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Dehradun to Kedarnath

The journey from Dehradun to Kedarnath, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites in the Garhwal Himalayas, spans approximately 239 kilometers by road to Gaurikund, followed by a 1

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239 kmDistance

9-10 (road to Gaurikund) + trek hrsDuration

Tentative Fare Estimate

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Car / Taxi

Swift Dzire₹11,710

Ertiga₹14,860

Innova₹15,490

Innova Crysta₹19,140

Tempo Traveller (12)₹26,200

Round trip · incl. driver allowance & GST

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Bus

Non-AC Seater₹260

AC Seater₹430

Non-AC Sleeper₹380

AC Sleeper₹550

Volvo / Multi-Axle₹720

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Train

Sleeper₹170

Economy₹270

Third AC₹360

Second AC₹510

First AC₹700

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Tentative estimate only, based on typical Indian public-transport tariffs (state transport bus fares, IRCTC sleeper/AC class rates, standard outstation taxi per-km rates) — not a live quote from any operator.

Overview

The journey from Dehradun to Kedarnath, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites in the Garhwal Himalayas, spans approximately 239 kilometers by road to Gaurikund, followed by a 16-kilometer trek or a helicopter ride to the temple. The road trip takes about 9-10 hours, winding through picturesque towns like Rishikesh, Devprayag, and Rudraprayag, with the final motorable point at Gaurikund (6,500 ft). From there, pilgrims either trek uphill for 6-8 hours or opt for a helicopter service from Phata or Guptkashi. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun (about 20 km from the city), while Rishikesh is the nearest major railway station. The route is well-maintained but mountainous, offering stunning views of the Mandakini River and snow-capped peaks. The best time to visit is May-June and September-October.

Route Map

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By Car: Dehradun to Kedarnath

239 km · ~5h 7m · About 5h of driving, plus stops.

Start from Dehradun
An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.
150 km · 3h drive from previous stop
Rest & refuel near Uttarkashi
About 150 km in — 15–20 minutes for tea, food, fuel and a stretch.
89 km · 1h 47m drive from previous stop
Arrive in Kedarnath
Kedarnath, Uttarakhand

Stops are typical for this road, not a fixed itinerary. Timings assume about 50 km/h on average — traffic, tolls and road conditions vary.

By Bus: Dehradun to Kedarnath

239 km · ~5h 19m · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.

Board at Dehradun
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Dehradun. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
Dehradun → Kedarnath
AC Seater / Volvo · ~239 km
~5h 19m|Tentative fare ₹260–₹720
Search buses Dehradun to Kedarnath
Arrive in Kedarnath
Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
Hotels in Kedarnath

Halts and change points are typical for this route, not a specific operator’s schedule — check live availability and timings when booking.

By Train: Dehradun to Kedarnath

There is no direct train between these stations in our timetable data, and no journey with up to two changes was found. Try a nearby city as the start or end, or use a bus/car leg for part of the trip.

Train details come from a 2015 railway timetable snapshot — newer trains, changed timings and running days are not included, so confirm on IRCTC before you plan around a train.

Stops & Places Along the Route

Good places to break the journey from Dehradun to Kedarnath.

Rishikesh43 km from Dehradun from Dehradun
The Yoga capital of India, known for its spiritual vibe, ashrams, and the iconic Laxman Jhula. A great place to rest and stock up on supplies.
Hotels and dharamshalasRestaurants and cafesATMs and medical stores
Rudraprayag141 km from Dehradun from Dehradun
A holy town at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. It marks the last major town before the climb to Kedarnath.
Budget hotels and guesthousesTemple and ghatPetrol pump and basic eateries

Hotels in Kedarnath

Comfortable 3-star stays in Kedarnath. Tell us your dates and we'll get you a rate.

3 Star Hotel

Kedarnath

Things to Do in Kedarnath

Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath

Embark on the classic 16-18 km trek, ascending through scenic valleys, waterfalls, and mountain villages. The trail offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a deeply…

6-8 hours (one way)

Visit Bhairav Nath Temple

Located a short climb behind the main temple, this shrine is dedicated to Bhairav, the guardian deity. It is customary to visit before the temple opens and after it…

1-2 hours

Explore Gandhi Sarovar (Chorabari Tal)

A glacial lake about 2 km above Kedarnath, also known as Chorabari Tal. The trek is steep but rewarding, with serene turquoise waters and a tranquil atmosphere.

2-3 hours round trip

Attend the Aarti at Kedarnath Temple

Witness the mesmerizing evening aarti, where the temple resonates with mantras and the air fills with incense and the glow of oil lamps. It is a deeply moving spiritual…

1 hour

Pay Homage at Adi Shankaracharya's Samadhi

Visit the memorial of the great philosopher, located just behind the main temple. It is a place of quiet reflection and historical significance.

30 minutes

Helicopter Ride from Phata or Guptkashi

For those unable to trek, take a helicopter shuttle service to Kedarnath, offering aerial views of the Himalayas and saving time. Book well in advance during peak season.

10-15 minutes each way

See all places in Kedarnath →

Suggested Kedarnath Itinerary

Day 1Arrival and Trek to Kedarnath

Drive from Guptkashi/Sonprayag to Gaurikund (approx. 1-2 hours)
Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath (16-18 km, 6-8 hours with breaks)
Check in and rest at your guesthouse in Kedarnath

Day 2Rest Day and Gandhi Sarovar Side-Trek

Morning darshan at Kedarnath Temple (if not done the previous evening)
Visit Adi Shankaracharya's samadhi and Bhairav Nath Temple
Side-trek to Gandhi Sarovar (Chorabari Tal) and back (2 km each way, approx. 2-3 hours)

Day 3Descent and Triyuginarayan Visit

Trek down from Kedarnath to Gaurikund (16-18 km, 4-5 hours)
Drive from Gaurikund to Triyuginarayan via Sonprayag (approx. 1-1.5 hours)
Visit Triyuginarayan Temple and the eternal flame (akhand dhuni)

Full 3-day itinerary →

Travel Tips

Start early (5-6 AM) to avoid traffic and reach Gaurikund by evening.

Carry warm clothing even in summer; temperatures drop near the temple.

Book helicopter tickets in advance during peak season (May-June).

Keep cash as ATMs are scarce beyond Rudraprayag.

Stay hydrated and carry ORS packets for the trek.

Check weather and road conditions before departure; landslides can occur.

Budget Estimate

road

Car rental (per day): ₹2,500-3,500

Fuel (round trip): ₹3,000-4,000

Driving offers flexibility and scenic stops along the way. The road is mostly two-lane, with steep climbs after Rudraprayag, requiring careful driving.

train

Delhi to Rishikesh (Sleeper): ₹300-400

AC 3-tier: ₹800-1,000

The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, well-connected to major cities. From Rishikesh, you can take a bus or taxi to Gaurikund. Trains offer an economical option for pilgrims.

bus

Ordinary bus (Dehradun to Gaurikund): ₹300-400

Deluxe bus: ₹500-600

Uttarakhand Roadways operates regular buses from Dehradun to Gaurikund, with stops at major towns. This is the most economical option, though slower due to frequent stops.

Extend Your Trip

Add a nearby place to your Kedarnath trip and see the full Dehradun → Kedarnath → next stop route.

Kedarnath → Badrinath

About 55 km by road

Plan Dehradun → Kedarnath → Badrinath Badrinath guide

Kedarnath → Joshimath

About 65 km by road

Plan Dehradun → Kedarnath → Joshimath Joshimath guide

Kedarnath → Valley of Flowers National Park

About 70 km by road

Plan Dehradun → Kedarnath → Valley of Flowers National Park Valley of Flowers National Park guide

Kedarnath → Uttarkashi

About 75 km by road

Plan Dehradun → Kedarnath → Uttarkashi Uttarkashi guide

Plan My Trip: Dehradun to Kedarnath

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the total distance and time from Dehradun to Kedarnath?

The road distance is 239 km to Gaurikund, taking 9-10 hours by car. From Gaurikund, the trek is 16 km (6-8 hours) or a 5-minute helicopter ride.

2. What is the nearest airport to Kedarnath?

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 239 km from Gaurikund. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.

3. Is there a helicopter service from Dehradun to Kedarnath?

Helicopter services operate from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi, not directly from Dehradun. The flight from Phata to Kedarnath takes about 5 minutes and costs around ₹4,000-5,000 one-way.

4. Can I do the trek without prior experience?

The trek is moderately difficult, with steep ascents. Beginners can do it with proper fitness, but it's advisable to use ponies or palanquins if needed. Acclimatization is important.

5. What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?

The temple is open from late April to November. The best months are May-June and September-October when weather is pleasant and the route is accessible.