Delhi to Kedarnath Road Trip
Looking at the Himalayas with great appreciation and excitement truly embodies a road trip from Delhi to Kedarnath. Kedarnath, nestled in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a renowned pilgrimage destination. It has exquisite beauty and pristine, serene sceneries that cater to tourists and travelers, and it is comparable to pieces of boundless art.
In addition, the trip shows the vibrancy of India as well as the calmness of the country’s Himalayan Ranges. This guide is tailored for those intending to travel by car from New Delhi to Kedarnath. It covers all aspects of the route, including distances, road conditions, best seasons for travel, and other places of interest along the trip.
Delhi to Kedarnath Road Trip – An Epic Himalayan Adventure
The pilgrimage to Kedarnath is certainly most beautiful when completed by road. It ranges between 450 and 500 km, depending on the route taken. The infrastructure also encompasses the religious towns of Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Rudraprayag, which ultimately culminate at the base of Gaurikund. It is roughly a 16 to 18-km trek from Gaurikund to the Kedarnath temple.
The transition from Delhi’s smooth highways to Uttarakhand’s winding mountain roads is truly enchanting. One can observe remarkable hilltop towns as well as deep snow-capped ranges with adjoining forests and rivers at their confluences. It does not matter whether one prefers travelling by taxi, self-driving or using Chiku Cab; all options are very flexible. The scenic views, coupled with the devotion one feels towards the trip and how nature embraces the traveller, make the trip truly remarkable, touching the spirit.
Delhi to Kedarnath Distance by Road – Know Before You Go
Total Distance and Travel Time
Kedarnath has its unique location within a radius of about 400 to 500 kilometers. It has been Kedarnath’s temple, which is approximately 12 to 15 hours of travel from Delhi and with the breaks and walks taken turns into an enjoyable visit. It is advised by professionals to take a walk for leisure along the path as the view is delightful.
Route Breakdown and Key Stops
This is among the most fascinating and attractive motorable routes. It begins in Delhi and goes to Dehwaryag, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi, where we have Haridwar and Rishikesh. One can reach Guarikund by road, and then there is an approximate 16- 18 km trek to the Kedarnath Temple.
Important key stops include:
- Haridwar Sacred immersion into the Ganges
- Rishikesh: Soothing spirituality and excursion activities
- Devprayag: The Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers meet
- Rudraprayag: The entrance to reach Kedarnath
Alternate Routes and Distance Variations
Although the most popular routes are NH334 and NH7, there are other routes that can be taken through Meerut–Kotdwar–Pauri, but these can take longer or have difficult road conditions. Based on stops or breaks taken, the Kedarnath distance from Delhi can vary, though, so it’s advisable to have a GPS or navigation system.
Popular Routes from Delhi to Kedarnath – Choose Your Path
Kedarnath can be approached by road from different routes that offer scenic views and spiritual experiences. Each route has unique features, and the highlights differ as well. What is most important is what you value: speed, adventure, comfort, or the best of, depending on your preference.
The Classic Route via Haridwar and Rishikesh
The most popular route from Delhi to Kedarnath passes through Haridwar and Rishikesh It is well connected to Delhi as it has multiple religious places on the way and smooth, wide roads connecting it. The journey begins in Delhi and goes to Ghaziabad, then to Haridwar, followed by Rishikesh, Devprayag, Srinagar, and Rudraprayag.
This rough distance is around 450-470 km; later, it goes to Sonprayag and then to Gaurikund, which is the base point where the trek to Kedarnath starts. Along the way, the journey is beautified with ashrams, famous ghats, and rivers coming together in one place, which enhances one’s spirit.
The Quieter Alternative via Kotdwar and Pauri
People who enjoy lesser-known places would prefer this route as it is more beautiful, unlike Kotdwar and Pauri, which are more commercialised. The journey begins at Bijnor and goes through Kotdwar and Pauri. From there, it finally joins the Rudraprayag main highway. Traveling this way might be problematic, as the mountain roads are quite twisted, but the peace and beauty that await the traveler are perfect for anyone looking for a soothing escape from the pilgrimage crowds.
The Scenic Adventure via Dehradun and Tehri
The less traveled route via Dehradun and New Tehri is equally stunning. From Delhi, one travels through Dehradun and then to Tehri, which connects with the main road south of Srinagar. This route has Dehradun as a base and has a total length of about 500 kilometers, which crosses many hill stations and the amazing Tehri Dam. This is ideal for people looking to mix exploration with a soulful getaway and is a good supplement for the classic yatra to Kedarnath.
This route combines best with all other routes as all of them meet at Gaurikund, which is the endpoint of the motorable road. Here begins the trek to the Kedarnath Temple, which is the final leg of the pilgrimage.
Best Time to Visit From Delhi to Kedarnath– Plan Perfectly
Forming the ideal road itinerary from Delhi to Kedarnath involves more than just setting the route; there is the consideration of optimal weather conditions, road safety, and overall experience during the trip.
Summer Season (May to June): The Prime Pilgrimage Window
It is well known that people from across the world travel from Delhi to Kedarnath during the summer months of May and June. This is when temple doors open for the pilgrimage as it is marked on their calendar around early May. Temperature-wise, the region is pleasant, experiencing 15 to 25 degrees, which is manageable for the car ride and trek from Gaurikund, which is further enhanced by a breathtaking view. Also during this time, all travel services including accommodation, meals and transport are easily accessible.
Monsoon Season (July to August): A Risky Affair
In the first week of July, the monsoon season takes over the entire Uttarakhand region, and it lasts until August. Monsoons have their own perks, such as depicting greenery in stunning ways. However, visiting Kedarnath runs the risk of severe constraints during this specific period. It is in these months that the Kedarnath region is subject to heavy rainfall, landslides, and even the possibility of road blockages, as well as flash floods.
The few roads that are available for use turn into death traps due to unknown circumstances. Due to poor visibility in the hilly areas during the monsoon season, certain remote regions become inaccessible. This results in the entire trip getting cancelled. Thus, most travelers do not plan for an adventurous road trip during this period unless it is absolutely important.
Autumn Season (September to October): The Peaceful Retreat
Autumn is also the ideal time to be at Kedarnath as the lush green hills, roads, and the full plateau receive a drop in temperature alongside calmness everywhere. Peaceful streams and lesser crowds help nurture the soul and aid in a greater spiritual experience that brings forth divine blessings.
Winter Season (November to March): Snow and Closure
Winter signifies heavy snowfall in Kedarnath, alongside lower temperatures. The temple located within the town is closed in mid-November, and the idol is transferred to Ukhimath, where the shrine is prayed till spring arrives. Access to the town becomes heavily restricted the further you get during this time frame as the roads leading tirelessly to Gaurikund often become covered in approximation snow.
Travel Tips for the Best Time
To maximise any traveling experience, it is wise to check the weather forecast and road conditions, no matter the season. Taking off on a drive for later in the day can be beneficial as it allows avoidance of fog and getting more daylight during the ride’s hilly portions. To make travel easy and comfortable, especially with new travelers who are not used to navigating through mountainous regions, booking a cab through Chiku Cab is highly recommended.
Our company caters to those needing special travel arrangements. No matter the season, though, having warm clothing is a must since temperatures in the hills tend to fall suddenly after sunset.
Delhi to Kedarnath Road Condition via Route – What to Expect
The steps to take when preparing for a road trip from Delhi to Kedarnath by car include having all the necessary items in order. One important aspect to consider keenly is the road and the conditions bound to be faced, as this information is useful in determining the safety and comfort of the driver throughout the trip.
The terrain shifts dramatically from the plains of Delhi to the hills around Uttarakhand. Although the majority of the route is well taken care of, some areas can be problematic for drivers at certain times of the year.
From Delhi to Haridwar – Smooth and Straightforward
The trip starts on a wonderful note as the Delhi to Haridwar highway link NH334 is a smooth road. This segment of the highway forms a part of an Indian National Highway and is well-maintained throughout the year. The road is quite spacious and marked for navigation, which provides easy accommodation for both private and hired taxis.
However, as this area is situated in the plains, traffic jams are common as people move closer to Ghaziabad and Meerut. For smooth traffic flow, it is advisable to leave Delhi early in the morning.
Haridwar to Rishikesh – Short and Simple
The Haridwar to Rishikesh road is a short but beautiful drive, taking approximately 45 minutes to one hour. The road is also well-constructed, and the view of the Ganga River with the Himalayas in the background is truly awe-inspiring. The traffic on the road is normal as well, but during the holiday season, expect some delays because of the increased flow of tourists and pilgrims.
Rishikesh to Devprayag – Into the Hills
After Rishikesh, the landscape changes quite substantially. The roads are more narrow and more steeply inclined as you move into the Garhwal Himalayan Region. This segment all the way to Devprayag is gorgeous but needs cautious driving.
While the roads are reasonably good, minor construction or small landslides during or after the rains do impact timelines. Caution is needed while steering around sharp turns, as it is necessary to keep an eye out for other vehicles.
Devprayag to Rudraprayag – The Mountain Challenge
The section between Devprayag and Rudraprayag is also characterised by the twisting road cut into the steep slopes of the mountains. The rivers that flow nearby make the view striking, but the road is frequently crowded with big buses and local transports.
Most of this segment has been tarred, but there are numerous potholes and rough patches as well. This region is prone to landslides, especially during the wet months. Thus, it’s advisable to look for updates on the roads before tackling this section of the trip.
Rudraprayag to Guptkashi and Sonprayag – Last Leg Before the Trek
The road from Kashi splits into two from where Rudraprayag is located; one goes to Badrinath, and the other goes to Kedarnath, which passes through Guptkashi. There are often jams due to the large holidaying crowds of pilgrims during the Yatra season. There are several sharp ascents and bends, thus the road conditions are moderate. There are usually safe routes towards the beginning of summer and early autumn.
However, you must know the condition of roads beforehand, it will help you plan adequately to take rest breaks, predict time delays, and select the vehicle which is most appropriate. The service provided by Chiku Cab is worth booking because they ensure that their clients are not wasted upon inexperienced mountain drivers not accustomed to the slopes as well as the legal prerequisites of local travel.
How to Reach Kedarnath from Delhi – Complete Travel Guide
Kedarnath is among the best places in India for pilgrimage and is surrounded by mountains. Accessible through different means, here is an all-in-one guide about where to start in Delhi and where you need to go in Kedarnath by bus, train, or plane for your convenience.
By Road – The Most Scenic and Flexible Option
Arguably, the most flexible and commonly used option to reach Kedarnath from Delhi is by road. The 450 to 500-kilometer journey combines spiritual landmarks with rich culture and nature. Traveling bypasses popular spots leaving from Delhi like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Rudraprayag and ending the motorable journey at Gaurikund.
Visitors can drive themselves or book a cab with Chiku Cab, which provides well-maintained vehicles and experienced mountain drivers. The added ability to stop at places like Haridwar or Rishikesh for food or sightseeing makes road travel the preferred mode of transport.
Beyond Sonprayag, no private vehicles are permitted. A local jeep must be taken to Gaurikund for the trek to the Kedarnath Temple. The physical trek serves as a reminder of the spiritual journey through forests, riversides, and rigorous steep paths around one of the most prominent Indian temples.
By Train – Economical, But Requires Connectivity
Kedarnath is without a station, however, there are Haridwar Junction and Rishikesh Railway Station along the Delhi train route. There are also affordable options such as Jan Shatabdi and Mussoorie Express trains.
Many buses, taxis, and specially hired cabs are available in Gaurikund. Transport is always readily available. Although the train option provides some respite from unending exhaustion, the combination of trains, buses, and taxis makes it challenging. For a certain time of the year, especially during the pilgrimage season, trains also tend to get fully booked months in advance.
By Air – Fastest But Most Expensive Option
If a traveler is out of time or requires the most ease, air travel works best. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant, situated in Dehradun. It is about 240 kilometers away from Gaurikund. Numerous flights leave for Dehradun from Delhi, each under an hour long.
If you drive, Gaurikund is around a 9 to 10-hour journey from there, but you can take a helicopter from Dehradun to Kedarnath. During the Yatra season, helipads at Phata, Sersi, Guptkashi, and even Dehradun offer transport services. While these services are incredibly helpful, they are very sensitive to the weather and need to be bought far in advance.
Which Option Is Best for You?
Cab service from Delhi, along with its flexible routing, is ideal for anyone looking for a road trip. Unlike other drivers, they can effortlessly service the scenic view of the breathtaking Himalayas throughout the journey. The drivers of these cabs are highly trained in navigating the mountaineering routes and offer them easy and safe to traverse. Moreover, Chiku Cab offers the unparalleled advantage of effortlessly picking up and dropping off passengers from their personal vehicles at their desired location, removing any burden.
People who have time constraints will benefit the most by booking a flight to Dehradun and subsequently a helicopter directly to Kedarnath. These routes do not offer any other time-saving measures but better suit passengers who have last-minute cancellations or weather-dependent delays.
Since they need further attention while planning the rest of the participants’ road transfers, trains become the optimal choice for larger groups considering budget efficacy. Whichever path you choose, remember to set the travel dates in the months the temple is open, generally April to November. Also, look at the location’s weather conditions and road access.
Explore Kedarnath Like a Local – A Handy Guide
- If you wish to experience a fuller atmosphere, consider making reservations at GMVN’s guest houses or other affordable dharamshalas standing adjacent to the temple.
- Do not miss the Aarti in Kedarnath Temple. You can catch it in the morning during Aarti, when there is less hustle compared to the rest of the day.
- In addition, the locals also sell aloo puri, khichdi and even chai coming from the countless tea stalls.
- The many priests and sadhus who have resided in Kedarnath for decades will happily narrate interesting aspects of their lives.
- Make sure to look around for the Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi, which is usually ignored by most tourists.
- Take a stroll by the Mandakini river if you seek to relax and want to enjoy the quiet that envelopes the river banks.
- As already mentioned, please respect the local etiquette and culture. Refrain from littering as this enhances the aesthetic of the region, which is an ecologically sensitive zone.
- For those who prefer walking tours, it is suggested to take up their offer as guides or porters. Their intimate knowledge of the terrain makes them the most suitable for this role.
Attractions for Sightseeing in Kedarnath – More than Just a Temple
The natural scenery, along with religious fervor and other attractions, make Kedarnath more than just a temple.
Bhairavnath Temple
The Temple is situated 500 meters height from the Kedarnath temple and houses the idol of the fierce, protective god Bhairava. Visitors to this Temple are awestruck by the superb panoramic sights of the Kedarnath valley.
Vasuki Tal
Situated about 8 kilometers from Kedarnath, Vasuki Tal is a stunning glacier lake that can be reached by a trek that is moderately difficult. Surrounded by soaring snow-clad peaks, the waters of the lake are calm and azure, while the landscape itself displays a tranquil alpine charm.
Gandhi Sarovar
This small lake, also called Chorabari Tal, lies approximately 3 kilometers from Kedarnath. It is a great place for relaxing and soaking in nature’s beauty. It’s said that the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi were thrown here, giving it important historical value.
Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi
Located precisely behind the temple, this site marks the samadhi of the person who advocated and re-established Hinduism in the 8th century. The place is replete with spiritual energy, creating a sensation of calm. This location is known for its energetic stillness.
Mandakini River Viewpoint
The Mandakini River can be observed flowing next to Kedarnath. After a short distance from the temple, the surroundings become so breathtaking that you cannot stop trekking; the view of the river meandering around the valley is splendid, offering an incredibly calm atmosphere perfect for photography.
Why Choose Chiku Cab for Your Delhi to Kedarnath Journey?
Undoubtedly, planning a road adventure to Kedarnath seems overwhelming and challenging; however, with Chiku Cab, it can be easy, safe, and comfortable. We assure you of a smooth journey from Delhi to Kedarnath, which consists of the best cars, professional drivers who are also acquainted with the hilly roads, and round-the-clock support services.
Besides that, Chiku Cab offers reliable and affordable cab services for all types of trips, including one-way drop-offs, round trips, and custom itineraries crafted to your specifications. With us, booking cabs is done online, which gives the traveler peace of mind.
Conclusion
Traveling from Delhi to Kedarnath is indeed tranquil, remote, and stunning as it is. With a reliable travel partner like Chiku Cab, the right timing and route can make all the difference and turn this trip into a pilgrimage journey. Get ready to experience the beauty of Kedarnath with a new perspective.
I’m a wanderer who loves venturing on to unknown and unseen places. I explore freely to various fun and adventurous places, whether it be spiritual temple tours, captivating landscapes, and more. I wonder around in search of hidden gems and tourist attractions, temples, and other places.
