Journey from Haridwar To Kedarnath Distance: Nestled in the majestic Himalayas, the sacred pilgrimage from Haridwar to Kedarnath unfolds as a journey of profound spirituality and natural splendor. Beginning in the ancient city of Haridwar, where the divine grace of the Ganges River flows, the path winds through breathtaking valleys and rugged terrain, leading to the revered Kedarnath Temple. This pilgrimage is not merely a physical endeavor but a spiritual odyssey, where each step resonates with the chants of devotees and the whispers of ancient legends. Kedarnath, with its towering peaks and serene surroundings, stands as a testament to unwavering faith and devotion, drawing pilgrims from far and wide to experience its mystical aura and seek blessings from the divine.
Why travel from Haridwar To Kedarnath Distance?
Kedarnath, nestled at the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, stands as a vital Hindu pilgrimage site where the Ganges exits the glaciers and enters the northern plains. This ancient town, revered as one of the Char Dhams of Hinduism, exudes divine vibes and attracts not only spiritual seekers but also pro trekkers, thanks to its breathtaking views of the Himalayas and its snow-clad beauty that lasts almost all year round.
Given the challenging nature of this journey, planning a comfortable yet memorable drive is essential. With Savaari’s Haridwar to Kedarnath tour packages, you can customize your trip itinerary to suit your travel needs, budget, and schedule. Let us help you discover the best routes to travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath by car, ensuring a journey that is both spiritually enriching and logistically smooth.
Distance and Route from Haridwar to Kedarnath
The journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath spans approximately 239 kilometers and involves both road travel and trekking. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the route:
Haridwar to Rishikesh (Distance: 20 km)
The journey begins with a 20-kilometer stretch from Haridwar to Rishikesh, which can be covered by taxi, bus, or private vehicle. Rishikesh is renowned for its spiritual ambiance and adventure activities, serving as an ideal starting point.
Rishikesh to Rudraprayag (Distance: 140 km)
Next, from Rishikesh, travel 140 kilometers to Rudraprayag, passing through small towns like Devprayag and Srinagar. This scenic route takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions.
Rudraprayag to Gaurikund (Distance: 74 km)
The drive from Rudraprayag to Gaurikund covers 74 kilometers and takes about 3 to 4 hours. Gaurikund, named after Goddess Parvati (also known as Gauri), serves as the base camp for the trek to Kedarnath and holds significant spiritual importance for pilgrims.
Gaurikund to Kedarnath (Distance: 19 km Trek)
The final leg of the journey is a challenging 19-kilometer trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, requiring good physical fitness. Along the way, there are several rest points, including Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, and Linchauli. For those who may find the trek arduous, ponies and palanquins are available.
Embarking on this journey, whether for spiritual fulfillment or the breathtaking views, promises an experience of a lifetime, blending adventure with deep religious significance.
How to Reach Kedarnath from Haridwar
By Road for Haridwar To Kedarnath Distance
- Bus: From Sonprayag, you can take a shared jeep to Gaurikund, making the journey both affordable and convenient.
- Taxi: Taxis are available for hire from Haridwar to Gaurikund, offering a more direct and comfortable option, though it tends to be more expensive compared to bus travel.
- Self-Drive: For those who prefer the independence of driving, ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped for the mountainous terrain, as the roads can be challenging.
By Rail for Haridwar To Kedarnath Distance
The closest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh Railway Station. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gaurikund, facilitating an easy transition from rail to road.
By Air for Haridwar To Kedarnath Distance
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 35 kilometers from Haridwar. From the airport, taxis are available to take you directly to Gaurikund, providing a swift and convenient option for air travelers.
Best Time To Visit
Though the doors to this divine destination are always open, it’s crucial to consider nature’s whims when planning your trip. Nestled near the Himalayan glaciers, Kedarnath experiences predominantly freezing weather.
For pro trekkers and mountaineers ready to brave the cold, Kedarnath can be visited almost year-round, barring the peak snowfall period. However, for most travelers, the ideal time to visit is during the summer months, from March to June, or in the autumn, from September to November. These seasons offer milder weather, making the journey more pleasant and accessible while allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking beauty and spiritual ambiance of this sacred site.
Notable sights and monuments you’ll encounter along this route include
Pawan Dham, Haridwar
- A famous and sacred temple of Haridwar, Pawan Dham sits gracefully on the banks of the Ganges. Renowned as a prominent pilgrim site, it attracts visitors seeking spiritual solace and divine blessings.
Shantikunj Gayatri Parivar, Motichure
- A prominent ashram in the region, Shantikunj Gayatri Parivar hosts spiritual camps, discourses, and educational programs in a tranquil setting. It’s a serene place for those looking to deepen their spiritual practice and knowledge.
Rajaji Tiger Reserve, Motichur Gate
- An alternative access point to the Rajaji National Park, this gate is ideal for a quick drive-through or a jungle trek. It offers a chance to experience the park’s diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
Valley View Point, Srinagar
- Located on the highway, this viewing point overlooks the mountains and valleys. Best visited during spring when the valley is covered with fresh foliage and wildflowers, it’s perfect for a day picnic, photo ops, and enjoying the scenic beauty.
Rudraprayag View Point, Rudraprayag
- Situated on the highway bridge over the Rudraprayag River, this viewing point offers stunning views of the confluence of the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers. It’s an excellent spot for sunrise and sunset views and day trips.
Kamla Waterfall, Chopta-Bhiri Road
- A hidden gem along the highway, Kamla Waterfall is nestled inside pine forests and surrounded by wooded areas. It’s an ideal spot for day treks, photo ops, and picnics, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
Places to eat along this route !!
Ann Jal Restaurant, Motichur
- A casual highway-side eatery, Ann Jal Restaurant specializes in standard North Indian vegetarian meals. It’s a great spot for families looking for a quick and satisfying meal during their journey.
Nautiyal’s Deli Kitchen Restaurant & Caterers, Raiwala
- A prominent local eatery, Nautiyal’s Deli Kitchen serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals in a casual setting with outdoor seating. It’s perfect for families and groups seeking a relaxed dining experience.
Little Buddha Café, Rishikesh
- This cozy riverside restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and café-style dishes, making it ideal for breakfast and quick meals. The kid-friendly environment adds to its charm for families.
Eating Point, Devprayag
- A local fast-food joint, Eating Point provides quick meals, small bites, and beverages. It’s an excellent choice for quick stops and is family-friendly.
Apna Dhaba, Rudraprayag
- Apna Dhaba is a standard highway-side eatery offering meal plates and traditional dhaba-style food. It’s well-suited for big groups and families looking for a hearty meal.
BRN Resort, Sersi
- Located within a local resort, the BRN Resort restaurant serves meals and snacks. It’s a great choice for families and large groups, offering spectacular mountain views to complement the dining experience.
Travel Tips for the kedarnath Journey !!
Physical Fitness
- The trek to Kedarnath is demanding, so it’s advisable to start preparing physically a few weeks before your trip. Regular cardio exercises, strength training, and flexibility workouts can help build the stamina needed for the trek.
Packing Essentials
- Make sure to pack warm clothes, comfortable trekking shoes, rain gear, and essential medicines. The weather can be unpredictable, so it is essential to be prepared for all conditions.
Altitude Sickness
- Be mindful of altitude sickness symptoms, including headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Take necessary precautions, including acclimatizing properly and staying hydrated.
Accommodation
- Gaurikund and Kedarnath offer a range of accommodation options, from basic lodges to more comfortable hotels. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak season, to ensure a place to stay.
Michel Harm
