The Kedarnath temple sits at 3,583 metres in Uttarakhand, cradled by towering snow-capped peaks and the roaring Mandakini river. For millions, the journey to Kedarnath is not just a physical trek — it is a spiritual experience and one of the most breathtaking high-altitude walks in the Indian Himalayas.

Trek Route Overview

  • Starting Point: Gaurikund (1,982m)
  • Destination: Kedarnath Temple (3,583m)
  • Total Distance: 16 km one way (32 km round trip)
  • Elevation Gain: ~1,600 metres
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
  • Time Required: 6–8 hours one way

Best Time to Trek

  • May–June: Opening month — crowds and clear weather.
  • July–August: Monsoon — trails can get muddy. Some landslide risk.
  • September–October: Best time — clear skies, manageable crowds, spectacular views.
  • November: Closing month — freezing temperatures and first snowfall.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid the first two weeks of May. September and early October offer the best trekking conditions with 6–8 hour wait times avoided.

Registration Requirements

  • Register online at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
  • Biometric registration at Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Gaurikund
  • Carry original Aadhaar card — copies not accepted
  • Medical certificate required for pilgrims above 50 years

The Trek in Detail

Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti (4 km)

The trek starts from Gaurikund following the Mandakini river through dense rhododendron forests.

Jungle Chatti to Bheembali (4 km)

Trail steepens with stone-paved paths. Several chai and snack stalls along the route.

Bheembali to Kedarnath (8 km)

Most challenging and spectacular stretch — open alpine meadows with unobstructed views of Kedarnath peak (6,940m).

Packing List

  • Clothing: Thermal inner layers, fleece jacket, waterproof windcheater, warm gloves, woolen cap
  • Footwear: Waterproof trekking shoes with ankle support, wool socks (2–3 pairs)
  • Essentials: Trekking pole, 40L backpack with rain cover, head torch + extra batteries
  • Hydration & Food: 2L water bottle, energy bars, dry fruits, electrolyte sachets
  • Medical Kit: Diamox, paracetamol, knee support bands, blister plasters
💡 Pro Tip: Start trekking by 4–5 AM from Gaurikund to avoid afternoon cloud cover and rush hour on the trail.

Accommodation Options

  • GMVN Guesthouses: Book at gmvnl.in — ₹600–₹2,500
  • Tent camps at Kedarnath: ₹400–₹800 per person
  • Horse/Doli: ₹3,000–₹6,000 one way for pilgrims who cannot walk

Helicopter Service

  • Price: ₹4,000–₹8,500 per person one way
  • Book at heliyatra.irctc.co.in
  • Flight duration: approximately 7–10 minutes

The Kedarnath trek is demanding but every step brings you closer to one of the most powerful spiritual experiences in India. Have specific questions? Post them on AskYatri!