- Best time
- May–Jun, Sep–Oct
- How long
- 2–3 days
- Stay a night
- ₹1,000–8,000
- Food a day
- ₹300–1,200
- Nearest railhead
- 215 km away
- Nearest airport
- 235 km away
Plan Kedarnath in a minute. Day-by-day plan, stays, budget and trains — free on JrnyLoop.
Plan this tripAbout Kedarnath
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, at 3,583 m — reached by a 16 km trail from Gaurikund (or helicopter), with Bhairavnath and Vasuki Tal above.
Things to do in Kedarnath
Kedarnath Temple
A stone temple featuring the Kedar Dome behind it, located on the Garhwal Himalayan range near the Mandakini River. It is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Shiva and stands as one of the twelve jyotirlingas.
Tip: Prepare for a 17-kilometre uphill trek from Gaurikund as vehicles do not go directly to the temple.
Gaurikund–Kedarnath Trek
The Gaurikund to Kedarnath trek is a sixteen-kilometre pilgrimage route in Uttarakhand leading to the holy Kedarnath temple. The trail is physically demanding, but ponies and palkis are available for travellers who need assistance.
Kedarnath Helicopter
A return helicopter shuttle service operating from Phata, Sersi or Guptkashi to Kedarnath in Uttarakhand.
Tip: Book your tickets well in advance through authorized portals
Bhairavnath Temple
Bhairavnath Temple is a revered shrine located a short steep climb above the main Kedarnath temple in Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Lord Bhairavnath, it offers a peaceful spiritual atmosphere and sweeping views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes as the short climb can be steep and rocky.
Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi
A rebuilt memorial dedicated to the eighth-century philosopher Adi Shankaracharya, situated right behind the main Kedarnath temple in Uttarakhand. It marks the site where he is believed to have attained samadhi.
Tip: Visit during the early evening hours when the surrounding temple area becomes peaceful
Chorabari Tal
Chorabari Tal is a glacial lake located in Uttarakhand. Situated at a distance above Kedarnath, it offers a serene environment amidst high mountain terrain.
Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes suitable for rough mountain trails
Triyuginarayan Temple
Triyuginarayan Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Uttarakhand. It is famous as the legendary venue where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married, with Lord Vishnu witnessing the ceremony. A special feature here is the perpetual fire burning in front of the temple, believed to have been lit since the divine wedding.
Tip: Interact with the local Jamloki Brahmins who serve as the chief worshippers and keepers of the eternal flame
Where to stay in Kedarnath
Sonprayag & Gaurikund
Trailhead hotels — start early.
Kedarnath tents & GMVN
Sleep at the shrine for evening and dawn aarti.
Guptkashi & Phata
Better hotels near the helipads.
What to eat
Trail dhabas
Aloo-puri, Maggi and chai all along the route.
Garhwali thali
Kafuli and mandua roti in Guptkashi.
Good to know
- Registration on the Uttarakhand Char Dham portal is mandatory.
- Book helicopters only on the official IRCTC HeliYatra site — scams are common.
- Avoid July–August: monsoon landslides on the route.
Going to Kedarnath? Build the plan, split costs with your group and keep tickets in one place.
Plan this trip