Haridwar to Kedarnath Guide

The journey from Chardham in Uttarakhand is challenging yet it’s a wholesome experience. It tests your endurance and faith. In the sequence of Chardhams, Kedarnath comes second last. However, if you are planning for Kedarnath, then Haridwar is the gateway for Kedarnath Dham. This post is helpful to those who are planning their Kedarnath Dham journey from Haridwar. We will offer information about the best routes, transport options, and tips to make your Kedarnath pilgrimage tour hassle free.

Quick Overview

Route from Haridwar to Kedarnath

The journey to Kedarnath is sacred. There is no direct road access to Kedarnath from Haridwar. Haridwar is the starting point to reach Kedarnath Dham. To reach Kedarnath, visit Rudraprayag. From Rudraprayag you have to reach Gupt kashi. Here you will get any sharable jeep to visit Sonprayag. Sonprayag is the last point where you will get public transport to reach Gaurikund. You will get shuttle service from Sonprayag to reach Gaurikund. After reaching Gaurikund, you will have to book a hotel for night stay and next day you will have to prepare yourself for a 16 km trek to reach Kedarnath Dham.

How to Reach Haridwar to Kedarnath

Haridwar to Kedarnath by Bus

To reach Kedarnath by bus you will easily get government or private own buses. The bus will safely lead you to Sonprayag. From Sonprayag you will have to take shuttle service to reach Gaurikund. From Gaurikund, indulge in a 16 km long trek to reach Kedarnath.

Haridwar to Kedarnath by Taxi Service

Taxis or cabs are the best options to reach Kedarnath because it gives a personalized experience to the pilgrims to undertake this difficult journey in their own pace. You can also hire them in advance or on the spot. You will also get variety of choices in taxis. Whether you want luxurious experiences or budget friendly option, you will get any kind of taxis or cabs for Kedarnath Yatra.

Haridwar to Kedarnath by Sharable Jeeps

You will also get sharable jeeps from Haridwar to reach Rudraprayag or Sonprayag. It will be more economical as the cost will be shared amongst groups.

Kedarnath via Helicopter

Kedarnath Dham yatra via helicopter is the best option as it will save your time as well as physical effort. To opt for helicopter service for Kedarnath you need to book the tickets in advance from the official Heli yatra website of IRCTC. The starting point of your journey will be Phata/ Sirsi/Guptkashi or Sitapur helipad. From one of these helipad you will reach Kedarnath Helipad in around 8-10 minutes. After arrival at Kedarnath Helipad, the temple of Kedarnath is at a walking distance.

Useful Tips to Follow during Kedarnath Yatra

• You need to start early to reach Gaurikund before evening.
• Advance booking of hotel room at Guptkashi, Phata or Sonprayag will be helpful in making your pilgrimage journey smooth and hassle free. These places are located near Kedarnath Dham and after darshan you can easily reach these locations for overnight stay.
• Always check weather before doing Kedarnath yatra. If the weather is bad, avoid doing Yatra in that day.
• Keep warm clothes, trekking shoes and a first aid kit during the trek. Staying hydrated and eating snacks from time to time will keep you energetic during a long 16 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath.

Attractions in Kedarnath for Sightseeing

After arriving in Kedarnath, pilgrims will be mesmerized to see the beautiful Himalayan landscapes. You will come across these stunning places in and around Kedarnath Dham.

• Kedarnath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kedarnath Dham is one of the sacred pilgrimage destinations for Hindu devotees.
• Gandhi Sarovar-It is a beautiful lake amidst the Himalayan Mountains. It is also known as Chorabari Tal as it is located on the mouth of Chorabari Bamak glacier.
• Vasuki Tal: A beautiful and pristine glacial lake surrounded by the beautiful snow-clad peaks. It is one of the most popular destination for nature lovers.
• Gaurikund Temple– Gaurikund Temple is dedicated to goddess Gauri, another name of Goddess Parvati. This is the same place where Ma Gauri did hard penance to win the heart of Lord Shiva.
• Triyuginarayan Temple– Triyuginarayan Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It resembles Badrinath shrine. It’s the place where the wedding of goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva took place in front of Lord Vishnu.
• Shankaracharya Samadhi: It is a revered shrine dedicated to Adi Shankaracharya, a renowned sage of ancient times.
• Bhairavnath Temple: It’s an ancient temple dedicated to the fierce aspect of Lord Shiva.
• Kalimath Temple: It is one of the most popular temple dedicated to Goddess Kali amidst scenic surroundings of Himalayas.

Popular Places to Eat in Kedarnath

After a day of spiritual exploration and darshan, pilgrims can also enjoy the regional cuisines of Kedarnath. Here are some popular places to eat in Kedarnath

• Tiwari Hotel & Restaurant: It’s a popular restaurant offering traditional Himalayan cuisine. The local dishes will delight your soul.
• Kedarnath Bhandara: It’s communal dining hall operated by the generosity of spirit of people who provide free meals to pilgrims.
• Rajasthani Langar: A sacred tradition of Langar never ends in Rajasthani Langar facility. It is one of the best way to try local food of Kedarnath

 In conclusion, the journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath is a beautiful; experience that rejuvenates the mind, body and soul with positive vibes. One must embark on a Kedarnath pilgrimage tour once in a lifetime.