Rishikesh to Kedarnath Distance by Car, Helicopter & Bus (Complete 2026 Guide )

The sacred shrine of Kedarnath holds an unmatched spiritual aura that draws pilgrims and adventure seekers from across the world. Nestled high in the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath is one of the most important Char Dham destinations dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Most pilgrims begin their journey from Rishikesh, the spiritual gateway of Uttarakhand, located on the banks of the holy Ganges River. This guide explains everything you need to know about the Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance, routes, travel time, bus fare, taxi cost, and helicopter prices for 2026.

Rishikesh to Kedarnath Distance

The Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance depends on the mode of travel:

• Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance by car: 227 km

  • 211 km by road (Rishikesh → Gaurikund)

  • 16 km trek (Gaurikund → Kedarnath)

• Rishikesh Railway Station to Kedarnath distance: ~230 km

• Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance by bus: ~211 km (road) + trek

• Rishikesh to Kedarnath by helicopter: ~105 km (aerial)

Rishikesh to Kedarnath Distance by Road & Time

• Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance by road: ~211 km (till Gaurikund)

• Travel time: 6–7 hours by car or taxi (excluding trek)

• Road condition: Mostly good, scenic mountain roads

Rishikesh to Kedarnath Route (Road Route)

The most commonly used and safest route is:

Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath (trek)

This route passes through beautiful river confluences and Himalayan towns.

How to Reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh

1. Rishikesh to Kedarnath by Road (Taxi / Car)

This is the most popular option for pilgrims.

Rishikesh to Kedarnath Taxi Fare

• Sedan: ₹8,000 – ₹11,000

• SUV: ₹12,000 – ₹16,000
  (prices vary by season)

Private taxis offer flexibility and comfort, especially for families.

2. Rishikesh to Kedarnath by Bus

There is no direct bus to Kedarnath.

Rishikesh to Kedarnath Bus Route

• Rishikesh → Sonprayag / Gaurikund (via Rudraprayag & Guptkashi)

• From Gaurikund → 16 km trek

Rishikesh to Kedarnath Bus Fare

• ₹400 – ₹600 per person

Rishikesh to Kedarnath Bus Timings

• Early morning departures between 4:30 AM – 7:00 AM

• Operated by Uttarakhand Transport & private buses

3. Rishikesh to Kedarnath by Helicopter

For a faster and comfortable journey, helicopter services are available (subject to weather).

Rishikesh to Kedarnath Helicopter Price

• ₹9,000 – ₹10,000 per person (Do Dham package: Kedarnath & Badrinath)

Helicopters usually operate from nearby helipads like Phata, Guptkashi, or Sersi (road transfer required from Rishikesh).

Gaurikund to Kedarnath Trek

• Distance: 16 km

• Time: 6–10 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate

Facilities available:

• Pony & mule services

• Palanquin (palki)

• Food stalls & medical aid

Sonprayag to Kedarnath (Important Stop)

Sonprayag is just 5 km before Gaurikund and serves as a major checkpoint where vehicles stop and pilgrims switch to local transport.

Nearest Airport to Kedarnath

• Jolly Grant Airport

• Distance: ~249 km from Kedarnath

• Well-connected with Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh

From the airport, taxis are available to Rishikesh and onward to Kedarnath.

Best Time to Visit Kedarnath

• Best months: May–June & September–October

• Temple closed: November to April (heavy snowfall)

• Avoid: July–August (monsoon & landslides)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance by car:
➡️ 227 km (211 km road + 16 km trek)

Rishikesh to Kedarnath bus ticket price:
➡️ ₹400 – ₹600 per person

Rishikesh to Kedarnath helicopter ticket price:
➡️ Approx. ₹10,000 per person

Is there a train from Rishikesh to Kedarnath?
➡️ No direct train available

Final Thoughts

The journey from Rishikesh to Kedarnath is more than just travel—it’s a deeply spiritual and scenic pilgrimage through the heart of the Himalayas. Whether you choose bus, taxi, or helicopter, proper planning ensures a smooth and memorable yatra in 2026.