The Kedarnath trek starts at Gaurikund and climbs about 16 km to the temple at around 3,583 m. It is a paved mountain path, not a technical trek — but it is long and steady uphill, and the altitude makes it feel harder than the distance suggests.
How long does it take?
Most healthy adults take 6–8 hours to walk up and 4–5 hours to come down. Start early — ideally on the trail by 6 am — so you reach Kedarnath with daylight to spare and time for the evening aarti.
Is it difficult?
For a regular walker, it is moderate. For someone who does not exercise, the last 4–5 km are tough because of the thinner air. The path is busy, there are tea and snack points along the way, and medical posts operate during the yatra season.
Pony, palki and helicopter
- Pony (horse): the most common option. Book only at the official counters at Gaurikund.
- Palki/doli: carried by four porters; suitable for elders who cannot ride.
- Pithoo: a porter carries a child or a small adult in a basket.
- Helicopter: from helipads near Phata, Sersi and Guptkashi, booked only through the official IRCTC Heli Yatra system.
Rates are fixed by the local administration each season and displayed at the counters. Pony and palki charges are usually not part of a package — check the exclusions on your package page.
Where to stay at Kedarnath
Accommodation near the temple is mostly camps and basic rooms. Expect shared facilities and cold nights. Our Kedarnath packages include a night at Kedarnath so you are not forced to trek up and down on the same day.
Health and safety
- Drink water often and avoid alcohol
- Walk slowly and steadily rather than fast with long breaks
- Tell your group leader about headaches, nausea or breathlessness early
- People with heart or lung conditions should get a check-up before the yatra
Stages of the trek
Distances on the route are approximate and the path has been rebuilt in places since 2013, but these are the stopping points most pilgrims use:
| Stage | Approx. distance from Gaurikund | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Gaurikund | 0 km | Trek start, pony and palki counters |
| Jungle Chatti | about 4 km | Tea stalls, steady climb through forest |
| Bhimbali | about 7 km | Rest point and medical post |
| Linchauli | about 11 km | Views open up; the steeper section begins |
| Base camp | about 15 km | Flatter final stretch, camps and shelters |
| Kedarnath temple | about 16 km | Darshan, evening aarti |
Darshan tips
- The early morning darshan has shorter queues than the afternoon
- Do not carry large bags in the queue; leave them at your camp
- Visit the Adi Shankaracharya samadhi and Bhairav Nath temple if you have energy left
- Keep warm clothes on even if the day feels sunny — weather changes within minutes
Frequently asked questions
How many km is the Kedarnath trek?
About 16 km one way from Gaurikund.
Can a senior citizen do the Kedarnath trek?
Many do, using a pony, palki or helicopter. A medical check-up before travel is strongly advised.
Can I come back the same day?
It is possible but exhausting. We recommend one night at Kedarnath.
Is there mobile network on the trek?
Some networks work in parts of the route, but coverage is patchy. Agree on a meeting point with your group.
Tell us your dates, group size and starting city. A real trip planner replies on WhatsApp with a route and quote — no online payment.