There’s something deeply spiritual about the journey from Rishikesh to Kedarnath. It’s not just about reaching a temple at 11,755 ft., it’s about the cold mountain winds, chanting pilgrims, steaming cups of chai at sunrise, and that moment when the first glimpse of Kedarnath breaks through the clouds.
Having done this yatra myself, part by road, part on foot, I want to give you an honest, experience-rich guide that goes beyond Google Maps and ticket prices.
Quick Facts
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Total Distance: Approx. 220 km by road, plus a 16-18 km uphill trek
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How to Reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh: By road + trek or helicopter (details below)
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Travel Time: 10-12 hours by road + trek, or 3–4 hours with a helicopter
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Best Time to Visit: May to mid-June and mid-September to October
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Altitude of Kedarnath: 3,583 meters above sea level
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Yatra Registration: Mandatory for all travelers in 2025
Rishikesh to Kedarnath Distance by Road
The Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance is roughly 220 kilometers by road, ending at Gaurikund. From there, the trek to Kedarnath begins. The road journey takes about 8 to 10 hours, depending on weather and traffic.
Route Overview:
Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund
If you’re wondering how to reach Rishikesh to Kedarnath, the most common way is this road route, followed by a trek from Gaurikund.
Transport Options:
- GMOU buses (few and usually packed)
- Shared taxis from Rishikesh or Rudraprayag
- Private car (recommended for comfort)
Avoid July-August: We saw landslide zones and broken patches even in June. Monsoon can be risky.
Also Read: Delhi to Rishikesh Distance 2025: Best Routes & Travel Time
Kedarnath Trek from Rishikesh (via Gaurikund)
We started the trek from Gaurikund just after sunrise. The air was crisp, and chants of “Har Har Mahadev” echoed through the valley.
- Trek Distance: 16-18 km
- Time Taken: 7 hours (with photo and rest stops)
- Difficulty: Moderate but tiring-especially the last 5 km
What to Expect:
- Steep inclines, occasional rain, and crowded trails in season
- Rest points: Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, Linchauli, Base Camp
- Medical aid and water are available at several stops
Alternatives:
- Pony: ₹3,000-₹4,000
- Palki: ₹5,000-₹6,000 (especially useful for elders)
But trust me, walking it-even if slow-feels more spiritual.
Rishikesh to Kedarnath by Helicopter
In 2025, helicopter services are running more smoothly but still depend heavily on weather conditions. Some in our group flew in from Phata.
- Helipads: Phata, Sersi, Guptkashi
- One-way Flight Time: 10 minutes
- Round Trip Total Time: 3-4 hours (including wait + darshan)
Cost (Approx):
- One-way: ₹3,000-₹3,800
- Round-trip: ₹6,000-₹7,500
Book only through heliservices.uk.gov.in
Bring ID + printed ticket. They’re strict about documentation.
Where We Stayed (and What to Expect)
Gaurikund & Sonprayag:
- GMVN guesthouses (clean, basic)
- Budget hotels and dharamshalas
- Expect limited Wi-Fi and power outages during the season
Kedarnath (Night Stay):
- GMVN camps, dorms, and some private lodges
- It’s freezing at night-even in May!
- Power is limited; BSNL network works best
Book GMVN stays early: gmvnl.in
Mandatory Yatra Registration (2025 Update)
Before heading out, make sure you register:
- Website: registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
- Upload ID, travel dates, number of travellers
- Biometric check at Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Sonprayag
Pro Tip: Do it a day before your yatra. Last-minute queues are long and stressful.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath (2025)
- May to mid-June: Best time to visit. Clear weather, ideal for trekking.
- July & August: Not safe. Heavy rain and landslide risk.
- Mid-September to October: Peaceful and less crowded. Cold but beautiful.
My Packing List (Don’t Skip These)
- Windproof jacket + warm layers (even in summer)
- Raincoat or poncho (weather changes fast)
- Trekking shoes (waterproof = lifesaver)
- Power bank + torchlight (essential in Kedarnath)
- Basic meds + energy bars
- Yatra registration printout + ID proof
Rishikesh to Kedarnath Travel Tips 2025
Here are some essential Rishikesh to Kedarnath travel tips to help you prepare:
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Register online in advance-it’s mandatory in 2025
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Avoid monsoon months (July-August) due to landslides.
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Pack warm layers, waterproof shoes, and your ID.
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BSNL is the only mobile network that works near Kedarnath
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Book GMVN or private stays in advance, especially during peak season
Safety & Emergency Info
- Medical tents at Gaurikund, Linchauli, and Kedarnath
- Emergency number: 112 (SDRF helps quickly)
- Mobile: Only BSNL works well near Kedarnath
Tell your family your itinerary in advance; there’s zero network for hours on the trail.
Why You Must Go: At Least Once
Standing before the Kedarnath temple after that long trek, tired, cold, and overwhelmed, I felt something shift inside me. The silence, the devotion, the altitude, all of it is not just a journey, but an awakening.
- It’s one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva
- Part of the sacred Char Dham Yatra
- Nestled near the Mandakini River and Himalayan glaciers
Rishikesh to Kedarnath Budget Comparison: Which Route to Choose?
- Road + Trek: ₹1,000-₹2,000. Takes 10–12 hours. Budget-friendly.
- Helicopter: ₹6,000-₹7,500. Fastest option. Good for seniors.
- Pony/Palki: ₹3,000-₹6,000. Comfortable for those who can’t trek.
Final Thoughts
Whether you walk through clouds, ride a pony, or fly above the valleys, Kedarnath will leave you changed. It’s not just about reaching a temple; it’s about everything you feel on the way there
