Kedarnath, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for Hindus, is located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Every year, thousands of devotees and travelers embark on the journey to this sacred destination. However, if you’re starting from Dehradun, one of the closest major cities to Kedarnath, it’s important to understand the distance, routes, and modes of transportation to plan your journey effectively.
In this guide, we’ll explore the Dehradun to Kedarnath distance, the best routes, travel time, and everything you need to know to make your pilgrimage or trip to Kedarnath a smooth and memorable experience.
Table of Contents
1. Dehradun to Kedarnath Distance Overview
The Dehradun to Kedarnath distance by road is approximately 240 kilometers. However, it’s important to note that due to the terrain and mountain roads, the journey takes longer than a typical trip of similar distance. The road journey can take anywhere from 10 to 12 hours, depending on weather conditions and the road status, particularly during the monsoon season.
After reaching Gaurikund, which is the last motorable point, you will need to trek approximately 16 kilometers to reach the Kedarnath Temple.
2. The Road Journey: Dehradun to Kedarnath
The journey from Dehradun to Kedarnath is quite scenic, taking you through picturesque towns, valleys, and mountain landscapes. The drive passes through the towns of Rishikesh, Devprayag, and Rudraprayag, before reaching Gaurikund, the last stop for vehicles.
- Dehradun to Rishikesh (45 km): The first stretch of the journey takes you through the plains, where you pass by Rishikesh. You can take a quick stop here to see the famous Lakshman Jhula or Triveni Ghat.
- Rishikesh to Devprayag (70 km): As you move forward, the road takes you along the Ganges River, and you reach Devprayag, the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers. This is where the Ganga river gets its name.
- Devprayag to Rudraprayag (35 km): The next leg of the journey takes you to Rudraprayag, where the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers merge. This is a beautiful spot with a serene atmosphere.
- Rudraprayag to Gaurikund (90 km): This final stretch takes you to Gaurikund, the base point for your Kedarnath trek. The roads here are narrow and winding, and the journey can be slow, especially during peak tourist season or adverse weather conditions.
3. From Gaurikund to Kedarnath: The Trek
Once you reach Gaurikund, you will need to undertake a 16-kilometer trek to Kedarnath Temple. The trek is steep in some places, but the breathtaking views of the mountains and the surrounding valleys make it a memorable experience.
- Trek Duration: The trek usually takes around 6 to 8 hours, depending on your fitness and pace.
- Trek Difficulty: The trail is moderate to difficult, and it is advisable to start early to avoid fatigue, especially since the weather can change unexpectedly in the mountains.
There are ponies and palkis (palanquins) available for hire if you’re not up for the trek, but it’s best to pre-arrange these services during peak season.
4. Alternative Routes to Kedarnath
For those who want to minimize the trek, another option is to take a helicopter ride from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi to Kedarnath. The helicopter ride takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes and is a more comfortable option, although it is more expensive than traveling by road and trekking.
From the helipad, it’s a short walk (about 500 meters) to the Kedarnath Temple.
5. Travel Time from Dehradun to Kedarnath
The Dehradun to Kedarnath distance can be covered in 10 to 12 hours by road. The trek adds another 6 to 8 hours, so overall, you should expect a full day of travel. It’s important to plan your journey well, especially if you need to accommodate rest stops along the way.
If you’re opting for a helicopter ride, the travel time can be significantly reduced. The road journey to Phata or Guptkashi typically takes around 6-7 hours from Dehradun, and the helicopter ride to Kedarnath takes 15 minutes.
6. Best Time to Travel from Dehradun to Kedarnath
The best time to travel from Dehradun to Kedarnath is between May and June and September to November. These months are generally considered the ideal time to visit Kedarnath because the weather is pleasant and the roads are open.
- Winter (December to February): The temple remains closed for the winter months, and the trek becomes more difficult due to heavy snowfall. It’s best to avoid traveling during this time unless you are well-prepared for extreme weather conditions.
- Monsoon (July to August): This is the off-season due to heavy rainfall, which often causes landslides and roadblocks. It’s safer to avoid traveling during this time.
7. Travel Tips for Dehradun to Kedarnath Journey
- Start Early: Whether you’re traveling by road or helicopter, it’s best to start your journey early to avoid delays and ensure you arrive on time.
- Check Weather Conditions: The weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so check the forecast before your trip.
- Carry Essential Supplies: Ensure you have warm clothing, water, snacks, and necessary medications, especially if you plan to trek.
- Book Accommodation in Advance: Since Kedarnath is a popular pilgrimage site, make sure to book your accommodation at the temple complex or in nearby areas ahead of time, especially during peak season.
- Be Physically Prepared: If trekking, ensure you’re physically fit for the journey. The altitude and steep terrain can be challenging for some.
8. Nearby Attractions to Visit Along the Way
If you have time during your journey from Dehradun to Kedarnath, you can explore some nearby attractions:
- Rishikesh: Known as the yoga capital of the world, you can visit the iconic Lakshman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, and participate in evening Ganga Aarti.
- Devprayag: The confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, Devprayag is a peaceful spot with religious significance.
- Rudraprayag: The meeting point of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, Rudraprayag offers beautiful views and is an important spiritual location.
9. Conclusion
The Dehradun to Kedarnath distance is a journey that offers stunning views of the Garhwal Himalayas and is filled with spiritual significance. Whether you choose to travel by road or opt for a helicopter ride, Kedarnath’s sacred temple and its natural beauty make the trip worthwhile. With proper planning and preparation, your journey to Kedarnath from Dehradun will be an unforgettable experience, filled with peace, devotion, and awe-inspiring landscapes.
10. FAQs
1. What is the distance from Dehradun to Kedarnath?
The Dehradun to Kedarnath distance is approximately 240 kilometers by road. The journey can take around 10 to 12 hours by car, depending on road conditions.
2. How can I travel from Dehradun to Kedarnath?
You can travel from Dehradun to Kedarnath by road (car, bus) or helicopter. After reaching Gaurikund by road, you’ll need to trek 16 kilometers to the temple.
3. What is the best route from Dehradun to Kedarnath?
The best route from Dehradun to Kedarnath is via Rishikesh, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and then reaching Gaurikund, which is the base for the trek to Kedarnath.
4. How long does the journey from Dehradun to Kedarnath take?
The journey by road typically takes 10 to 12 hours to reach Gaurikund, and the trek to Kedarnath takes another 6 to 8 hours, depending on your pace.
5. Can I travel directly from Dehradun to Kedarnath by road?
Yes, you can travel from Dehradun to Kedarnath by road up to Gaurikund, the last motorable point. After that, you’ll need to trek 16 kilometers to reach the temple.
6. Are there any helicopter services from Dehradun to Kedarnath?
While there is no direct helicopter service from Dehradun to Kedarnath, you can fly from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi to Kedarnath. From there, it’s a short walk to the temple.
7. What is the distance from Dehradun to Gaurikund?
The Dehradun to Gaurikund distance is approximately 230 kilometers by road. It takes around 9 to 10 hours to cover this distance by car.
8. Is the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath difficult?
The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is 16 kilometers and moderate in difficulty. The terrain is steep in parts, but with proper preparation, most people can complete it.
9. What is the best time to visit Kedarnath from Dehradun?
The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to November. Avoid visiting during the monsoon (July to August) and winter (December to February), as the weather can be challenging.
10. Are there accommodations available at Kedarnath?
Yes, there are basic accommodations available at Kedarnath for pilgrims. You can also stay in nearby areas like Guptkashi or Rudraprayag if you prefer more comfort.
11. Can I reach Kedarnath by bus from Dehradun?
Yes, there are buses that run from Dehradun to Kedarnath, although you will still need to trek from Gaurikund to the temple. It’s advisable to book bus tickets in advance, especially during the peak season.
12. What should I carry for the journey from Dehradun to Kedarnath?
You should carry warm clothing (even in summer, temperatures can drop), comfortable trekking shoes, water, snacks, and essential medicines. It’s also a good idea to have some cash for small purchases along the way.
13. How far is Kedarnath from Dehradun by train?
There is no direct train to Kedarnath. You can take a train from Dehradun to Rishikesh or Haridwar, and from there, you’ll need to continue by road to Gaurikund, followed by the trek.
