Begin your trip from Delhi early in the morning to beat traffic, ideally around 5 am.
The drive from Delhi to Rishikesh or Haridwar covers approximately 230-240 km and takes around 6-7 hours.
If you’re heading to Kedarnath, Rishikesh or Haridwar is a good first-night stop. Both towns have numerous hotels and guesthouses.
Spend the evening exploring the Ganga Aarti at either the Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh or Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar, an uplifting spiritual experience.
Depart around 5-6 am for Guptkashi, which is approximately 210-220 km from Rishikesh or Haridwar and takes about 8-9 hours.
The route takes you through Devprayag, Srinagar, and Rudraprayag, with opportunities to see beautiful river confluences and scenic spots.
Stop at Devprayag to witness the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers, which officially form the Ganges River.
Plan for lunch in Srinagar or Rudraprayag, where you’ll find decent dining options.
Reach Guptkashi by evening and check into a hotel or guesthouse.
Guptkashi is 45 km from Sonprayag, where private vehicles are required to stop.
Rest and prepare for an early start for the trek the next day.
Start early from Guptkashi to reach Sonprayag, around a 45-minute drive.
At Sonprayag, take a shared jeep or local taxi to Gaurikund (5 km), the last motorable point on the way to Kedarnath.
Begin your trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple. The trek is steep and can take 6-8 hours.
You’ll pass through scenic areas with streams, waterfalls, and dense forests.
If you prefer not to trek on foot, you can hire a pony or a palki (palanquin), or opt for helicopter services (pre-booking required).
Upon arrival, check into your accommodation. GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) guesthouses and other lodges near the temple offer decent stays.
Attend the evening aarti (prayer ceremony) at the temple. With the Kedarnath peak in the background, it’s an extraordinary experience.