolidating these sites into a spiritual circuit in the 8th century. It's believed that every Hindu should undertake this journey at least once in their lifetime. Over generations, countless devotees have maintained this tradition, making it common to complete the entire circuit in one religious pilgrimage.

READ MORE: Travel Guide to Char Dham Yatra   

Interesting things to do in Kedarnath

Kedarnath is one of the most unique places in India, it reverberates a spiritual vibe from all corners, thanks to the constant chants by the pilgrims. But, apart from its spirituality and religious importance, the place is also known for offering various adventure activities for the tourists to enjoy. 

Enjoy the view of the sunset from the valley

The Chapota Valley in Kedarnath is blessed with incredibly beautiful landscape and is a perfect spot to watch the magnificent sunset. It is also the starting point for the Tungnath and Chandrashila trekking routes. Many people prefer camping here and spend a night under the stars before proceeding with their Kedarnath trip plan.

Offer your prayers at the Anusuya Devi Temple

The temple, dedicated to Goddess Anusuya, is located in Rudranath, which is about 30 kms from Chapota Valley. If you are on a spiritual journey or seeking solitude, you must definitely visit this temple. The temple vicinity has a mystical and spiritual aura exuding from all corners. It is believed that devotees visiting the temple will get you a solution to all the problems they have in life. 

Go trekking to Kedarnath peak

There is no other adventure more enthralling than taking a trek to the Kedarnath peak. It will be the highlight of your Kedarnath trip. The gorgeous view of the Mandakini valley, the stunning Chaukhamba peak along the way are so captivating that the arduous trek to the peak may suddenly seem easy. The surrounding view will keep your spirits high and give you an unbelievable amount of energy to keep going.

Collect a few souvenirs

There are plenty of shops and kiosks around Kedarnath that sell photos of the Gods and other souvenirs such as Rudraksha beads, Tulsi beads, crystals, and herbs. You can purchase any of these items and take them back home as a reminder of your wonderful travel experience in Kedarnath. 

There are plenty of shops and kiosks around Kedarnath that sell photos of the Gods and other souvenirs such as Rudraksha beads, Tulsi beads, crystals, and herbs. You can purchase any of these items and take them back home as a reminder of your wonderful travel experience in Kedarnath. 

Things to keep in mind while vising Kedarnath

• Weather Awareness: The climate in Kedarnath can be unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden changes. Pack accordingly, with warm clothing and rain gear.
• Altitude Consideration: Kedarnath is situated at high altitude, so acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. Take it easy and stay hydrated.
• Temple Timings: Check the timings of the Kedarnath Temple and plan your visit accordingly. Respect the religious customs and traditions while inside the temple premises.
• Trekking Precautions: If trekking to Kedarnath, ensure you're physically fit and have the necessary gear. Stay on marked trails and be cautious of steep inclines.
• Emergency Preparedness: Carry essential medicines, a first aid kit, and emergency contact numbers. Mobile network connectivity might be limited in some areas, so plan accordingly.
• Environmental Responsibility: Respect the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayas. Avoid littering and follow Leave No Trace principles.
• Respect Local Customs: Be respectful towards locals and their culture. Seek permission before photographing people or religious sites.
• Pilgrimage Safety: If undertaking the pilgrimage, stay informed about weather conditions and any route changes. Follow instructions from authorities and guides for a safe journey.

If you are Looking for a holiday that combines nature, spirituality, and adventure? Kedarnath is your answer. Our Kedarnath travel guide ensures you experience the tranquility and authenticity of this serene destination. Whether you're planning your Kedarnath trip or seeking a Kedarnath guide, immerse yourself in the scenic landscapes and spiritual pursuits for an enchanting experience.