Explore Kedarnath Trek distance, Time, Kilometer & Route

Are you ready for an exciting adventure? Kedarnath Trek distance is approx.  16 kilometers by foot (Kedarnath trekking distance), taking approximately 6-7 hours to complete from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple.

This journey is not just about walking; it’s about exploring stunning Himalayan views, lush forests, waterfalls, and the Mandakini River. A pilgrimage of great significance in Hinduism, the Kedarnath trek distance is both challenging and profoundly rewarding.

Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga

Kedarnath Trek distance from Sonprayag

The Kedarnath Trek distance from Sonprayag is 21 km ( 5 km road journey and + 16 km treking  journey ).  From Sonprayag to Gauri Kund by motorable road and then Gaurikund to Kedarnath temple by trek route.

Your Trekking Route: Step by Step

Kedarnath Trek starting at Gaurikund, you can reach it from Sonprayag by shared taxi or your own hired private cab. From there, your journey begins:

  1. Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti: 4 kilometers via the Rambara Bridge.
  2. Jungle Chatti to Bheembali: 3 kilometers.
  3. Bheembali to Linchauli: 4 kilometers.
  4. Linchauli to Kedarnath Base Camp: 4 kilometers.
  5. Kedarnath Base Camp to Kedarnath Temple: 1 kilometer.
Gauri kund Kedarnath
Gaurikund Kedarnath

Trek Difficulty: A Challenge Worth Taking

  • Trekking distance to Kedarnath is rated moderate to difficult. The 16-kilometer ascent from Gaurikund to the temple takes 6-7 hours and isn’t without its challenges.
  • Expect rocky paths, steep sections, and uneven terrain. The trek reaches its highest point at the Kedarnath temple, sitting at 3,583 meters (11,755 feet/ ) above sea level.
  • Altitude sickness is a concern, so acclimatization and medical advice are essential. It’s a trek for the physically fit and those up for a rewarding challenge.

Safety First: Your Health Matters

  • Before you embark on Trekking to Kedarnath, prioritize your health. A checkup is wise, especially if you have heart, respiratory, or blood pressure issues.
  • Consult your doctor before setting out. If you plan to use palkis, Kandis, or ponies, make your bookings in advance at Gaurikund or Sonprayag.
  • Note that the Trekking to Kedarnath is permitted only between 4 am and 1.30 pm. After this time, the trek is closed for safety reasons.
  • If you can’t complete it by evening, you can rest in camps at Jungle Chatti, Bheem Bali, or Linchauli, and continue fresh the next day.
Kedarnath Trek Route Picture
Kedarnath Trek Route Picture

Alternate Modes of Transportation

At Gaurikund, besides trekking, you have other options:

  • Palki Service for Kedarnath Trek distance : A palanquin-like transport.
  • Kandi and Mule/Ponies for Kedarnath Trek distance : Available

Kedarnath Height

  • Kedarnath sits at an elevation of approximately 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level. This high altitude location makes it one of the most elevated and challenging pilgrimage sites in India.
Kedarnath from Haridwar
Kedarnath Route

Kedarnath Location:

  • Kedarnath is located in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India. The temple of Kedarnath is stand for Lord Shiva. This temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.

Kedarnath Accessibility:

  • The  Kedarnath trek distance of approximately 16 kilometers from Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the pilgrimage.
  • Visitors have to trek through a rugged and scenic mountainous terrain to reach the temple. Alternatively, helicopters and mules are also available for those who may have difficulty trekking.

Kedarnath Climate:

  • Due to its high altitude, Kedarnath experiences a cold and alpine climate. Summers are short, and the temple remains open to pilgrims from late April or early May until November.
  • During the winter months, the region is covered in snow, and the temple is closed for the season.
Kedarnath Temple Floods 2013
Kedarnath Temple Floods 2013

Kedarnath Flood 2013:

  • In June 2013, Kedarnath and the nearby area were hit hard by destructive floods and landslides. Since then, there have been ongoing efforts to repair and reconstruct the region, including the temple.

Char Dham Yatra:

  • Kedarnath is one of the four sacred shrines that constitute the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. The other three shrines are Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Pilgrims often undertake this circuit to seek divine blessings.
  • Kedarnath’s remote and elevated location, combined with its religious and natural significance, makes it a unique and revered destination for travelers and pilgrims alike.

In Conclusion: 

 Kedarnath trek distance is now 16 kilometers, changed from 20 kilometers due to a route alteration after the 2013 flood disaster. So, gear up for an incredible adventure and spiritual journey to Kedarnath. Enjoy the experience and the beauty as it unfolds. Safe travels and meaningful explorations await you!

Author

Namaste! I am Om. I am a licensed Tourist Guide ( Approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), I’m originally from Varanasi. Now, I am living in Rishikesh. I set up this blog to share my tips and experiences for traveling to inspire and help you to travel more. Hari Om

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