How to Reach Kedarnath from Delhi – Complete Travel Guide

Kedarnath from Delhi: Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Uttarakhand Himalayas, Kedarnath stands as a sacred symbol of devotion and a key destination in the Char Dham Yatra. If you’re wondering how to reach Kedarnath from Delhi, this complete travel guide covers every route to Kedarnath from Delhi —train, bus, car, and trekking.

As someone who recently completed this journey, let me walk you through exactly how to go Kedarnath from Delhi smoothly, on a budget, and with all the necessary tips.

Delhi to Kedarnath Distance by Train

While there’s no direct train to Kedarnath, you can travel part of the journey by rail. Rishikesh serves as the nearest railhead to Kedarnath, with the remaining 210 km covered by road and foot.

Table of Contents

Board a train from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh

Once you arrive at Rishikesh Railway Station, buses and shared taxis are readily available for Sonprayag. Then continue your journey via local jeep to Gaurikund, where the trek begins

Kedarnath from Delhi distance by train road, depending on your stop

Tip: Trains like Jan Shatabdi Express and Mussoorie Express run daily between Delhi and Haridwar/Rishikesh.

How to Reach Kedarnath by Bus

If you’re on a budget and want flexibility, traveling by bus is a great choice.

Route Overview by Road: Kedarnath from Delhi

Delhi → Haridwar

You can travel from Delhi to Haridwar by bus or car.
By Bus: Regular government and private buses are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate.
By Car: A scenic 5–6 hour drive via NH334.
Haridwar → Rishikesh

From Haridwar, reach Rishikesh by local bus, shared auto, or taxi. The journey takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.

Must Read: Neem Karoli Baba

Rishikesh → Sonprayag

Travel from Rishikesh to Sonprayag by government or private buses. This journey takes around 8–10 hours, depending on road and weather conditions.

Sonprayag → Gaurikund

From Sonprayag, take a shared jeep or local shuttle to Gaurikund, which is the last motorable point before the trek begins.

Gaurikund → Kedarnath

The final leg of the journey is a 16-kilometer uphill trek from Gaurikund to the Kedarnath temple. You can walk, hire a pony, palanquin, or take a helicopter service (pre-booking recommended).

Buses from Delhi ISBT to Haridwar run day and night. From Rishikesh, UTC (Uttarakhand Transport Corp.) buses or private jeeps go to Sonprayag.

Total Travel Time: ~18–20 hours (Delhi to Kedarnath, excluding halt)

How to Go Kedarnath – Trekking from Gaurikund

Once you arrive in Gaurikund, prepare to begin the final stretch—a 16 km trek through the Himalayas to reach Kedarnath. The path is steep and requires stamina, but the views are divine.

Trekking Options:

On Foot: The scenic and most traditional way
Pony/Mule: Available at Gaurikund
Palanquin (Doli): For elderly or differently abled
Helicopter Service: From Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi (advance booking recommended)

🧘 Pro Tip: Start trekking early in the morning to avoid crowds and finish before evening. Prepare wisely—pack a raincoat, quick bites like energy bars, and wear reliable trekking shoes to handle the mountain trail.

Helicopter Option – A Quick Way to Reach Kedarnath

If time is short or you want to skip the trek, here’s how to go Kedarnath via helicopter:

Routes:

Phata → Kedarnath

Sersi → Kedarnath

Guptkashi → Kedarnath

Tickets can be booked online via GMVN or private operators. Round-trip fare ranges from ₹5,000–₹8,000 per person.

Tip: Reach early as flights are weather-dependent and often get canceled due to rain or fog.

Accommodation Tips Near Kedarnath

At Kedarnath: GMVN guesthouses and basic dharamshalas available
At Gaurikund or Sonprayag: Budget hotels, camps, and homestays
Book Early: Especially during peak season (May–June & Sept–Oct)

As a traveler, I stayed in a simple lodge in Sonprayag and started my trek early the next day. The peace of the mountains and spiritual vibe made it unforgettable.

Summary – How to Reach Kedarnath from Delhi

Route Distance Mode

Delhi to Haridwar ~230 km Train/Bus/Car
Haridwar to Rishikesh ~20 km Taxi/Auto
Rishikesh to Sonprayag ~210 km Bus/Cab
Sonprayag to Gaurikund ~5 km Shared Jeep
Gaurikund to Kedarnath ~16 km Trek/Mule/Helicopter

Final Thoughts – Kedarnath Is a Journey of Devotion & Discovery

Now you know exactly how to reach Kedarnath from Delhi, and whether you’re taking the scenic trek, riding a pony, or flying in by helicopter—your path is sure to be memorable.

The journey is long, but so worth it. With every step closer to the sacred Kedarnath Temple, you’ll feel lighter, calmer, and deeply connected to something higher. This isn’t just a trip—it’s a pilgrimage that will stay in your heart forever.