Kedarnath Yatra Travel Tips

Kedarnath is a revered Hindu pilgrimage destination located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The journey to Kedarnath is not only a religious experience but also a scenic one, as it involves trekking through the Himalayas. Here are some travel tips for those planning a Kedarnath yatra:

Plan your trip in advance: Kedarnath yatra requires planning and preparation. Decide on the time of the year you want to travel, book your accommodation, and make transportation arrangements.
Pack appropriately: The trek to Kedarnath involves walking through rough terrain, so pack comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing. It is also essential to carry rain gear, a torch, and necessary medications.
Stay hydrated: It is crucial to stay hydrated during the trek, so carry enough water or water bottles with you. You can also purchase water bottles on the way.
Acclimatize yourself: Kedarnath is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters, so acclimatize yourself to the high altitude. Stay hydrated, eat light meals, and take breaks if you feel breathless or dizzy.
Hire a local guide: A local guide can help you navigate the trek and provide you with valuable information about the region's history and culture.
Respect the environment and local customs: Kedarnath is a sacred place, and it is essential to respect the environment and local customs. Do not litter or pollute the environment and follow the local customs and traditions.
Be prepared for emergencies: In case of an emergency, contact the local authorities or medical services. Carry a first aid kit and emergency supplies like warm blankets, food, and water.

By following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable Kedarnath yatra.

Kedarnath Opening Dates 2023

The opening dates for Kedarnath yatra in 2023 have not been officially announced yet. However, generally, the Kedarnath temple opens for pilgrims in the last week of April or the first week of May, depending on the auspicious dates determined by the priests.

It is important to note that the opening dates are subject to weather conditions and may change at the discretion of the authorities. Therefore, it is recommended to keep an eye on official announcements and news updates regarding the opening dates before planning your yatra.

Once the opening dates are announced, you can plan your trip accordingly and make the necessary travel arrangements. It is advisable to book your accommodation and transportation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Kedarnath Registration

For the Kedarnath Yatra, it is mandatory to register online before embarking on the trek. Here are the steps to register for the Kedarnath Yatra:

Visit the official website of the Uttarakhand government's Char Dham Devasthanam Management Board (https://badrinath-kedarnath.gov.in/Auth/LoginRegister/Login_Pilgrim.aspx).
Click on the "Registration" tab and select "Kedarnath Yatra Registration."
Fill in the necessary details, including your personal information, ID proof details, and travel details.
Upload a scanned copy of your ID proof and a recent passport-sized photograph.
Pay the registration fee online.
Once the registration process is complete, you will receive a confirmation message with your registration ID.
Carry a printout of your registration ID and the original ID proof during the trek, as you will need to show them at the checkpoints.

It is important to note that the registration is valid for a single person, and the registration fee is non-refundable. Additionally, it is advisable to check the weather conditions and plan your trip accordingly, and to carry essential supplies and warm clothing during the trek.

Do and Don'ts during Kedarnath Yatra

Here are some essential do's and don'ts to keep in mind during the Kedarnath Yatra:

Do's:

Carry warm clothes, comfortable footwear, and a raincoat or umbrella.
Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the journey.
Acclimatize yourself to the altitude by taking regular breaks and avoiding strenuous activities.
Respect the local culture and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting temples and holy places.
Carry necessary medications and a first-aid kit, along with your personal ID proof and registration details.
Follow the designated route and stay on the marked trail.
Be courteous to fellow pilgrims and locals, and maintain cleanliness throughout the journey.

Don'ts:

Do not litter the trail or throw waste in the river. Carry your trash with you and dispose of it properly.
Do not consume alcohol or drugs during the journey, as it can be harmful to your health.
Do not trek alone, always trek in groups, and avoid taking shortcuts or unmarked trails.
Do not carry firearms or any kind of weapons during the journey.
Do not take photographs or videos inside the temple or any other holy place without permission.
Do not disturb the wildlife or damage the natural surroundings.

How to Reach Kedarnath

Here are the different ways to reach Kedarnath:

By Air: The nearest airport to Kedarnath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 239 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Kedarnath.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Haridwar, which is around 223 km away. From Haridwar, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Kedarnath.

By Road: Kedarnath is well connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand and neighboring states. Regular bus services operate from cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Delhi. You can also hire a taxi or drive on your own.

By Trek: Kedarnath can only be reached on foot by a trek that starts from Gaurikund, which is around 16 km away. The trek is well marked and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

Helicopter Option for Kedarnath Yatra

Helicopter services are available for the Kedarnath Yatra, which provides a convenient and quick way to reach the temple. The helicopter service for Kedarnath Yatra operates from Phata helipad, which is located about 25 km from Kedarnath. Here are some details about the helicopter option for Kedarnath Yatra:

Booking: Helicopter tickets for the Kedarnath Yatra can be booked online through various authorized travel agents and helicopter service providers. It is advisable to book in advance, as tickets are limited, and demand is high during peak season.

Cost: The cost of the helicopter ticket for the Kedarnath Yatra varies depending on the service provider, season, and availability. The average cost for a one-way ticket is between INR 7,000 to INR 10,000.

Duration: The helicopter ride from Phata helipad to Kedarnath takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on the weather conditions.

Baggage: Helicopter services have baggage restrictions, and passengers are allowed to carry only 5-7 kg of luggage per person.

Weather: The helicopter services for Kedarnath Yatra operate based on the weather conditions, and services may be cancelled or delayed in case of bad weather. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before booking the helicopter service.

Best Time to Visit Kedarnath

The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and favorable for trekking.

During the summer months of May and June, the weather in Kedarnath is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 18°C. This is the ideal time to go on the Kedarnath trek and visit the temple.

In September and November, after the monsoon season, the weather is also favorable, with clear skies and beautiful views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains. The temperature during this time ranges from 5°C to 15°C, making it a great time for trekking.

However, it is important to note that the Kedarnath temple is closed during the winter months of December to April, as heavy snowfall blocks the trekking route.

It is also important to check the weather conditions and plan your trip accordingly. Additionally, it is advisable to carry essential supplies and warm clothing during the trek.

Kedarnath Route Map

The Kedarnath trek is a popular pilgrimage trek in Uttarakhand, India. Here is a brief route map for the Kedarnath trek:
Start the trek from Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the Kedarnath trek.
From Gaurikund, walk 16 km to reach Kedarnath. The trek involves steep ascents and descents, and it takes around 6 to 8 hours to complete.
On the way to Kedarnath, you will pass through picturesque villages like Rambara, where you can rest and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains.
After crossing the Bhairav Ghati, you will reach Kedarnath temple, which is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters.
After visiting the temple, you can explore the nearby areas like the Gandhi Sarovar and Vasuki Tal.
On the way back, you can take the same route or opt for the alternate route via the Triyuginarayan temple.

It is advisable to carry essential supplies and warm clothing during the trek, and to hire a local guide to help you navigate the route and provide you with valuable information about the region's history and culture. Additionally, it is important to check the weather conditions and plan your trip accordingly.