Kedarnath is a famous pilgrimage site in Uttarakhand, India, known for its spiritual and eternal beauty. It is not just famous for its temple, but also known for the 16 km Kedarnath trek from Gaurikund.
The trek to Kedarnath is one of the most scenic and beautiful treks in Uttarakhand, making the town famous among devotees, trekkers, and nature lovers.
But the Kedarnath Temple Trek is not as easy as it seems. The temple sits at a very high altitude, with steep mountain terrain, which is challenging, especially for beginners.
A better understanding of the trek route and proper preparation are crucial to embark on this beautiful trek to the Kedarnath Temple in Uttarakhand.
Trek Overview
- Starting Point: Gaurikund (Base Camp)
- Ending Point: Shri Kedarnath Temple
- Trek Distance: 16 kilometres
- Trek Time: 6-7 hours
- Difficulty Level: Moderate-to-Challenging
- Trek Route: Gaurikund → Jungle Chatti → Bheembali → Rambara → Linchauli → Kedarnath Base Camp → Kedarnath Temple
- Key Stops: Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, Linchauli & Kedarnath Base Camp
Gaurikund To Kedarnath Trek Distance And Time
The Kedarnath trek distance is 16 kilometres, taking around 7-8 hours to reach the temple from Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath temple trek.
The trek passes through the small villages, including Jungle Chatti, Rambara, and more, offering scenic views of the Garhwal Himalayas along the way.
However, the total trekking time depends on the pace, fitness level, weather conditions, and crowd movement during the peak yatra season.
Kedarnath Trek Distance:
- 16 km (one-way)
- 32 km (round trip)
Kedarnath Trek Time:
- 7-8 hours (one-way)
- 1-2 days (round trip)
How Long Is Kedarnath Trek?
The Kedarnath trek distance is 16 km long, and generally takes 6 to 7 hours to reach the temple. The Kedarnath trek starts from Gaurikund and passes through the small villages in the Garhwal region.
The trek involves steep Himalayan trails and rising altitude; trekking time may vary with trekking pace, fitness level, and weather conditions.
Kedarnath Trek Route Map
The Gaurikund to Kedarnath trek route is: Gaurikund → Jungle Chatti → Bheembali → Rambara → Linchauli → Kedarnath Base Camp → Kedarnath Temple
The trek route to Kedarnath Temple is well-paved with cement and a well-maintained, wide path, but its steep climb and high altitude make the trek challenging, especially for beginners and senior citizens.
The route passes through scenic villages, providing basic facilities, including medical camps, small eateries, and tea stalls during the peak yatra season.
Here is the complete breakdown of the trekking route with distance, time, and difficulty level:
| Route Breakdown | Distance | Trek Time | Difficulty Level |
| Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti | 4 km | 1-1.5 hrs | Easy to Moderate |
| Jungle Chatti to Bheembali | 3 km | 1 hr | Moderate |
| Bheembali to Rambara | 1 km | 30-45 mins | Moderate |
| Rambara to Linchauli | 4 km | 1.5 hrs | Moderate to Challenging |
| Linchauli to Kedarnath Base Camp | 3 km | 1 hr | Moderate to Challenging |
| Kedarnath Base Camp to Kedarnath Temple | 1 km | 30-45 mins | Easy |
Source: Google Maps
Kedarnath Trek Map
Is Kedarnath Trek Difficult?
The Kedarnath trek difficulty level is generally considered moderately challenging, especially for beginners, senior citizens, pilgrims with health issues, and those with physical disabilities.
The 16 km trek route involves steep ascents, high altitudes, crowd rush, uneven rocky terrain, and uncertain weather, making the trek difficult for many pilgrims.
But proper physical and mental preparation, continuous hydration, slow pacing, light meals, and basic medications help to complete the trek safely. Senior citizens and pilgrims with health issues can also hire pony/palki services to complete the trek.
Tips: For a faster and more comfortable yatra, while avoiding trek, pilgrims can also book Kedarnath helicopter tickets through the official Heliyatra IRCTC Portal.
Can a beginner do Kedarnath trek?
Yes, absolutely, a beginner can do the Kedarnath trek, but with proper fitness preparation, both physical and mental. While trekking, make sure to continue at the same pace and strength.
Do not overexert yourself, stay hydrated, eat light, and take short breaks. Breathing shortness, altitude sickness, headache, and fainting are basic symptoms of high altitude sickness, so carry medicines.
However, these small steps can make a huge difference in completing the trek comfortably.
Best Time For Kedarnath Temple Trek
Kedarnath trek best time is from May to June in summer, and from September to October in autumn. Both seasons are considered the best time for trekking to the temple, offering the most comfortable weather and route conditions.
- Summer: It can be challenging due to the heavy rush because of peak season, but it offers the most pleasant weather, with clear skies and many facilities available throughout the trek.
- Autumn: This time is ideal for trekking, with cool weather, clear roads, scenic views, peaceful surroundings, and trekking routes with fewer crowds, making it the best time for the Kedarnath trek.
Safety Tips: Avoid visiting during the monsoon season, as trekking can be risky due to bad weather and heavy rainfall. The trekking paths get slippery, leading to landslides and mishaps.
Note: Check the complete weather guide on “Best time to visit Kedarnath Temple”.
How To Prepare For Kedarnath Trek?
Here are some exercises and tips for a comfortable and safe trek to Kedarnath Temple:
- Start Cardio Training: Build stamina with activities such as brisk walking, jogging, and cycling. By doing 30-45 mins daily.
- Build Leg Strength: Go on long walks and focus on leg exercises, such as squats, lunges, and step-ups.
- Improve Breathing: Practice breathing exercises and try yoga to build breathing endurance at high altitude.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep drinking enough water to stay hydrated throughout the trek.
- Eat Light & Health: Avoid eating oily and junk food. Keep your diet clean and healthy, including carbs, proteins, and fruit.
Before all this preparation, do not forget to prepare yourself both mentally and physically for a safe and comfortable journey.
How To Select The Best Shoes For Kedarnath Trek?
Selecting the best and most comfortable shoes for the Kedarnath trek is a priority for completing the trek through steep climbs and rough terrain. A pair of shoes with a good grip, breathability, water resistance, and a high ankle can make the trek easier and smoother.
Here are some things to consider while selecting the shoes for the Kedarnath Temple Trek:
- Ankle Support: Choose high ankle shoes for protection from harmful flies and plants, and for ankle support during the trek on rough terrains and uneven rocky paths.
- Good Grip Soles: Go for soles with deep treads, rugged, or Vibram to avoid slipping on rough terrain.
- Water Resistance: To keep your feet warm and dry, protect them from unpredictable rainfall and muddy conditions on the path.
- Breathable: Select shoes with breathability to prevent sweating during trekking and for comfort on long walks.
What Things To Avoid During The Trek?
Here are some things that should be avoided during the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath:
- Junk Food: Do not eat heavy, oily, and junk food before the trek; it can be harmful, causing fatigue and fainting.
- Overexertion: Do not overexert yourself; walk at a pace, take small breaks, and continue with the same energy.
- Late Start: It is advisable to start the trek early and reach before evening because it is not safe to trek at night.
- Ignoring Weather: The trek is at a high altitude, and weather is unpredictable, so considering the weather conditions is a must.
- Overpacking: The trek is long and requires almost 7-8 hours or more; trekking with heavy backpacks can be hectic and exhausting.
Important Tip: High altitude can cause fatigue, dizziness, and altitude sickness, so carry medicines and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Also carry snacks, such as protein bars, energy drinks, and dry fruits, to stay energised throughout the trek.
Conclusion
Reaching the Kedarnath Temple trek is not just a spiritual journey but also an adventurous trek with beautiful memories. For a memorable journey, proper planning and preparation are a must.
This comprehensive, informational, and practical guide to the Kedarnath Trek route will help you have a better experience of the Kedarnath Dham. So plan your journey with this and embark on this beautiful trek to everyone’s dream destination.
FAQs
Is Kedarnath trek open now?
Yes, the Kedarnath trek is open from late April/May to October/November; it remains closed during the winter, when the trekking path gets covered in snow, making the temple inaccessible.
Is it difficult to climb Kedarnath?
The trek to Kedarnath is generally considered moderate; it can be completed safely with proper preparation. But it can be difficult for elderly pilgrims or people with health issues.
How much does Kedarnath trek cost?
Kedarnath trek is free of cost; only a registration slip is required to start the trek from Gaurikund. There is no hidden cost for the trek.
Is Kedarnath trek open 24 hours?
No, the Kedarnath trek is not open for 24 hours due to safety reasons. Pilgrims must start trekking early; entry from Gaurikund is prohibited after 1:30 PM. Also, the intervals, such as Bheembali and Lincholi, close around 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The return journey should start before 5:00 PM.
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