Introduction

Are you planning a Delhi to Kedarnath Trip? If yes, that’s nice; it’s important to understand that it’s not just about organising a trip. But also about preparing yourself for the soulful experience in the Himalayas. 

If you’re someone looking for a straightforward guide on how to reach Kedarnath from Delhi, you are in the right place. Today I’m going to share with you a complete travel guide covering all from the from the fastest route to travel options and the easiest way to plan a journey.

Quick Overview of Delhi to Kedarnath Trip

  • Travel Options: Flight, Train, Road, and a combination of these, along with a trek. 
  • Travel Time: 2-3 days
  • Delhi to Kedarnath Route Map: Delhi → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Gaurikund → Kedarnath Temple
  • Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun
  • Nearest Railhead: Haridwar (HW) and Rishikesh (YRNK)
kedarnath temple wide view

Delhi To Kedarnath Distance & Route Map

The New Delhi to Kedarnath distance is approximately 452 km by road to Gaurikund, taking around 14-16 hours of driving plus a trek of around 16 km. Kedarnath distance from Delhi can vary depending on the travel modes and the starting point of your trip.

That’s why understanding the distance and route is important. Below is a brief overview of the Delhi to Kedarnath route map and distance by road, train, and flight:

Delhi to Kedarnath Distance by Road: Approx. 450 km by road up to Gaurikund.  

  • Duration: 14-16 hours
  • Route: Delhi → Haridwar/Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Gaurikund → Kedarnath

Delhi to Kedarnath Distance by Train: Approx. 230 km by train up to Haridwar and Rishikesh. 

  • Duration: 5-7 hours (train journey) 
  • Route: NDLS to Yog Nagri Rishikesh/Haridwar Junction → road travel to Sonprayag → Gaurikund → trek to Kedarnath Temple

Delhi to Kedarnath Distance by Flight: 226 km by air

  • Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
  • Route: IGI Airport → Dehradun Airport → road travel to Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath

Best Way To Reach Kedarnath From Delhi

The best way to reach Kedarnath from Delhi depends on your budget, comfort, or speed. The journey involves three main phases: 

  • Reaching the nearby hubs (Haridwar/Rishikesh/Dehradun)
  • Road travel to Sonprayag/Gaurikund
  • Final stretch trek to Kedarnath Temple. 

Fastest option overall: Flight + Road + Trek

Chosen by many pilgrims for safety and convenience, taking a flight from Delhi’s IGI Airport to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport. From there, a road journey via taxi/cab followed to Sonprayag/Gaurikund. Ideal for time-bound travellers. 

Note: For those who have a shortage of time or are unable to trek, can take a helicopter service operated by IRCTC Heliyatra. 

Most popular and economical: Train + Road + Trek

Taking a train from Delhi (NDLS junction) to Haridwar/Rishikesh takes around 5-7 hours. From there, travel by road to reach the base camp (Guarikund) and then complete the trek to reach the Kedarnath Temple. Ideal for budget travellers and families.

Flexible & Scenic: Road journey + Trek

Those who love long road journeys can travel by road via self-drive or bus to Haridwar first, then Sonprayag and Gaurikund via taxi, then trek on foot or pony/palki to reach the shrine. 

Devotees looking for a safe and hassle-free experience can opt for a Kedarnath package from Delhi with complete end-to-end solutions handling all the travel logistics to make the journey safer and spiritually rich.

How To Reach Kedarnath From Delhi

To reach Kedarnath from Delhi, you must travel to Haridwar/Rishikesh or Gaurikund by air, train, or road. From these cities, proceed to Sonprayag and Gaurikund by road travel. Then, a final leg of a  16 km trek leading to the shrine can be covered on foot or via Pony/palki or helicopter. 

Note: There is no direct connectivity by air, train, or road to the Kedarnath Temple itself. Pilgrims must complete the trek to reach the shrine. 

Below is a brief overview of how to go Kedarnath from Delhi:

By Flight (fastest option): Fly from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Airport to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, the nearest airport to Kedarnath. From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Sonprayag, then continue to Gaurikund. 

Onward travel: From Gaurikund, complete the trek to reach the temple. 

By Train (most economical & preferred): Take popular trains like the Dehradun Exp. and Yoga Exp from Delhi (NDLS) to Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. Takes around 5-7 hours.

Onward travel: from the railway station, take a bus or hire a taxi to Sonprayag and proceed to Gaurikund. From there, heads on a trek to reach the shrine. 

By Road (most common): Delhi to Kedarnath by road is the most common way to travel, which involves travelling via the NH-7 route and covering a distance of over 450 km. Firstly, travel to Haridwar/Rishikesh by self-drive or bus from ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Haridwar. Then proceed to Sonprayag/Gaurikund via another vehicle.

From Gaurikund, embark on the final stretch; a 16 km trek leads to the Kedarnath Temple. 

Delhi To Kedarnath By Flight

Delhi to Kedarnath by air provides the fastest link to this region. But there is no direct flight between these two routes. Travellers must travel in a multistage journey, as Kedarnath doesn’t have a commercial airport. 

Delhi To Kedarnath Flight

Firstly, you must take a flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Jolly Grant Airport (DED). From Dehradun airport, complete the remaining journey by road and trek, or take a shuttle helicopter service to the shrine. 

Quick details

  • Aerial Distance: Approx. 208 km by air
  • Duration: 50-60 minutes 
  • Major Airlines: IndiGo and Air India operate regular flights
  • Delhi to Kedarnath flight ticket price: ₹3500–₹7500 per person, depending on season and booking time
  • Best route: Flight (Delhi to Dehradun) → Road journey (Dehradun to Gaurikund) → trek to Kedarnath Temple

Onward Journey To Kedarnath

Once you reach Dehradun, you have two options to reach the Kedarnath Temple. Let’s discuss each option one by one.

Option A: Helicopter: Helicopter service for Kedarnath is available from Phata, Sirsi, and Guptkashi, which will cost you from 6600 to 12,400 per person for the round trip. A shuttle flight from these helipads to Kedarnath takes only 10-15 minutes.  

Option B (Road + trek): Take a taxi or bus to Sonprayag, then Gaurikund. From there, the final leg of a trek that leads to the Kedarnath Temple.

Delhi To Kedarnath By Train

There is no direct train from New Delhi to Kedarnath, as, like the airport, Kedarnath doesn’t have any railway station. Travellers must combine their train journey with road travel and trek to reach the shrine.

Here is the complete information on how to visit Kedarnath from Delhi by Train:

Step 1: Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh

Take a train to either Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun from Delhi. From the railway station.

  • Popular trains: Dehradun Exp (12017), Mussoorie Exp (14041), and Yoga Exp (19031) are popular options that run daily.
  • Delhi to Kedarnath Distance by train: 240 to 250 km up to Haridwar and Rishikesh
  • Duration: 5-7 hours

Delhi to Kedarnath Train Ticket Price

The Delhi to Kedarnath train ticket price ranges from ₹300 (SL) to over ₹1000 (AC class) per person, depending on the train, class, and booking time. 

Step 2: Road travel to Gaurikund

From either of these stations, take a taxi or bus to Sonprayag, then a shuttle taxi to Gaurikund, covering a distance of around 240 km, which takes almost 8-10 hours. 

Step 3: Trek to Kedarnath Temple

After reaching Gaurikund, a trek of around 16 km takes around 6-8 hours on foot or via Pony/Palki service. 

Delhi To Kedarnath by Road

A journey from Delhi to Kedarnath by road requires covering a distance of around 450 km by road, followed by a trek to the Kedarnath Temple from Gaurikund. The road journey typically takes around 10-12 hours of driving to reach the base camp, but for safety and comfort, you can break the journey into two days. 

Here are the best travel options to travel by road from Delhi to Kedarnath, along with the best route. 

Delhi to Kedarnath Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly option for travel, but there is no direct bus from Delhi to Kedarnath. Travellers must travel in multiple stages, including:

  • Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh: Take a Volvo bus from ISBT Kashmiri Gate (Delhi) to Haridwar/Rishikesh, covering around 220-240 km. The price of a bus ticket for this route ranges from ₹400 to ₹600 per person, depending on the bus type (Sleeper/semi-sleeper). 
  • Haridwar to Sonprayag: Regular buses depart early morning (around 5:00 a.m. onwards). Cost ranges between ₹500 and ₹700 per person.
  • Soprayag to Gaurikund: Must take a shuttle taxi for the last 5 km stretch; costs around ₹50-₹100 per person. From Gaurikund, complete the trek to reach the temple. 

Delhi to Kedarnath by self-drive or private taxi/Cab

Self-driving or hiring a private vehicle to reach Kedarnath Temple from Delhi is a flexible way to travel, ideal for those who love long and scenic drives. Roads are good up to Haridwar; from there becomes narrow and hilly, requiring careful driving. 

Best route for Delhi to Kedarnath by road

The journey follows the NH 34 and NH-7 routes, known for their better connectivity and good conditions. Passing via:

Delhi → Meerut → Roorkee → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath

Vehicle limitations: It is important to know that private vehicles are allowed only to Sonprayag, where parking is available. From there, you must take a government jeep to reach the base point, Gaurikund. From there, followed a 16 km trek journey to reach Kedarnath. 

Safety tips: Night driving is prohibited on the mountain road for safety reasons, so follow these guidelines.

Gaurikund To Kedarnath Trek Details

Gaurikund is a place where your real journey to the Kedarnath Temple begins. From there, your road journey ends. You must complete the trek from 1,982 meters (Gaurikund) to 3.583 meters (Kedarnath). 

The trek can be completed on foot, requires good fitness and stamina, and takes around 6-8 hours for fit individuals. 

kedarnath trek route from gaurikund

Alternate methods

If you can’t walk or trek, you can take local transport: Pony/Palki/Pitthu service from Gaurikund or helicopter service from nearby helipads (Phata/Sirsi/Guptkashi). 

Key Details about the Kedarnath trek

  • Starting point: Gaurikund
  • Leading point: Kedarnath Temple
  • Trek Distance: 16 km one-way
  • Time taken: 6-8 hours, depending on fitness and pace
  • Major stop points: Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, Linchauli, and Kedarnath base camp
  • En route facilities: Medical camps, resting sheds, tea stalls, and a government hospital are available en route. 
  • Timing of trek: 4:00 AM to 1:30 PM from Gaurikund 

Travel & Safety Tips For Travellers

  • Night Driving Restriction: Driving after sunset in a remote area is strictly prohibited from 8:00 PM to 4:00 AM, so plan your trip wisely to reach your destination by evening.
  • Mandatory registration: Registration for Kedarnath is compulsory, as without this entry pass, you may not travel to this region. 
  • Choose the best time to visit: The best time to visit Kedarnath from Delhi is from May to June for a pleasurable experience and from September to October for a peaceful darshan experience.
  • Fuel strategy: If you travel by self-drive, fill up your vehicle at Haridwar, Devprayag, or Rudraprayag. After these destinations, fuel pumps are scarce, so keep this in mind.
  • Weather consideration: Weather can change frequently in hilly areas, so you must carry a raincoat, warm layers, and waterproof trekking shoes.
  • Network connectivity: Networks are poor. JIO and BSNL had better coverage till the base camp, but many times you can expect no signal, so inform your family and stay updated.
  • Cash Handy: ATMs are rare and digital payment is not possible, so carry sufficient cash for your trip. 

Conclusion

A journey from Delhi to Kedarnath is truly divine and transforming, filled with devotion, faith, patience, and memorable experiences. 

No matter whether you travel by road, flight, train, or even helicopter, every route to the shrine teaches you a lifetime lesson and brings a long-lasting impression that provides a deep sense of inner peace and self-reflection. 

So yeah, plan, travel safely, follow local guidelines, and embark on a journey with a flexible mindset.

FAQs

How can I go to Kedarnath from Delhi?

You can go to Kedarnath from Delhi by flight (fastest), train (economical), or road (popular) to Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun. From these cities, drive via bus/taxi to Gaurikund, then follow a 16 km trek on foot or helicopter from nearby helipads (Phata/Sirsi/Guptkashi) to reach the temple.

How to plan a Kedarnath trip from Delhi?

To plan a Kedarnath trip from Delhi, you must choose the best travel routes and options, the best time to travel, and other considerations, like mandatory registration, Hotel booking, packing, and budget for the entire trip. Or for your convenience, you can opt for a package that includes all travel arrangements.

Which is the best route from Delhi to Kedarnath?

The best route for the Delhi to Kedanath journey is the NH-34 and NH-7 route, passing via;

Delhi → Merrut → Haridwar/Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath Temple

Known for its great connectivity and good conditions, but requires careful driving due to steep and narrow turns after Rishikesh.

What is the easiest way to reach Kedarnath from Delhi?

The easiest way to reach Kedarnath from Delhi is to take a flight from Delhi IGI airport to Dehradun Airport or a train, such as Jan Shatabadi Exp, from Delhi to Haridwar/Dehradun, followed by a road journey to Sonprayag/Gaurikund. Then complete the trek to reach the temple.

How can I reach Kedarnath from Delhi the cheapest?

The cheapest or most economical way to reach Kedarnath from Delhi is to take a train or bus to Haridwar/Rishikesh. From there, heading on another local bus to Sonprayag, then a shuttle taxi to Gaurikund, and then the final leg, complete the trek on foot towards Kedarnath Temple.

How to go from Delhi to Kedarnath by flight?

To reach Kedarnath by flight, fly from Delhi to Dehradun, then follow road travel to Gaurikund, then trek to Kedarnath, as there is no direct connectivity to the temple itself. So pilgrims must travel into multi stages.

Breakdown of a Flight Journey:

  • Step 1: Fly from Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) to Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun). Flight takes around 50-60 minutes and costs around ₹4500 to ₹7500 per person.
  • Step 2: Take a taxi/bus from the airport to Sonprayag, then a shuttle taxi to Gaurikund. Takes around 6-8 hours and covers around 240 km.
  • Step 3: From Gaurikund, head on the trek journey towards the Kedarnath Temple.

Is there any train from Delhi to Kedarnath?

There is no direct train from Delhi to Kedarnath. You can take a direct train to the nearest railhead to Kedarnath, Haridwar/Rishikesh railway station.

Available trains are: Jan Shatabadi Exp, Yoga Exp, Vande Bharat, and Mussorie Exp.

How can I go to Kedarnath from Delhi by train?

To reach Kedarnath from Delhi by train, you must travel in multiple stages, including:

  • Step 1: Take a train from Delhi to Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh. Mussorie Exp., Dehradun Janshatabadi, and Yoga Exp. are some popular regular trains, takes around 5-7 hours. 
  • Step 2: Take a bus or taxi from the railway station to Sonprayag, then a shuttle taxi to reach Gaurikund. 
  • Step 3: From Gaurikund, head on a trek towards Kedarnath Temple on foot, by pony/palki, or by helicopter service from nearby helipads (Phata/Sirsi/Guptkashi). 

How many hours from Delhi to Kedarnath?

Well, A road journey from Delhi to Kedarnath by road takes around 14-16 hours, passing via Haridwar, Rishikesh, Guptkashi, Sonprayag, and Gaurikund. The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath takes around6-8 hours on foot.