Kedarnath at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Uttarakhand |
| Famous For | Shiva Temple, Trekking, Pilgrimage |
| Best Time to Visit | May to June, September to October |
| Ideal Duration | 3-4 days minimum |
| Language | Hindi, Garhwali |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport (DED), 230km from Kedarnath |
| Nearest Railway | Haridwar (HW) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Best For | pilgrims and nature and adventure seekers |
Kedarnath: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Kedarnath is a town located in the Garhwal Himalayan range in Uttarakhand, India. It is renowned for the Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Kedarnath offers stunning mountain scenery and a deeply spiritual experience. However, be prepared for a challenging trek, high altitude, and potential for unpredictable weather. The 2013 floods caused significant damage, and while rebuilt, infrastructure remains basic.
Kedarnath: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath Temple | 04:00-21:00 daily (check timings as they vary) | Free | Early morning for a peaceful d | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Bhairav Temple | Sunrise to Sunset | Free | After visiting Kedarnath Templ | Modest attire |
| Shankaracharya Samadhi | 06:00-20:00 | Free | Any time of day. | Modest attire |
| Gaurikund Temple | 06:00-20:00 | Free | Before or after the Kedarnath | Modest attire |
How to Reach Kedarnath: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Kedarnath: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Haridwar (HW) — Major railway station with frequent trains from Delhi and other cities. Located about 220km from Gaurikund.
- From Delhi (to Haridwar): 4-6 hours (₹500-2000)
- From Mumbai (to Haridwar): 24-30 hours (₹1500-5000)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Kedarnath: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (DED), 230km from Kedarnath
- Delhi: 1 hour (₹3000-7000)
- Mumbai: 2.5 hours (₹6000-12000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹4000-6000
- Bus: ₹500-800 (to Rishikesh, then another bus to Gaurikund)
directions_bus Bus to Kedarnath: Services & Timings
- From Delhi (to Rishikesh): 8-10 hours (₹800-1500)
- From Rishikesh (to Gaurikund): 8-10 hours (₹500-800)
Trains more comfortable for long journeys. Buses can be crowded and bumpy.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: May to June, September to October
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: May to June | 5-18 degrees C | This is the peak pilgrimage season with the most comfortable trekking conditions | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: September to October | 2-15 degrees C | Fewer crowds compared to May-June, offering a more peaceful pilgrimage experienc | Some facilities may start closing d |
| Avoid: November to April | -5 to 8 degrees C | The temple is closed during these months due to harsh winter conditions. Trekkin | N/A - Kedarnath is completely inacc |
Peak season note: Expect large crowds and higher prices for accommodation and transport. Booking accommodation and helicopter services well in advance is essential.
2-Day Kedarnath Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Temples & Heritage
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🙏 Kedarnath Temple
The Kedarnath Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, believed to be built by Adi Shankaracharya. It is one of the Ch…
💡 Tip: Attend the morning aarti (prayer ceremony) for a special experience. It starts very early, so plan a
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🙏 Bhairav Temple
Dedicated to Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, this temple is located a short distance from the Kedarnath Temple.…
💡 Tip: The views from the top are especially beautiful at sunset.
📍 Gandhi Sarovar (Chorabari Tal)
A glacial lake, also known as Chorabari Tal, where some of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed. It offers serene views of the sur…
💡 Tip: Carry water and snacks as there are no shops along the way.
Day 2 — More to Explore
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
📍 Vasuki Tal
A high-altitude lake surrounded by towering peaks. The trek is challenging but rewarding with stunning views.…
💡 Hire a local guide for the trek as the trail can be confusing.
Top Places to Visit in Kedarnath: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 🙏 Kedarnath Temple | Free | 2-3 hours | 04:00-21:00 daily (check timings as they vary) |
| 2 | 🙏 Bhairav Temple | Free | 1 hour | Sunrise to Sunset |
| 3 | 📍 Gandhi Sarovar (Chorabari Tal) | Free | 3-4 hours (round trip) | Sunrise to Sunset |
| 4 | 📍 Vasuki Tal | Free | 5-6 hours (round trip) | Sunrise to Sunset |
| 5 | 📍 Shankaracharya Samadhi | Free | 30 minutes | 06:00-20:00 |
| 6 | 🙏 Gaurikund Temple | Free | 1 hour | 06:00-20:00 |
| 7 | 📍 Sonprayag | Free | 30 minutes | Open all day |
🙏 1. Kedarnath Temple
The Kedarnath Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, believed to be built by Adi Shankaracharya. It is one of the Char Dham and Panch Kedar pilgrimage sites.
Honest take: Worth the challenging trek for devout Hindus. Others may find the journey strenuous, but the views are undeniably rewarding.
📍 Getting there: 16 km trek from Gaurikund. Pony and palanquin services are available.
🙏 2. Bhairav Temple
Dedicated to Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, this temple is located a short distance from the Kedarnath Temple.
Honest take: Worth visiting for the views and its religious significance.
📍 Getting there: A short walk from Kedarnath Temple.
📍 3. Gandhi Sarovar (Chorabari Tal)
A glacial lake, also known as Chorabari Tal, where some of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed. It offers serene views of the surrounding mountains.
Honest take: A peaceful escape from the crowds of Kedarnath, suitable for those who enjoy short hikes.
📍 Getting there: Approx. 3 km trek from Kedarnath Temple.
Food & Restaurants in Kedarnath: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Aloo Puri, Rajma Chawal, Thukpa, Momos, Kheer
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Thalis | ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two) | Kedarnath |
| Aloo Paratha | ₹ (₹300-500 for two) | Gaurikund |
| Dal Makhani | ₹₹ (₹500-700 for two) | Kedarnath |
🛺 Street Food: Kedarnath Temple Area — Tea, Maggi, biscuits, snacks (₹50-150 per person)
Kedarnath Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹500-1500/night | ₹2000-4000/night | N/A |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Day Trips from Kedarnath: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Badrinath | 230 km | ~4 hrs | Char Dham, Vishnu Temple, Himalayas |
| Valley of Flowers | 270 km | ~6 hrs | — |
| Auli | 280 km | ~6 hrs | Skiing, Himalayas, Winter Sports |
Hotels in Kedarnath: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
GMVN Yatra Niwas Kedarnath
₹500-1500/night
Near Kedarnath Temple
Hotel Bikaner House
₹800-2000/night
Kedarnath
🏨 Mid-Range
Kedar Camp
₹2000-4000/night
Kedarnath
Chardham Camp Kedarnath
₹2500-4500/night
Kedarnath
⭐ Luxury
No Luxury Options Available in Kedarnath
N/A
N/A
The Rudraprayag Resort (near Guptkashi)
₹8000+/night
Guptkashi (45km from Gaurikund)
Kedarnath Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Pony/Palanquin overcharging: Negotiate the price firmly before starting the ride. Confirm the agreed-upon rate in writing if possible.
- ✓ Fake sadhus: Be wary of individuals posing as holy men and asking for money. Donate only to recognized charities.
- ✓ Wear warm and comfortable clothing in layers. Carry a waterproof jacket and sturdy trekking shoes. Dress respectfully when visiting the temple.
- ✓ Limited availability. Carry sufficient cash.
- ✓ Airtel and Jio have decent coverage. Purchase a local SIM card at the airport or in Rishikesh.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Kedarnath
How many days are enough for Kedarnath?
3-4 days minimum is ideal for Kedarnath. Day 1 covers Kedarnath Temple and Bhairav Temple, while Day 2 explores Vasuki Tal.
What is Kedarnath famous for?
Kedarnath is famous for Shiva Temple, Trekking, Pilgrimage.
What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?
The best time to visit Kedarnath is May to June, September to October. Pleasant and relatively dry weather. Clear skies offer excellent views of the surrounding mountains.
Is Kedarnath worth visiting?
Yes, Kedarnath is worth visiting for Shiva Temple, Trekking, Pilgrimage. It is especially recommended for pilgrims and nature and adventure seekers and can be combined with a visit to Badrinath.
What is the budget for a trip to Kedarnath?
A 2-day trip to Kedarnath costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹500-1500/night per night.
What are the timings of Kedarnath Temple?
Kedarnath Temple is open 04:00-21:00 daily (check timings as they vary). Best time to visit: Early morning for a peaceful darshan and to avoid crowds..
What is the entry fee for Kedarnath Temple?
Entry fee at Kedarnath Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Kedarnath Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Kedarnath Temple.
Is photography allowed at Kedarnath Temple?
Photography is not allowed inside at Kedarnath Temple.
What are the timings of Bhairav Temple?
Bhairav Temple is open Sunrise to Sunset. Best time to visit: After visiting Kedarnath Temple..
What is the entry fee for Bhairav Temple?
Entry fee at Bhairav Temple: Free.
What are the timings of Shankaracharya Samadhi?
Shankaracharya Samadhi is open 06:00-20:00. Best time to visit: Any time of day..
What is the entry fee for Shankaracharya Samadhi?
Entry fee at Shankaracharya Samadhi: Free.
What are the timings of Gaurikund Temple?
Gaurikund Temple is open 06:00-20:00. Best time to visit: Before or after the Kedarnath trek..
What is the entry fee for Gaurikund Temple?
Entry fee at Gaurikund Temple: Free.