Delhi to Kedarnath Distance by Road: A Complete Travel Guide

Kedarnath, one of the holiest shrines in India, attracts millions of pilgrims and adventure seekers each year. Located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, it stands at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) in the Kedarnath range of the Himalayas. The journey to Kedarnath, with its mystical beauty and spiritual significance, is an unforgettable experience for those who wish to pay their respects at the Kedarnath Temple, one of the Char Dham Yatra sites.

While Kedarnath is famous for its temple, reaching the shrine can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. If you’re planning to travel from Delhi to Kedarnath by road, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential details you need, including the distance, route, best time to visit, travel tips, and more.

Distance and Duration: Delhi to Kedarnath

The distance between Delhi and Kedarnath by road is approximately 450-500 km, depending on the route you take. The journey can take anywhere from 12 to 15 hours, depending on road conditions, weather, and stops along the way. However, it is important to note that Kedarnath is not directly accessible by road, as the temple is located in a remote area with no direct road access to the shrine itself.

To reach Kedarnath, you will have to travel to Gaurikund, the base point from where the trek to the temple begins. Gaurikund is about 16 km away from Kedarnath, and from there, pilgrims must either trek or take a pony, palanquin, or helicopter service to reach the temple.

Key Routes to Travel from Delhi to Kedarnath

There are two main routes that travelers typically take to reach Kedarnath from Delhi:

1. Via Haridwar and Rishikesh (NH 58 and NH 94)

• Distance: Approximately 450 km (Delhi to Haridwar) and then 210 km (Haridwar to Gaurikund)
• Duration: Around 12-14 hours for the entire road trip (Delhi to Gaurikund)

This is the most common and accessible route for travelers from Delhi. Here’s a breakdown of the journey:

• Delhi to Haridwar (Approx. 6-7 hours): Begin your journey from Delhi early in the morning. You will travel along the Delhi-Haridwar Highway (NH 58), passing through cities like Roorkee. Haridwar is a holy city, known for the Ganga Aarti and its temples.
• Haridwar to Rishikesh (Approx. 1 hour): After visiting Haridwar, you will head to Rishikesh, which is located around 25 km from Haridwar. Rishikesh is the yoga capital of the world and offers a serene environment for pilgrims and travelers.
• Rishikesh to Gaurikund (Approx. 7-8 hours): After Rishikesh, continue your journey towards Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the Kedarnath trek. The road to Gaurikund, while scenic, can be a bit challenging, especially in the monsoon season, due to the winding hill roads. The route will take you through picturesque places like Devprayag, Srinagar, and Rudraprayag.

2. Via Dehradun and Mussoorie (NH 7 and NH 94)

• Distance: Approximately 270 km (Delhi to Dehradun) and 250 km (Dehradun to Gaurikund)
• Duration: Around 13-14 hours for the entire road trip (Delhi to Gaurikund)

This alternative route takes you via Dehradun and Mussoorie, offering a scenic view of the Himalayan foothills. The journey is slightly longer but more picturesque, passing through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Uttarakhand.

• Delhi to Dehradun (Approx. 5-6 hours): This part of the journey takes you along NH 7, passing through towns like Meerut and Roorkee.
• Dehradun to Mussoorie (Approx. 1 hour): A brief stop in Mussoorie can give you a chance to rest and enjoy the cool mountain breeze before continuing on your journey.
• Mussoorie to Gaurikund (Approx. 7-8 hours): From Mussoorie, the road continues towards Kempty Falls, Dhanolti, and Chamba before reaching Gaurikund.

Gaurikund to Kedarnath: The Final Leg

Once you reach Gaurikund, the final leg of the journey to Kedarnath involves a 16 km trek up to the Kedarnath Temple. The trek, while challenging, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Kedarnath range. You can choose to either walk, take a pony, or hire a palanquin for the uphill journey. The trek usually takes 6-8 hours depending on your pace.

Alternatively, helicopter services are available from Phata, a small village near Gaurikund, to Kedarnath, which reduces the travel time significantly and is a good option for those with limited time or physical constraints.

Best Time to Visit Kedarnath

The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to October, which is the summer and early autumn period. During these months, the weather is relatively pleasant, with clear skies and mild temperatures. The temple remains closed during the winter months (November to April) due to heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions in the region.

• Summer (May to June): The weather is ideal for trekking and outdoor activities, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 20°C.
• Monsoon (July to September): This period is marked by heavy rainfall, making the roads slippery and the trek more dangerous due to the risk of landslides. It’s best to avoid visiting during the monsoon season.
• Autumn (September to October): The weather is still pleasant, and the landscape is lush after the monsoon rains. The skies are clear, offering stunning views of the snow-capped mountains.

Travel Tips for Delhi to Kedarnath

1. Start Early: Begin your journey early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic and make the most of the daylight hours.
2. Pack Wisely: Carry warm clothes, sturdy shoes for trekking, a raincoat, and a first aid kit. You will be traveling in the hills, so it’s crucial to be prepared for unpredictable weather.
3. Check Road Conditions: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and road conditions, especially during the monsoon season. Some parts of the road may be closed due to landslides.
4. Stay Hydrated and Carry Snacks: The road to Kedarnath can be long and tiring. Carry sufficient water, snacks, and energy drinks to keep yourself hydrated and energized.
5. Book Accommodation in Advance: Gaurikund and nearby areas have several guesthouses and lodges. Book your accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Conclusion

The journey from Delhi to Kedarnath is both challenging and rewarding. Though it requires careful planning and preparation, it offers stunning views of the Himalayas, an opportunity to witness the spiritual significance of the Kedarnath Temple, and the chance to explore one of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites. Whether you’re traveling by road or trekking, the experience is bound to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

By following the right travel routes, tips, and safety precautions, you can make your trip to Kedarnath smooth and memorable.

FAQs: Delhi to Kedarnath Distance by Road What is the distance between Delhi and Kedarnath? The road distance is approximately 450-500 km, depending on the route. How long does it take to travel from Delhi to Kedarnath by road? The journey typically takes 12-15 hours depending on the route and road conditions. What is the best route from Delhi to Kedarnath? The most common route is Delhi → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Gaurikund (via NH 58), which takes around 12-14 hours. Can I drive directly to Kedarnath? No, Kedarnath is not directly accessible by road. You need to drive to Gaurikund and then trek or take a pony to the temple. What is the best time to visit Kedarnath? The best time is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and the temple is open.