Plan a religious journey from the foothills of the Himalayas to the higher shrine of Lord Kedarnath. Kedarnath is one of the most revered religious destinations according to Hindu Mythology. The Dehradun to Kedarnath trip is one of the 12 jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a special spot during the Chardham Yatra. Kedarnath is a spiritual and scenic destination considered to be one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. This holy town is said to be one of the sites of the Char Dhams. From exploring ancient temples to trekking through lush forests, our Kedarnath travel guide unveils the best things to do throughout the journey. Whether you’re seeking adventure, serenity, or cultural immersion, this enchanting city promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Dehradun is considered as a major starting point for your Kedarnath Yatra that offers an array of unforgettable experiences. It is a vibrant city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and is often considered an iconic holiday destination. It is surrounded by the Garhwal Himalayas and offers breathtaking mountain views, abundant greenery, and a lot of opportunities for adventure.
If you are planning to explore the enchanting destination, then it is important to know that there isn't a direct route to Kedarnath; the road trip will end at Gaurikund. So, planning accordingly. Dehradun is well connected with the airport, railway station and road network that provide access to travellers coming from different parts of India. You can cover the distance of 225 km by road to Gaurikund, followed by a 16-17 km uphill trek to the shrine. The road journey will take 7-8 hours, while the trek will take about 6-7 hours, depending on the weather. For a better option, you can enhance your journey by booking a Dehradun to Kedarnath taxi service. It allows you to enjoy the scenic routes and immerse yourself in the tranquility and historical significance of the Kedarnath temple.
2. Why Start from Dehradun? (150–200 words)
The main city in the Doon Valley region, Dehradun, is a stable capital and major transit hub for the Char Dham yatra base. This quaint hill town is famous for its alpine weather, lush environment, dainty cottages, and classic colonial charm. It is served by Jolly Grant Airport, about 30 km away from the city centre. The other side of the railway station is only a couple of kilometres from the city centre. Additionally, trekking here is one of the most popular things to do that you can easily cover by taking a cab in Dehradun.
The town serves as the base for most treks around the Garhwal Himalayas. It's a peaceful stop for pre-yatra preparation and overnight stays. It offers great opportunities to dive into local life while experiencing the colonial charm. Rich in culture and nature, its sights are indeed an incredible experience. Start your pilgrimage in breathtaking surroundings that will make you want to extend your stay indefinitely.
Read more about Dehradun things to do with our Dehradun travel guide.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
For planning a Dehradun to Kedarnath trip, the best time is during the official Kedarnath yatra season. Kedarnath temple is highly revered but remains open only for 6 months, from May to October, so plan your trip according to its opening and closing dates. Whereas for the pilgrimage, May and June are the most popular months; during this time, the Kedarnath yatra begins, and a large crowd will be seen. For a more peaceful journey, the time between September to October is ideal. These months offer pleasant weather and clear roads for the ride, and you will also get fewer crowds and clear skies with great views during this time. But try to skip the monsoon time from July to August due to heavy rain, risk of landslides, and roadblocks. Generally, it takes a lot of time to visit Kedarnath due to a lot of traffic.
| Travel Season | Months | Weather | Best For | Things to Keep in Mind |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pilgrimage Season Start | May – June | Cool & Pleasant | Temple darshan, spiritual energy, group travel | Peak crowd; book cabs and hotels well in advance |
| Monsoon Season (Avoid) | July – August | Heavy Rain, Humid | Not recommended | Risk of landslides, roadblocks, and weather disruptions |
| Post-Monsoon Peace | September – October | Clear skies, mildly cold | Peaceful yatra, scenic beauty, and fewer crowds | Ideal for solo travellers and families; check the temple schedule |
Pro Tip: The Kedarnath temple opens in May and closes in late October. Plan your trip early in the season or just after the monsoon for the best combination of accessibility, safety, and spiritual atmosphere.
Dehradun to Kedarnath Distance, Routes & Time
To enjoy the scenic beauty and the spiritual depth, the route from Dehradun to Kedarnath is taken by a recommended route. The distance from Dehradun to Kedarnath is approximately 260 km by road, followed by a 16 km uphill trek from Gaurikund. The route to Kedarnath from Dehradun is a combination of a road trip and a long trek, but there are ponies available for those who cannot walk such a distance. The route is also well-connected via NH7. It's a very short and fast route due to the national highway; however, the traffic is very minimal, except when it rains or there is snowfall or any highway accident, so you should always check live maps and instant traffic updates for the latest information on Dehradun to Kedarnath road conditions. Here are some routes from Dehradun to Kedarnath.
| Route | Distance | Travel Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dehradun – Rishikesh – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Gaurikund – Kedarnath | ~260 km | 10–11 hours (to Gaurikund) + 16 km trek | Scenic Himalayas drive via NH7, multiple prayags, religious towns. |
| Dehradun – Srinagar – Sonprayag | ~246 km | 7–8 hours | Religious temples, scenic views, and several small towns. |
| Dehradun – Agastmuni – Guptkashi | ~220 km | 6–7 hours | Syalsaur, Himalayas, and Jakhnyal Gaon |
The Dehradun to Kedarnath Distance and routes offer stunning views of the Himalayas, with well-maintained paths for a safe journey and best undertaken by experienced hill drivers or chauffeur-driven taxis for comfort. Ensure your safety with our safe travel tips for Kedarnath from Dehradun. Now immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Enhance your journey with a Kedarnath Yatra package, including Dehradun sightseeing, blending spiritual pilgrimage with local exploration. There are also other popular routes, such as Dehradun to Delhi, among the travellers while they are planning their return. For that also you can also take a comfortable Dehradun to Delhi taxi, which offers timely travel without hassle.
How to Reach Kedarnath from Dehradun
The journey from Dehradun to Kedarnath offers a seamless connection between spiritual fervour and natural beauty. It unfolds a picturesque tapestry of the Himalayan landscapes. Dehradun to Kedarnath travel combines spiritual fulfilment with breathtaking scenery. If you are looking for peace among the Himalayan peaks in Kedarnath, our travel guide guarantees an amazing trip.
Now, plan an adventurous journey to Kedarnath. Here is the complete guide for how to reach Kedarnath from Dehradun, providing various options by road and helipad for a smooth and memorable journey.
a) By Road
For a scenic journey, travelling from Dehradun to Kedarnath by road is the most recommended and flexible option. You can take shared jeeps, state buses (Dehradun to Gaurikund ) or hire private cabs from Dehradun to Kedarnath. Cabs offer flexibility, safety, and scenic halts to travellers and will pass through many famous routes like Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, and Sonprayag. By cab, you will travel a distance of 250 km in 10-12 hours, depending on roads and weather conditions. The road trip will end at Gaurikund, the last stop for vehicles. After Gaurikund, a 16 km trek will take you to the Kedarnath temple.
b) By Helicopter (optional)
Kedarnath temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of lord Shiva and also a part of the Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand, but it is not easy to access for all pilgrims. For time-efficient travel, a helicopter ride is a better alternative for reaching Kedarnath from Dehradun. Helicopter services operate from Dehradun, Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi. Helicopter service in Kedarnath begins from the opening date of the Kedarnath temple every year. It is advised to book a cab in advance before the Chardham tour. For many old and physically unfit people who are not able to travel long trek routes, the Kedarnath Helicopter service is the most suitable travelling option.
| Helipad | Operator | Fare (Approx.) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phata | Aryan | ₹6,500–₹9,000 | 30–45 mins |
| Sersi | Pawan Hans | ₹6,500–₹8,500 | 25–30 mins |
| Guptkashi | Himalayan Heli | ₹7,500–₹9,500 | 35–45 mins |
Dehradun to Kedarnath Taxi Fare & Car Options
Kedarnath falls under the list of popular places to be visited in India. People travel to this place in large numbers throughout the year. With easy modes of transportation available, like a cab or taxi service, to reach. Planning a getaway is never a hectic task. Kedarnath tourism has attractions with various local, sightseeing, and historical places. You can book a cab like an SUV, a Hatchback, a Sedan, or a Tempo traveller, for a comfortable and safe journey for the entire group. By booking a Kedarnath cab service, you can be assured of reaching your place in optimal time, within a budgeted Dehradun to Kedarnath taxi fare. While making the final charge of the cab, make sure about the additional costs, toll facilities provided, parking charges (whether they are included or excluded in the final charge or not), and also the hill driver allowance (allowed or not). You will make the payment through UPI and online.
Booking a cab is crucial for a better travel experience. If you have already planned your trip and you are looking for a taxi service, then your search ends here. CabBazar provides the best and cheapest taxi service in Kedarnath.
| Car Type | Capacity | One-way Fare | Round-trip Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hatchback | 4 | ₹4,000–₹4,500 | ₹7,500–₹8,000 |
| Sedan | 4 | ₹4,500–₹6,000 | ₹8,500–₹10,000 |
| SUV | 6–7 | ₹6,000–₹7,500 | ₹11,000–₹13,000 |
| Tempo Traveller | 9–12 | ₹9,000–₹11,000 | ₹16,000–₹18,000 |
Suggested Itinerary
Kedarnath is well known for its amazing mountain views and the Mandakini River. Making it a place for both spiritual reflection and beautiful natural scenery. It is a pilgrimage site for the Hindus that holds great respect among Lord Shiva devotees. Plan the spiritual journey with this 4-day, well-structured Dehradun to Kedarnath itinerary.
Day 1: Dehradun to Guptkashi (stay overnight)
Start your scenic journey early from Dehradun toward Guptkashi. It is one of the picturesque towns situated in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand and is well known for its ancient Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, resembling the most famous shrine in Varanasi. The distance is around 210 km and you will cover in 7-8 hours while enjoying the scenic drive, as the route will pass through many charming towns like Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and Sonprayag, offering a glimpse of the Ganga and Alaknanda rivers. While arriving at Guptakashi in the evening, check into any hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2: Guptkashi to Gaurikund, trek to Kedarnath, overnight stay
To start the journey from Gaurikund to the Kedarnath trek, leave the hotel early and begin the uphill journey of the Kedarnath trek. It is a little challenging trek that takes 7 to 8 hours, depending on your stamina. Along the trek, there are many shops, restaurants, and tented accommodations available for comfortable trekking. After enjoying the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush landscapes, visit the revered Kedarnath temple for the evening darshan.
Day 3: Darshan and trek back to Guptkashi
Start your journey with the early morning darshan at the Kedarnath temple, and after breakfast, you will start your journey back to Gaurikund, soaking in the divine atmosphere that returns to Guptkashi. You can relax here and stay at any hotel after the long trek.
Day 4: Return to Dehradun
Now, while enjoying the scenic drive and having breakfast, begin your journey to Dehradun, carrying many memories of the peaceful and spiritual trip to Kedarnath. If you are visiting the lively city of Dehradun or looking for peace among the Himalayan peaks in Kedarnath, our itinerary guarantees an amazing trip.
Places to Visit En Route
Enjoy the journey between scenic landscapes and ancient temples. The route from Dehradun to Kedarnath passes through old pilgrim towns like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag, and Gaurikund. Simultaneously, you can also enjoy the picturesque mountain escape, shifting from the Himalayan plains to the snow-capped glacial region. Along the winding roads and valleys of Uttarakhand, there are several places to visit between Dehradun and Kedarnath.
- Devprayag: Plan a trip to a beautiful showcase of tradition, myths and mysticism. Devprayag is blessed with immense natural beauty that attracts travellers from across the globe. It's one of the picturesque towns set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas. It is also the last confluence of the Alaknanda River and is quite sacred among the Hindu Followers.
- Rudraprayag: On the way, you can visit Rudraprayag; it's a heaven for adventure, nature lovers, and, of course, devoted worshippers. This district in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region is also a great place to see basic and humble rural life. It truly embodies the beauty and humility of the state's culture. This town is also known for its reverse temples and pristine natural beauty. The presence of two separate routes for Badrinath and Kedarnath Dham it makes it an important destination for religious tourism.
- Guptkashi: Enjoy the trip at Guptkashi; it's a perfect stopover for travellers to Kedarnath. The amazing weather, lush greenery, forests and captivating views of the Chaukhamba Range, along with its rich past and heritage. It houses two ancient temples, namely, the Vishwanath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Ardhnareshwar temple. The town is surrounded by dense forests of oak and deodar, which provide a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts.
- Triyuginarayan Temple: Visit one of the popular tourist attractions, Triyuginarayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is a famous place of Hindu worship that is nestled in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. The lush greenery, majestic mountains, and timeless architecture ensure every moment is picture-perfect. It combines the beauty of nature with the richness of Hindu rituals.
- Sonprayag: You can explore the beautiful natural surroundings near Kedarnath Dham. Sonprayag is a remarkable blend of raw beauty and spiritual essence. The town is mainly a prominent tourist destination for the Chota Char Dham Yatra. It is especially known for its scenic views and the Sangam of the Mandakini River and Basuki. If you have time, you can explore these mystical places.
- Gaurikund: Travel to one of the most revered and sacred picturesque valleys. Gaurikund is one of the starting points of the trek to Kedarnath. It is surrounded by lush greenery, towering pine trees, and the melody of chirping birds, serving as the perfect base camp for many spiritual journeys ahead. If you seek a pilgrimage that combines adventure, nature, and profound spirituality, then follow the path from Dehradun to Gaurikund.
Where to Stay in Kedarnath
If you want to experience the unique and sacred atmosphere but are worried about where to stay in Kedarnath? No problem any more, in this article, you will get full information about several accommodation options to stay near Kedarnath. Many private lodges are in Gaurikund and Guptkashi, on the route to Kedarnath. These towns offer a wider range of stays, including budget lodges and mid-range Kedarnath hotels. Accommodation in Kedarnath offers a peaceful retreat away from the bustling temple premises while still providing convenient access to the shrine. One such option is the GMVN cottages, tents, and Dharamshala near the temple; these accommodations come with attached or common washrooms and provide a cosy and hygienic stay. GMVN can be booked online through their official website; however, it is advisable to make your reservation in advance. If you are planning your stay in Kedarnath, it is recommended to make your reservation as early as possible, especially during the peak pilgrimage season.
Where to Stay in Kedarnath – At a Glance
| Stay Location | Type of Accommodation | Facilities Offered | Booking Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath (near the temple) | GMVN Guest Houses (Govt.), Tented Camps, Dharamshala | Dormitories, shared rooms, basic beds, blankets | Limited availability; book early online during Yatra |
| Gaurikund | Budget Hotels, Lodges | Basic amenities, hot water on request | Ideal for early morning treks to Kedarnath |
| Sitapur | Private Guest Houses, Budget Hotels | Comfortable stay, limited luxury | Suitable for overnight stays before or after the trek |
| Guptkashi | Lodges, Hotels, GMVN options | Slightly better infrastructure, good food options | Great for a day halt; perfect alternative if Kedarnath is full |
Travel Tips for Kedarnath
Planning is key to making the Dehradun to Kedarnath journey safe, smooth and successful. These Kedarnath Yatra tips can make your travel easy and memorable, especially when the weather remains unpredictable and the long trek lies ahead. Here are some essential Dehradun to Kedarnath travel safety tips to ensure a safe and stress-free yatra.
- Must carry a woollen jacket and a raincoat since the season is unpredictable and hilly areas are cold most of the time.
- Carry some dry snacks like chocolate, dried fruits, and biscuits to eat at regular intervals.
- Take your medicine that is essential for you, and also bring a medical kit that helps in minor injuries.
- While trekking to Kedarnath, stay hydrated, carry water bottles that you can refill again and also take a rest at suitable stops.
- Avoid overexertion, but don’t ignore the signs of altitude sickness, like headaches, nausea or breathlessness.
- Start your journey early in the morning to avoid harsh weather and crowds during your trek.
- Keep your ID proof and registration slip with you, either in a physical or electronic form.
Kedarnath is all about trekking and enjoying nature along the way, which requires sufficient fitness, strength and mental preparedness, so plan accordingly.
11. FAQs (200–250 words)
- Can I go directly to Kedarnath from Dehradun in a day?
Yes, but it's a challenging task. You need to start your trip as early as possible. The journey from Dehradun to the base of the Kedarnath trek takes about 10-12 hours and then starts a 16 km trek to reach the Kedarnath temple. So, for more convenience, you can take a helipad from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi.
- Are washrooms and food stops available on the route?
Yes, you will get several washrooms and food stalls along the route near Rudraprayag, Devprayag, and Guptkashi. Also, during the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath temple, several facilities like toilets and various tea stalls.
- What’s the best time to avoid the rush?
You can plan a trip between September to early November; these are the best months to visit Kedarnath. At this time, you will get fewer crowds and clear skies with great views.
- Is there a mobile network in Kedarnath?
Yes, a network is generally available in Kedarnath, but somewhere connectivity is inconsistent; it's better to inform your family already about network issues.
- Can I book same-day helicopter tickets?
Same-day helicopter tickets are rare due to high demand. It's advisable to book a helipad ticket in advance through the official website or portals.
12. Final Thoughts (100–150 words)
Embarking on a Kedarnath road trip is more than just a scenic adventure; it's a deeply spiritual experience that will offer peace, rejuvenation, and a powerful connection to divinity. During your Kedarnath road trip, you will get a variety of natural and spiritual spots along the way, through the Himalayan valley, where you will find hilly areas that will be full of natural views. The journey of this route is quite long, so a well-planned Kedarnath road trip ensures comfort, safety, and flexibility.
To make your pilgrimage hassle-free and seamless, it's a wise option to book a Dehradun to Kedarnath cab in advance, especially during peak season. It allows you to travel stress-free, focusing on the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas and the spiritual atmosphere of one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. The journey offers a unique opportunity to witness the traditional culture and lifestyle of the local communities along the way.
Start your 2025 Kedarnath Yatra from Dehradun today with CabBazar for the most scenic journey from Dehradun to Kedarnath.
