Kedarnath is a major religious site that is nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas and holds immense spiritual significance. It is one of the revered Char Dham pilgrimage sites and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It offers a sense of sanctity and an overwhelming peace, attracting people seeking spiritual experiences. Every year, thousands of devotees and tourists embark on this divine journey to seek blessings at the sacred Kedarnath Temple, located at an altitude of 3,583 meters. It is one of the remote religious sites where reaching it is only possible by road, as there is no train and flight transportation is not possible.
For travelling to Kedarnath, Haridwar serves as one of the perfect bases. tourists comes to Haridwar by train, flight or road, as it is a perfect station point for this pilgrimage. It is one of the seven holiest cities in India, known for its holy Ganga Ghats, Har Ki Pauri, and vibrant religious atmosphere. The journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath is approximately 240km and takes around 9 to 11 hours by road, and does not include your trekking time. Haridwar offers excellent road connectivity that takes you to Gaurikund; from there, you have to take a 16 km uphill trek to reach Kedarnath, which takes approximately 6-7 hours. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, an adventure lover, or a family pilgrim, planning your route with the right guidance can make all the difference.
Start your sacred Kedarnath Yatra from Haridwar with comfort and safety—choose trusted taxi services and travel with peace of mind.
Why Start from Haridwar?
Kedarnath is one of the most sacred Hindu religious sites in the valley of the Himalayas. It is a small town that is famous for the Kedarnath Temple, which is nestled in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas. It is one of the remote pilgimage locations of the state and reaching there might be a daunting task. For Kedarnath your journey will include more than one transport like trains, flights or roads, as there is no direct connectivity to the town.
Starting your trip to Kedarnath from Haridwar is a natural and meaningful choice for most of the pilgrims. A trip to Kedarnath from Haridwar is usually a part of a holistic pilgrimage tour, starting from Haridwar. Haridwar is one of the last towns that you can reach by train and serves as the gateway to the Char Dham Yatra, offering both spiritual grounding and practical convenience. Devotees often stay 1-2 days in Haridwar and explore its spiritual charm and breathtaking beauty. Here, they take a dip in the divine Ganga river, enjoy the evening Ganga Aarti, and experience the spiritual charm of ancient temples.
Haridwar serves as a reliable hub for travellers coming from various parts of the country with excellent road connectivity. From there, frequent buses, shared taxis, and private cabs are widely available to proceed further towards Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and ultimately, Kedarnath. For those arriving by train, Haridwar Junction is one of the last major stations before heading into the mountains. Whether you're seeking spiritual connection, natural beauty, or cultural immersion, Haridwar is the ideal starting point for your Kedarnath journey.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
If you are a mountaineer or a pro trekker and want to brave the weather, then you can visit any time of the year except during peak snowfall. Otherwise, the best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to October, when the weather is nice and stable, so this is the best time to go hiking. The roads and trails are easy to get to, and the clear skies make the views of the Himalayas truly beautiful. The Kedarnath temple opening dates are from May to November. Though the doors to this divine destination are always open, one must consider nature while travelling and make one's trip according to the weather.
Avoid the monsoon (July-August); road blocks, heavy rain, and landslides can make travel hard and dangerous, which can put the travellers in danger. Before you plan your trip during this time, you should look at the latest weather reports and government travel warnings. Futher to get best from you trip booking a cab in Kedarnath helps alot. It not only provide convenience but also saves time.
| Travel Window | Months | Weather & Conditions | Recommended For | Things to Keep in Mind |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yatra Opening Season | May – June | Clear skies, mild weather, good road & trek conditions | First-time visitors, pilgrims, and trekkers | Peak season—book stays in advance; carry light woollens |
| Monsoon Season | July – August | Heavy rainfall, landslides, frequent road closures | Not recommended | Risky terrain; check weather & official advisories before travel |
| Post-Monsoon Calm | September – October | Crisp air, pleasant days, fewer crowds, great visibility | Photographers, spiritual seekers, adventure lovers | Ideal time for trekking and nature views; pack warm layers |
| Off-Season / Snowfall | November – April | Harsh winter, extreme cold, heavy snow; temple remains closed in peak | Experienced trekkers and snow enthusiasts (not for yatra) | Check for trail access; services are limited or closed during deep winter |
Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance, Routes & Time
Start your trip to Kedarnath; the route from Haridwar to Kedarnath offers mesmerising views of mountains and rivers, and passes through many sacred towns along with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. This pilgrimage offers an unforgettable spiritual experience amidst the tranquil beauty of the Himalayan foothills. The Haridwar to Kedarnath distance is not completely derivable. The vehicle access is only till Gaurikund, which is about 232 km by road, and from Gaurikund, you have to do a 16 km trek to reach Kedarnath, which will take 6 to 7 hours on foot. During the trek, various medical assistance and resting points are provided, and for many pilgrims who are unable to walk the distance, various trek support services like ponies, palkis, porters, and a ropeway under development are provided from Sonprayag to Kedarnath that will greatly make the journey easy.
Here, the basic route from Haridwar to Kedarnath is available with many highlights. The traffic on these routes is also very minimal, except when there is rain or there is snowfall, so always check live maps and instant traffic updates for information on the Haridwar to Kedarnath road condition. The Kedarnath route from Haridwar is the best for travelling on a scenic journey with more food and sightseeing options.
| Route | Distance | Travel time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haridwar–Rishikesh–Rudraprayag–Guptkashi–Gaurikund | 240 km | 9–11 hrs (by road) | Scenic valley views, spiritual towns. |
| Gaurikund to Kedarnath | 16 km (Trek) | 6–7 hrs | Pilgrim trail with pony, doli, and porters. |
| Haridwar–Srinagar–Sonprayag–Gaurikund | 234 km | 7–8 hrs (by road) | Ganga Darshan viewpoint, Syalsaur, Pramukh Swami Waterfalls. |
| Helipad | Operator | Fare (Approx.) | Time to Kedarnath |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phata | Heritage, Aryan | ₹6,800–₹8,500 | 8–10 mins |
| Guptkashi | Himalayan Heli | ₹7,500–₹9,000 | 10 mins |
| Sersi | Pawan Hans | ₹6,500–₹8,000 | 7 mins |
Haridwar to Kedarnath Taxi Fare & Cab Options
As there is no direct train or flight route from Haridwar to Kedarnath, except for an expensive helicopter ride. So the only option to travel such a distance is only possible by road, which you can cover by public buses or a comfortable private cab. Travelling from Haridwar to Kedarnath by taxi is the most convenient and flexible option, especially for families and groups. With multiple vehicle types available, you can choose one that suits your budget and group size. You can also book multiple cabs for just pickup and drop or opt for a multiple-day cab for a smooth and hassle-free experience.
The Haridwar to Kedarnath taxi package is tailored for devotees who wish to visit just one dham, Kedarnath. Typically, the journey takes around 3 days, allowing ample time for darshan and return. Your cab involves driving up to Gaurikund, the base point for the Kedarnath trek. Below is an overview of the pricing structure for various car rental options.
| Car Type | Capacity | One-Way Fare | Round-Trip Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hatchback | 4 | ₹4,000–₹5,000 | ₹7,000–₹8,000 |
| Sedan | 4 | ₹5,000–₹6,000 | ₹9,000–₹10,000 |
| SUV | 6–7 | ₹6,500–₹8,000 | ₹11,000–₹13,000 |
| Tempo Traveller | 9–12 | ₹9,000–₹11,000 | ₹16,000–₹18,000 |
Taxis can be booked easily. You can book a one-way cab, a round trip, or a Haridwar to Kedarnath rental car from trusted online cab booking platforms such as CabBazar. The payment modes for online booking are UPI, online transfer, or card. During the Char Dham yatra season, it is highly recommended to book your cab in advance as demand surges and availability becomes limited.
With door-to-door service and the freedom to explore other tourist and spiritual towns along the route, a Haridwar to Kedarnath taxi offers both comfort and peace of mind.
Suggested Itinerary
Looking for a well-paced and thorough Haridwar to Kedarnath itinerary? Here is a perfect 4-day plan for you. Explore the enchanting beauty of Uttarakhand and visit holy places such as Rishikesh, Devprayag, Guptkashi, and Sonprayag. Take the help of this easy-to-follow itinerary as your guide and make your yatra spiritually enriching and physically comfortable.
Day 1: Haridwar to Guptkashi/Sitapur
Your Haridwar to Kedarnath journey is a several-day journey. Your journey starts from Haridwar; start it in the early morning. The route goes through Rishikesh, Devprayag and Rudraprayag and allows travellers to also explore these spiritual, adventure and natural sites for a stopover. The distance from Haridwar to Guptkashi is approximately 202 km, and the journey takes about 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Guptkashi serves as a perfect stopover for those travelling to Kedarnath. It's fantastic weather, lush green forests and captivating views of the Chaukhamba Range, along with its rich past and heritage, make the town a wholesome package for vacation makers.
Day 2: Guptkashi to Gaurikund → trek to Kedarnath
After a comfortable overnight stay in Guptkashi, it’s time to move ahead with your trip to Kedarnath. Have breakfast early in the morning and drive from Guptkashi to Gaurikund, as the distance is just 34 Km by car or taxi. Then, as you reach Gaurikund, now is the time to start your trek. The trek is quite challenging and takes around 6-8 hours. The Kedarnath temple is over 3500 metres, so you need to be physically fit. Overall, trekking to Kedarnath temple is a beautiful and rewarding experience.
Day 3: Kedarnath darshan, return to Guptkashi
On your third day, you finally have darshan at the Kedarnath temple. The temple is nestled amid the high hills and offers beautiful sightseeing with pleasant weather. Enjoy aarti here. Explore the remaining attractions of Kedarnath. And say goodbye and go back to your trek to return to Gaurikund. Take some rest there and have lunch here, and then start your trip to Guptkashi by cab. For local travelling you can eaisly get rental car at affordable pricing.
Day 4: Back to Haridwar
After breakfast, drive back to Haridwar, with optional stops for sightseeing along the way, completing your spiritual journey. Travelling by road from Haridwar to Kedarnath will take you through the majestic Himalayan ranges, several holy water bodies, and rich forests. Back to Haridwar with a lot of memories and experience.
Places to Visit En Route
A journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath is one of the scenic and adventurous ones. Your route from Haridwar to Kedarnath goes through the beautiful pine forests, valleys, and winding mountain roads that are built along the hills of the Himalayas. There are several sacred towns and picturesque valleys on the road that hold immense religious and cultural significance. In this Kedarnath road trip guide, you will get enough information about them. Here are the places to visit between Haridwar to Kedarnath:
- Rishikesh: Just an hour journey from Haridwar takes you to the Yoga Capital of India – Rishikesh. It is the twin city of Haridwar and is famous for its array of spiritual and adventurous activities. The whole city is a haven for travellers, but the famous places here are Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, and Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat and many more. Just read things to do more in Rishikesh to get mre information. It is an ideal stop that is perfect for a spiritual and wellness retreat, offering yoga ashrams and riverbank cafes.
- Devprayag: It is a picturesque town in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, where you can enjoy the spirituality and natural beauty of Devprayag. It is the point where the mighty rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi meet, marking the official beginning of the Ganga River, which still flows amid the majestic mountains and lush green forests. It is a mesmerising confluence of religious significance, natural grandeur, and tranquil charm.
- Rudraprayag: It is another Ganga River confluence on the route. Rudraprayag is a picturesque town that is flourishing on the confluence of the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers. This beautiful town is a part of the Char Dham Yatra circuit, attracting thousands of devotees and travellers every year. It also serves as the common overnight stop for those who are on a long journey and need a break. It is a great spot to experience local hospitality and explore the lifestyle of the hill people.
- Guptkashi: As you are very close to your destination, Guptakashi surely captures your attention. It is one of the major stops for pilgrims just before Sonprayag on their way to Kedarnath. It is home to several revered temples and holds a significant place in Hindu mythology. But the most famous is the Vishwanath temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The peaceful environment, combined with its cultural heritage, makes this place a perfect destination for those looking to experience divine tranquillity amidst nature.
Where to Stay in Kedarnath
The journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath is a long and tiring one. It is very important to get a comfy and adequate stay option in Kedarnath. There are many accommodation options available; finding suitable Kedarnath stay options ensures a smooth and comfortable pilgrimage travel experience. Since the destination lies at a high altitude and has limited infrastructure, most of the accommodation only offers basic facilities, yet they are sufficient for pilgrims.
Here you find govermet-run guest house to several private and cheritable hotel and dharamshalas. They offers dormitories, shared rooms, and tented accommodations near the temple area. Book them in advanded to for stress-free travel to Kedarnath. Usually, during the peak yatra season, the whole town remains packed with millions of devotees and tourists. You can easily book rooms, as they offer an easy online booking option for convenience. If you are unable to get a room in Kedarnath, you can book a stay in the nearby areas of Kedarnath, like Gaurikund, Sitapur, or Guptkashi. All offers more options for the tourists that include budget hotels, lodges and private guest houses.
Where to Stay in Kedarnath – At a Glance
| Stay Location | Type of Accommodation | Facilities Offered | Booking Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath (near temple) | GMVN Guest Houses (Govt.) Tented Camps Dharmashalas |
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
Kedarnath Yatra is a spiritually enriching journey that requires careful planning and preparation. For Kedarnath yatra tips, choose the appropriate route, pack essential items. Ensure trekking safety in Kedarnath, and by respecting the temple customs, you can make your pilgrimage to Kedarnath a memorable and fulfilling experience.
- While planning a trip, carry light luggage and take all the personal items like your mobile phone with a power bank to stay connected during travel.
- Take your warm clothes as the weather in Kedarnath can be cold, especially during the pilgrimage season. Also, take your waterproof jackets and pants.
- To get energised during the journey, carry some dry snacks with an adequate supply of water or a water bottle that can be refilled along the way.
- During the journey, an ID card, an Aadhar card, and a passport are required for many purposes; bring them with you.
- Carry your waterproof shoes to keep your feet dry and comfortable for walking and trekking.
- Before the journey to Kedarnath, carry your necessary medicines that you require. Additionally, take your essential items like water bottles, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
11. FAQs (200–250 words)
- How long does it take to reach Kedarnath?
The distance from Haridwar to Kedarnath is approximately 250 km, including a trekking distance of 16-18 kms. You can stay at Gaurikund or Sonprayag overnight and start off early for Kedarnath the next day. Also, due to the drastic change of altitude between Haridwar and Kedarnath, it is always advisable to spend the night at Sonprayag or Gaurikund.
- Can I do a same-day return?
Yes, you can, but it will be a hectic journey and can only be possible by taking prior helicopter booking. You can start early in the morning, around 5 am, from Haridwar and reach Guptkashi or Phata before 2 pm. You can then take a heli ride to reach Kedarnath.
- Is it safe to trek with kids?
Yes, but it depends on the child's health and age. Before starting the journey, it is important to talk to a paediatrician and an experienced trekking guide if you are thinking of taking your 5-year-old child on the Kedarnath trek.
- Are medical camps available en route?
Yes, in the off chance, you need medical facilities on the Kedarnath Yatra route-basic aid stations are available at Linchauli and Kedarnath base camps.
- Can elderly people complete the trip?
Yes, sure, but it depends on their health and age. There are various elderly people who will plan a Kedarnath journey. To take a safe and stress-free journey, many elderly people often book a helipad for Kedarnath darshan.
Final Thoughts
Kedarnath trip from Haridwar is an adventurous journey. It grants ample opportunities to those wishing for a slower-paced exploration to appreciate the immaculate beauty of the magnificent Himalayan ranges of Uttarakhand. This area remains snow-capped for most of the year, which enhances the scenic beauty that encourages overall travel, more than a travelling plan, it is a spiritual journey. There are happy times at every turn in Kedarnath, from the holy chants in the temple to the beautiful views along the trail.
To make a spiritual journey to Kedarnath, plan your smooth and safe trip by booking a cheap and nice Haridwar to Kedarnath cab. You can book a cab with CabBazar. Our dependable taxi service, skilled drivers, and well-maintained cabs promise to make your trip memorable and easy. Now allow us to handle your transportation needs while you enjoy making memories and being in the holy atmosphere of Kedarnath.
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