Reaching Kedarnath is an adventure in itself, as it is located in the remote Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. Here's a detailed guide on how to reach this sacred pilgrimage site:
By Air: The nearest airport to Kedarnath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gaurikund, the base point for the Kedarnath trek. The distance between Dehradun and Gaurikund is approximately 239 kilometers.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gaurikund. The distance between Rishikesh and Gaurikund is approximately 212 kilometers.
By Road:
- From Delhi: You can drive or take a bus from Delhi to reach Rishikesh, which is around 240 kilometers away. From Rishikesh, you can continue by road to Gaurikund.
- From Haridwar: Haridwar is another major city close to Kedarnath. From Haridwar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gaurikund, which is around 170 kilometers away.
- From Dehradun: If you are starting your journey from Dehradun, you can take a taxi or bus to Gaurikund, which is approximately 239 kilometers away.
- Gaurikund to Kedarnath: Once you reach Gaurikund, which is the base point for the Kedarnath trek, you have two options to reach Kedarnath:
- Trekking: The most popular and traditional way to reach Kedarnath is by trekking. The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is approximately 16 kilometers long and takes around 6-7 hours to complete. You can choose to trek on foot or hire a mule or pony for the journey.
- Helicopter: Helicopter services are available from Phata, Guptkashi, or Sirsi to Kedarnath. This option is more convenient and time-saving, but it is subject to weather conditions and availability.
- Kedarnath Temple: Once you reach Kedarnath, you can visit the sacred Kedarnath Temple, which is just a short walk from the main town. It is advisable to check the temple timings beforehand and be prepared for some waiting time during peak pilgrimage seasons.
Important Tips:
- It is recommended to check the weather conditions and road accessibility before planning your visit to Kedarnath, as the region experiences heavy snowfall during winters.
- Carry warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and necessary trekking gear for the journey.
- Stay hydrated and carry some light snacks or energy bars for the trek.
- Respect the local customs and traditions while visiting the temple and maintain cleanliness in the surroundings.
- It is advisable to start your journey early in the morning to avoid any inconvenience and make the most of your time in Kedarnath.
Remember, the journey to Kedarnath is not just a physical one but also a spiritual and transformative experience. Embrace the beauty of the Himalayas, soak in the devotion, and cherish the moments spent in this holy abode of Lord Shiva.