Gaurikund to Kedarnath: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Trek Guide (2026)

The Gaurikund to Kedarnath trek is not just a walk through the Himalayas—it is a deeply spiritual journey, a test of endurance, and an experience that stays with you forever. Starting from Gaurikund, the trek leads pilgrims to the sacred Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath is accessible only on foot, by pony/palki, or by helicopter, making the journey itself as significant as the destination.

Gaurikund to Kedarnath Distance & Walking Time

• Gaurikund to Kedarnath distance: 16 km

• Gaurikund to Kedarnath temple distance: 16 km (trek only)

• Gaurikund to Kedarnath walking time:

  • Fit trekkers: 5–6 hours

  • Average pilgrims: 6–8 hours

  • Elderly / unfit pilgrims: Full day with breaks

Earlier the trek was around 14 km, but after the 2013 floods, the route was redesigned and extended for safety.

Kedarnath Trek Route from Gaurikund (Step-by-Step)

1️⃣ Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti Distance – 4 km

• Trek begins from Gaurikund (last motorable point)

• Options: walking, pony, or palki

• First major rest stop with basic facilities

2️⃣ Jungle Chatti to Bheembali – 3 km

• One of the most comfortable stretches

• Facilities at Bheembali:

  • GMVN tents

  • Free drinking water

  • Toilets & Wi-Fi

  • Medical aid

3️⃣ Bheembali to Linchauli Distance – 4 km

• Stunning views of the Mandakini River origin

• Medical posts and accommodation available

• Gaurikund to Linchauli distance: 11 km

4️⃣ Linchauli to Kedarnath Base Camp – 4 km

• Scenic glacier views and spiritual calm

• GMVN & private tents for night stay

5️⃣ Kedarnath Base Camp to Kedarnath Temple – 1 km

• Easiest stretch of the trek

• Shops, tea stalls, and resting points available

How to Reach Kedarnath from Gaurikund

🚶 By Walking (Most Popular)

• Traditional and spiritually rewarding

• Recommended to start early morning

🐎 Gaurikund to Kedarnath by Horse (Pony)

• Time taken: 5–6 hours

• Pony cost: ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 (one way, seasonal)

🪑 By Palki (Palanquin)

• Ideal for elderly pilgrims

• Carried by trained porters

🚁 Gaurikund to Kedarnath Helicopter Service

• Helicopters operate from Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi

Gaurikund to Kedarnath helicopter price:

• ₹2,400 – ₹7,500 (one way, depending on operator & season)

Gaurikund to Kedarnath helicopter booking:

• Via IRCTC / official Uttarakhand Aviation portals

• Advance booking strongly recommended during peak yatra season

Kedarnath Trek Timing (Important Rule)

• Trek allowed from: 4:00 AM to 1:30 PM only

• No new pilgrims are allowed to start after cut-off time for safety reasons.

Suggested Read– Hotels at Kedarnath Temple 

Facilities Available on Gaurikund to Kedarnath Trek

✔ Medical & First Aid (Bhimbali, Linchauli, Base Camp, Kedarnath)
✔ ECG & emergency health services
✔ Resting sheds at regular intervals
✔ GMVN & private tents for night stay
✔ Tea, coffee & snack stalls
✔ Basic restaurants

Additional Checkpoints on Kedarnath Trek

1. Gaurikund

2. Jungle Chatti

3. Bheembali

4. Rambara

5. Chhota Lincholi

6. Lincholi

7. Chhani Camp

8. Rudra Point

9. Kedarnath Base Camp

10. Kedarnath Temple

Gaurikund to Kedarnath Distance Summary Table

How Many Days Required to Visit Kedarnath?

• Minimum: 2 days

  • Day 1: Reach Gaurikund + trek

  • Day 2: Darshan + return trek

• Ideal: 3–4 days (with rest & acclimatization)

Suggested Read- Rudra Meditation Cave at Kedarnath Temple 

My Experience on the Kedarnath Trek

Walking through snow-capped peaks, roaring rivers, and sacred silence, the Gaurikund to Kedarnath trek feels surreal. The government-managed facilities, medical posts, and disciplined crowd movement make the journey safe yet adventurous.

Stopping at Bhimbali and Linchauli not only helps your body recover but also allows you to absorb the raw beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas. Every step feels meaningful.

Conclusion

The Gaurikund to Kedarnath trek is more than a pilgrimage—it is a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience blending faith, endurance, and nature. Whether you walk every step, ride a pony, or take a helicopter, the spiritual energy of Kedarnath makes the journey unforgettable.

If you’re planning Kedarnath, prepare well, start early, respect the mountains—and let the Himalayas transform you 🙏