If there’s one place in the Himalayas that completely changed my perspective on travel and spirituality, it’s Kedarnath. Located in the heart of Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is not just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, an adventure lover, or someone craving silence away from city life, this place offers something unforgettable.
Along the way, I also learned a lot about Badrinath and Kedarnath, how to plan your trip, trekking distances, nearby attractions, and some useful facts. So if you’re planning a Kedarnath trip, here’s my honest experience and everything you need to know.
Quick Summary
- Best time to visit: May to mid-July & September to October (avoid monsoons)
- Mode of travel: Train to Haridwar or Rishikesh, then road to Sonprayag/Gaurikund
- Main trek: Gaurikund to Kedarnath (~16 km)
- Combo tour idea: Badrinath Kedarnath tour package often includes Gangotri and Yamunotri
- Spiritual significance: One of the Char Dhams and Panch Kedars
- Online process: Use the official Badrinath Kedarnath gov in login portal for yatra bookings and darshan tokens
Kedarnath Trekking Way & Time
I started from Gaurikund, the base for the Kedarnath trek. The trek is around 16 km, and depending on your pace, it can take 6 to 10 hours.
You can also go for pony rides or helicopter service (if the weather allows). I chose to walk—it was exhausting, yes, but deeply rewarding.
Tip: Start the trek early morning (around 4-5 AM) to avoid weather changes and reach before evening.
My Kedarnath Trip Plan
- Day 1: Reached Haridwar by train, stayed overnight
- Day 2: Haridwar to Sonprayag by cab (8-10 hours), stayed overnight
- Day 3: Left early for Gaurikund, began the trek
- Day 4: Darshan at Kedarnath Temple, explored around, stayed overnight in GMVN lodge
- Day 5: Trek back to Gaurikund, then drive to Badrinath
- Day 6: Visit Badrinath Temple, relax and explore Mana village
- Day 7: Return journey via Rishikesh
This plan also allowed me to enjoy a Badrinath Kedarnath tour package experience, though self-planned.
Key Distances You Should Know
- Badrinath trekking distance: 3 km (short trails to nearby spots like Mana)
- Badrinath trek distance from Mana to Vasudhara Falls: ~6 km
- Kedarnath trek distance: ~16 km from Gaurikund
- Distance between Kedarnath and Badrinath: ~218 km by road (takes about 8-9 hours)
- Kedarnath to Gangotri distance: ~450 km
- Gangotri to Badrinath distance: ~548 km
Together, these four places make the sacred circuit: Gangotri Yamunotri Kedarnath Badrinath.
Tourist Places Near Kedarnath
While the temple is the highlight, there’s more to explore:
- Bhairavnath Temple – Just 500 meters from Kedarnath Temple, believed to be the temple’s guardian.
- Vasuki Tal – A 7-8 km trek from Kedarnath, a peaceful glacial lake.
- Gandhi Sarovar – An easy 3 km trek from Kedarnath.
- Triyuginarayan Temple – Around 25 km from Sonprayag; believed to be the wedding site of Lord Shiva and Parvati.
- Guptkashi – A calm stopover with the Vishwanath temple.
Note: These can be visited depending on weather and your energy post-trek.
About Kedarnath and Badrinath
Both are part of the Char Dham Yatra, and each has its own charm.
- Kedarnath is a peaceful, rough land surrounded by snowy mountains and a peaceful, spiritual feel.
- Badrinath, on the other hand, has better road access and is livelier, with Mana village, Tapt Kund, and serene mountain views.
Together, visiting Kedarnath and Badrinath feels like touching the sky and the soul.
A Few Friendly Tips
- Health Check: Get a fitness test done if you’re not used to trekking.
- Clothing: Carry warm clothes—even in June, it gets freezing near the temple.
- Footwear: Good trekking shoes with ankle support are a must.
- Stay Options: Book GMVN guest houses early, especially in season.
- Offline Essentials: Mobile networks don’t work well—download maps and carry cash.
Why This Trip Meant So Much
Being a tourist in Kedarnath was not just about clicking pictures—it was about feeling the presence of something bigger than us.
The moment I stood before the temple with folded hands, all the tiredness just vanished—it truly felt worth it. The sounds of the chants, the wind howling through the peaks, and the energy of the place—it gave me peace.
If you’re planning the Kedarnath Badarinath Gangotri Yamunotri journey, do it not just for the miles you’ll cover, but for the inner journey you’ll begin.
FAQs
Q1. What is the distance between Kedarnath and Badrinath?
The distance between Kedarnath and Badrinath by road is around 218 kilometers, taking about 8 to 9 hours depending on the route and road conditions.
Q2. How long does the Kedarnath trek take?
The Kedarnath trekking way is about 16–18 km from Gaurikund and usually takes 6 to 8 hours on foot. Ponies and palanquins are also available for those who need assistance.
Q3. Is online registration required for Kedarnath or Badrinath?
Yes! Kedarnath online registration 2024 and Badrinath registration are mandatory for all travelers. You can register easily on the badrinath kedarnath gov in login portal.
Q4. What’s the best time to plan a Kedarnath–Badrinath tour?
The ideal time is from May to June and September to October. The kedarnath kapat opening date 2024 is usually around late April or early May, depending on the Hindu calendar.
Q5. Are there other tourist places near Kedarnath worth visiting?
Yes! Don’t miss Chopta (Mini Switzerland of India), Tungnath, Guptkashi, and Triyuginarayan Temple. They’re scenic, peaceful, and spiritually uplifting spots near tourist Kedarnath.
Planning to visit Chopta too? Don’t miss our complete Chopta travel guide for tips, treks.
