Kedarnath from Dehradun distance, time & routes

Traveling to Kedarnath from Dehradun by car offers scenic landscapes and ancient temples. The route passes through pilgrim towns like Rishikesh, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag, and Sonprayag, transitioning from Himalayan plains to snow-capped regions. Enjoy the picturesque mountains and make detours for temple visits or photo stops along the way.

Kedarnath’s weather is generally inclement, with freezing temperatures most of the year. The best time for a pilgrimage or spiritual trip to the Kedarnath Temple is during the summer months, when temperatures are slightly higher. Professional trekkers and mountaineers may brave the cold and snowfall at other times.

Kedarnath from Dehradun: Quick Guide

Route: Dehradun to Kedarnath involves a road trip to Gaurikund (245 km, ~8 hours) followed by a 16 km trek.
Best Time to Visit: Summer months (April to June) for pleasant weather.
Travel Options:
- By Car: Rent a car from Dehradun to Sonprayag.
- By Train: Nearest station – Rishikesh (216 km from Kedarnath). Continue by car to Sonprayag.
- By Flight: Nearest airport – Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. Hire a taxi to Gaurikund.

Key Attractions:

- Kedarnath Temple: Ancient temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
- Vasuki Tal: Glacial lake with views of Chaukhamba Peak.
- Shankaracharya Samadhi: Shrine of Adi Shankaracharya.
- Sonprayag: Confluence of Mandakini and Basuki Rivers.
- Bhairavnath Temple: Offers panoramic views.
- Chorabari Lake: Scenic glacial lake.
- Gaurikund: Starting point of the Kedarnath trek.

Route from Dehradun to Kedarnath

- - The route from Dehradun to Kedarnath involves a combination of a road trip and a trek.
  - Vehicle access is available only until Gaurikund, from where a 16 km trek to Kedarnath begins.
  - Ponies are available for those unable to walk the distance. The 245 km journey takes around 8 hours by car.
  - Traffic is usually minimal but can be affected by rain, snowfall, or accidents. Always check live maps and traffic updates for the latest road conditions.

Dehradun to Kedarnath Best Route:

- - The most efficient and scenic route from Dehradun to Kedarnath is via Rishikesh NH 58 Badrinath Highway.
  - Avoid inner roads and village access routes, especially during rain or snowfall, due to potential closures. This route offers numerous food and sightseeing options.

By Train:

The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, about 216 km away. Renting a car or local cab from Dehradun to Gaurikund, followed by the trek to Kedarnath, is the best option.

By Flight:

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (DED). After landing, book an airport taxi to reach Kedarnath. The journey involves renting a car from Dehradun and a road trip to Gaurikund, then trekking to Kedarnath.

Attractions near Kedarnath from Dehradun:

- - Kedarnath Temple: The highest temple in the region, enshrining one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva, over 1000 years old with ancient stone-cut architecture.
  - Vasuki Tal: A glacial lake at 13,500+ feet, popular among trekkers, offering views of Chaukhamba Peak, and featuring the Chaturangi and Vasuki glaciers.
  - Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi: A temple preserving the shrine of Adi Shankaracharya, the proponent of Advaita Philosophy.
  - Sonprayag: A small hamlet at 6000+ feet, located at the confluence of the Mandakini and Basuki Rivers, considered holy.
  - Bhairavnath Temple: Located 500 meters from Kedarnath temple, enshrining another avatar of Shiva – Bhairav, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and the valley.
  - Chorabari Lake (Gandhi Sarovar): A glacial lake with crystal clear water at 12,500+ feet, originating from the
  - Chorabari Bamak Glacier, a short trek from Kedarnath temple.
  - Gaurikund: The starting point of the Kedarnath trek and the last point of vehicle access, featuring the Gaurikund Temple.