Rishikesh to Gaurikund: Distance, Best Route & Travel Time (2026 Guide)

Traveling from Rishikesh to Gaurikund is not just a road journey—it’s the first sacred step of the Kedarnath Yatra. Gaurikund is the final motorable point and the gateway to the 16 km Kedarnath trek, making this route extremely important for pilgrims and travelers alike.

Rishikesh to Gaurikund Distance by Road

• Total distance: ~211 km

• Travel time: 8–9 hours (depending on traffic & weather)

• Road condition: Mountain roads with hairpin bends, mostly good but slow

This journey takes you deep into the Garhwal Himalayas, following rivers, valleys, and ancient pilgrimage towns.

Best Route: Rishikesh to Gaurikund

Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund

Enroute Highlights

• Devprayag – Confluence of Alaknanda & Bhagirathi

• Rudraprayag – Alaknanda–Mandakini sangam

• Guptkashi – Ancient Vishwanath Temple

• Sonprayag – Mandatory registration point

Best Time to Travel from Rishikesh to Gaurikund

• Best months: May to June & September to October

• Avoid: July–August (monsoon & landslide risk)

During peak yatra season, transport options are frequent but crowded—advance booking is highly recommended.

Rishikesh to Gaurikund by Bus

Rishikesh to Gaurikund Bus

Government and private buses operate daily during Kedarnath Yatra season.

Rishikesh to Gaurikund Bus Fare / Ticket Price

• Bus fare: ₹700 – ₹1,200 (approx.)

• Travel time: 10–11 hours

⚠️ Most buses go only up to Sonprayag. From Sonprayag, shared taxis are mandatory to reach Gaurikund.

Rishikesh to Gaurikund Taxi Fare

Taxi / Cab Options

• Sedan: ₹9,500 – ₹11,500 (one way)

• SUV: ₹11,000 – ₹14,000

• 2N/3D Kedarnath taxi package: ₹12,500 – ₹14,500

✔️ Best option for comfort, elders, and flexible stops
✔️ Book in advance during May–June

Sonprayag to Gaurikund Distance & Travel

• Distance: ~5 km

• Mode: Shared taxi only (private vehicles not allowed)

• Fare: ~₹100 per person

All pilgrims must complete Kedarnath Yatra registration at the Sonprayag check post before proceeding.

Gaurikund to Kedarnath Distance

• Trek distance: 16 km

• Walking time: 5–6 hours (fit pilgrims)

• Other options: Pony, palki, helicopter (from Phata / Sersi)

Rishikesh to Kedarnath Bus Fare

• Bus fare: ₹800 – ₹1,200 (up to Sonprayag/Gaurikund)

• Trek required beyond Gaurikund

Rishikesh to Kedarnath Taxi Fare

• One-way cab: ₹11,000 – ₹15,000 (till Sonprayag)

• Tour packages: ₹18,000 – ₹25,000 (vehicle & logistics)

Gaurikund Temple – Spiritual Significance

Gaurikund Temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati, where she meditated to attain Lord Shiva. Pilgrims traditionally take a holy dip in the hot water kund before starting the Kedarnath trek.

Nearby places to explore:

• Kedarnath Temple – 16 km trek

• Gauri Kund Lake – sacred hot spring

• Triyuginarayan Temple – Shiva–Parvati wedding site

FAQs: Rishikesh to Gaurikund & Kedarnath

Q1. How much time does it take from Gaurikund to Kedarnath?
👉 5–6 hours by trekking; pony takes ~4–5 hours.

Q2. How to reach Gaurikund from Rishikesh?
👉 By bus or taxi to Sonprayag, then shared taxi to Gaurikund.

Q3. How many km from Rishikesh to Kedarnath?
👉 ~227 km (211 km road + 16 km trek).

Q4. Is night travel allowed on this route?
👉 No, night travel is discouraged due to safety and landslides.

Final Words

The Rishikesh to Gaurikund journey is more than just travel—it’s a spiritual transition from plains to the Himalayas. Whether you choose a bus, taxi, or tour package, proper planning ensures a safe and fulfilling Kedarnath Yatra.

If you want help planning your route, transport, or Kedarnath tour, feel free to reach out ✨🙏