Haridwar to Kedarnath Road Trip
Haridwar to Kedarnath road trip is one that becomes a strong memory, owing to the spectacular beautiful views of Uttarakhand. One of the trip’s magnetizing features is Mt. Kedarnath, a mountain which is known as a holy pilgrimage spot as well as for its mesmerizing scenic beauty. Traveling by road from Haridwar to Kedarnath will take you through the majestic Himalayan ranges, several holy water bodies, and rich forests.
Furthermore, this trip appears to stretch for miles, but worry not because if the trip is planned correctly, the first trip to Kedarnath will be both pleasurable and hassle-free. This article aims to provide you with all the essential information pertaining to distances, modes of travel, best times for visits, road quality, and the top places of interest in Kedarnath.
Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance and Travel Overview
How far is Kedarnath from Haridwar?
If we talk about Kedarnath distance from Haridwar, it is 220 kilometers. However, the Haridwar to Kedarnath distance by road may differ depending on the path taken. The route has steep hills, narrow, and foggy winding roads which have their own charm.
The main trouble here is that Kedarnath is located in a region that is difficult to access by road. Gaurikund is about as far from Haridwar as most people can reach by road. From there, a long trek to Kedarnath temple located at a stunning height of 3500m above sea level must be completed.
How long does it take to reach Kedarnath from Haridwar?
If you want to travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath, people mostly opt for a road trip that takes anywhere from 7 to 9 hours. This is influenced by traffic, road conditions, and how many stops you’ll be making throughout the journey. After reaching Gaurikund, the trek towards Kedarnath commences which takes anywhere from 6 to 8 hours, again depending on your speed and the weather conditions.
Therefore summing the trip from Haridwar to Kedarnath it can take 14 to 18 hours, which describes road and trek time. Planning is important as the time will vary during peak pilgrimage seasons as visitors make the journey.
Different ways to travel
Traveling from Haridwar to Kedarnath allows for several options, and each one is unique in its own way. You can travel by shared buses or vehicles if you prefer a road trip from Haridwar to Kedarnath by car. It starts from Haridwar and goes all the way to Gaurikund. From Gaurikund, you can take a helicopter straight to Kedarnath which saves a significant amount of time, although the pricing is on the higher end.
Private cars or taxis can also be taken but you will need to trek the rest of the distance to Kedarnath. During peak season, helicopter services will cover the most popular routes from Haridwar to Kedarnath as they are the fastest. Although the trek is difficult, it is the most rewarding part of the entire experience going to Kedarnath, along with the spirituality and scenery offered along the way.
Best Routes for a Road Trip from Haridwar to Kedarnath
Route 1: Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Gaurikund
This is the most preferred route for a road trip from Haridwar to Kedarnath. The journey begins from Haridwar and heads towards Rishikesh, notable for its spiritual surroundings and the famous Lakshman Jhula town. After checking out Rishikesh, you continue on NH 7 to the next stop which is Devprayag, where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers confluence.
The next stop is Srinagar, followed by the little town of Rudraprayag, which is situated at the confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. After Rudraprayag, the road leads to Gaurikund which is the last bus stop. From Gaurikund, the scenic beauty of rivers and mountains comes into full fruition.
Route 2: Haridwar – Roorkee – Bhagwanpur – Narsan – Jaspur – Gaurikund
Though this route takes you longer, it is less frequented which makes for a peaceful ride through the countryside. It begins at Haridwar and moves through Roorkee and Bhagwanpur followed by Narsan.
After Narsan, you move to Jaspur and then to Gaurikund. This route gives respite from the ever-crowded roads of Uttarakhand while still allowing the driver to enjoy its scenic beauty. It should be noted, though, that some stretches do require caution as they are poorly maintained and can be slightly rough.
Haridwar to Kedarnath Road Condition via Route and Driving Tips
The state of the road from Haridwar to Gaurikund has 14 qualities that depend on the particular weather conditions and terrain. The first part of the journey, from Haridwar to Rishikesh, has already been completed and is smooth, aiding the traveler to enjoy the calm drive all through the plains.
With the transition to the hilly areas, the roads become steeper; hence the drivers have to be careful as the roads start widening. With further travel towards Rudraprayag, the roads widen, but there are sharp turns and steep gradients which require more attention the further you progress.
The journey from Rudraprayag to Gaurikund is characterized by sharp narrow and steep roads that become exceptionally difficult. The primary difficulty is that the majority of the roads, although paved, are damaged with pot holes which are more common before and just after monsoons, when rainwater has cut into the surface.
This increases the chances of cautionary driving so as to avoid road damage. The journey through these roads calls for a lot of patience, and the further you progress, the more subdued the pace of your vehicle will be due to people walking especially during the time roads are heavily used for pilgrimage.
In addition, as a result of the hazardous roads and possible landslide or rockfall zone on certain portions, one must be cautious to avoid delays. Be sure to check the weather and current conditions for the roads prior to the trip and drive with caution for a safe trip.
Things to keep in mind while driving
- Conduct a pre-drive inspection of the vehicle to ensure it is in good functioning order.
- Have a basic first aid kit ready, along with a backup tire and other necessary tools.
- Prepare for rough roads with steep climbs and sharply angled turns.
- Refuel the vehicle before departing Haridwar, as fuel stations may not be available along the route.
- Minimize the load inside the vehicle to enhance maneuverability.
- Due to sharp, winding roads, pay attention while slowly driving and remain alert.
- Have a mobile charger and power bank when traveling long distances without connectivity.
Abide by the speed limits and show consideration for local traffic and pilgrims.
Best Time To Visit from Haridwar to Kedarnath
Summer (May to June)
Kedarnath can be best visited during the summer months of May and June. The temperatures during the day range from ten to fifteen degrees Celsius, allowing for comfortable trekking and sightseeing. Summer also allows for clear skies with lush greenery for pilgrims to gaze upon. The snow capped peaks surrounding Kedarnath can also be enjoyed during summer.
Visitors are welcome during these months, and even though the temple is more crowded during this time, it is an unforgettable experience. Temperatures at night reach five degrees Celsius, enabling the experience to be enjoyed..
Monsoon (July to September)
The Monsoon season is recommended against travel due to the risk of excessive rainfall which can cause damage to the temple, roads leading to Kedarnath can become dangerous, and an overall poor pilgrimage experience. If pilgrims persist on going during monsoon season, constant weather updates are recommended to keep the experience as safe as possible.
Autumn (October to November)
The period between October and November is also an excellent time to visit Kedarnath. The temperatures during this period usually range from 5oC to 15oC, and with the weather being crisp and cool, it makes temple visits along with trekking an easier activity.
The sight of the mountains is aesthetically stunning since the lush summer greenery is turning into the beautiful fall colors. Also, as the peak pilgrimage time is over there are relatively lower crowds making it a more peaceful experience. This period is without a doubt wonderful to experience the serene beauty of surroundings, temples and Kedarnath.
Winter (December to February)
The winter months are by far the most difficult time to visit Kedarnath since heavy snowfall is reported along with freezing temperatures. Also the temple remains closed during these months, and the majority of the region can’t be accessed due to having snow covered roads. These months are peaceful if you enjoy winter scenery and are in the off-season, however the region is only best for snow trekkers and people with experience in winter conditions.
How to Reach Kedarnath from Haridwar?
By Road to Gaurikund
The first step in reaching Kedarnath is to travel by road from Haridwar to Gaurikund, which is the base point for the Kedarnath trek. Gaurikund is easily accessible from Haridwar, which is itself well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand. You can hire a private car, boost a taxi or take a bus, which is in Gaurikund.
This journey usually varies anywhere from 7 to 9 hours and is approximately 220 kilometers away. The route passes through beautiful towns like Rishikesh, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, visiting Srinagar. For the most part, the roads are good, though they can be difficult towards the closing portion of the hilly regions.
From Gaurikund to Kedarnath by Trekking
The journey from Gaurikund is done by foot as cars are not allowed to go further. Gaurikund to Kedarnath is a relatively short hike of 16 kilometers, taking 6 to 8 hours depending on your movement. While some portions of the trek are rather difficult, especially the steep climbs combined with uneven paths, the beauty makes up for it. Resting points at falls and other attractions do assist the pilgrims on their journey.
Helicopter Services
For those not inclined to engage in the strenuous hike, helicopter services from Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi to Kedarnath are offered as more enjoyable options. These services run while the pilgrimage is in progress and even provide an aerial view that significantly cuts down the time viewed by the beautiful landscape. Helicopters could take the passengers to a helipad near to Kedarnath from where it is a short walk to the temple.
By Train to Haridwar
From the rest of India, there are trains that travel to Haridwar as well and they arrive at Haridwar Railway Station, one of the main stations in Uttarakhand. From Haridwar, the road offers continual travel towards Gaurikund. Haridwar can be easily reached by train as it is well connected with Delhi, Dehradun, and other cities which are in the vicinity.
By Bus to Gaurikund
Travelers on a budget can opt for Gaurikund when State buses and privately run buses are available from Haridwar. For those not having the spirit of adventure these are much easier and more comfortable than taxis and private cars.. Regardless, for those on a budget, the buses are a good choice.
Attractions for Sightseeing in Kedarnath
One of the holiest towns in Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is a blend of scenic beauty and spirituality. It attracts pilgrims from far and wide owing to Kedarnath Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by snow-topped mountains.
Bhairavnath temple, which borders Kedarnath, is said to be the protector of Kedarnath when any natural disaster occurs. The small but tranquil Gandhi Sarovar also welcomes many visitors.
Vasuki Tal is also a known site for trekking. Other known historical sites include Shankaracharya Samadhi which is the resting place of Adi Shankaracharya.
Rudra cave, which is known to be the meditation site of Modi, has now become a famous site for meditation. Hot springs at Gaurikund and Sonprayag add to the variety thumbs up for nature leathes and pilgrims alike.
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Explore kedarnath like a Local – A Handy Guide
1. Plan Ahead
Trip planning is the most important part of preparing for any vacation. Read up on your destination, the weather forecasts, and the ideal travel dates. For some tourist spots such as Kedarnath, transportation and accommodation need to be ordered in advance. A clear plan would help reduce any last-minute chaos that might arise and help the trip go smoothly.
2. Pack Smartly
Only the bare necessities should be packed to minimize excess bag weight. Ensure that you’re bringing clothing appropriate for the particular region and season you’re traveling to. For areas such as the hills in Kedarnath, the temperature is unpredictable. Your travel kit should contain important personal items. Also, remember to prepare medication, a first aid kit, and other vital documents such as ID and booking confirmations
3. Keep Emergency Numbers Handy
Always smart to have Chiku Cab support or local police saved on your phone as an emergency contact. You never know what sort of trouble you could run into while on vacation so having these numbers on hand is useful. Information from your travel provider and accommodation should be saved too in case you need to reach them.
4. Stay Hydrated and Energized
During a road trip, especially towards the off-the-beaten-path, it is necessary to sip water regularly and pack some light food. Long driving hours and trekking can be taxing so it is vital to maintain energy levels. Snacks and water will conserve the comfort level during the travels while making sure fatigue does not seep in.
5. Be Flexible and Patient
Traveling usually has unforeseen surprises like delays and changes of plans. Be it traffic jams, unforeseen weather patterns, or unanticipated alterations to the agenda, everyone needs to be patient and prepared for change. Relaxed attitudes tend to help in building out the maximum potential from the trip regardless of any obstacles that pop up. Relax and inhale the journey even with mobility restrictions.
Conclusion
When it comes to comfort, dependability, and cost-effectiveness, rest assured that Chiku Cab is perfect for your travel needs. With a fleet of vehicles, skilled drivers, and unmatched customer support, Chiku Cab will undoubtedly make every stage of your trip productive and enjoyable. Go to Chiku Cab now to organize your next easy getaway!
FAQs
1. What types of vehicles are available with Chiku Cab?
To accommodate diverse traveling needs and groups, Chiku Cab has chauffeur driven Sedan Cars, SUVs, Luxury Cars, and Minivans.
2. How can I book a cab with Chiku Cab?
Customers can book a cab online by providing relevant trip details, vehicle selection, and secured payment on the company’s website or mobile app.
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Definitely! For any booking inquiries, trip concerned questions, or during any emergencies, Chiku Cab provides 24/7 support for their customers.
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All drivers working for Chiku Cabs are professionally trained and have good knowledge of the locality to make the journey safe and smooth.
5. What safety measures does Chiku Cab follow?
Chiku Cab assures customers through regular vehicle sanitization and vehicle maintenance periodically so as to provide a comfortable and safe traveling experience.
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.
