Enjoying the breathtaking natural beauty in the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath, as a Char Dham and Jyotirlinga destination, holds immense religious significance for Hindus, as it is home to the revered Kedarnath temple. It is also famous for the natural beauty of the snow-capped Himalayas and is a popular destination among trekkers and mountaineers. If you are planning to embark on a char Dham Yatra from Rishikesh, this Kedarnath travel guide will make your journey memorable and smooth.
One of the popular tourist destinations, Rishikesh, as a spiritual Gateway, serves as the ideal starting point for the Kedarnath Yatra. Along an ideal destination for pilgrims. It is also known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, and for the adventurous, it is a popular destination to begin various trekking expeditions and activities in the Himalayan peaks. Embark on the route to Kedarnath, covering a distance of approximately 220 km by road to Gaurikund, and then follow by 16 km trek to the shrine. The road journey from Rishikesh to Kedarnath will take about 9-10 hours easily. For a divine experience for the first time, book a stress-free and affordable Rishikesh to Kedarnath taxi.
Why Start from Rishikesh?
Start your spiritual journey to Kedarnath from Rishikesh to enjoy the serene and picturesque atmosphere. Rishikesh is a small, peaceful town at the base of the Himalayas, and it's a favorite spot for adventurers or those who are looking for peace and natural beauty. It is also a starting point for a traditional Char Dham yatra base. It's an ideal location for meditation practices and a good halting point with amenities before heading to higher altitudes. You can also enjoy the city with a Rishikesh cab Service. Embark on the iconic bridge, Laxman Jhula, and the majestic Ganga River. This bridge is of immense religious significance and offers captivating vistas of the river and beautiful surroundings. Explore the serene and Spiritual atmosphere or the vibrant streets around it and experience the essence of spiritual Rishikesh. The city is home to many religious sites, including ancient temples; even a large number of saints and sages visit the town and never leave for years.
For more abut Rishikesh read: Rishikesh Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
Every year, thousands of devotees start their travel to Kedarnath from Rishikesh, as Rishikesh is the gateway to the Char Dham destinations, such as Kedarnath. To start a journey to Kedarnath from Rishikesh, it is important to get information about the temple opening and the best time. The temple of Kedarnath only opens for a specific period of six months every year. It is a hilly region that remains covered by snow for a significant part of the year. Broadly, the Kedarnath yatra season starts in May and continues till October. It is a long period; let’s bifurcate that more for ease:
The best times to visit Kedarnath are May-June and September-October. During these months, Kedarnath weather remains absolutely good, and trekking is also easy. During this time, the town receives a high footfall of tourists, as it is perfect for trekking and sightseeing. Where May to June attracts devotees with its vibrant festivals. The months from September to October are an ideal time for people wishing to view the breathtaking landscapes of Kedarnath without the crowds of tourists. It allows witnessing nature in all its glory. This period is ideal for peace-loving travellers in search of a quiet and serene experience.
But try to avoid the trip during the months from July to August; at this time, the road becomes slippery due to rain, and the trek is risky at this time. Landslides can happen, so it's better to check the route and weather before planning.
We can divide the Rishikesh to Kedarnath travel time into three seasons, such as
| Travel Season | Months | Weather | Best For | Things to Keep in Mind |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Summer/Yatra Opening | May – June | Pleasant to Warm Days, Cool Nights | Temple darshan, family trips, spiritual retreat | Peak yatra rush; bookings needed; carry woollens for Kedarnath nights |
| Monsoon Caution | July – August | Rainy, Landslide-Prone | Limited travel, avoid unless necessary | Landslide-prone roads; temple open but risky; check weather updates before departure |
| Post-Monsoon/Ideal | September – October | Clear Skies, Crisp Air | Peaceful darshan, trekking, photography | Fewer crowds, great visibility, carry warm clothes, perfect for trekking & spiritual travel |
Rishikesh to Kedarnath Distance, Routes & Time
Begin your journey from Rishikesh to Kedarnath. It is a spiritual part of the pilgrimage that is not only a passage but also a spiritual devotion with scenic grandeur and revered pilgrimage sites. The route to Rishikesh from Kedarnath is the most common route followed by the pilgrims and is well connected via NH7; it is one of the well-maintained roads, but still needs caution and experienced drivers. The distance from Rishikesh to Kedarnath is approximately 220 km by road, followed by a 16 km uphill trek to Kedarnath from Gaurikund.
The route will pass through many spiritual and scenic spots like Rudraprayag and Guptkashi, each offering its beauty and significance. The motorable road is from Rishikesh to Gaurikund; after that, the trek to Kedarnath will begin, which may be a little challenging and needs fitness, but facilities like ponies and palkis en route will help you during the journey. While travelling from Rishikesh to Kedarnath, you must respect the local rules. Kedarnath is a sacred place, so follow temple rules: no photography inside, dress modestly, and keep the area clean. When trekking, the trek route is also eco-sensitive, so don't spread garbage. If you feel tired, then there is no need to worry; ponies, palkis, and helicopters are there to help.
| Route | Distance | Travel Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rishikesh – Rudraprayag – Guptkashi – Gaurikund – Kedarnath | ~220 km by road + 16 km trek | 9–10 hours (to Gaurikund) + 6–8 hours trek | Scenic route via Devprayag, Nandaprayag, Rudraprayag, NH7 |
| Rishikesh – Devprayag – Sonprayag – Gaurikund | ~207 km + 16 km trek | 6–7 hours (to Gaurikund) + 6–8 hours trek | Spiritual temples, resorts, GMVN |
| Rishikesh – Srinagar – Guptkashi – Gaurikund | ~212 km + 16 km trek | 7–8 hours (to Gaurikund) + 6–8 hours trek | Several stay options, resorts, temples |
How to Reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh
Rishikesh to Kedarnath travel offers an unparalleled experience of India’s deep-rooted cultural heritage and breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. Our Kedarnath travel guide provides a detailed guide to the distance and travel options, so there's no need to wonder how to reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh: you have multiple options to visit the pilgrimage site, like private taxi, shared jeep, bus, and taxi for comfort. The journey from Rishikesh to Kedarnath is not only a spiritual experience but also a visual treat with several picturesque locations and historical sites along the way.
a) By Road
For a flexible way to reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh, it is common to travel by road. Kedarnath is a significant shrine located in the Himalayan foothills of Uttarakhand. While enjoying the journey, you will pass through the towns of Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi before reaching Gaurikund, the last motorable point before Kedarnath. From Gaurikund, one has to trek for 16 km to reach Kedarnath. If you are looking for a comfortable and scenic journey, taking a road ride is the best option, with a variety of transportation options like Private taxi, shared jeeps and buses offering a unique experience. For more flexibility for breaks and stops, Rishikesh to Kedarnath taxi booking is the right choice for a safe and comfortable trip.
b) By Helicopter (Optional)
For the comfort and convenience of air travel, helipad services from Rishikesh to Kedarnath can be an ideal choice for those seeking a hassle-free journey by avoiding the long hours on the road. Taking a helipad is one of the most popular ways during the Kedar Dham Yatra. For stress-free travel, it is advisable to book a Helipad in advance, especially during the Yatra season. The helipad offers unparalleled views of the landscapes and the sacred Kedarnath with serene surroundings. For your preference, you can view the operators that provide helipad service to Kedarnath, facilitating a seamless journey and unforgettable experience with their fares and duration.
Rishikesh to Kedarnath Taxi Fare & Car Options
Plan a trip to Kedarnath from Rishikesh, these places perfectly mix spiritual, cultural and adventurous experiences. Kedarnath falls under the list of popular places to be visited in India. People travel to this place in large numbers throughout the year. The ideal option for travelling to Kedarnath with friends and family would be to hire a reliable Rishikesh to Kedarnath cab service. It is a comfortable and safe option to reach Kedarnath. By booking a cab, you can be assured of reaching your place in optimal time, within budgeted cost and with a stress-free and relaxed journey. Cabs ensure a comfortable and safe journey for the entire group. And all this will be done in the most reasonable Rishikesh to Kedarnath fare. You can pay your bill online with a card and UPI, but before the final the charges, always make sure about extra charges like hill allowance, parking, overnight stay, etc.
| Car Type | Capacity | One-way Fare | Round-trip Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hatchback | 4 | ₹3,800–₹4,500 | ₹7,500–₹8,500 |
| Sedan | 4 | ₹4,500–₹6,000 | ₹8,500–₹10,500 |
| SUV | 6–7 | ₹6,000–₹7,500 | ₹11,000–₹13,500 |
| Tempo Traveller | 9–12 | ₹9,000–₹11,000 | ₹16,000–₹18,500 |
For reliable cab booking services, you can hire a cab from CabBazar. You can book a one-way cab, a round trip, or Rishikesh to Kedarnath rental cars from the CabBazar online cab booking platform. Also, to make the cab booking process easy, CabBazar offers multiple platforms from such as our website and mobile application, from where you can easily book a cab from all over India. Another popular route is from Delhi to Badrinath. People who often book a cab Delhi to Badrinath cabs for continent travelling. It is also one of the Char Dham destinations that attracts significant tourists.
Suggested Itinerary
Begin your scenic journey from Rishikesh to Kedarnath. The town of Rishikesh is on the Ganga River. It is well known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’. Kedarnath, on the other hand, is one of the holiest sites in India. It is in the Himalayas and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. During the trip, you will ride through winding mountain roads with views of rivers like the Ganga and Alaknanda. For a safer and more memorable journey, you can follow the complete Rishikesh to Kedarnath itinerary.
Day 1: Rishikesh to Guptkashi (halt)
Begin your journey early in the morning from Rishikesh to Guptkashi; the distance is approximately 210 km, which will pass through winding mountain roads and picturesque views of the Ganga and Alaknanda rivers. En route, you can stop at Devprayag and Rudraprayag to enjoy the picturesque surroundings or for a short break. While reaching Guptkashi, check for hotels for an overnight stay.
Day 2: Guptkashi to Gaurikund → trek to Kedarnath.
Leave early for Gaurikund. The starting point of the trek to Kedarnath from Gaurikund will be a 16 km trek. The route is full of greenery, scenic beauty and spiritual significance. If needed, you can take pony rides for walking if the distance seems difficult for you, or more conveniently, you can also opt for Helicopter services after reaching Kedarnath and search a any ashram or guesthouse for rest.
Day 3: Darshan + trek down → stay at Guptkashi
For the morning darshan, wake up early in the morning. After offering prayers, begin your descent to Guptkashi. During the return trek, you will find less stress with ample time in the natural beauty. Rest, or you can stay in Guptkashi overnight; it depends on you.
Day 4: Return to Rishikesh
The next day, after having breakfast, start your return journey to Rishikesh. En route, you can witness the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, immersing yourself in the divine bliss. The night in Rishikesh brings peaceful slumber.
This 4-day Kedarnath travel plan is ideal for those seeking both devotion and the Himalayan experience while ensuring comfort and rest between travel legs.
Places to Visit En Route
Travelling from one holy religious destination, you will pass through various famous pilgrimage sites and Himalayan villages in Uttarakhand. Also, along the way, there are several places to visit between Rishikesh and Kedarnath, like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag, and Gaurikund; you can stop at any of these places or make a detour while capturing the natural beauty, or catch a glimpse of the local culture.
Devprayag: Explore one of the divine towns of Uttarakhand, Devprayag, a famous pilgrimage centre, which is attractive with its majestic temples, stunning mountains, lush green beauty, and serene aura. It is one of the Panch Prayag, or five sacred confluences of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, along which is a mesmerising confluence of religious significance, natural grandeur, and tranquil charm.
Rudraprayag: Visit one of the picturesque towns in the Indian state of Uttarakhand; Rudraprayag is renowned for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. It's also a part of the Char Dham Yatra. It is surrounded by the majestic Himalayas and is home to several waterfalls, including the famous Kempty Falls. This town is in the Garhwal Himalayan range and serves as a sacred junction of rivers.
Agastyamuni: Travel to one of the temple towns, Agastyamuni, that holds deep spirituality and historical significance. It gives a chance to witness the surrounding landscapes, historical places, and natural beauty. The serene and peaceful atmosphere makes the destination more enjoyable.
Guptkashi: Plan a trip to the main place of attraction, Guptkashi, and the prominent spiritual sites in Uttarakhand. It houses two ancient temples, namely, the Vishwanath temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Ardhanarishvara temple. It serves as a perfect stopover for those travelling to Kedarnath. The fantastic weather, lush green forests and captivating views make it a must-visit place for vacation makers
Gaurikund: Make a trip to the important landmarks. Gaurikund is famous for being the starting point and the last roadhead before the Kedarnath Yatra begins. Along with this, it is well known for its hot springs and the ancient temples dedicated to Goddess Parvati. Apart from its religious importance, it also offers scenic beauty and a peaceful ambience, making it a rejuvenating retreat.
Where to Stay in Kedarnath
Kedarnath offers a peaceful and cosy stay, surrounded by nature in the Himalayas. Travellers should enjoy the exciting adventure without any worry about where to stay in Kedarnath. Kedarnath hotels provide unique camping options for pilgrims, or many GMVN tents and guesthouses that are operated by the government for pilgrims offer fresh vegetarian food and quick service in a calm atmosphere of Kedarnath. For the budget stay option, several dharamshalas run by various trusts provide basic meals and facilities that are a great option for those who want to stay close to the temple for early darshan. Otherwise, for more comfort, you can take a stay at Gaurikund or Guptkashi as an alternative; these towns have private hotels that offer better accommodations and lodges. But it's highly recommended to book accommodation in advance during the Yatra season from May to June, as the demand for hotels is very high. For convenience, various private hotels offer online booking options in nearby towns.
| Accommodation Type | Facilities | Description | Booking Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| GMVN Guest Houses | Basic rooms, clean washrooms, budget-friendly, close to the temple | State-run guest houses maintained by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam | Highly recommended, book in advance via the GMVN portal |
| Hotels & Lodges | Simple rooms, warm bedding, essential amenities | Privately run small hotels and lodges near the temple | Book early during the yatra season; you may lack luxury |
| Dharamshalas | Peaceful, spiritual vibe, basic facilities | Community-run religious accommodations | Good for pilgrims seeking a spiritual experience |
| Camps | Sleeping bags, shared toilets, scenic views | Budget-friendly tents and campgrounds stay closer to nature | Best for budget travellers, with limited availability |
| Nearby Stay Options | Hotel rooms, lodges with better infrastructure | Guptkashi, Sonprayag, Gaurikund (if Kedarnath is full) | Ideal for a night halt before the Kedarnath trek |
Travel Tips for Kedarnath
Before starting your trip to Kedarnath, there are certain things that every devotee or pilgrim should keep in mind. Plan your spiritual journey to Kedarnath with careful preparation due to the high altitude of the Kedarnath trek and unpredictable weather. Here for your Rishikesh to Kedarnath travel safety, we provide some essential Kedarnath yatra tips to ensure comfortable and stress-free travel. They are as follows:
- While planning a trip to Kedarnath, carry warm clothes, including a rainproof jacket and pants. Additionally, carry comfortable footwear for walking and trekking.
- File packing keeps your personal documents, such as ID proof, Aadhaar card, and passport, that may be required during your trip.
- Carry your necessary medication that is required, including pain relievers, antacids, and some sickness tablets and more importantly, carry a medical kit with essentials like bandages and adhesive tape, etc.
- The route from the Kedarnath trek is a little challenging, so it's important to rest during the trek and not rush, which will help you from dizziness.
- While walking the Kedarnath trek, it is advisable to book a licensed porter or ponies to carry luggage if needed and try to avoid unregistered services.
- Follow the temple rules of Darshan, such as standing quietly in line, having patience and keeping in mind the dignity of the temple.
Rishikesh to Kedarnath FAQs
- Is the trek from Gaurikund difficult?
No, the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath will depend on your health. Ponies, palki, and helicopter services are also available for pilgrims who are unable to trek. Proper planning and proper physical preparation will make the journey easy.
- Can senior citizens travel to Kedarnath?
Yes, there are several senior citizens who travel to Kedarnath every year, but it's important to consult with a doctor, especially if they have heart and joint issues. For more ease, they can opt for ponies, palkies or helipad services.
- Are mobile networks available?
Mobile connectivity is patchy in the Kedarnath region; it's better to inform your family in advance about the network issues, as in some areas you will get networks like Gaurikund and Kedarnath base camp, where the signal may vary due to weather and terrain.
- How early should I book a cab?
During the Char Dham season, it is advisable to book a cab in advance, as the demand for cabs during this time is very high. At least 1-2 weeks before the Yatra season, you should book your cab.
- Can I return the same day?
Yes, but it can only be possible by taking a prior helicopter booking.
Final Thoughts
A Kedarnath road trip is full of serene surroundings and the Himalayas, the route from Rishikesh to Kedarnath will pass through spiritual ancient temples, various landscapes and picturesque towns that give life-changing experiences with lots of lifetime memories. It was a journey with rejuvenation surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Himalayas, from the mesmerising Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh to the breathtaking views of Kedarnath. Additionally, for more convenience, you can book a Rishikesh to Kedarnath cab in advance for a comfortable and flexible ride through the mountains. Before the journey, take care of your health, and try to do physical exercises for the Yatra, as the trek to Kedarnath is a little challenging and requires physical stamina. Otherwise, overall the road journey from Rishikesh to Kedarnath is more adventurous, which you can enjoy with the right preparation, planning and precaution and enjoy the scenic journey and reach Kedarnath safely.
Begin your spiritual journey to Kedarnath from Rishikesh – book your cab today!”
