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Kedarnath and Badrinath are two of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Nestled in the majestic Himalayas, these sacred towns are part of the Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage circuit that attracts thousands of devotees each year.
Kedarnath is renowned for its ancient Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Perched at an altitude of about 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest shrines dedicated to Shiva. The temple's remote location adds to its spiritual significance, making the journey to Kedarnath a profound experience of devotion and endurance. The area around the temple is known for its breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrain, which has a way of testing the resolve of pilgrims and rewarding them with unparalleled natural beauty.
Badrinath, located at an altitude of 3,133 meters (10,279 feet), is equally significant, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Badrinath Temple is one of the Char Dhams and is believed to be the site where Vishnu meditated. It sits between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges, adding to its serene and divine atmosphere. The temple's architecture and the surrounding scenery offer a majestic view, with the nearby Alaknanda River adding to the spiritual ambiance.
Both Kedarnath and Badrinath are not just places of worship but also symbolize the timeless connection between spirituality and nature. The pilgrimage to these sacred sites provides devotees with a chance to experience both personal transformation and the sublime beauty of the Himalayan landscape
Depart early from Haridwar or Rishikesh by road to reach the nearest point from Kedarnath, which is either Gaurikund or Sonprayag. The drive takes approximately 7-9 hours. Make sure to leave early to account for possible road conditions and traffic. Afternoon: Reach Gaurikund or Sonprayag and start the trek to Kedarnath. The trek is approximately 16 km from Gaurikund and 14 km from Sonprayag. If you prefer, you can hire a pony or palanquin to make the trek easier. Evening: Arrive in Kedarnath. Check into a hotel or guesthouse. If time permits, visit the Kedarnath Temple for evening Aarti (ritual prayer)
After an early breakfast, visit the Kedarnath Temple for morning Darshan (viewing of the deity). Spend some time exploring the area and enjoying the beautiful Himalayan scenery. Midday: Return to Gaurikund or Sonprayag by trek or transportation. Begin the drive to Badrinath. This drive is approximately 8-10 hours and involves navigating through mountainous roads. Evening: Arrive in Badrinath and check into a hotel or guesthouse. If time allows, you can visit the Badrinath Temple for evening Aarti
Morning: Visit the Badrinath Temple for morning Darshan. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is a key site for the Char Dham pilgrimage. Explore the local area, including the nearby Tapt Kund (hot springs) and Mana Village, which is the last village on the Indo-Tibetan border. Afternoon: Have lunch and begin your return journey to Haridwar or Rishikesh. The drive from Badrinath to Haridwar/Rishikesh can take approximately 8-10 hours. Evening: Arrive in Haridwar or Rishikesh and check into your hotel
Morning: Depending on your schedule, you can explore Haridwar or Rishikesh briefly. Visit the ghats or enjoy a peaceful morning by the river. Afternoon: Depart for your onward journey or return home
The best time to visit Kedarnath and Badrinath is from late April to early November. The temples are generally open from late April to early November, with peak pilgrimage season from May to June and September to October. It’s best to avoid the monsoon season (July to August) due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides
By Air: The nearest airport to Kedarnath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 240 km away. The nearest airport to Badrinath is the same. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the base points of Gaurikund (for Kedarnath) or directly to Badrinath. By Train: The nearest railway stations are Haridwar and Rishikesh. From there, you can travel by road to Gaurikund (for Kedarnath) or Badrinath. By Road: You can drive or take a bus from major cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun to reach the base points for Kedarnath and Badrinath. From Gaurikund, you need to trek to Kedarnath. Badrinath is accessible by road
The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is approximately 16 km and takes around 6-8 hours, depending on your pace and physical condition. The trek can be strenuous, so it’s essential to be well-prepared
Yes, there are various accommodation options in both Kedarnath and Badrinath, ranging from basic guesthouses to more comfortable hotels. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage season
While it is not mandatory to hire a guide or porter, it can be helpful, especially for those who are unfamiliar with trekking in high altitudes or who want extra assistance. Guides and porters can be hired from Gaurikund or online in advance
Clothing: Warm clothing (layers are recommended), rain gear, trekking shoes, and comfortable clothing. Health Supplies: Medications for altitude sickness, first aid kit, and personal hygiene items. Other Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottle, and snacks
No special permits are required for Indian citizens to visit Kedarnath and Badrinath. However, foreigners need to obtain permission from the local authorities if traveling to restricted areas near the Indo-Tibetan border. It’s best to check the current regulations before traveling.
Acclimatization: Spend some time at higher altitudes before reaching Kedarnath. Hydration: Drink plenty of water. Medications: Carry altitude sickness medication and consult a doctor before traveling if you have concerns