Kedarnath Tungnath Chandrashila Yatra Overview
Region: Uttarakhand
Base Camp: Gaurikund
Days: 5 Days (Haridwar to Haridwar)
Distance: 42 Km
Altitude: 11,760 ft
Best Season: Summer and Autumn
Min Age: 8 Years+
The Kedarnath and Tungnath Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage in the
Indian state of Uttarakhand that takes you to two prominent Hindu
temples located in the Garhwal Himalayas.
The Kedarnath and Tungnath Yatra is typically undertaken by
devotees and pilgrims seeking spiritual enlightenment and blessings
from Lord Shiva.The journey typically begins from Haridwar or
Rishikesh and involves travelling to Guptkashi, a town that serves as
a base for both Kedarnath and Tungnath.From Gauri Kund,
pilgrims trek to Kedarnath, which involves a challenging trek of
about 18 kilometers.After visiting Kedarnath, pilgrims can continue
their journey to Tungnath, which is accessible by a separate trek of
approximately 3.5 kilometers.Both temples offer stunning views of
the Himalayan landscape and provide a serene and spiritual
atmosphere for meditation and worship.
The yatra usually takes several days, and pilgrims often stay at
various places along the route, including Guptkashi and other small
villages.
The best time to undertake this yatra is during the summer months
(May to June) when the weather is relatively pleasant. However,
it’s essential to check the yatra schedule and weather conditions
before planning your trip.
Overall, the Kedarnath and Tungnath Yatra is a spiritually enriching
and adventurous pilgrimage that allows devotees to connect with
nature and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva in the high Himalayas.
It’s essential to prepare well for the trek, including ensuring physical
fitness and carrying appropriate clothing.
Kedarnath located in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand is one of
the 12 Jyotirlingas and one of the important Panch Kedar. At
Kedarnath, the Hump of Lord Shiva is worshipped and other parts
of Lord Shiva are worshipped in the other Panch Kedars.
Kedarnath holds religious and historical significance dating back
thousands of years. It’s believed that Adi Guru Shankaracharya
rediscovered the Kedarnath temple after it was buried under snow
for Kedarnath
The journey to Kedarnath Tungnath starts from Rishikesh. A typical
itinerary is 4 nights and 5 days long which takes you to places such
as Rishikesh,Haridwar,Dhari Devi Temple Guptakashi,
Gaurikund, and Kedarnath.Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila
Deoria tal
The overall trek distance from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is around 18
km so the total distance is approximately 36 km. You may feel the
trek distance to be more than 18 km. This is due to the altitude gain
of 11,760 feet, requiring greater endurance.
Best Time to do Kedarnath Tungnath Tungnath
-
The best time for Kedarnath Yatra is in months of May, June,
September, and October. During May and June, the weather is
favourable with less rain and not-so-cold temperatures. But it’s
also this time when you will find a lot of crowd and rush.
-
If you prefer less crowded and peaceful times then the months
of September and October are much suited. But also keep cold
temperatures in mind in these months. If you are found with
cold temperatures then you can consider Autumn months.
-
Off Season: Off season in Kedarnath is considered months of
monsoon, i.e. End week of June to the First week of
September. But these months are also dangerous due to heavy
rain, landslides, cloud bursts, and flash floods..
Chopta to Tungnath-
The first leg of the trek involves hiking from Chopta to
Tungnath. Tungnath is popular for having the highest Lord
Shiva temple in the world. It's relatively a moderate level trek
with well defined paths.
Tungnath to Deoriatal-
After exploring Tungnath and Chandrashila, trekkers descend
back to Chopta and then head towards Deoriatal. Deoriatal is a
beautiful lake with lush greenery and snow-capped peaks. The
trek from Chopta to Deoria Tal is comparatively easy and it
takes 2-3 hours to reach.
Deoriatal to Sari Village-
- From Deoriatal trekkers descend
further to the village of sari. It's a relatively short trek downhill
from DeoriaTal to sari.
Detailed Itinerary
Drive Distance: 210 km
Drive Time: 7-8 hours
Altitude: 4,530 feet
Our journey will start from Haridwar/ Rishikesh early in the
morning. The overall driving distance is 210 km and usually takes
around 7-8 hours to complete, but it can take more time due to
traffic in the peak season.
During our journey, we will follow along the river Ganga until
Devprayag, then continue alongside the Alaknanda River,
and finally drive alongside the Mandakini River in the last stretch.
Along the way, we will visit Dhari Devi Temple and the confluence
points known as prayags, including Devprayag,
Rudraprayag, Agastmuni, and Guptkashi.
Overnight stay will be in Guptkashi.
Drive Distance: 30 km
Drive Distance: 1-2 Hr
Trek Distance: 18 km
Trek Time: 8-9 hours
Altitude: 11,760 ft
Altitude Gain: 5,072 ft
Next morning drive from Guptkashi to Sonprayag. Driving
distance is 30 km and will take 1-2 hours to complete. Once we
reach Sonprayag, we will take a local taxi to Gaurikund, which is
around 6 km away.
From Gaurikund the trek will start. The overall distance from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is around 18 km. Yatra path is well paved with stones and railing. Altitude gain is 5,072 feet which can lead to AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Make sure to ascend slowly, keep enough water with you and snacks.
Along the trail, you will walk with other pilgrims and sadhus. There will be constant movement of mules on the trail. Make sure to give them the side and keep your distance.
By Helicopter: Morning, our driver will transfer you to your pre-booked
Helipad. After Back, our car will drop you at the Hotel for
rest.
(Note: helicopter ticket is not included in this package)
By Trek: Morning our driver will drop you at Sonprayag then you
have to take a local jeep for Gaurikund & then your trek starts for
kedarnath ji. After darshan you follow the same & back to
Sonprayag. There is a big parking issue so the driver will go back to another place if his contact no. is not working then you have to
arrange another taxi or wait for your driver.
Kedarnath: The Kedarnath shrine, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of
Lord Shiva, is a scenic spot situated against the backdrop of the
majestic Kedarnath range. Kedar is another name for Lord Shiva.
According to legend, the Pandavas, after having won over the
Kauravas in the Kurukshetra war, felt guilty of having killed their own
brothers and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for redemption. He
eluded them repeatedly and, while fleeing, took refuge at Kedarnath
in the form of a bull. On being followed, he dived into the ground,
leaving his hump on the surface. The remaining portions of Lord
Shiva appeared at four other places and are worshipped there as his
manifestations. The arms appeared at Tungnath, the face at
Rudranath, the belly at Madmaheshwar, and his locks (hair) with
head at Kalpeshwar. Kedarnath and the four above-mentioned
shrines are treated as Panch Kedar.
By evening, we will reach Kedarnath. Check into your
accommodation, rest a bit, and get ready to join the evening
Aarti. Timing: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
Trek Distance: 18 km
Trek Time: 8-9 hours
Wake up early in the morning and get in the line to have Darshan.
During peak season it can take hours before you get a chance for
Darshan. After darshan, explore places like Kaal Bhairav Temple,
Mandakni Ghat, Bhim Shilla, and Adi Shankaracharya Statue.
Kedarnath Valley is surrounded by beautiful peaks, flora and fauna. Just behind Kedarnath, you will see Kedar Dome, Kedarnath Main, Chorabari Glacier, and Kedarnath Glacier. Near Kaal Bhairav Temple you will find meadows filled with wildflowers, particularly Bhringraj.
Soak in all the peace and spiritual aura of the valley. After your wonderful time, get ready to descend down. Make sure to keep enough water and snacks with you.
By evening we will be back to Gaurikund. Via local taxi, we will go to
Sonprayag from Gaurikund and from there to Guptkashi. The night
stay will be in Guptkashi, Shersi
Drive Distance: 60 Km
Drive Time: 2-3 Hours
Trek Distance -: - 11 Km
Altitude: 12,100 Ft
From Guptkashi , I drive about 60 km to Chopta village early in the
morning.
Upon reaching Tungnath, you can explore the famous Tungnath
temple, known to be at least 1000 years old. It is a highlight of
the entire journey, as the temple itself attracts a lot of tourists, on a
religious pilgrimage
Reach Tungnath temple which is at 11,560 ft of altitude.
The day is not over yet, as you trek(1.5KM) on to the Chandrashila
peak, located at a height of more than 12,110 ft. This is one of the
most important elements of the journey as well. The fantastic
Himalayan birds, the awe-inspiring vista of the Garhwal, the gigantic
pine, maple and oak trees in the surrounding areas and of course,
the deep, pervasive silence of the mountains is enough to take your
breath away.
Finally, reach Chandrashila peak and see the picturesque views of
the Himalayan range comprising snow peaks of Nanda Devi,
Bandarpunch, Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, and Neelkanth on one
side, and the Garhwal valley on the opposite side and feel like you
are at the top.
Reach back to Chopta then drive 20 km back to Sari and rest for the
day. By evening 6 PM we will be back in Chopta.
Trek distance: 2 Km
Trek Time: 2 Hours
Drive Distance: - 190 km
Drive Time: 6-7 hours
8:30 AM – Start the day at the break of dawn with a steaming
breakfast!
After Breakfast you will be driving down to Sari Village for Deoriatal
Trek (2KM)
After covering Deoriatal Trek Drive down to Dhari Devi Mandir visit
And Get back to Rishikesh by 7PM
Reach Rishikesh, say bye to your fellow travellers and collect a
lifetime of memories.
Inclusions
Transportation from Haridwar and back to Haridwar
● Hotel accommodation as per package, same or similar hotels.
● No room sharing in Kedarnath Dham Temple
● Dinner and Breakfast
● Transfers and sightseeing as pre-packaged car
● All toll tax, parking, fuel, and driver allowances
● All applicable hotel and transport taxes.
● Dham registration and required permit
Exclusions
GST will be extra.
● Anything not mentioned under ‘Package Inclusions’
● All personal expenses, optional tours, and extra meals.
● Medical and travel insurance.
● Any kind of entry fees anywhere if not mentioned in inclusions.
● Tips, travel insurance, medical insurance, laundry charges,
liquors, mineral water, telephone charges.
● All items of personal nature.
● Porter, pony, horse, cable car, boat, train tickets, air tickets charges.
● Helicopter Ticket Cost and VIP Ticket for Kedarnath Darshan is
not included.
Things to Carry (Additional Recommendations)
- 40-50 Ltr Backpack with Rain Cover & Comfortable Straps
- Hot & Cold Water Bottle (e.g., Borosil & Milton)
- Energy Bars, Dry Fruits & ORS
- Personal Medical Kits
- 2/3 Full Sleeves (Non-Cotton)
- 1 Full Fleece T-Shirt
- 1 Fleece Jacket (Woolen or Sweater)
- 1 Down Feather/Hollofil Jacket
- 1 Waterproof Jacket/Poncho
- 1 Pair of Thermal Inners (Upper and Lower)
- 2 Trek Pants (Avoid Shorts & Denim Pants)
- 1 Pair of Waterproof Gloves
- 1 Pair of Woolen Gloves
- 4 Pairs of Cotton Socks
- 1 Pair of Woolen Socks
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses (U/V Protected)
- 1 Neck Gaiter (Buff)
- Waterproof & High Ankle Trekking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Floaters
- Hand Sanitizer & Sunscreen Lotion
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Quick Dry Towel
- Lip Balm & Antibacterial Powder
- Moisturizer
How To Reach Kedarnath By Air
Flight is the quickest and easiest means to reach Rishikesh in Uttarakhand. Booking a flight to this destination is not a hard job, as you can get a flight from most metro cities in India.
The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport, located approximately 25 kilometers from the city center. Several flight operators like Air India, Akasa Air, Vistara, and others operate flights to Jolly Grant Airport, making your transportation easy and comfortable.
It is recommended to book a flight at least a month before traveling since last-minute flight bookings tend to be more expensive. If Jolly Grant flight charges are high, you can book flights to Delhi. From there, you can take UTC, HRTC buses, railway, or hire a taxi to reach Rishikesh or Haridwar.
By Train
Rishikesh and Haridwar are well-connected to other cities by train, making it an easy and convenient way to reach these destinations.
- From Delhi: DDN NZM AC EXPRESS (2205)
- From Kolkata: Doon Express (13009)
- From Mumbai: Dehradun Express (19019)
- From Chennai: Dehradun Express (12687)
By Road
Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh are well connected by roads across the country, with NH 72 connecting regions like Panchkula, Chandigarh, and Shimla. There are ample local and private buses to Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun.
Rishikesh/Haridwar to Kedarnath
Kedarnath is well connected by road to Sonprayag. During peak seasons, you will find multiple private buses from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun to Guptkashi or Sonprayag. Bus tickets range from INR 500-600. These are small buses and don’t have much leg space, so pack your bag in a way that you can sit comfortably.
Taxis are also available from Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar. The cost will depend on the total number of seats sold.
Difficulty Level of the Kedarnath
Kedarnath Yatra is in the moderate category. Trek distance and
altitude gain make it a bit difficult. The overall trek distance is
20 km from Gaurikund to Kedarnath with an altitude gain of 11,760 feet.
Sudden altitude gain of this elevation poses a risk of AMS and
Fatigue. Make sure you drink plenty of water, have enough snacks,
and are in the best shape.
Physical fitness and endurance are much needed on this Yatra.
Before planning your Yatra, train your body in the gym or via
running and jogging.
It’s even better if you have done some high-altitude trek before.
Booking Process for Vanvas Adventure
Kedarnath Tungnath Yatra 📍
Trek Cost Per Head
- Trek: 11500/-
- Haridwar To Haridwar
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Payment Mode
- Google Pay, PhonePe, Bhim: 9368705455
-
Name of the Bank: Kotak Mahindra Bank
Account Holder: Vanvas Adventure
Account Number: 5949211784
IFSC Code: KKBK0005171
Branch: 87, Nehru Colony, Dehradun
Booking Amount: ₹1000/- per person in advance; remaining balance to be paid on arrival.
Booking Steps
- Inquiry:
Reach out via the official website, WhatsApp, or call to inquire about trek availability and details.
- Availability Confirmation:
Check the trek dates availability on the website.
- Payment Information:
A payment link or bank details will be provided. A deposit of ₹1000 per person from the total package cost is required to secure the booking.
- Booking Confirmation:
Upon receiving the deposit, Vanvas Adventure will send a booking confirmation invoice on WhatsApp or mail.
- Balance Payment:
The remaining balance is to be paid 3 days before the trek date. Payment can be made via bank transfer, UPI, or other approved methods.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
We understand the excitement of going on a trek and discovering new locations, but sometimes unforeseen circumstances may arise, leading to the need to cancel your Trek/Yatra. To ensure a hassle-free experience, we’ve crafted a trekker-friendly cancellation and refund policy outlined below. Please review this carefully before booking your trek.
Customers who have paid either the initial 30% deposit or the full 100% deposit will only be eligible for vouchers that can be redeemed for future treks or services offered by Vanvas Adventure. The ‘paid amount‘ mentioned on this page refers to the sum you have paid to Vanvas Adventure, and any refund will be applicable based on that amount.
- Cancellation Over 30 Days Before Departure Date: 90% refund of the paid amount as a trek voucher with a validity of 1 year.
- Cancellation Between 21-30 Days Before Departure Date: 75% refund of the paid amount as a trek voucher with a validity of 1 year.
- Cancellation Between 11-20 Days Before Departure Date: 50% refund of the paid amount as a trek voucher with a validity of 1 year.
- Cancellation Less Than 10 Days Before Departure Date: Unfortunately, no voucher will be provided.
- No-show: In the event of a no-show, no refund will be applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions - Kedarnath Yatra
How much does the Kedarnath trip cost?
The average cost of the Kedarnath trip from Haridwar to Haridwar / Rishikesh to Rishikesh will cost Rs. 8500/PP. From Delhi to Delhi, the cost will be Rs. 10,000/PP. It takes around 4 days from Haridwar.
Is Kedarnath Yatra open now?
The Kedarnath temple opens in the first week of May and closes during Diwali. The peak season is from May to June. Post-monsoon (mid-September to Diwali) is off-season but a great time to visit if you want to avoid crowds.
Which month is best for Kedarnath Yatra?
The best months to visit Kedarnath are May and June, though they are very busy. If you want to avoid the rush, planning your visit during the post-monsoon period (mid-September to Diwali) is a good option.
Is Kedarnath Yatra safe?
Kedarnath is considered safe for pilgrims, with thousands visiting every year. However, it should be avoided during the monsoon season due to the risk of landslides on the roads and trails.
How can I plan a trip to Kedarnath?
Kedarnath can be visited on your own or through a tour operator. It is advisable to make bookings in advance, as hotels fill up quickly during peak season. The cost from Haridwar to Haridwar is Rs. 8500, and from Delhi to Delhi is Rs. 10,000. The trip takes around 4 days.
How many days are enough for Kedarnath?
At least 4 days are required for the Kedarnath Yatra from Haridwar to Haridwar.
- Day 1: Haridwar to Guptkashi / Sonprayag
- Day 2: Sonprayag to Kedarnath
- Day 3: Kedarnath to Sonprayag
- Day 4: Sonprayag to Haridwar
Can we go to Kedarnath by car?
Sonprayag is the last motorable point, where you can drive your car. From there, take a local shuttle to Gaurikund. The 20 km trek to Kedarnath begins at Gaurikund. Alternatively, you can take a helicopter from Phata to Kedarnath.
