How To Reach Kedarnath From Rishikesh: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Kedarnath, one of the most sacred places in India, you might be wondering how to get there from Rishikesh. In this guide, we’ll take you through the different transportation options, their pros and cons, and everything else you need to know to make your journey as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
Why Visit Kedarnath?
Kedarnath is a town located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, and it is home to the famous Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level and is only accessible via a trek. The trek to Kedarnath is not for the faint-hearted, but the experience is truly unforgettable.
With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Kedarnath is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India.
By Road
The most popular way to reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh is by road. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Rishikesh to Gaurikund, which is the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath.
The distance between Rishikesh and Gaurikund is approximately 207 km, and it takes around 7-8 hours to cover this distance by road. The road is quite scenic, with stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
Once you reach Gaurikund, you can start the trek to Kedarnath. The trek is around 16 km long and takes around 6-7 hours to complete. The trek is quite challenging, with steep inclines and rocky terrain, but the views are absolutely breathtaking.
By Helicopter
If you don’t want to trek to Kedarnath, you can take a helicopter from Phata, which is located around 35 km from Kedarnath. Phata is around 215 km from Rishikesh, and it takes around 7-8 hours to reach there by road.
The helicopter ride from Phata to Kedarnath takes around 10-15 minutes and offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys. The helicopter service is available from April to November, and you need to book your tickets in advance.
By Train
Rishikesh is well-connected by train to major cities in India. If you’re coming from a city that is connected to Rishikesh by train, you can take a train to Rishikesh and then hire a taxi or take a bus to Gaurikund.
The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh Railway Station, which is around 221 km from Kedarnath. From Rishikesh, you can take a taxi or a bus to Gaurikund.
Conclusion
Now that you know the different transportation options available to reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh, you can choose the one that suits your budget and preferences the best. Whether you choose to trek, take a helicopter, or travel by road, the journey to Kedarnath is an experience of a lifetime.