The holy pilgrimage trail following the roaring Mandakini river from Gaurikund to the ancient 8th-century stone temple of Kedarnath beneath Kedar Dome.
The Kedarnath Trek is among India's most revered spiritual walking trails. Situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters in the Rudraprayag district, the temple of Lord Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and the most prominent of the Char Dham shrines.
Starting from the natural hot springs of Gaurikund, the modern 16-km paved trail ascends alongside the turbulent Mandakini River. Passing through Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, and Lincholi, the path winds past sheer waterfalls and alpine gorges.
Emerging onto the Kedarnath plateau, the ancient 1,200-year-old grey stone temple stands proudly backed by the colossal ice-fluted wall of the Kedarnath and Kedar Dome massifs.
Trekkers are reminded to stay properly hydrated with a minimum of 3-4 liters of water daily. Uttarakhand forest regulations strictly forbid single-use plastics and campfires outside designated grounds. Always pack out non-biodegradable waste.
Along the ridgelines and summit ascents of Kedarnath Trek, trekkers are treated to sweeping views of legendary Garhwal & Kumaon summits:
Scenic drive along Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
Ascend past Bheembali and Lincholi to the temple plateau; attend evening aarti.
Early morning darshan, descend to Gaurikund and transfer to hotel.
Return drive.
Proper layering and alpine gear are critical for comfort and survival at high altitudes:
The trailhead for Kedarnath Trek originates from Gaurikund in Rudraprayag district (Garhwal region).
It is 16 kilometers one-way, typically taking 6 to 8 hours of walking.
Yes, ponies, palanquins (dandis), and helicopter services from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi are available.
Yes, Char Dham biometric/online registration is strictly mandatory for all pilgrims.
3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level.
GMVN cottages, ashrams, tent colonies, and private guesthouses are available on the plateau.
From Akshaya Tritiya (April/May) to Bhai Dooj (October/November).