About Gaurikund to Kedarnath: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Trek

The journey from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, one of the most special places for Hindus, starts at Gaurikund! Gaurikund is super high up, at 6,502 feet! It’s the last place you can go by car, and from there, you have to start a 16-kilometer trek to reach the famous Kedarnath Temple.

This guide tells you all about how to get to Kedarnath! You can trek on foot, which is like going on a fun adventure! If walking seems too long, there are also helicopters that can take you up in the sky! Plus, you can ride on horses or sit in palkis (which are like little chairs carried by people) if you want to rest your legs. So, there are lots of cool ways to get to Kedarnath!

The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is 16 kilometers long! It used to be just 14 kilometers, but after the big floods in 2013, they made a new path that’s a bit longer now.

Walking to Kedarnath usually takes about 6 to 8 hours to finish, but it can change depending on how strong you are and what the weather is like. The trail is super pretty, with lots of amazing views all around! There are also plenty of stops along the way where you can find places to rest and get what you need. It’s a fun and special journey that feels really nice!

Kedarnath Trek Route  From Gaurikund

Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti (4 km)

• The first part of the trek is a 4-kilometer walk to Jungle Chatti. Pilgrims can choose to walk, ride a pony, or sit in a palki! Jungle Chatti is the first big stop where you can take a break and find some basic facilities.

Jungle Chatti to Bheembali (3 km)

• After Jungle Chatti, it’s another 3 kilometers to Bheembali. This path is really nice because it has GMVN tents, free drinking water, restrooms, and even Wi-Fi! It makes it super easy for pilgrims to rest and refresh.

Bheembali to Linchauli (4 km)

• From Bheembali, you’ll trek another 4 kilometers to Linchauli. This part of the trail is amazing, with breathtaking views of the highlands and the start of the Mandakini River. You can also find medical help and places to stay, like private tents or GMVN tents.

Linchauli to Kedarnath Base Camp (4 km)

• Next, it’s a 4-kilometer trek to the Kedarnath Base Camp. This stretch has lots of cool glaciers and beautiful views that make the trek even more special! It’s both a spiritual and scenic part of the journey.

Kedarnath Base Camp to Kedarnath Temple (1 km)

• Finally, you have just 1 kilometer to go from the base camp to the Kedarnath Temple! This last bit is easier, and there are plenty of facilities to help you along the way. At the base camp, you can find GMVN camps where you can make reservations on their official website. It’s almost time to visit the temple!

My Experience

• As you embark on your trek, you will be amazed by the stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, lush green forests, and glistening rivers. The government provides medical facilities along the way to ensure your safety and well-being.
• Take a break at Bhimbali, Lincholi, or Kedarnath to catch your breath and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. These places offer comfortable accommodations and facilities to rejuvenate your body for the trail ahead.
• Trekking in the Himalayas is an experience like no other, where you can connect with nature and challenge yourself physically and mentally. So pack your bags, lace up your shoes, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

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Gaurikund to Kedarnath Distance & Time

The Kedarnath trek (Paidal Marg) comprises various resting sheds, with limited facilities offered by the administration en route. Medical and first aid provisions are available at Bhimbali, Lincholi, and Kedarnath to cater to any medical emergencies.

The trek takes approximately 5-6 hours for those with good physical fitness, while a physically unfit person might require an entire day to complete the journey.

 A Pony Cost

The cost of a pony and palanquin varies, depending upon the rush and traffic of pilgrims, it is all about supply and demand. The cost is around 5000 to 7000 for a pony from Gauri Kund to Kedarnath Temple.

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Kedarnath Trek Route

• Reaching  Gaurikund from Sonprayag  by taking a shared taxi or personally hired transport
• Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti distance is 4 km via the Rambara Bridge
• The Jungle Chatti to Bheembali distance is 3 km
• Bheembali to Linchauli trek  is 4 km
• Linchauli to Kedarnath base is 4 km
• Kedarnath Base to Kedarnath Temple 1 km

When You Start Trek?

Trekking to Kedarnath is an amazing experience and worth the strenuous trek. Be sure to keep a check on the trek time because you can only make your way to Kedarnath from Gaurikund between 4 AM-and 1.30 PM.

Additional Checkpoints

During the 16-kilometer trek to Kedarnath, there are 10 checkpoints where you can stop and rest:

1. Gaurikund
2. Jungle Chatti
3. Bheembali
4. Rambara
5. Chhota Lincholi
6. Lincholi
7. Chhani Camp
8. Rudra Point
9. Base Camp
10. Kedarnath Temple

These checkpoints are not just for resting; they also help pilgrims by providing important services to make sure everyone has a safe and comfortable journey!

Facilities Available on the Trek

The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is really well-supported with lots of facilities for the pilgrims:

• Medical and First Aid: There are several medical posts along the way, ready with first aid and ECG facilities for any health emergencies.
• Resting Places: You’ll find many spots where you can take a break and relax before continuing your journey.
• Night Stay and Accommodation: There are GMVN and private tents available at different points, so you can have a cozy place to sleep overnight.
• Tea/Coffee Shops: Little refreshment stalls are spread out along the trail, offering hot tea, coffee, and light snacks to keep you energized.
• Restaurants: There are basic eateries where you can grab meals to fuel you through your adventure!

Conclusion

 I can say that the information you provided about the Gaurikund to Kedarnath trek trails is helpful and informative. Thank you for sharing it!

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