January 5, 2024

How to Prepare for Kedarnath Trek?

Here is a complete guide on How to Prepare for Kedarnath Trek. Get ready for some physical work, different heights, and changing weather. This article has all the important tips you need to know for a smooth and comfortable journey.

How to Reach Kedarnath?

Haridwar to Kedarnath distance is 220 kms / 6-7 hours drive
Delhi to Kedarnath distance is 500 kms / 13-14 hours drive

Important Highlights of Kedarnath Trek

Start and end point of the trek	Gaurikund
Trek distance	16-17 Kilometers
Height	11,755 feet
Difficulty level	Moderate (neither too easy nor too hard)
Best time to visit	May, June, September & October
Temperature	Summer (10°C to 25°C) Winter (-15°C to -2°C)
Nearest railway station	Yog Nagri Rishikesh, Haridwar
Nearest airport	Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

Kedarnath Opening and Closing Dates 2024

Kedarnath Temple’s opening date depends on auspicious day of Akshay Tritya and declared on the Maha Shiva Ratri, which is on 8th March 2024. This year Kedarnath Temple will be opening its doors on May 10th, 2024.

After Diwali, around Bhai Dooj, the temple closes for winter and usually reopens in April-May.

Kedarnath Temple Opening Date 2024	Kedarnath Temple Closing Date 2024
10 May 2024	03 November 2024 (Tentative)

Is Kedarnath Trek Safe for Families?

The Kedarnath Trek is typically safe for those who are well-prepared and exercise often. It involves a moderate 10-12 hour walk, but pilgrims with children or senior citizens are recommended to use pony/palki or helicopter services for reaching Kedarnath. Start preparing a month prior before travelling.

What is the Best Time to Visit Kedarnath?

The best time to visit is usually in summer, particularly from May to June when the weather is pleasant and the trekking paths are usually free from snow.
If you’re looking for a winter getaway in snowy landscapes, September to October brings a special charm worth experiencing.

Remember, it’s best to begin your Kedarnath trek early in the morning. Trekking hours typically range from 4:00 AM to 1:30 PM, so plan accordingly and avoid trekking after that.

Kedarnath Trek Distance

The length of the Kedarnath Mandir Trek is approximately 16 to 17 kilometers (around 10 to 11 miles). The most common trekking route to Kedarnath is from Gaurikund. The duration of the trek can vary based on individual walking speed and other factors, but it usually takes around 6 to 8 hours to complete the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath.

Kedarnath Trekking Route – Step by Step

You’ll start your trek to Kedarnath from Gaurikund, easily accessible by government-shared taxis from Sonprayag. The trek usually takes 6-8 hours, varying based on individual pace and fitness.

Gaurikund to Bhimbali: 6 Kilometers
Bhimbali to Lincholi: 4 Kilometers
Lincholi to Kedarnath Base Camp: 4 Kilometers
Kedarnath Base Camp to Kedarnath Temple: 1 Kilometers

3 Ways to Complete Kedarnath Trek

You’ve got three ways to complete the Kedarnath trek: walking on foot, taking horses/mules and pitthus, or taking a helicopter ride. Each offers its own unique experience for reaching the temple.

1. Kedarnath by Foot Trek

If you wish to complete the trek by foot it will take around 8-10 hours time to complete 16 kilometers.
Kedarnath trek by foot is advised only to pilgrims who have no medical conditions and are fit to walk longer distance, please note that Kedarnath trek has a moderate difficulty level and one should prepare well in advance in order to complete the trek.

2. Kedarnath by Horses/Mules or Pitthus

If trekking to Kedarnath isn’t possible, horses and mules offer affordable alternatives.
The cost ranges from 2000 to 3000 tentatively for a one-way trip, regulated by the government.
Helicopter rides usually cost similarly, but they miss out on the scenic beauty experienced during a trek.

3. Kedarnath by Helicopter

For those seeking a quicker and more comfortable journey, helicopter services are available from Phata and Guptkashi to Kedarnath.
Typically, a round-trip helicopter ride costs between 6,000 to 8,000 rupees.
One can book Helicopter services for Kedarnath by Registering them on Uttarakhand Tourism Official website and once register, you can book your helicopter tickets at IRCTC official website.

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6 Must See Attractions Around Kedarnath

Triyuginarayan Temple

13 Km from Gaurikund (Base of Kedarnath Trek) Triyuginarayan temple, nestled in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, honors Lord Vishnu. Its fame stems from the myth of Lord Shiva’s wedding to Goddess Parvati, witnessed by Vishnu here. A unique highlight is the eternal fire burning in front of the temple, believed to have ignited during the divine marriage and continuing to burn since then. This site stands as a cherished pilgrimage center for devotees.

Bhairav Temple

The Bhairav Temple in Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. It stands close to the Kedarnath Temple and is believed to guard the area when Kedarnath Temple closes for the winter. Devotees pay homage to seek protection and blessings from Lord Bhairav, adding to the spiritual aura of the holy site.

Kalimath Temple

20 Km from Gaurikund (Base of Kedarnath Trek) Kalimath is a religious place located on the banks of Saraswati river in Rudraprayag district. Located at a height of 1800 meter, Kalimath is one of the 108 Shakti Peeths in India. Kalimath lies on lap of nature offering salubrious and divine environment. Goddess Kali Temple is located in Kalimath.

Madhyamaheshwar Temple

19 Km from Gaurikund (Base of Kedarnath Trek) This revered Lord Shiva temple resides in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region, being a key stop on the ‘Panch Kedar‘ pilgrimage circuit as the fourth spot. Nestled at a lofty 3497 meters, the Madhyamaheshwar Temple, believed to be constructed by the legendary Pandavas of the Mahabharata, stands as a significant Hindu shrine in Uttarakhand.

Ukhimath Omkareshwar Temple

25 Km from Gaurikund (Base of Kedarnath Trek) Omkareshwar Temple is a revered shrine situated at Ukhimath, in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. Located at an elevation of 1300 meters, the temple serves as the winter abode for the deity of Kedarnath Shrine. In the winter season (November-April), when Kedarnath temple is covered with snow, the deity is brought down to Omkareshwar temple and worshiped there.

Chopta & Tungnath

73 Km from Gaurikund (Base of Kedarnath Trek) Chopta is a small region of meadows and evergreen forest area which is a part of kedarnath wildlife sanctuary located in Uttarakhand state and a base for trekking to Tungnath, third temple of Panch Kedar, which lies 5 kilometres away. Located at a distance of 1.5 kilometres from Tungnath is Chandrashila, a rising to over 4000 metres.

Vasuki Tal

22 Km from Kedarnath, Vasuki Tal, a peaceful glacial lake in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, sits high at 14,200 feet. Around this serene spot, you’ll find beautiful Brahma Kamal flowers and other Himalayan blooms, making the place feel truly special and divine.

Deoria Tal

18 Km from Chopta, Deoria Tal, located on the Ukhimath-Chopta road in Uttarakhand, is a beautiful lake. Located at 2438 meters above sea level, it’s surrounded by dense, green forests and offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains, including Chaukhamba.

Facilities at Kedarnath Trek

The trekking route is equipped with various amenities to ensure pilgrim convenience. Here are some facilities you’ll find along the Kedarnath trek:

Accommodation

There are several guesthouses and lodges available in Gaurikund as well as in Kedarnath. These accommodations are basic but provide a comfortable stay for pilgrims.

Food and Water

There are several shops and restaurants available along the trekking route that serve local food and refreshments. These shops also sell bottled water, which is essential for staying hydrated during the trek.

Mobile Network Accessibility

Airtel & Jio work fine at Kedarnarth Mandir and also during the trek at some places. However, the network signal may be weak or non-existent in some areas.

Medical Facilities

Medical centres and facilities are available throughout the way. You can find them in Gaurikund and Kedarnath and in between Jungle Chatti, Bheemabali and Lincholi.

How to Prepare for Kedarnath Trek – Things to Carry

Basic Gears

Backpack with Rain Cover: Choose a spacious backpack with a rain cover and comfortable straps to carry your essentials.
Hot and Cold Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with hot and cold water bottles to keep your beverages at the right temperature.
Boosting Snacks: Snacks like Energy Bars, Dry Fruits, and ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) to keep your energy level up during the trek.
Personal Medical Kit: Bring a personal medical kit with essential supplies for any minor health concerns that may arise.

Clothing and Others

Woolen Sweater: Keep warm with a fleece jacket or woolen sweater.
Rain Coat: Be prepared for rain with a waterproof jacket or rain coat.
Woolen Gloves: Woolen gloves provide additional warmth.
Woolen Cap: Keep your head warm with a woolen cap.
Trekking Shoes: Quality trekking shoes with waterproofing and ankle support are important.
Hand Sanitizer & Sunscreem Lotion: Maintain hygiene with hand sanitizer and protect your screen with sunscreem lotion.
Toilet Paper & Wet Wipes: Carry Toilet Paper and Wet Wipes for convenience during trek.
Quick Dry Towel: A quick dry towel is useful for freshening up.

6 Essential Tips for Kedarnath Trek You Must Know!

Physical Preperation

The Kedarnath Trek involves challenging terrain and high altitudes. Make sure you’re physically fit and ready for the demands of the journey. Regular exercise and cardiovascular training can help build stamina.

Weather Readiness

Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. Pack clothing suitable for both warm and cold weather. Don’t forget rain gear to stay dry during unexpected rain showers.

Appropriate Clothing

Layer your clothing to adapt to varying temperatures. Bring warm clothing like jackets, gloves, and hats, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations.

Carry Important Documents

Safeguard your identification, permits, and relevant documents in a waterproof pouch. These might be necessary at different checkpoints during the trek.

Stay Hydrated

The trek may be rather hard and dehydrating, so drink plenty of water and bring your water bottle. Avoid consuming untreated water from springs or streams.

Take Enough Rest

Don’t rush the walk; instead, take enough rest. Allow your body to adjust to the altitude over time, and take pauses as necessary.

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