There are several option to reach Kedarnath from Delhi. If you are travelling by you own car then Delhi to Kedarnath distance by car is Approx. 457 Kilometers till Gaurikund and from Gaurikund there is 15 Km trek till Kedarnath Temple or you can opt for Heli service from Phata Helipad. In total Delhi to Kedarnath temple distance is 472 Kilometers. If you are travelling by bus then Delhi to Kedarnath distance by bus will slightly more in comparison with car. Although the route is same for bus and car. If you love to travel by train then Delhi to Kedarnath distance by train is approx. 251 Kilometers till Haridwar from there you need to travel by Road till Gaurikund and then from Gaurikund you need to trek 15 KM till Kedarnath Temple or take helicopter service from Phata Helipad which is near Gaurikund.
How to Reach Kedarnath from Delhi?
Here’s How to Reach Kedarnath from Delhi the incredible destinations by road-
Delhi to Haridwar– 220 kilometers by road, about 5 hours by car or bus.
Haridwar to Rudraprayag– 157 kilometers, about 5 hour by car.
Rudraprayag to Guptkashi – 45 kilometers, about 2 hour by car.
Guptkashi to Sonprayag – 30 kilometers, around 2 hours by car.
Sonprayag to Gaurikund – 5 kilometers
Gaurikund to Kedarnath– 15 kilometers followed by trek.
In Summary Delhi to Kedarnath Distance by Road is 472 Kilometers including 15 KM Trek to Kedarnath Temple starts from Gaurikund. And Delhi to Kedarnath distance in hours is 16-18 hours depending on road and weather conditions except 15 KM trekking time.
Have you ever wanted to take a trip that changes not only what you see but also how you feel inside? We all long for a journey that leads us to unfamiliar places and ends up changing us profoundly. The Delhi to Kedarnath tour by road did exactly that for me. It is more than just a visit to places marked on a map. It is a spiritual sojourn, a deep exploration, and most of all, a journey that reaches into the depths of your heart. Every bend in the river, every sunrise over the Ganges, and every still moment of prayer made me feel an integral part of a larger whole.
How to go Kedarnath from Delhi
How to go Kedarnath from Delhi By Road–Kedarnath distance from Delhi
| Route Segment | Distance (Approx.) | Travel Time (Approx.) | Details |
| Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh | 220 km | 6 to 7 hours by bus | Board a bus from Kashmiri Gate ISBT to Haridwar or Rishikesh, gateways to Uttarakhand. Or you can take your own car for more convenience. |
| Haridwar/Rishikesh to Rudraprayag | 157 km | 5 to 6 hours by bus | Take a bus/shared taxi or drive you car from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Rudraprayag; enjoy scenic Himalayan views. |
| Rudraprayag to Guptkashi | 45 km | 2 hours by bus/shared taxi | Continue from Rudraprayag to Guptkashi, known for temples and a common pilgrimage stop. |
| Guptkashi to Sonprayag | 30 km | 1.5 hours by shared taxi/bus | Proceed to Sonprayag, the base for the final journey to Kedarnath. |
| Sonprayag to Gaurikund | 5 km | 15 to 20 minutes by jeep | Shared jeeps are available from Sonprayag to Gaurikund, the last motorable point. |
| Gaurikund to Kedarnath (Trek) | 15 km | 6 to 8 hours on foot | Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, with rest stops and facilities; ponies/palanquins available. |
| Additional Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Direct Bus from Delhi | UTC operates a direct bus from Kashmiri Gate to Sonprayag, departing at 9:00 PM and arriving at 10:00 AM at Sonprayag. |
| Accommodation Tips | Overnight stays are recommended at Guptkashi or Sonprayag; various lodging options available. |
| Travel Tips | Book in advance during peak season, be prepared for trekking, carry appropriate clothing and medication. |
| Weather Precautions | Weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable; check forecasts before traveling. |
By Train
Before purchasing a train ticket from Delhi to Kedarnath, you should be aware of these crucial factors:
First of all, you won’t be able to obtain a direct train ticket from Delhi to Kedarnath because the closest train station from Kedarnath is Karnprayag, but this line is still being built, thus the closest train stations from Delhi right now are Haridwar and Rishikesh. Therefore, you must purchase a rail ticket to the train stations in Rishikesh and Haridwar. From there, you can continue your travel by bus [road] or air.
You can book online train tickets from the Indian Railway official website irctc , or other popular travel sites.
Kedarnath Train Ticket price from Delhi
| Train Name | Start Station | Destination Station | Distance (Approx.) | Travel Time (Approx.) | Fare Range (₹) | Classes Available |
| Moussoorie Express | Delhi (DLI) | Haridwar (HW) | 250 km | 7-8 hours | 200 – 1,500 | 2S, SL, 3A, 2A, 1A, 3E |
| Kota DDN AC Express | Delhi (NZM) | Haridwar (HW) | 251 km | 4-5 hours | 500 – 1,200 | 2A, 3A |
| Dehradun Jan Shatabdi Express | Delhi (NDLS) | Haridwar (HW) | 231 km | 4-5 hours | 145 – 485 | 2S, CC |
| Delhi – Haridwar Express | Delhi (DLI) | Haridwar (HW) | 250 km | 5-6 hours | 300 – 1,200 | 2S, SL, 3A, 2A, 1A, 3E |
| Yog Nagri Express | Delhi (DLI) | Haridwar (HW) | 249 km | 6-7 hours | 200 – 1,500 | 2S, SL, 3A, 2A, 1A, 3E |
| Kalinga Utkal AC Express | Delhi (NZM) | Haridwar (HW) | 251 km | 6-7 hours | 400 – 1,200 | 2A, 3A |
By Air
To travel from Delhi to Kedarnath by air, you’ll need to fly from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi to Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, as there are no direct flights to Kedarnath. Here’s the relevant flight information:
Flight Details:
- Airlines Operating: Multiple airlines, including IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara, offer daily flights between Delhi and Dehradun.
- Flight Duration: Approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour.
- Distance: The aerial distance between Delhi and Dehradun is about 208 kilometers. Flight Connections
- Flight Schedule: Flights operate throughout the day, with multiple departures. For instance, IndiGo offers flights departing at 08:55, 15:20, 16:55, and 18:40. Goibibo
- Fares: Ticket prices vary based on booking time and airline. As of recent data, fares start from ₹2,594. Ixig
A journey from Delhi to Kedarnath feels like one is stepping out of the cacophony of fast-paced urban life into a spiritual haven in the arms of Himalayan peaks. You can take a train, catch the bus, or drive in on NH334. Every mile of the 487 kilometers across the journey would gradually change the hustle and bustle of the city to serene mountain visualizations. Alternatively, take a train from Delhi to Haridwar and from Haridwar go by road to Gaurikund.
From Haridwar the lovely scenic drive to Gaurikund, where the 15-km trek to Kedarnath begins. With each step you close not just to a sacred shrine but to a quieter and deeper part of yourself. We have done the online registration on Uttarakhand government website https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/ and kept our ID proof along with us for smooth visit.
Overview of the Tour
This tour makes you feel as if you are walking into a different perspective on life. After registering on the Uttarakhand government website and keeping our ID proofs handy, we set off. The serene rivers, towering mountains, and ancient temples—all made time seem to slow down. Each moment felt more special, more significant. As we left behind Delhi’s bustle, nature’s beauty embraced us, and the typical mountain calm brushed our senses, bringing a sense of peace.
Each city—Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Kedarnath—has its unique essence. Haridwar’s hustle carries a spiritual rhythm, Rishikesh offers meditative tranquility, and Kedarnath exudes a grand, ancient energy. Traveling through these places is like following a path laid down by the gods themselves, guiding you with scenes so picturesque they take your breath away.
How Old is Kedarnath Temple?
Traced back to the period of Pandavas who are said to have built initial structure of the temple, this over 1,200 years old temple located amidst the snow-capped hills had its origin. In the 8th century, this sacred site was restored by Adi Shankaracharya. This makes the temple one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of great stories of devotion and centuries of prayer. Visiting it makes one feel transported in time, finding an opening where the silence of age-old hymns still lingers in mountain air.
Detailed Itinerary: Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Kedarnath
Day 1: Delhi to Haridwar (Approx 247 KM)
Leaving Delhi early in the morning, we felt the excitement build with every passing mile. It took five hours to reach Haridwar, but it felt like the beginning of a much more profound journey. By the time we reached the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, the spiritual energy enveloped us. As the priests performed their rituals against a starlit sky, I felt connected to an ancient pulse, a rhythm that has flowed through the Ganges for millennia.
Day 2: Haridwar to Rishikesh (Approx 30 KM)
The following morning, we headed to Rishikesh, just an hour’s drive from Haridwar. Yet, it felt worlds apart—peaceful and serene. The Ganga flowed more gently here, and the town invited us to pause and reflect. Practicing yoga in the ashrams and walking along the riverbanks brought a sense of stillness. It felt as if the city called us to stop, breathe, and reconnect with ourselves.
How to Reach Kedarnath from Mumbai
Travellers from Mumbai can enjoy a dramatic transition from metropolitan life to Himalayan serenity while reaching Kedarnath. The fastest route for them is to fly to Dehradun and take a road journey to Gaurikund. Other option to take a train to Haridwar and continue by road to Gaurikund would also be available. Every turn of this journey reveals the new landscapes through which you would find yourself moving from the bustle of Mumbai’s life into the peaceful arms of snow-clad Uttarakhand. Above two options are the answer of how to go Kedarnath from Mumbai.
When Does Kedarnath Open?
Every year, by April or May, the Kedarnath Temple opens its gates to thousands of devotees. It falls in the day of Akshaya Tritiya, which is also considered a highly auspicious day. The temple doors are then inaugurated ceremoniously, opening the pilgrimage season. In 2025, as in other years, the temple will be eagerly looked for by devotees from every nook and corner of the country.
Day 3: Rishikesh to Guptkashi (Approx 180 KM)
The journey from Rishikesh to Guptkashi was long, but every turn brought more stunning scenery. Tall mountains, dense forests, and flowing rivers seemed to greet us along the way. By the time we reached Guptkashi, excitement and anticipation filled the air. We were getting closer to Kedarnath, and the atmosphere carried an unspoken promise of something divine.
When Helicopter Booking Opens for Kedarnath 2025?
Those with time limitations can avoid long-distance travel by hiring helicopters from Phata or Guptkashi to Kedarnath. Generally, one gets a booking opportunity two to three months before the pilgrimage season, usually during March or April. In the year 2025, one should keep an eye on official announcements for specific dates on Uttarakhand Tourism department website. The helicopter flight offers a view of the majestic Himalayas, which is utterly awe-inspiring as it brings about a very spiritual journey to Kedarnath.
Day 4: Guptkashi to Kedarnath (Approx 45 KM)
This was the day we had been waiting for. We opted for the helicopter service from Phata, and the experience was unforgettable. As we soared above the mountains, I felt both small and part of something immense. The snow-capped peaks, the Mandakini River flowing below—it was as if nature itself was whispering secrets of the divine. As we landed near the Kedarnath Temple, I felt a deep sense of awe. The temple stood proudly amidst the grandeur, a silent witness to centuries of devotion.
How Long is Kedarnath Trek?
The 15 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is challenging, but it’s a journey that rewards you with every step. It takes about 6 to 10 hours, depending on your pace. The trail is lined with lush greenery, and the sound of the Mandakini River guides you through. For those who find the trek strenuous, there are options for pony rides or palanquins, but nothing compares to the sense of achievement when you reach the temple on foot.
Can We Visit Kedarnath in December?
Kedarnath turns into a winter wonderland in December, but the temple is closed due to heavy snowfall. The deity is shifted to Ukhimath; worship is carried on there. You cannot visit the temple directly, but the region around it becomes a haven for those who love the look and feel of snow-covered landscapes and winter treks. But prepare yourself for the cold and the challenges that travel in this season throws up.
Day 5: Kedarnath to Haridwar
Leaving Kedarnath behind was bittersweet. The peace and quiet of the mountains lingered in our hearts, even as we made our way back to Haridwar. The drive down felt like a quiet reflection of all we had experienced. Each memory from this sacred journey seemed to have carved a place in our souls.
Day 6: Haridwar to Delhi
The road back to Delhi felt quieter than before, as if each of us carried a piece of the mountains within. We were tired, but our hearts were filled with gratitude and peace. The rivers, the temples, and the moments of introspection had offered more than just a beautiful trip—they had changed something within us.
When is Kedarnath Open?
The pilgrimage season for Kedarnath runs from April to November, when the temple remains accessible to devotees. As the harsh winter approaches, the temple closes, and worship is moved to Ukhimath. During the open season, Kedarnath comes alive with chants, prayers, and the vibrant spirit of pilgrims who have traveled far and wide.
Conclusion
The Delhi to Kedarnath tour is more than just a journey to three sacred cities. It is an inward journey, offering a chance to reconnect with yourself, nature, and the divine. It’s a journey that changes you, leaving you with memories of serene rivers, ancient temples, and the quiet strength of the mountains. As you return to everyday life, you realize you have left a part of yourself amidst the peaks and taken with you the stillness and peace of the Himalayas.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Kedarnath for a spiritual experience?
The perfect time is April to November. In April, the temple reopens with divine rituals, and September offers a peaceful atmosphere. It’s when the mountains whisper, and the spirit finds peace.
Can we visit Kedarnath during winter months, like December?
The temple is closed in December due to snow, but worship moves to Ukhimath. The snow-covered landscapes around Kedarnath offer a serene, magical beauty for those who seek solitude.
How difficult is the trek to Kedarnath?
The 15 km trek is challenging but soul-stirring. It takes around 6 to 10 hours, with the river’s melody guiding your steps. Reaching the temple is a reward that touches the heart.
What is the story behind Kedarnath Temple’s origin?
Built over 1,200 years ago by the Pandavas and restored by Adi Shankaracharya, Kedarnath holds ancient stories of devotion. It’s a place where history breathes through sacred stones.
How can I reach Kedarnath from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai?
From Delhi, take a train or road trip via Haridwar. From Mumbai, a flight to Dehradun and a road journey to Gaurikund is ideal. Both routes lead you closer to the divine embrace of the Himalayas.
