Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance and 5 key stops ( 2026 Travel Guide)

The Rishikesh to Kedarnath journey is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Uttarakhand, combining road travel, high-altitude trekking, and deep spiritual significance. This route takes you from the banks of the Ganga in Rishikesh to the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Kedarnath sits at an altitude of 3,583 meters, and since it is not motorable, the final stretch must be completed on foot, by pony/palki, or helicopter.

Rishikesh to Kedarnath Distance (At a Glance)

• Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance: 227 km

• By road: 211 km (Rishikesh → Gaurikund)

• By trek: 16 km (Gaurikund → Kedarnath)

• Aerial distance: ~105 km

• Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance by road time: 7–8 hours (till Gaurikund)

• Trek duration: 6–8 hours

How to Reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh

🚗 By Road (Most Common Route)

Travel from Rishikesh to Gaurikund, the last motorable point.

Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Agastamuni → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund

From Gaurikund, start the 16 km trek to Kedarnath.

🚌 Rishikesh to Kedarnath Bus

• Buses run from Rishikesh to Gaurikund/Sonprayag

• Operated by UTC & private operators

• Rishikesh to Kedarnath bus fare: ₹700 – ₹1,200

• Rishikesh to Kedarnath bus ticket price: Depends on season & bus type

• Early morning departures recommended during Char Dham season

📌 No direct bus reaches Kedarnath Temple due to the trek.

🚕 Rishikesh to Kedarnath by Car / Taxi

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

• Sedan/SUV taxis widely available

• Ideal for families & elderly pilgrims

🚁 By Helicopter

• Helicopter services operate from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi

• Flight time: 5–7 minutes

• Cost: ₹2,400 – ₹7,500 (one-way, weather dependent)

🚆 Rishikesh to Kedarnath Train

❌ No train connectivity beyond Rishikesh
Nearest railhead: Rishikesh Railway Station

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5 Major Key Stops on the Rishikesh to Kedarnath Route

1. Rishikesh – Starting Point

Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh is the spiritual and logistical base for the Kedarnath Yatra.

2. Devprayag – Sacred Confluence

The holy meeting point of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, officially forming the Ganga.

3. Rudraprayag – Mandakini Sangam

A crucial halt where the Mandakini meets the Alaknanda, surrounded by dramatic Himalayan views.

4. Guptkashi – Temple Town

Home to the ancient Vishwanath Temple, Guptkashi also serves as a helicopter base.

5. Gaurikund – Trek Starting Point

The last road-accessible village and the gateway to the Kedarnath trek.

Suggested Read- Kedarnath By Helicopter – A-2-Z Information How to Book tickets 

Gaurikund to Kedarnath Trek Overview

• Distance: 16 km

• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

• Route:
  Gaurikund → Jungle Chatti → Bheembali → Linchauli → Kedarnath Base Camp → Kedarnath Temple

• Facilities: Food stalls, rest shelters, medical aid, GMVN tents

🚶‍♂️ Pony & palki services available
🚑 Medical posts & oxygen points at intervals

Best Time for Rishikesh to Kedarnath Yatra

• Best months: May–June & September–October

• Temple closed: November–April (heavy snowfall)

• Avoid: July–August (monsoon & landslides)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance by road?

👉 211 km by road + 16 km trek

Q. How long does it take from Rishikesh to Kedarnath?

👉 7–8 hours by road + 6–8 hours trek

Q. Is there a direct bus from Rishikesh to Kedarnath?

❌ No. Buses go only till Gaurikund/Sonprayag

Q. Can we go to Kedarnath by car?

✅ Yes, up to Gaurikund only

Q. Is Kedarnath trek difficult?

Moderate; suitable with basic fitness and acclimatization.

Suggested Read- How reach and Where to Stay at Kedarnath Temple 

Conclusion

The Rishikesh to Kedarnath route is more than a journey—it’s a test of devotion, endurance, and faith. With proper planning, early starts, and awareness of distances and stops, the yatra becomes a safe, spiritual, and unforgettable Himalayan experience.

Each of these stops provides opportunities to rest, access medical care, and refresh with food and water.