Kedarnath Yatra
A Spiritual Journey to the Abode of Lord Shiva
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Region
Uttarahand
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Trek Distance
22km
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Max Altitude
11,755 ft
- Duration: 4 Days | 3 Nights
- Starting Point: Rishikesh
- Experience: Beginner to Intermediate
- Best For: Group and Solo Travellers
Kedarnath, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is one of the Char Dhams, the four holy shrines in India, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Trek Overview
Know more about India’s Most Popular Winter trek
The Kedarnath Yatra is not just a journey, but a lifetime experience that offers a glimpse into the rich culture, traditions, and beliefs of India. The trek to Kedarnath involves a strenuous climb of around 16 km from Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the yatra. The trek is a test of physical endurance, but the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and glistening rivers make it worth the effort.
The Kedarnath temple, situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters, is the main attraction of the yatra. The temple is built in a traditional North Indian style and is surrounded by majestic peaks, including Kedarnath, Kedar Dome, and Mandakini.
Apart from the Kedarnath temple, the yatra also offers a chance to visit several other significant places, including Bhairon Temple, Triyuginarayan Temple, and Guptkashi. The Bhairon Temple is located on the route to Kedarnath and is dedicated to Lord Bhairon, who is believed to protect the Kedarnath temple during the harsh winters. Triyuginarayan Temple, located in the Triyuginarayan village, is believed to be the site where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married. Guptkashi, situated on the banks of the Mandakini River, is known for its ancient temples and religious significance.
Trek Itinerary
Detailed Day-By-Day Trek Schedule
On the first day, we will start our journey from Haridwar at 7 am. We will be travelling by road and the distance between Haridwar and Guptakashi is around 220 kms, which will take us approximately 9 hours. The road to Guptakashi is beautiful and scenic, with stunning views of the hills and valleys. We will drive through winding roads and passes, taking in the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and the lush green valleys. We will reach Guptakashi by evening and check-in at the hotel. After a long journey, we can rest and relax in the hotel. Dinner will be served, and we can enjoy a comfortable stay at the hotel.
On the second day, we will wake up early and get ready to visit Kedarnath, which is one of the four holy shrines of Lord Shiva. We will take a shuttle service from Sonprayag to Gaurikund and then start our trek towards Kedarnath. The trek to Kedarnath is around 18kms long, and it can take up to 8-10 hours to complete the journey. The trek is challenging but rewarding, as we will be walking through beautiful valleys, rivers, and forests. The scenery is breathtaking, and we will get to see stunning views of the Himalayas. We can opt for different modes of transportation like Dolli, Pony, Pitthu or Helicopter to reach Kedarnath as per our convenience. After reaching Kedarnath, we will rest for some time, and then we can visit the temple for the evening Darshan. The temple is ancient and revered, and it is believed that visiting Kedarnath washes away all sins.
On the third day, we will wake up early around 4 am and witness the morning Darshan at the temple. It is a serene and spiritual experience to see the morning rituals and Aarti at the temple. After breakfast, we will trek down from Kedarnath to Sitapur/ Guptkashi, which can take around 6-7 hours. The trek downwards is comparatively easier than the upward trek, and we can enjoy the scenic views and natural beauty of the region. We will reach our hotel by evening and have dinner followed by rest.
On the last day, we will wake up early, have breakfast and check-out from the hotel. We will then start our journey towards Haridwar, which is around 220 kms away and will take us approximately 7 hours. The road from Guptakashi to Haridwar is again beautiful, and we can take in the scenic views of the hills and valleys. We will reach Haridwar by evening around 7:00 PM, and our journey will come to an end.
Dates
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Customized dates available.
Package Option:
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Inclusion/Exclusion
Find out what is included in your package
Inclusion:
- Transport Ex. Haridwar / Rishikesh / Dehradun
- Accommodation in Hotels/Homestay/tent
- Meals (Morning Breakfast and Dinner) starting from day 1 Dinner to Breakfast on Day 4
- All toll , parking fees, Driver Allowances
- Experienced Trek Leader/Trip Captain
- Basic First Aid medical kit
Exclusions:
- Anything not mentioned in inclusion
- All personal Expenses, optional,tour, extra Meals
- Bagpake offloding, Horse, Paalki, Helicopter Charges
- Any unplanned Transport expenses
- Travel insurance, medical insurance, mineral water charges
- Any cost arising due to natural, calamities, landslide, Road blocking, political disturbance (strikes) etc ( to be borne by the client, which is directly payable on the spot)
Important Info
Trek Package related details
If you are planning to go for the Kedarnath Yatra, it is essential to carry the following items:
Appropriate Clothing: The weather in Kedarnath can be unpredictable, and it is advisable to carry warm clothes like a sweater, jacket, and gloves, especially during the winter season. During summers, light cotton clothing can be carried.
Good Quality Trekking Shoes: The trek to Kedarnath is an 18 km journey, and it is essential to wear comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes. It is advisable to break into the shoes beforehand to avoid any discomfort or blisters during the trek.
Rain Gear: Kedarnath is located in the Himalayas, and it is common to experience rain or snowfall during the Yatra. It is advisable to carry rain gear like a poncho, raincoat, or umbrella to avoid getting wet and to protect your belongings.
Basic Medicines: It is advisable to carry basic medicines like pain relievers, antiseptics, cough and cold medicines, and medicines for altitude sickness as a precautionary measure.
Water Bottles: It is essential to stay hydrated during the Yatra, and it is advisable to carry water bottles and refill them at regular intervals.
Personal Care Items: It is advisable to carry personal care items like sunscreen, lip balm, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and tissue papers.
Torch: A torch or a headlamp is a must-have item to carry during the Yatra, especially during early morning or late-night Darshan.
ID Proof: It is important to carry a valid ID proof like Aadhar Card, Driving License, or Passport for identification purposes.
Cash: It is advisable to carry enough cash for the journey as there may be limited access to ATMs or card payment facilities.
In conclusion, it is important to pack light and carry only the necessary items during the Kedarnath Yatra. It is advisable to carry a backpack that is easy to carry and comfortable during the trek.
Any cancellation made 30 days prior to the date of departure, would levy 20% of the total tour cost as cancellation charges.
Any cancellation made 15-30 days prior to the date of departure, would levy 30% of the total tour cost as cancellation charges.
Any cancellation made 7-15 days prior to the date of departure, would levy 50% of the total tour cost as cancellation charges.
Any cancellation made 0-7 days prior to the date of departure, would levy 100% of the total tour cost as cancellation charges.
Due to any restrictions such as sudden government policies or regulations, or unprecedented weather conditions, activities and tours may be nonoperational and be cancelled.
In cases such as these, operators will attempt to cater to the traveller an alternative that is feasible in nature. However, any refund would not be catered.
Any refund applicable will be processed within 7 business days.
FAQs
Frequently asked quetsions by trekkers
Kedarnath Yatra is a religious pilgrimage to the Kedarnath temple, which is one of the four Chota Char Dham shrines located in Uttarakhand, India.
The Kedarnath temple opens in late April or early May and remains open until OCt-Nov, making this period the best time to go for the Yatra. However, the best time to go for the Yatra is during September-October, as the weather during these months is favorable.
The trek to Kedarnath is an 22 km journey, which starts from Gaurikund.
The trek to Kedarnath is considered moderate to difficult, and it is essential to be physically fit to undertake the journey. However, the trek can be made easier by taking breaks at regular intervals and staying hydrated.
Yes, medical facilities like first aid, oxygen, and basic medicines are available at different points during the Yatra. However, it is advisable to carry basic medicines and take necessary precautions beforehand.
