Kedarnath

Per Person / 10,500

Kedarnath Temple Trek 2025: Complete Guide to the Sacred Yatra in Uttarakhand Himalayas

Introduction

Kedarnath Trek is one of India’s most revered pilgrimage destinations, forming a part of the ‘Char Dham’ in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district. Situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters, near the Chorabari Glacier (source of the Mandakini River), Kedarnath is surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped peaks, including the famous Kedarnath Mountain. Thousands of devotees from across India embark on this spiritual journey every year.

Kedarnath Trek vs Kedarkantha Trek

Many people mistakenly believe that Kedarnath Trek and Kedarkantha Trek are the same. However, these are two distinct treks located in different districts of Uttarakhand:

  • Kedarnath Trek: Located in Rudraprayag district.

  • Kedarkantha Trek: Located in Uttarkashi district.

Mythological Significance

The name ‘Kedarnath’ means ‘Lord of Fields’ in the local dialect. According to legend, Lord Shiva took the form of a bull to evade the Pandavas. Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers, recognized Lord Shiva and attempted to capture him. However, Shiva disappeared into the ground, later appearing in multiple places. The hump of the bull appeared at Kedarnath, where the Pandavas built the temple to worship Lord Shiva.

Challenges of the Trek

Kedarnath is not an easy trek. Hikers who are not accustomed to high altitudes and long journeys may face challenges. It is advisable for trekkers to maintain a good level of physical fitness before attempting this trek.


Kedarnath Yatra: Key Highlights

  • Ancient Temple: Built by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era.

  • Dedicated to Lord Shiva: One of the most revered deities in Hinduism.

  • High Altitude: At 3,583 meters (11,755 feet), one of the highest temples in India.

  • Magnificent Architecture: Features intricate carvings and a unique design.

  • Unique Rituals: Includes the sacred Abhishekam ceremony.

  • Part of Char Dham Yatra: One of the four holy shrines in the pilgrimage.

  • One of the Twelve Jyotirlingas: Considered a highly sacred Shiva temple.

Kedarnath Trek Details

  • Duration: 3 Nights / 4 Days (Haridwar to Haridwar or Rishikesh to Rishikesh)

  • Terrain Type: Trails, with steep climbs at points

  • Temperature:

    • Day: 13°C to 18°C

    • Night: 0°C to 7°C

  • Altitude: 3,583 meters

  • Weather: Snow-covered in winter; moderate temperatures in summer

  • Best Time: May, June, September, October, November (post-monsoon and pre-winter seasons)

  • Trek Difficulty: Moderate

  • Trek Distance:

    • On foot: 30 km

    • By taxi: 423 km

  • Group Size: 5-30 people (private tours available)

  • Trek Fee: INR 11,000.00


Kedarnath Trek Highlights

  • Spiritual and Scenic Beauty: The journey passes through Rishikesh, Devprayag, and Rudraprayag.

  • Confluences of Rivers:

    • Devprayag: Confluence of Alaknanda & Bhagirathi

    • Rudraprayag: Confluence of Alaknanda & Mandakini

  • Echoes of “Har Har Mahadev”: A deeply spiritual experience as devotees chant along the trail.

  • Final Destination – Kedarnath Temple:

    • Decorated with marigold garlands.

    • Long queues of devotees waiting for darshan.

    • A serene, divine atmosphere.

Basecamps & Scenic Stops Along the Trek

  1. Gaurikund (1,982 m): The base camp where Goddess Parvati meditated to win Lord Shiva’s heart.

  2. Rambara (2,835 m): A scenic stop 7 km from Gaurikund.

  3. Vasuki Tal (4,150 m): A tranquil glacial lake, 6 km from Kedarnath.

  4. Gandhi Sarovar (3,900 m): A small yet mesmerizing lake named after Mahatma Gandhi.

Key Altitudes Along the Kedarnath Trek

  • Rishikesh: 340 meters

  • Sonprayag: 1,829 meters

  • Gaurikund: 1,982 meters

  • Kedarnath: 3,583 meters


Best Time to Visit Kedarnath Trek & Temple Opening/Closing Dates

  • Opening Date: Late April or early May

  • Closing Date: First week of November

  • Temple Management: Overseen by the Char Dham Devasthanam Board.

Winter Worship at Ukhimath

During the winter months, the Kedarnath temple remains snow-covered, and the idol of Lord Shiva is shifted to Ukhimath Dham, where priests continue the worship.

Panch Kedar – Other Sacred Temples of Lord Shiva

According to legends, different parts of Lord Shiva’s body are worshiped at five different temples:

  1. Tungnath Temple – Arms of Shiva

  2. Rudranath Temple – Face of Shiva

  3. Madmaheshwar Temple – Stomach of Shiva

  4. Kalpeshwar Temple – Hair of Shiva

  5. Kedarnath Temple – Hump of Shiva


Things to Look Out For During Kedarnath Yatra

  • Souvenirs from Rishikesh: Carry home spiritual keepsakes.

  • Photographic Opportunities: Capture mesmerizing views of the Himalayas.

  • Spiritual Experience: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Baba Kedar’s blessings.

Final Thoughts

The Kedarnath Trek is not just a pilgrimage but a journey that connects you to spirituality and nature. It offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to seek divine blessings amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. Plan your yatra carefully, considering weather conditions and personal fitness levels, and embark on a sacred adventure to Kedarnath Dham in 2025!

“Har Har Mahadev”

 

Day 1: Journey from Haridwar to Guptkashi via Rishikesh

  • 07:00 AM: Pickup from Haridwar and begin the drive towards Rishikesh.

  • 08:00 AM: Pickup from Rishikesh.

  • Short Stop in Rishikesh: Enjoy a quick visit to iconic spots such as Triveni Ghat or the Beatles Ashram.

  • Continue towards Guptkashi: The journey covers approximately 210 km and takes around 10-11 hours, depending on road conditions.

  • Scenic Drive: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas, rivers, and lush valleys along the way.

  • Arrival in Guptkashi: Expected by late afternoon or early evening, followed by check-in and relaxation.


Day 2: Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple

  • Early Morning Departure: Travel from Guptkashi to Gaurikund (30 km, approx. 1-2 hours by road).

  • Begin the Trek to Kedarnath:

    • Distance: 16 km trek from Gaurikund.

    • Estimated Duration: 6-8 hours, depending on pace and weather.

  • Scenic Highlights:

    • Stunning Himalayan landscapes.

    • Notable landmarks such as Rambara and Linchauli.

    • Flowing Mandakini River and lush forests.

  • Arrival at Kedarnath: By late afternoon or early evening. Rest and explore the temple surroundings.


Day 3: Kedarnath Temple Visit & Return to Guptkashi

  • Early Morning (2:30 AM): Wake up and head to Kedarnath Temple.

  • 4:00 AM: Attend the sacred Aarti Pooja and immerse in the spiritual atmosphere.

  • Breakfast & Exploration:

    • Enjoy a hearty breakfast before descending.

    • Take in the serene beauty of the temple surroundings.

  • Return Trek to Gaurikund:

    • The descent usually takes less time than the ascent.

    • Expected arrival in Gaurikund by late morning or early afternoon.

  • Drive back to Guptkashi (1-2 hours by road).

  • Arrival in Guptkashi: Late afternoon or early evening.


Day 4: Return Journey to Haridwar via Rishikesh

  • Morning Departure: After breakfast, begin the drive back to Haridwar.

  • Guptkashi to Rishikesh (Approx. 6-7 hours drive, 180 km).

  • Scenic Drive & Stopover in Rishikesh:

    • Optional visit to Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, or attend the Ganga Aarti.

  • Continue to Haridwar (Approx. 30-45 minutes drive, 20 km).

  • Arrival in Haridwar: By late afternoon or early evening.

  • Optional Activities: Explore Har Ki Pauri, attend the evening Aarti, or relax by the Ganges.

Note: Trekkers are responsible for reaching Rishikesh on the designated date. Assistance can only be provided after arrival.

Trek Inclusions:

✔️ Transport facility from Rishikesh to Rishikesh
✔️ Forest permit and entrance fees
✔️ Accommodation in a hotel on a twin-sharing basis
✔️ All meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, tea, coffee, snacks, soup, and dinner
✔️ Radio walkie-talkie for communication
✔️ Experienced local trek leader and technical guide
✔️ Medical kit
✔️ Oxygen cylinders
✔️ Porters for carrying essentials

Trek Exclusions:

❌ Personal insurance
❌ Medical certificate
❌ Personal toiletry items and personal medicine kit

 

 

Trekkers must carry the following documents:

Original and photocopy of a government-issued photo ID (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voter ID, etc.)
Passport and Visa (for foreign nationals)
Medical Certificate (Part 1 to be filled by a doctor, Part 2 by the trekker)
Declaration Certificate


Essential Trekking Gear

Many trekkers make the mistake of carrying unnecessary items, making their backpacks too heavy. Packing smartly is key. Here’s what you must carry:

Backpack & Footwear

🎒 Backpack (50–60 liters) – A sturdy backpack with good support (Rain cover recommended)
🥾 Trekking Shoes – Proper trekking shoes with ankle support (avoid sports shoes)

Clothing

👖 Trek Pants (2-3 pairs) – Avoid jeans; carry more for longer treks
🧥 Jackets (2) – Essential for cold weather
🧣 Warm Layers – Woolen or fleece layers (2-3 for winter, fewer for summer)
🔥 Thermals – Needed for cold nights
👕 Quick-dry T-Shirts – Preferably full sleeves to protect against sunburn
🌧 Poncho/Raincoat – Essential for rainy days

Accessories

🚶 Trekking Pole – For balance and support
💦 Water Bottles (2) – Stay hydrated
🧢 Cap/Balaclava – Protect against the cold
🕶 Sunglasses – To prevent snow blindness
👞 Slippers – Comfortable for campsite use
🧤 Gloves – Woolen and waterproof
🧦 Socks (Woolen & Regular) – Keep feet warm and dry
🧴 Sunscreen – Essential at high altitudes
🔦 Torch/Headlight – With extra batteries

Personal Items

🧼 Toiletries – Toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, sanitizer, etc.
🩺 Personal Medical Kit (Take medicines only as prescribed by a doctor)

  • Altitude sickness tablets
  • Acidity and stomach relief medicine
  • Fever and headache relief
  • Pain relievers
  • Motion sickness medicine
  • Allergy medicine
  • Diarrhea medicine
  • Antiseptic cream
  • ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts)
  • Band-aids, cotton, stretchable bandage, and gauze

Trekking Safety Guidelines

Carry a First Aid Kit – Be prepared for minor injuries
Follow Safety Protocols – Stick to designated trails & avoid risky paths
Stay Connected – Carry a mobile phone, satellite phone, or walkie-talkie
Know Emergency Services – Be aware of the nearest hospital, police, and rescue teams
Pack the Right Gear – Proper clothing & equipment ensure safety
Respect Nature – Follow Leave No Trace principles: avoid littering, protect vegetation, and respect wildlife
Stay Calm in Emergencies – Assess the situation and act wisely

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