How to Reach Kedarnath in 2025- Best Possible Options
Situated amidst the awe-inspiring Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is one of India’s most revered pilgrimage destinations and a stop on the Char Dham Yatra. A home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, the temple attracts thousands of pilgrims and adventure tourists annually. Yet, its isolated high-altitude terrain makes the trip there somewhat of an odyssey, both in body and spirit.
In this comprehensive Kedarnath travel guide, we discuss the optimum travel paths to Kedarnath, transport options, and some crucial travel advice for 2025. If you’re trekking, driving, or taking a helicopter, this guide will assist you in selecting the best route to arrive at this sacred place.
Access Points to Kedarnath
Kedarnath cannot be approached directly by air or rail. You’ll have to start your journey to Kedarnath by reaching the nearest transportation terminals, from which you’ll travel onward by road and/or walking.
| Transport Type | Access Points | Distance to Kedarnath |
| Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun | 240 km (to Gaurikund) |
| Railway Stations | Rishikesh (210 km), Haridwar (230 km) | 220 km (to Gaurikund) |
From here, tourists proceed by road to Sonprayag, the last motorable town before Gaurikund, where the trek to Kedarnath starts.
Best Travel Routes to Reach Kedarnath
1. Delhi to Kedarnath (Most Popular Route)
| Route | Mode of Transport | Distance |
| Delhi → Haridwar | Train/Bus | 230 km |
| Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund | Taxi/Bus/Private Vehicle | 220 km |
| Gaurikund → Kedarnath | Trek/Helicopter | 16 km |
This route is perfect for those looking for flexibility. You can travel by train or bus to Haridwar and then proceed by taxi or public transport via scenic hill roads.
2. From Dehradun to Kedarnath
| Route | Mode of Transport | Distance |
| Dehradun → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund | Taxi/Bus/Private Vehicle | 220 km |
| Gaurikund → Kedarnath | Trek/Helicopter | 16 km |
Dehradun is convenient if flying is preferred to Uttarakhand. From the airport, take a cab on hire or a shared taxi to cover the pilgrimage route.
3. From Rishikesh or Haridwar to Kedarnath
| Route | Mode of Transport | Distance |
| Haridwar/Rishikesh → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund | Taxi/Bus/Shared Vehicle | 230 km |
| Gaurikund → Kedarnath | Trek/Helicopter | 16 km |
Char Dham visitors have Haridwar/Rishikesh as a base in most cases. Taxis and buses are a plenty to go to Guptkashi and Sonprayag, from which the trekking to Kedarnath commences.
Transportation Options to Reach Kedarnath
1. By Road
Roadways are the most prevalent option to reach Kedarnath, particularly during the Char Dham Yatra season (May – October).
| Mode | Description | Cost |
| Private Car | Ideal for groups/families. Roads are narrow and winding. | Rs.10,000–15,000 (round trip) |
| Buses | Operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC). | Rs. 500–700 (one way) |
| Shared Taxis/Maxi Cabs | Cheaper and usually used by the pilgrims | Rs. 300–500 (one way) |
Note: Personal cars can be taken only until Sonprayag. There, you have to take a public shuttle (local jeep service) to Gaurikund.
2. By Helicopter
For quicker and more convenient travel, helicopter services to Kedarnath run during the Yatra season from these helipads:
| Helipad | Distance to Kedarnath | Flight Duration | Booking Details |
| Phata | 10 km | 8-10 minutes | Online (advance booking) |
| Sersi | 12 km | 8-10 minutes | Online (advance booking) |
| Guptkashi | 8 km | 8 minutes | Online (advance booking) |
Helicopter travel takes approximately 8-10 minutes and can be booked on government-approved websites. Advance booking is essential during the peak season. Passengers are required to present a valid ID and health fitness certificates.
3. By Trekking
The Kedarnath trek is a religiously enriching and physically demanding 16 km trail from Gaurikund to the shrine. The route is well-marked with resting shelters, food stalls, water stations, and first aid.
| Distance | 16 km |
| Duration | 6 to 10 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Difficult |
Other Trekking Facilities:
- Ponies and Mules: On hire at Gaurikund for payment.
- Palki/Doli: For older citizens or pilgrims with disabilities.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
- Ideal Time: May-June and September-October
- Steer Clear Of: July-August because of excessive monsoon and landslide risk
- Winter Shutdown: From November to April, the temple remains shut, and the idol is worshipped at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath
Weather in Kedarnath can be unreliable even during peak season, so always consult local weather forecasts and pack warm, waterproof gear.
Accommodation & Pit Stops
Where to Stay:
- Before the Trek: Sonprayag, Guptkashi, Phata
- Close to the Temple: Government-run GMVN guesthouses, dharamshalas, and budget hotels
Advance booking is strongly advisable during the Yatra season. GMVN also arranges camping tents and simple lodges on the trek route.
Conclusion
Traveling to Kedarnath is not merely a trip over terrain—it’s a pilgrimage to peace and devotion. With enhanced roadways, helicopter services, and trekking infrastructure, organizing your Kedarnath Yatra in 2025 is easier than ever. Whether you trek the trail or soar above the valleys, every route presents a new and memorable experience.
So tie your boots or book a chopper—the home of Lord Shiva awaits. Contact our experienced travel agency, Dharmik Paryatan, to ensure a smooth journey.
