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Kedarnath and Badrinath are two of the four shrines that make up the Char Dham circuit of the Garhwal Himalaya, along with Yamunotri and Gangotri. For millions of Hindus, they are among the most important pilgrimage destinations in India. Kedarnath, a Shiva temple at about 3,580 metres, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Badrinath, at around 3,100 metres, is a Vishnu temple on the Alaknanda river. The journey to both is spectacular, demanding and dependent on weather.
What the journey is like
The roads from Rishikesh and Haridwar climb through river valleys and forests, past confluences known as the Prayags, and into steep mountain country. Drives are long, with sections that are narrow and exposed to landslides. Kedarnath adds a walk of about 16 km from Gaurikund, or a helicopter flight, while Badrinath is reachable by road. Weather can change within hours.
The shrines
- Kedarnath, an ancient stone temple beneath snow peaks, rebuilt and renovated over the centuries and part of a complex that survived the devastating floods of June 2013.
- Badrinath and Mana village, a colourful temple on the river, with hot springs nearby and the last village before the Tibetan border a few kilometres away.
Registration and rules
Pilgrims have been required to register on the Uttarakhand government's portal before travelling on the Char Dham routes, and helicopter bookings need completed registration. Fees, slots and daily limits have changed from year to year, and can change during the season. The shrines usually open in late April or May and close for winter in November, with dates announced around festivals. Some shrines restrict entry to the inner areas to Hindus, so check the rules if this applies to you. We confirm the current position close to your dates.
Choosing how to reach Kedarnath
- On foot, from Gaurikund, in about six to nine hours uphill for most people. Start early, pace yourself and carry rain gear.
- By pony or palanquin, subject to local rules. Choose registered services, and check the animals are treated well.
- By helicopter, from helipads such as Phata, Sirsi and Guptkashi, booked on the official portal. Tickets are limited and flights depend on weather.
The path has rest stops, small shops and medical posts, but facilities are basic. Mule traffic can make the trail dusty and slippery.
Altitude and health
Kedarnath is above 3,500 metres. Altitude sickness is possible, and many pilgrims are elderly. Rest on the way, drink water, avoid alcohol and tell someone if you feel unwell. Anyone with heart, lung or blood-pressure conditions should talk to a doctor. The walk is hard for young children and those with limited mobility.
Weather and safety
The season runs in the pre-monsoon and the post-monsoon, but rain, fog and landslides are possible at any time. In heavy rain, the authorities pause or close routes. This region experienced a catastrophic flood in 2013, and we respect the danger. Do not travel in alert periods, keep spare days and follow official advice.
How many days
A Kedarnath and Badrinath journey from Haridwar needs seven to nine days to be comfortable. Trying to do it in four or five days puts you in the car for most of it and leaves no weather buffer. See our Kedarnath and Badrinath yatra plan.
Where to stay
Guptkashi, Phata, Sonprayag and Sitapur serve Kedarnath. Joshimath, Pipalkoti and Badrinath serve Badrinath. Hotels are simple to mid-range. At Kedarnath, there are tents and guesthouses with limited availability, and bookings are often handled through government channels. Land subsidence has affected parts of Joshimath, so we check the status of properties before booking.
Food
Meals are simple and vegetarian: dal, rice, roti, vegetables, tea and local snacks. Carry dry fruit and energy bars. Alcohol and non-vegetarian food are not served in most pilgrim areas.
Respect and responsible travel
Dress modestly, follow queue rules and be patient. Take your waste with you or use bins. Treat ponies and porters fairly. Do not leave plastic on the trail. Keep noise low.
Plan with us
We handle the registration guidance, stays, vehicles and spare days. Tell us your dates and health notes, and we will draft a plan.
