The pilgrimage to Kedarnath, nestled amidst the Himalayas, is not merely a journey but a spiritual odyssey for countless devotees. Each year, from various corners of the nation, pilgrims embark on this sacred expedition seeking solace and divine blessings. For those planning the holy sojourn from Delhi, here’s an exhaustive guide detailing the diverse modes of transportation available.
Reaching Kedarnath from Delhi by Air
The nearest airport to Kedarnath is the Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun. From Delhi, travelers have the option to board a flight to Dehradun. Several airlines operate daily flights connecting Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. Upon landing at the airport, travelers can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach the main bus stand in Dehradun.
From Dehradun, various modes of transportation are available to cover the remaining distance to Kedarnath. Travelers can opt for state-run buses that ply regularly between Dehradun and Kedarnath. Alternatively, private taxis or cabs can also be hired for a more personalized journey.
Another convenient option is to take a helicopter from Phata, which is approximately a 10-hour drive from Delhi. Helicopter services provide a quicker and breathtaking aerial perspective of the Himalayan landscape, offering a memorable experience for pilgrims.
Reaching Kedarnath from Delhi by Train
For travelers opting to travel by train, there are two major railway stations serving as gateways to Kedarnath – Haridwar and Rishikesh. From Delhi, one can board a train to either Haridwar Railway Station (HW) or Rishikesh Railway Station. New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) serves as the primary railway station in Delhi, offering numerous trains to both Haridwar and Rishikesh.
Upon reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh, travelers can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Rudraprayag, which serves as a major transit point on the route to Kedarnath. From Rudraprayag, another bus journey leads to Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath trek. The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath spans approximately 16 kilometers and can be covered on foot or by hiring a pony or palanquin.
Reaching Kedarnath from Delhi by Road
Traveling to Kedarnath from Delhi by road is another popular option, offering flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy scenic views along the journey. The road distance between Delhi and Kedarnath is approximately 452 kilometers, and the journey typically takes around 12-14 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Travelers can opt for self-drive options or hire private taxis or cabs for a comfortable journey. It is advisable to ensure that the vehicle is well-maintained and the driver is familiar with mountainous terrain, especially during adverse weather conditions.
Shared taxis or cabs are also available from major cities like Delhi to reach destinations near Kedarnath, such as Rudraprayag or Guptkashi. From these points, travelers can continue their journey using local transportation to reach Gaurikund and then Kedarnath.
Delhi to Kedarnath by Bus
State-run buses offer a budget-friendly option for travelers commuting from Delhi to Kedarnath. These buses operate regularly from Kashmiri Gate ISBT in Delhi to various towns near Kedarnath, such as Rudraprayag or Guptkashi. From these towns, travelers can proceed to Gaurikund, the starting point of the Kedarnath trek, using local transportation.
Private Volvo buses also ply on the Delhi – Kedarnath route, providing a more comfortable journey for travelers seeking added convenience and amenities. These buses operate between Delhi and towns near Kedarnath, allowing travelers to reach their destination with ease.
Delhi to Kedarnath by Taxi
For those seeking a more personalized and flexible travel experience, hiring a taxi from Delhi to Kedarnath is an ideal option. Online platforms such as Uber or Ola offer taxi services, ensuring convenience and ease of booking for travelers. Additionally, tour and travel companies also provide dedicated taxi services for the Delhi-Kedarnath route, catering to the specific requirements and preferences of travelers.
Delhi to Kedarnath by Helicopter
Helicopter services offer a swift and luxurious option for travelers with time constraints or seeking a unique aerial perspective of the Himalayas. Pilgrims can avail direct helicopter services to Kedarnath from Dehradun, with advance online booking available for a hassle-free experience. Helicopter rides to Kedarnath provide a memorable journey, offering breathtaking views of the picturesque landscape and minimizing travel time.
Delhi to Kedarnath Route Map with Distance
The route from Delhi to Kedarnath covers various towns and scenic locations, offering a diverse landscape for travelers to explore. Here’s a route map highlighting the major points and distances along the journey:
- Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh
- Haridwar/Rishikesh to Rudraprayag
- Rudraprayag to Gaurikund
- Gaurikund to Kedarnath
Covering a distance of approximately 452 kilometers, with 436 kilometers being motorable roads and the remaining 18 kilometers involving trekking from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, travelers are urged to consider the challenging terrain and potential weather conditions during their journey.
Embarking on the pilgrimage to Kedarnath from Delhi is not just a physical journey but a spiritual quest. Whether traveling by air, train, road, bus, taxi, or helicopter, each mode of transportation offers its unique experience. Pilgrims must plan their journey meticulously, considering factors such as weather conditions and travel restrictions, to ensure a safe and fulfilling pilgrimage to the divine abode of Lord Shiva.