Delhi to Kedarnath route covers approximately 450 kilometers one way and requires 6 days to complete, passes through key stops like Haridwar and Rishikesh this journey is a mix of smooth highways and challenging hill roads. Travelers can choose from various options, including buses, taxis, self-drive, or helicopters from Dehradun or Phata.
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Delhi to Kedarnath Route – A Complete Overview
| Total Distance | Approximately 450 km |
| Primary Routes | NH 334 and NH 7 |
| Average Travel Time | 06 Days, depending on traffic and road conditions |
| Key Stops | Haridwar, Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag |
| Best Time to Travel | May-June for ideal road conditions |
| Travel Options | Buses, taxis, self-drive, helicopters from Dehradun or Guptkashi/Phata/Seri |
Total Distance of Delhi to Kedarnath Route
The total road distance from Delhi to Gaurikund is around 450 km and from Gaurikund to Kedarnath 16 Kms trek. On average, the journey takes 15-17 hours by road and 6-8 hours for trek, Here’s a breakdown of the route:
- Delhi to Haridwar: The distance is approximately 220–230 kilometers, taking about 5–6 hours by road or train.
- Haridwar to Sonprayag: This leg covers around 270 kilometers and typically takes about 8–10 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Sonprayag to Gaurikund: The distance is about 5 kilometers, taking approximately 15–20 minutes by local jeep or shared taxi.
- Gaurikund to Kedarnath: This trek spans 16 kilometers and generally takes 6–8 hours. Travelers can also opt for a pony or palanquin for this journey.
Road Conditions of Delhi to Kedarnath Route
The road conditions of Delhi to Kedarnath route are good until Haridwar on NH 334, allowing speeds of 60-80 km/h. After Haridwar, the roads become hilly with steep climbs and sharp turns, especially between Guptkashi and Sonprayag.
Highway Roads (Delhi to Haridwar)
From Delhi to Haridwar, the distance is approximately 220–230 kilometers, and the road is largely smooth and well-maintained. NH 334 allows for quick travel, with average speeds ranging from 60 to 80 km/h. You can expect good driving conditions for most of this section, with regular roadside amenities like fuel stations and eateries available along the way. The journey typically takes about 5–6 hours.
Hill Roads (Haridwar to Kedarnath)
After Haridwar, the journey moves onto hill roads. The distance from Haridwar to Guptkashi is about 140 kilometers, taking around 5–6 hours. The roads are mostly paved but have steep climbs and sharp turns. From Guptkashi to Sonprayag, which is about 30 kilometers and takes 1–1.5 hours, the roads are narrower with hairpin bends and some areas can be affected by landslides during the monsoon. Drive carefully and check for roadblock updates before traveling.
Important Stops Along Delhi to Kedarnath Route
Key stops include Haridwar, Rishikesh, Devprayag, and Dhari Devi Temple. These stops not only offer spiritual significance but also provide rest points, fuel stations, and accommodations for travelers before reaching the final trek at Gaurikund.
Best Travel Options from Delhi to Kedarnath
By Road: Self-Driving vs. Hiring a Taxi
Driving yourself from Delhi to Kedarnath gives you the freedom to stop and enjoy the views, but hill roads can be tricky and need careful driving. Many people prefer to hire a taxi from Delhi or Haridwar for a more comfortable trip, especially families or groups. Taxi fares from Delhi range from ₹4,000 to ₹6,000 per day depending on the car (Sedan or SUV) and season.
By Bus: Delhi to Kedarnath via Haridwar
Government and private buses are available from Delhi ISBT to Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other Uttarakhand towns. From Haridwar or Rishikesh, you can catch local buses or share taxis heading toward Guptkashi and Sonprayag. The bus journey takes longer but is economical, and buses are frequent during the pilgrimage season.
Helicopter Service from Dehradun to Kedarnath
For those looking for a faster option, helicopter services are available from Dehradun or Guptkashi, Phata and Sersi takes approximately 8-10 minutes to reach Kedarnath. However, these services depend on weather conditions and often get fully booked during the peak yatra season, so advance booking is recommended.
Best Time to Travel from Delhi to Kedarnath
The best time to travel to Kedarnath is during the summer months of May to June and the post-monsoon season in September and October. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and road conditions are generally good. The monsoon months of July and August should be avoided due to frequent landslides.
Kedarnath Road Conditions During Different Seasons
- Summer (May-June): Clear roads and comfortable weather make this the most popular time for travel.
- Monsoon (July-August): The monsoon makes the roads prone to landslides and blockages, making travel risky.
- Post-Monsoon (September-October): A good time to travel, with fresh greenery and open roads. The weather is crisp, and road conditions improve after the monsoon.
- Winter (November-April): Roads to Kedarnath are closed due to snow. During this time, the Kedarnath idol is moved to Ukhimath, where devotees can offer prayers.
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Important Travel Tips for the Delhi to Kedarnath Route
Permits and Registrations
All pilgrims must register for the Kedarnath Yatra. Registration can be done online or at centers located in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other towns along the route. It’s advisable to complete registration early to avoid delays, especially during peak season.
Fuel Stations and Rest Areas
You’ll find plenty of fuel stations and rest areas, especially in the stretch from Delhi to Haridwar. Notable fuel stations and eateries are present near Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Roorkee, and Haridwar. After Haridwar, as you head towards the hills, fuel stations become less frequent. It’s essential to refuel in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Rudraprayag as there are fewer options beyond these points. Some of the smaller pumps you might encounter after Rudraprayag include Tilwara, Aghastmuni and Phata. Similarly, plan your breaks at these rest stops to avoid delays and ensure a smoother journey.
Stay Options Along Delhi to Kedarnath Route
The route offers a variety of accommodation options:
- Haridwar: Popular for budget hotels, dharamshalas, and guest houses.
- Rishikesh: Known for its ashrams and spiritual retreats, as well as hotels that suit different budgets.
- Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, and Sonprayag: These are smaller towns offering basic guest houses and lodges. Pilgrims often stay overnight at these stops to rest before completing the final stretch to Kedarnath. Booking in advance during the pilgrimage season is highly recommended, especially in Sonprayag, which is the last major stop before starting the trek to Kedarnath.
Health and Safety Tips for High-Altitude Travel
As you ascend into the hills, altitude increases, and some travelers may experience mild altitude sickness, which includes symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To prevent this:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration at high altitudes.
- Acclimatize properly: Rest at key points like Guptkashi or Sonprayag to give your body time to adjust.
- Carry basic medicines for altitude sickness, motion sickness, and digestive issues.
- Trekking fitness: Ensure you’re physically fit for the 16 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. Take frequent breaks during the trek, and if needed, hire mules or palanquins.
Mobile Network Availability Along the Route
Mobile connectivity is generally good up to Haridwar and Rishikesh, with all major telecom operators providing service. However, as you move further into the hills towards Guptkashi and Sonprayag, mobile networks can become spotty, especially for data services. BSNL provides the most reliable coverage in the Kedarnath region, but even that may be intermittent. It’s advisable to inform your family before starting the trek, as mobile connectivity is almost non-existent from Gaurikund to Kedarnath.
