How to Travel to Kedarnath Dham? | Best time to visit Kedarnath Dham

 How to Travel to Kedarnath Dham?

Kedarnath Dham in Uttarakhand 

Kedarnath Dham is a highly revered Hindu pilgrimage destination located in the state of Uttarakhand in India. Every year, thousands of devotees visit this holy site to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. However, traveling to Kedarnath Dham can be a daunting task, especially for first-time visitors. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to travel to Kedarnath Dham.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. How to Reach Kedarnath Dham
3. By Air
4. By Rail
5. By Road
6. By Helicopter
7. Kedarnath Dham Trek
8. Accommodation in Kedarnath Dham
9. What to Carry While Traveling to Kedarnath Dham
10. Things to Do in Kedarnath Dham
11. Places to Visit Near Kedarnath Dham
12. Safety Tips for Travelers
13. Conclusion
14. FAQs

Best time to visit Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath Dham is open to visitors from April to November every year. The best time to visit Kedarnath Dham is from May to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. It is advisable to avoid visiting Kedarnath Dham during the monsoon season (July to August) as the region receives heavy rainfall, which can lead to landslides and roadblocks.

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How to Reach Kedarnath Dham?

Kedarnath Dham is located in the Garhwal Himalayan range, and reaching the holy site can be a challenging task. However, with the right planning and preparation, traveling to Kedarnath Dham can be an enriching experience. Here are the different ways to reach Kedarnath Dham:

By Air

The nearest airport to Kedarnath Dham is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 239 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kedarnath Dham.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to Kedarnath Dham is in Rishikesh, which is about 216 kilometers away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kedarnath Dham.

By Road

Kedarnath Dham is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand, including Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from these cities to reach Kedarnath Dham. The last motorable road to Kedarnath Dham is in Sonprayag, and from there, you have to trek for 16 kilometers to reach the holy site.

By Helicopter

If you want to avoid the long trek to Kedarnath Dham, you can take a helicopter from Phata, Guptkashi, or Sirsi to Kedarnath Dham. The helicopter ride takes about 10-15 minutes and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

Kedarnath Dham trek

The Kedarnath Dham trek is a popular pilgrimage trek in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The trek starts from Sonprayag, which is the last motorable road to Kedarnath Dham. From there, visitors have to trek for 16 kilometers to reach the holy site.

The trek is considered to be moderately difficult and can take up to 6-8 hours to complete. It is recommended to start the trek early in the morning to avoid trekking during the hottest part of the day.

The trek route passes through scenic landscapes of the Himalayas and offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks. Along the way, visitors can take breaks at various stops and enjoy refreshments and snacks at small shops.

During the trek, visitors will come across several religious sites, such as Gaurikund, which is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati meditated to win the heart of Lord Shiva. Visitors can also visit the Bhairavnath Temple, which is located at a height of 3,041 meters above sea level and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.

The trek route is well-marked and has several resting places and shelters for visitors to rest and spend the night. However, visitors should be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions and carry warm clothes, rain gear, and sturdy trekking shoes.

the Kedarnath Dham trek is an enriching experience for visitors who want to connect with nature and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. It requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance but is an unforgettable journey that leaves visitors with memories that last a lifetime.

Accommodation in Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath Dham is a popular pilgrimage site located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Accommodation options in Kedarnath Dham are limited due to its remote location and high altitude.

There are several options for accommodation in Kedarnath Dham, ranging from guest houses to tents. Some of the popular guest houses in the area include Kedar Palace, Kedarnath Cottage, and Kedar Camps. These guest houses offer basic amenities such as beds, blankets, and hot water for bathing.

Tents are also a popular option for accommodation in Kedarnath Dham. Several tour operators and travel agencies offer tent accommodation in the area. These tents are equipped with basic amenities such as sleeping bags, pillows, and blankets. However, it is important to note that staying in a tent may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who are not used to camping or high-altitude conditions.

It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak pilgrimage season, which usually falls between May and June. It is also important to note that accommodation options in Kedarnath Dham may be limited during the winter months due to heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions.

What to Carry While Traveling to Kedarnath Dham

When traveling to Kedarnath Dham, it is important to pack appropriately for the high altitude and remote location.

Warm Clothing: Kedarnath Dham is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters, and the weather can be unpredictable. It is important to pack warm clothing, including jackets, sweaters, gloves, and hats.

Comfortable Footwear: The terrain in Kedarnath Dham can be uneven, rocky, and slippery. It is important to pack comfortable and sturdy shoes or trekking boots that provide good traction.

Medications: It is advisable to carry any necessary medications, especially those for altitude sickness, headaches, and stomach problems. It is also recommended to carry a first aid kit with basic medical supplies.

Sunscreen and Sunglasses: The high altitude in Kedarnath Dham means that the sun's rays are stronger, and there is a higher risk of sunburn. It is important to carry sunscreen with a high SPF and sunglasses to protect the eyes.

Water Bottle: It is important to stay hydrated, especially at high altitudes. Carry a reusable water bottle and fill it up at the many water points on the trek to Kedarnath Dham.

Power Bank and Charger: Electricity supply in Kedarnath Dham is limited, and it is advisable to carry a power bank and charger to ensure that electronic devices stay charged.

Cash: There are limited ATM and card payment facilities in Kedarnath Dham, so it is advisable to carry enough cash for the entire trip.

Remember to pack light as you will be trekking to Kedarnath Dham. Carry only the essentials and avoid overpacking.

Things to Do in Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath Dham is a holy pilgrimage site located in the state of Uttarakhand in India. It is one of the Char Dham Yatra destinations in India and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year. Here are some things to do in Kedarnath Dham:

Visit the Kedarnath Temple: The main attraction of Kedarnath Dham is the Kedarnath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era.

Trek to Kedarnath: The trek to Kedarnath is one of the most popular things to do in Kedarnath Dham. The trek is a steep climb of about 14 km from Gaurikund, which is the starting point of the trek. The trek offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Attend the evening aarti: The evening aarti at the Kedarnath Temple is a must-attend event. The aarti is performed every evening and is a beautiful sight to behold. The temple is lit up with diyas and the aarti is accompanied by the sound of bells and chanting of mantras.

Visit Shankaracharya Samadhi: Shankaracharya Samadhi is located near the Kedarnath Temple and is the final resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, who is one of the most revered Hindu saints. The samadhi is a small cave-like structure and is surrounded by beautiful mountains.

Visit Bhairavnath Temple: The Bhairavnath Temple is located near the Kedarnath Temple and is dedicated to Bhairav, who is considered to be the protector of the Kedarnath Temple.

Take a dip in the hot springs: There are natural hot springs located near the Kedarnath Temple, which are believed to have medicinal properties. Taking a dip in the hot springs is a popular activity among pilgrims.

Enjoy the scenic beauty: Kedarnath Dham is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys. Taking a stroll around the town and enjoying the scenic beauty is a great way to relax and rejuvenate.

Places to Visit Near Kedarnath Dham

Places to Visit Near Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath Dham is a holy pilgrimage site located in the state of Uttarakhand in India. It is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Here are some places to visit near Kedarnath Dham:

Badrinath Temple: Badrinath Temple is located about 160 km from Kedarnath Dham and is one of the Char Dham Yatra destinations in India.

Hemkund Sahib: Hemkund Sahib is a Sikh pilgrimage site located about 100 km from Kedarnath Dham.

Valley of Flowers: Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 90 km from Kedarnath Dham. It is a beautiful valley filled with colorful flowers and is a great destination for nature lovers.

Tungnath Temple: Tungnath Temple is located about 60 km from Kedarnath Dham and is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world. The temple is located at an altitude of 3,680 meters above sea level and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Deoria Tal: Deoria Tal is a beautiful lake located about 60 km from Kedarnath Dham. It is surrounded by beautiful forests and is a popular destination for trekking and camping.

Guptkashi: Guptkashi is a town located about 25 km from Kedarnath Dham. It is a popular destination for pilgrims and is home to several ancient temples.

Sonprayag: Sonprayag is a small town located about 20 km from Kedarnath Dham. It is located on the banks of the Mandakini River and is a popular destination for trekking and camping.

Safety Tips for Travelers in Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath Dham is a popular pilgrimage destination in India, located in the state of Uttarakhand. If you are planning to visit Kedarnath Dham, it is important to keep the following safety tips in mind:

Check the weather conditions before leaving: Kedarnath Dham is situated at a high altitude, and weather conditions can change quickly. Be sure to check the weather forecast before leaving, and be prepared for any unexpected changes.

Carry warm clothing: Due to its high altitude, Kedarnath Dham can get quite cold, especially during the night. Be sure to carry warm clothing, including jackets, gloves, and hats.

Use sturdy footwear: The terrain in Kedarnath Dham can be uneven and rocky, so it is important to wear sturdy footwear with good grip to avoid slipping or injuring yourself.

Follow the instructions of local authorities: Kedarnath Dham is located in a sensitive region, and local authorities may issue certain guidelines for the safety of visitors. Follow their instructions and do not take unnecessary risks.

Carry a first aid kit: It is always a good idea to carry a basic first aid kit with you, including items like bandages, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers.

Be aware of your surroundings: While Kedarnath Dham is generally a safe place, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for any potential dangers. By keeping these safety tips in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Kedarnath Dham.

Conclusion in Kedarnath Dham

However, due to its high altitude and sensitive location, it is important to take certain safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. 

By checking the weather conditions, carrying warm clothing and a first aid kit, staying hydrated, using sturdy footwear, following the instructions of local authorities, being aware of your surroundings, and taking other necessary safety measures, you can have a wonderful and memorable experience in Kedarnath Dham.

FAQs in Kedarnath Dham

What is Kedarnath Dham?

Kedarnath Dham is a sacred pilgrimage site located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the holiest places for Hindus.

When is the best time to visit Kedarnath Dham?

The best time to visit Kedarnath Dham is from May to June and from September to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant.

How to reach Kedarnath Dham?

The nearest airport to Kedarnath Dham is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 240 km away. The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, which is about 220 km away. From there, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Kedarnath Dham.

What are the accommodation options in Kedarnath Dham?

There are several accommodation options in Kedarnath Dham, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some of the popular options include GMVN Tourist Rest House, Kedar Palace, and Kedar Camp Resorts.

Are there any medical facilities in Kedarnath Dham?

Yes, there is a primary health center in Kedarnath Dham that provides basic medical facilities. However, in case of emergencies, it is advisable to seek medical help in nearby cities like Guptkashi or Rudraprayag.

Kedarnath Dham Map