Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance and Travel Time – Complete Travel Guide

If you’re planning to visit Kedarnath, chances are you’ll begin your journey from Haridwar – the gateway to the Char Dham Yatra. The holy city, famous for the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, is not just a spiritual hub but also the most convenient starting point for pilgrims heading towards the majestic Himalayas.

The route from Haridwar to Kedarnath is not a simple point-to-point drive. It’s a blend of road travel, mountain views, riverside drives, and a final trek that truly tests both devotion and stamina. For some, it’s a spiritual adventure; for others, it’s a lifetime memory.

Let’s walk through this journey in detail, so you know exactly what to expect in terms of distance, travel time, routes, and the best ways to reach Kedarnath from Haridwar.

Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance Overview

From Haridwar, the road journey to Kedarnath is about 240 km – but here’s the twist: vehicles can only take you up to Gaurikund. After that, it’s a 16–18 km uphill trek to reach the Kedarnath temple.

• By road, it takes around 10–12 hours, depending on traffic and weather.
  
• The trek itself can take anywhere between 6–8 hours, depending on your pace.
  
• If you want to skip trekking, helicopter services are available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi, which can get you to Kedarnath in just a few minutes.
  

So, while the distance may look manageable on paper, the terrain and conditions make this journey unique.

Different Travel Routes from Haridwar to Kedarnath

1. Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance by Road + Trek – The Classic Pilgrimage Route

Most pilgrims prefer the road + trek route. Starting early in the morning from Haridwar, you’ll pass through Rishikesh and then drive along winding mountain roads beside the Ganga and Alaknanda rivers.

The journey takes you through Devprayag (where Bhagirathi and Alaknanda meet to form the Ganga), Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi. Each town has its own mythological and natural charm. Finally, you reach Sonprayag, the last motorable point. From here, a short drive takes you to Gaurikund, the official starting point of the Kedarnath trek.

The trek is not just a climb – it’s an experience filled with chants of “Har Har Mahadev,” tea stalls, mule rides, and breathtaking mountain views.

2. By Helicopter – Quick & Comfortable

If you’re short on time or traveling with elders, the helicopter option is a blessing. From Haridwar, you’ll drive about 7–8 hours to Phata or Sersi, where helicopter services are available. The flight takes just 7–10 minutes and drops you near Kedarnath temple. It’s fast, comfortable, but more expensive than the trek.

3. Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance By Train + Road

Though Haridwar itself is well connected by train, some travelers prefer taking a train up to Rishikesh, which is closer to Kedarnath. From Rishikesh, the road journey to Gaurikund continues as explained above. This route is convenient if your train ends at Rishikesh.

4. Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance By Flight+ Road

If you’re flying in from outside Uttarakhand, the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, about 40 km from Haridwar. From there, a cab or bus can take you towards Sonprayag/Gaurikund. This option saves time for people traveling from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore.

Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance & Travel Time Table

Mode of Travel	Distance	Approx. Time	Notes
Road + Trek	240 km road + 16–18 km trek	16–20 hrs (total)	Most common pilgrimage
Helicopter (via Phata)	225 km road + 10 min flight	7–8 hrs	Comfortable & time-saving
Train + Road	Haridwar → Rishikesh (25 km) + road	12–15 hrs	Alternate option
Air + Road	Haridwar → Dehradun (40 km) + road	10–12 hrs	Useful for outsiders

Haridwar to Kedarnath Travel Fare

Travel costs can vary depending on your choice of route:

• By Bus (Haridwar to Sonprayag): ₹700 – ₹900 (budget-friendly but takes time).
  
• By Shared Taxi/Jeep: ₹900 – ₹1,200 per person.
  
• Private Cab: ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 one way.
  
• Helicopter Ticket: ₹4,000 – ₹7,000 per person (round trip, seasonal rates).
  
• Mule/Pony Ride (Gaurikund to Kedarnath): ₹2,500 – ₹4,000.
  
• Palanquin/Doli: ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 (for elderly travelers).
  

So, whether you’re on a tight budget or want a luxurious ride, options are available for everyone.

Best Way to Travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best way depends on your situation:

• Young and Fit Travelers: Road + Trek is the most fulfilling and spiritual.
  
• Elders or Families with Kids: Helicopters are more convenient.
  
• Budget Travelers: State transport bus + trek is the cheapest.
  
• Time-Conscious Travelers: Cab till Phata + helicopter ride saves time.
  

Think about your comfort, health, and budget before finalizing the mode.

Tips for Traveling from Haridwar to Kedarnath

• Start Early Morning: Mountain roads are slow; leaving at sunrise saves time.
  
• Book Helicopter & Hotels in Advance: During peak yatra months (May–June, Sept–Oct), demand is very high.
  
• Pack Warm Clothes: Kedarnath remains cold even in summer, with night temperatures dropping sharply.
  
• Stay Hydrated & Fit: Trekking requires stamina; carry water, glucose, and light snacks.
  
• Registration is Mandatory: Complete your Char Dham Yatra registration online or at counters.
  
• Accommodation Tip: Stay at Guptkashi or Sonprayag if you don’t find rooms near Gaurikund.
  

Also Read: Manali to Chandratal Lake Distance & Travel Guide

Conclusion

The journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath is more than just traveling kilometers on a map – it’s a journey of faith, patience, and natural beauty. From the sacred ghats of Haridwar to the snow-capped peaks of Kedarnath, every step has its own story.

Whether you walk the steep trek chanting “Bam Bam Bhole,” or soar above the mountains in a helicopter, reaching Kedarnath is a divine experience in itself. Plan wisely, travel safely, and let the mountains guide you to the blessings of Lord Shiva.

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