Kedarnath is one of the most sacred pilgrimage places located in the Garhwal Himalayas. The temple of Lord Shiva at Kedarnath forms part of the Char Dham Yatra that not only brings devotees together but also nature lovers. For those planning a spiritual journey, knowing how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh becomes important. This blog contains all possible ways to travel from the step-by-step guidance regarding traveling tips for a trip.

Overview of the Journey from Rishikesh to Kedarnath

Well, the most usual base point for the travelers who wanted to reach Kedarnath is Rishikesh. Rishikesh and Kedarnath are separated by almost 220 Kms distance which in fact covers some part of road traveling and trek too. It’s very pleasing and aesthetic with respect to views having river valleys and mountains in its path followed by religiously significant milestones. It will, however guide you for the trip in a much smoother way without much hassle by specifying how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh.

how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh by Road

The most favored method to go to Kedarnath is through roadways. One can travel by the private vehicle or shared taxi or bus. The following is a comprehensive description on how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh by road:

1. Rishikesh to Sonprayag (Approx. 210 km)

The first leg of the journey is from Rishikesh to Sonprayag, which can be accessed either through a bus or private taxi.
Buses: The Rishikesh Bus Station provides a range of regular buses to Sonprayag or Gaurikund. This journey is likely to take about 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and climate conditions.
Taxis: Shared taxis and private cabs can be hired from Rishikesh to travel comfortably.
Route: Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag.
Visit Devprayag while on the way; this is where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers meet to become the Ganges.

2. Sonprayag to Gaurikund (Approx. 5 km)

Sonprayag is the last point where vehicles are allowed. Beyond this point, pilgrims have to take a shared taxi or local jeep to reach Gaurikund, which is the base of the Kedarnath trek.
The distance from Sonprayag to Gaurikund is approximately 5 kilometers, which takes about 15-20 minutes to cover.

3. Gaurikund to Kedarnath Trek (Approx. 16 km)

From Gaurikund, the pilgrims commence the trek of approximately 16 kilometers to Kedarnath. This is a moderately adventurous trek and can take about 6 to 8 hours, according to your level of fitness.
Trekking Options: You can choose to walk or hire a pony, or else avail of the doli service for the trek.
Helicopter services are also available from Phata, Guptkashi, or Sirsi for faster travel as this is the best option for people wanting to avoid trekking.

Understanding these steps makes how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh straightforward and manageable for pilgrims of all ages.

how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh by Train

While there is no direct train service to Kedarnath, you can combine train travel with road transport. Here is how you can do it:

1. Train to Haridwar or Dehradun

Rishikesh has a small railway station, but Haridwar (25 km) and Dehradun (45 km) are better connected with major cities in India.
Take a train from Rishikesh to Haridwar or Dehradun.

2. Road Journey from Haridwar/Dehradun to Sonprayag

From Haridwar or Dehradun, hire a taxi or board a bus to Sonprayag.
Continue to Gaurikund and trek to Kedarnath as mentioned above.

By combining rail and road, you will efficiently learn how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh without missing out on comfort or convenience.

how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh by Air

For those looking for a quicker option, air travel offers the most convenient solution:

Fly to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport: Located about 20 km from Rishikesh, Jolly Grant Airport connects to major Indian cities.
Road Journey to Sonprayag: From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Sonprayag.
Helicopter Option: Helicopter services to Kedarnath are available from nearby locations such as Phata, Sirsi, and Guptkashi. This option is perfect for elderly pilgrims or those short on time.

With air travel, how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh becomes a quick and hassle-free experience.

Important Travel Tips for Kedarnath Pilgrimage

Best Time to Visit: It is said that the best time to visit Kedarnath is during the months of May and June or during September and October. Avoid the monsoon (July-August) due to the risk of landslides and slippery paths.
Accommodation: Hotels and guest houses are available in Rishikesh, Sonprayag, Gaurikund, and Kedarnath.
Health Preparation: This trek requires moderate fitness. Walking practice and adequate hydration are advisable during the travel time to Kedarnath.
Packing Essentials: Warm clothing, trekking shoes, rain gear, water bottles, and first-aid kits are some essentials and advisable items to carry.

Experience Rishikesh Before Starting Your Journey

Recapture the spirit of Rishikesh before you go to Kedarnath. Witness the beautiful rishikesh ganga aarti time evening in Triveni Ghat when all the disciples come here to perform their ritual. The calmness, the atmosphere, and the chants will give you a feeling that will touch your heart with the divine and prepare you for entering into the Kedarnath Yatra.

Stay at Grand Alova Rishikesh for a really comfortable stay. Because this modern hotel has excellent amenities, it can be considered one of the ideal relaxing venues before starting off on your spiritual journey.

Alternative Helicopter Services to Kedarnath

If trekking feels challenging, helicopter services are a great alternative. Here’s how to use them:

Helipads: Helicopters to Kedarnath operate from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi.
Booking: Book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Duration: The helicopter ride takes 10-15 minutes and lands a short distance from the Kedarnath temple.

Opting for a helicopter makes how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh convenient for pilgrims of all ages.

Beyond Kedarnath: Spiritual Stops to Explore

After finishing the Kedarnath Yatra, one may visit other nearby sacred places or go to any other part of India in search of more sanctified places. For example, you can visit: places to visit in Ayodhya in 1 day if you wish to travel to Ayodhya. Some of the notable must see places for visiting Ayodhya include Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, and the fabulous kohinoor palace ayodhya which takes you into spiritual history itself.

Conclusion: how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh

The planning of how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh makes for a comfortable, memorable pilgrimage. Irrespective of what route one chooses between road, train, or air, each has its charm and convenience. Scenic beauty, spiritual sanctity, and a tough trek are combined, making the journey totally worth it.

Once again, before you start, get into the vibe of Rishikesh, visit the famous places, and enjoy the Ganga. Either from a magnificent grand alova rishikesh or within the scope of patting sacred rituals, Rishikesh sets the tone for a great pilgrimage. Now that you know how to reach kedarnath from rishikesh, prepare for wise planning, grab your bags, and head out on this divine journey to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva in the magnificent Himalayas. The path might not be easy, but the rewards from it, both spiritual and scenic, are incomparable.

FAQ’s

How can we go from Rishikesh to Kedarnath?

Travel to Kedarnath from Rishikesh begins with a bus or taxi (210 km) from Rishikesh to Sonprayag, taking about 8-10 hours. Hire a shared jeep or taxi from Sonprayag to Gaurikund (5 km), the base point for Kedarnath trekking. Trek 16 km from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, or you can avail pony, palki, or even helicopter services from Phata, Guptkashi, or Sirsi for that. Alternatively fly to Jolly Grant Airport and reach Sonprayag by taking a taxi or hire a car. It offers such breathtaking views, fulfills the spiritual purpose for many, yet offers many travel options for all the pilgrims.

How much does it cost to go to Kedarnath from Rishikesh?

The fare depends on the mode of transportation. The bus or shared taxi from Rishikesh to Sonprayag costs approximately ₹500-₹800 per person, but the shared jeep from Sonprayag to Gaurikund cost about ₹50-₹100. The ghode of Gaurikund to Kedarnath can be walked on foot, but if they are tired, they could hire a pony (₹3,000-₹5,000) or palki (₹7,000-1720,000). Helicopters from Phata or Guptkashi charge between ₹4,500-₹7,000 depending on a person’s one-way trip. All these are the total expenses with food included, costs anywhere between ₹3,000-₹10,000 depending on one’s likes and choices for travel.

What is the easiest way to reach Kedarnath?

The most convenient way to get to Kedarnath is through helicopter service. The helicopter is available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi, directly to Kedarnath. It will only take you 10-15 minutes, hence relatively easy for everyone. You can also drive 210 km by road from Rishikesh or Haridwar to Sonprayag and then board a shared jeep to Gaurikund. You can take a pony or palki or walk the 16 kilometers from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. Helicopter rides save time and effort while travel by road provides scenic mountain views. Advance bookings for helicopters are preferable during peak season.

Which is the best time to visit Kedarnath?

Kedarnath has been best visited between May-June and September-October. During these months, it is very pleasant to have temperatures in the range of 12 or 20 degrees Celsius-the ideal time in purport of trekking or darshan. The temple opens around late April to early May (Akshaya Tritiya) and generally closes in the period of around October-November (Diwali), when the heavy winter snowfall commences. Do not go to Kedarnath between July-August. The heavy rains and landslides make the journey dangerous. September is the month after monsoon that will have bright sunny blue skies and beautiful views of the Himalayas. Plan your visit during this time for safe travel and spiritual fulfillment in Kedarnath.