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Haridwar to Kedarnath

The journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath is a sacred pilgrimage of approximately 240 kilometers by road, followed by a 16-kilometer trek (or helicopter ride) to the temple. The road

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240 kmDistance

10-11 (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₹370

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 Haridwar to Kedarnath is a sacred pilgrimage of approximately 240 kilometers by road, followed by a 16-kilometer trek (or helicopter ride) to the temple. The road portion typically takes 10-11 hours, winding through the scenic Garhwal Himalayas via Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi to Gaurikund, the trek base. Along the way, pilgrims encounter the confluence of holy rivers, ancient temples, and panoramic mountain views. The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is a challenging yet spiritually rewarding ascent, passing through Rambara and Lincholi, with the majestic Kedarnath peak and the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as the ultimate destination. This route is similar to the one from Rishikesh, but slightly longer by road, adding about 30-40 minutes of travel time.

Route Map

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By Car: Haridwar to Kedarnath

240 km · ~5h 8m · About 5h of driving, plus stops.

Start from Haridwar
An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.
150 km · 3h drive from previous stop
Rest & refuel near Tehri
About 150 km in — 15–20 minutes for tea, food, fuel and a stretch.
90 km · 1h 48m 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: Haridwar to Kedarnath

240 km · ~5h 20m · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.

Board at Haridwar
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Haridwar. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
Haridwar → Kedarnath
AC Seater / Volvo · ~240 km
~5h 20m|Tentative fare ₹260–₹720
Usual tea / meal halts: Rudraprayag (~170 km)
Search buses Haridwar 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: Haridwar 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 Haridwar to Kedarnath.

Rishikesh20 km from Haridwar from Haridwar
Known as the 'Yoga Capital of the World', Rishikesh is a spiritual hub with numerous ashrams and the iconic Laxman Jhula. It's a great place to acclimatize and seek blessings before the long journey.
ATMs and banksRestaurants and cafesHotels and guesthouses
Rudraprayag160 km from Haridwar from Haridwar
A sacred town at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's a common lunch stop with several dhabas and temples.
Food stalls and dhabasPublic restroomsSmall medical clinics

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 (4-5 AM) to avoid traffic and reach Gaurikund before dark.

Carry warm clothing as temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes.

Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season (May-June, Sep-Oct).

Keep cash for trek expenses; ATMs are scarce beyond Guptkashi.

Stay hydrated and carry energy bars for the trek.

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

Budget Estimate

road

Typical fare: ₹6,000 - ₹8,000 for a one-way trip (sedan/SUV)

Shared taxis available from Haridwar bus stand: ₹800 - ₹1,000 per person

Driving offers flexibility and comfort, allowing stops at scenic viewpoints and temples. The route is well-maintained but mountainous, requiring careful driving, especially during monsoon season.

train

Shatabdi Express fare: ₹755 (AC Chair Car), ₹1,455 (Executive)

Jan Shatabdi fare: ₹285 (Second Sitting), ₹505 (AC Chair Car)

Trains connect Haridwar to major cities, but the onward journey to Kedarnath requires road travel. This mode is ideal for pilgrims coming from distant parts of India.

bus

Ordinary bus fare: ₹400 - ₹500 per person

Deluxe bus fare: ₹600 - ₹800 per person

State-run and private buses operate from Haridwar to Gaurikund, offering an economical option. The journey is long but scenic, with frequent stops.

Extend Your Trip

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

Kedarnath → Badrinath

About 55 km by road

Plan Haridwar → Kedarnath → Badrinath Badrinath guide

Kedarnath → Joshimath

About 65 km by road

Plan Haridwar → Kedarnath → Joshimath Joshimath guide

Kedarnath → Valley of Flowers National Park

About 70 km by road

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

Kedarnath → Uttarkashi

About 75 km by road

Plan Haridwar → Kedarnath → Uttarkashi Uttarkashi guide

Plan My Trip: Haridwar to Kedarnath

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

The road distance from Haridwar to Gaurikund is about 240 km, taking 10-11 hours. The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is 16 km, which takes 6-7 hours on foot, or you can take a helicopter (5 minutes) or pony/palanquin.

2. Is there a helicopter service from Haridwar to Kedarnath?

Yes, helicopter services operate from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi, not directly from Haridwar. You can drive to these helipads and then take a helicopter to Kedarnath, which takes about 5 minutes and costs around ₹2,000-₹3,000 per person.

3. What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?

The temple is open from late April to early November. The best months are May-June and September-October when weather is pleasant. Avoid monsoon (July-August) due to landslides and heavy rain.

4. Are there accommodation options at Gaurikund?

Yes, Gaurikund has several budget hotels, dharamshalas, and guesthouses. However, they fill up quickly during peak season, so booking in advance is recommended.

5. Can I do the trek if I am not physically fit?

The trek is strenuous, but alternatives like ponies, palanquins, and helicopter services are available for those who cannot walk. It's advisable to acclimatize and consult a doctor if you have health issues.