Top things to do in Kedarnath

Travel Guidelines for Kedarnath, Uttarakhand (North India) For Indian Travellers Only

1. Place Information

Kedarnath, located in the Garhwal Himalayas, is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus. It is one of the "Char Dhams" and houses the revered Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath offers a spiritual experience against a backdrop of majestic mountains and breathtaking landscapes.

2. Travel Related Information

• By Road: Kedarnath is connected by road up to Gaurikund. From Gaurikund, one has to trek approximately 16 km to reach the Kedarnath temple.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, roughly 250 km away from Gaurikund. Helicopter services to Kedarnath are also available from various locations.

• By Railway: The closest major railway station is Rishikesh, about 210 km away from Gaurikund. From Rishikesh, one can proceed by road.

3. Visa Related Information

Indian citizens don't require a visa to travel within India. However, any ID or travel-related queries can be referred to local administrative offices or the Ministry of Home Affairs website.

4. SIM Card/Network Related Information

Major telecom providers in the region include BSNL and Jio. Given the altitude and remote location, network connectivity can be sporadic.

5. Govt Safety Guidelines

Kedarnath is situated in a sensitive ecological zone. Travelers are advised to respect local guidelines, especially those related to environmental conservation. Due to its high-altitude location, it's essential to acclimatize appropriately to avoid altitude sickness. The region can be prone to landslides, especially during the monsoon, so it's crucial to stay updated with local advisories. The Uttarakhand Tourism website provides relevant information and advisories.

6. Internal Transport Related Information

Within the region leading to Kedarnath, taxis and buses ply up to Gaurikund. After that, one must trek or avail of horse/palki services to reach the temple. Helicopter services are also available from certain points.

7. Special Mentions

• Kedarnath Temple: The main attraction, it's believed to be a thousand years old, with rich legends associated with it.

• Gandhi Sarovar: A small lake about 3 km from Kedarnath, associated with Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava.

• Vasuki Tal: A high-altitude lake with crystalline waters offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

• Trek: The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is scenic, passing through forests and alongside the Mandakini River.

• Weather: The region remains cold throughout the year, with the temple open only between April/May and November, depending on weather conditions.