How to Reach Kedarnath: Cheapest and Fastest Ways Explained

Introduction

Kedarnath is one of the most sacred temples in India, located in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand. It is part of the Char Dham Yatra and dedicated to Lord Shiva. Reaching Kedarnath can be a bit challenging due to its high-altitude location and limited connectivity.

But don’t worry  in this guide, we’ll show you the cheapest and fastest ways to reach Kedarnath. Whether you’re planning a budget trip or want to save time, we’ve covered the best options. Many people think it’s difficult or expensive to get there, but that’s not always true.

From train and road routes to helicopter services and shared jeeps, this article will help you choose the right travel method. You’ll also find tips for different starting points like Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun. Let’s make your Kedarnath journey smooth and affordable.

By Road

Reaching Kedarnath by road is one of the most popular options. You can drive or take a bus up to Gaurikund, which is the last motorable point. From there, the temple is around 16 km uphill on foot or by pony.

There are regular buses and shared taxis from major cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. The roads are mostly in good condition, but they can get busy during the yatra season. If you’re traveling on a budget, buses are the cheapest. For more comfort, a private taxi or shared cab is a better choice.

By Air

Air travel is the fastest and easiest way to get to Kedarnath, especially for those who don’t want to do long road trips or treks.Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport to Gaurikund, about 240 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Gaurikund, then continue by foot or helicopter.

For an even quicker option, helicopter services are available directly to Kedarnath from several helipads, including:

• Phata
  
• Guptkashi
  
• Sersi
  

These helicopter rides take about 8 to 10 minutes and can be booked online in advance. It’s a bit expensive but saves a lot of time and energy, especially for senior citizens or those with limited time.

By Train

There is no direct train to Kedarnath, but you can take a train to the nearest railway stations. The closest major station is Haridwar, which is well connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. From Haridwar, you can continue your journey by bus or taxi towards Gaurikund.

Other nearby stations include Rishikesh and Dehradun. After reaching any of these stations, you will need to travel by road to reach Gaurikund, the base point for the Kedarnath trek. Taking a train is a budget-friendly option and a good choice for long-distance travelers.

By Jeeps

Shared jeeps are a common and affordable way to reach Kedarnath, especially from nearby towns like Sonprayag, Guptkashi, Rudraprayag, and Gaurikund. They are usually available early in the morning and leave when full. This option is great for budget travelers who don’t want to spend too much on private taxis.

Here’s why jeeps are a good choice:

• Cheaper than taxis
  
• Available at major stops
  
• Faster than buses on hilly roads
  
• Good for small groups or solo travelers
  

Keep in mind, jeeps can be a bit crowded and less comfortable, but they are fast and reliable on narrow mountain roads. Always confirm the fare before boarding.

Package

If you want a hassle-free trip, booking a travel package to Kedarnath is a great option. Packages usually include transport, accommodation, meals, and sometimes even helicopter rides. They are perfect for families, senior citizens, or first-time travelers who want everything arranged in advance.

You can find many types of packages based on your budget and starting point. Some start from Haridwar, while others start from Delhi or Dehradun. Here’s a quick look at some common package types:

Package Type	Starting Point	Includes	Duration	Approx. Cost (INR)
Budget Road Package	Haridwar/Rishikesh	Bus/Jeep transport, hotel stay	3 to 4 Days	₹5,000 to ₹8,000
Standard Package	Delhi	Train/Bus, hotel, meals	5 to 6 Days	₹8,000 to ₹12,000
Helicopter Package	Dehradun/Phata	Helicopter ride, VIP darshan, hotel stay	2 to 3 Days	₹12,000 to ₹25,000
Premium Yatra Package	Delhi/Haridwar	All transport, deluxe hotels, meals, guide	5 to 7 Days	₹15,000 to ₹30,000
Senior Citizen Special	Haridwar	Easy transport, minimal walking, support staff	4 to 5 Days	₹10,000 to ₹18,000

Travel agencies and online portals offer customizable packages. Always check what’s included before booking.

Nearby Hotels

There are many hotels and guest houses near Kedarnath and Gaurikund. Most people stay in Gaurikund, Guptkashi, Sonprayag, or Rambara before or after visiting the temple. These places have budget lodges, homestays, and basic hotels for all kinds of travelers.

Rooms are usually simple but clean, with basic facilities like hot water and food. During the yatra season, hotels get booked fast, so it’s better to book in advance. You can also find GMVN guest houses (run by the government) which are safe and affordable.

Best hotels Package

If you are planning a trip to Kedarnath, booking a hotel package can save time and money. Many hotels near Kedarnath offer packages that include stay, food, and sometimes travel from nearby towns. These packages are helpful, especially during the busy yatra season.

Some packages also include VIP darshan, guided tours, or helicopter transfers from places like Guptkashi or Phata. It’s a good idea to compare prices and read reviews before booking. A good hotel package can make your Kedarnath visit more comfortable and stress-free.

Conclusion

Reaching Kedarnath may seem tough, but it becomes easy if you plan well. There are many ways to get there by road, train, air, or even by helicopter. You can choose the cheapest or fastest option based on your comfort and budget.

Always check the weather, book in advance, and carry the right things. Whether you go by foot or fly in a chopper, the journey is worth it. Kedarnath is not just a destination, it’s a spiritual experience you’ll never forget.

FAQs

1. What is the nearest airport to Kedarnath?
   The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 240 km from Kedarnath.
   
2. Can I drive directly to Kedarnath?
   No, vehicles can go only up to Gaurikund; from there, you must trek or take a pony or helicopter.
   
3. Is there a train station near Kedarnath?
   The closest major railway station is Haridwar, from where you can travel by road.
   
4. Are helicopter services available to Kedarnath?
   Yes, helicopters operate from nearby helipads like Phata and Guptkashi during the yatra season.
   

What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?
The best time is between May and June, and September to October, when the weather is pleasant and roads are open.