📍 About Kedarnath
Location: Uttarakhand, India
Altitude: 3,583 meters (11,755 ft)
Significance: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, part of the Char Dham Yatra
Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October
Closed Season: November to April (temple remains closed due to heavy snowfall)
🗓️ Suggested Itinerary (5 Days / 4 Nights)
Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar/Rishikesh
Arrival at Haridwar/Rishikesh
Visit Har Ki Pauri (Ganga Aarti)
Overnight stay in Haridwar/Rishikesh
Day 2: Haridwar/Rishikesh → Guptkashi
Drive: 7-8 hours (approx. 200 km)
En route visit Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and scenic spots
Overnight stay in Guptkashi
Day 3: Guptkashi → Gaurikund → Kedarnath
Drive to Gaurikund (30 km)
Trek: 16 km to Kedarnath (or take a pony/helicopter service)
Visit Kedarnath Temple
Overnight stay in Kedarnath
Day 4: Kedarnath → Gaurikund → Guptkashi
Early morning temple darshan
Trek back to Gaurikund and drive to Guptkashi
Overnight stay in Guptkashi
Day 5: Guptkashi → Rishikesh/Haridwar → Departure
Return drive to Rishikesh/Haridwar
Drop at the airport/railway station
🚁 Helicopter Service Details
Available from: Phata, Guptkashi, Sersi
Duration: Approx. 10 minutes
Advance booking is recommended (via IRCTC or authorized operators)
🛏️ Accommodation Options
Kedarnath: Basic guesthouses and dharamshalas
Guptkashi/Rudraprayag: Budget to mid-range hotels
📝 Important Travel Tips
Fitness: Prepare for high-altitude trekking; basic fitness is essential.
Clothing: Carry warm clothes, waterproof jackets, trekking shoes, and gloves.
Permits: Obtain Yatra registration (mandatory).
Weather: Be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Medical Kit: Carry essential medicines, altitude sickness tablets, and first aid.
Network Connectivity: Limited network coverage in Kedarnath.
💼 Cost Estimate
Budget Tour: ₹8,000–₹12,000 per person
Standard Tour: ₹15,000–₹25,000 per person
Luxury Helicopter Tour: ₹40,000–₹60,000 per person
Note: Prices may vary based on season, accommodation, and services chosen.
