Kedarnath to Hemkund Sahib Distance & Travel Time – Complete Guide (2026)

Traveling between Kedarnath Temple and Hemkund Sahib is not just about covering kilometers—it’s a journey through faith, high Himalayas, and some of the most scenic roads in Uttarakhand.

Kedarnath to Hemkund Sahib Distance

The Kedarnath to Hemkund Sahib distance is approximately 225 km by road (combined with trekking segments).

• Total travel time: 7–8 hours by road (excluding trek & rest halts)

• Route highlights: Rudraprayag – Karnaprayag – Joshimath – Govindghat

This route connects two of the most sacred pilgrimage circuits of Uttarakhand—Shaivism and Sikhism.

Kedarnath to Hemkund Sahib Distance by Road

The Kedarnath to Hemkund Sahib distance by road involves:

1. Kedarnath → Gaurikund (trek back)

2. Gaurikund → Rudraprayag → Joshimath (road journey)

3. Joshimath → Govindghat (road)

4. Govindghat → Ghangaria → Hemkund Sahib (trek)

Although the distance may seem manageable on paper, mountain terrain, weather, and traffic can significantly affect travel time.

The Scenic Himalayan Route

This route takes you deep into Garhwal’s natural beauty—pine forests, roaring rivers, hanging bridges, and spiritual towns. Every turn opens up postcard-worthy landscapes, making the long drive feel rewarding rather than tiring.

Pit Stops Along the Way

Some meaningful halts on the way include:

• Rudraprayag – confluence of Alaknanda & Mandakini

• Joshimath – gateway to Badrinath & Hemkund

• Govindghat – base for Hemkund Sahib & Valley of Flowers

The Ascent to Hemkund Sahib

From Govindghat, pilgrims trek 13 km to Ghangaria, followed by a 6 km steep trek to Hemkund Sahib. The shrine sits at an altitude of 4,329 meters, surrounded by seven snow-clad peaks and a glacial lake.

This final stretch is physically demanding but spiritually uplifting.

Hemkund Sahib to Kedarnath Distance

The Hemkund Sahib to Kedarnath distance remains the same—around 225 km, and travelers usually follow the same route in reverse via Joshimath and Rudraprayag.

Badrinath to Hemkund Sahib Distance

Many pilgrims combine both shrines:

• Badrinath to Hemkund Sahib distance: approx. 25–30 km by road (Badrinath → Joshimath → Govindghat) + trek

This makes Hemkund Sahib a perfect extension of the Badrinath Yatra.

Hemkund Sahib to Badrinath Distance

The Hemkund Sahib to Badrinath distance is short compared to Kedarnath:

• Trek back to Govindghat → Joshimath → Badrinath

• Ideal for pilgrims doing Char Dham + Hemkund Sahib together

Government Approves Kedarnath–Hemkund Sahib Ropeway (Tourism Boost)

To improve accessibility and reduce physical strain on pilgrims, the government has approved ropeway projects connecting major pilgrimage routes, including Kedarnath and Hemkund Sahib corridors.

Once operational, these ropeways are expected to:

• Reduce travel time significantly

• Improve safety for elderly pilgrims

• Boost sustainable tourism in Uttarakhand

(Project timelines and execution will depend on terrain and environmental clearances.)

Final Thoughts

The Kedarnath to Hemkund Sahib distance may be 225 km, but the journey transcends numbers. It is a rare pilgrimage that unites different faiths, landscapes, and inner reflection. From the chanting halls of Kedarnath to the tranquil lake of Hemkund Sahib, every kilometer feels sacred.

If you’re planning this route, allow buffer days, respect the mountains, and travel with patience—the Himalayas always reward those who move with humility.