How To Reach Kedarnath

Kedarnath is a sacred city hidden away in the Himalayas. Based in Uttarakhand, it is one of the celebrated Char Dhams. An ultra-scenic location, it offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas, dense forests and a general peaceful vibration to the visitors that throng here. It is extremely well connected by road, air and rail. Read below to find out more on the best ways to reach Kedarnath.

Jolly Grant Airport is closest to Kedarnath (239 km away). The airport is linked to Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, Bangalore and Thiruvananthapuram. It is well-connected to Gaurikund via buses and taxis. From Gaurikund, the only way to Kedarnath is via a 14 km trek. Jolly Grant is actually closer to Rishikesh (approximately 16 km) and the journey to Rishikesh takes about 30 minutes, after which visitors can take a taxi or bus to Joshimath. Alternatively, the helicopter service operating from various spots in Uttarakhand is the quickest and best way to reach Kedarnath.

Located on NH 109, Gaurikund is the nearest reachable destination to Kedarnath via road. However it is very well connected to the major destinations in and around Uttarakhand too. Rishikesh is 189 km away and for visitors landing in Delhi, the quickest way to reach is via a 260 km bus ride to Dehradun or Haridwar in order to eventually reach Gaurikund. There are multiple bus and taxi options available to all visitors. The drive to Gaurikund is said to be extremely scenic and enjoyable.

The stations closest to Kedarnath are at Rishikesh (215 km), Haridwar (241 km), Dehradun (257 km) and Kotdwar (246 km). Rishikesh station has no fast trains and Kotdwar has very few trains going back and forth. Nevertheless, Haridwar Railway station, 25 km after Rishikesh, is well connected to other major cities in and around Uttarakhand. This is a relatively quick way to reach Kedarnath.

The only way to get around locally in Kedarnath is on foot. The town is so hilly that no mode of transport endures. However, there are horses and mules that can be used to carry luggage as well as hiring porters to do the same. You can also try palanquins or basket palanquins if you are not game to climb.