Driving
Trek
Ukhimath to Kedarnath
Updated: 20 May 2026
To reach Kedarnath from Ukhimath, you must first travel by road to Gaurikund, which is about 40 km away. From Gaurikund, you must undertake a 16 km trek to reach the Kedarnath temple. The road journey takes about 2 hours, and the trek can take 6 to 8 hours depending on your fitness level. This is a high-altitude pilgrimage route requiring physical preparation.
Total Distance: Driving distance to Gaurikund is 40 km; trek is 16 km.
Fastest Way
Helicopter from Phata or Guptkashi (requires advance booking).
Cheapest Way
Shared taxi to Sonprayag and walking the trek.
Compare Ukhimath to Kedarnath Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
2 hours
Avg Price
1500-2500 INR
Operator
Local Taxi
Route
Ukhimath - Guptkashi - Sonprayag - Gaurikund
Private vehicles are only allowed up to Sonprayag.
Trek
Direct
Duration
7 hours
Avg Price
0 INR
Operator
N/A
Route
Gaurikund - Kedarnath
Pony and palanquin services are available for the trek.
Travel Tips
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RegistrationMandatory online registration for the Char Dham Yatra.
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FitnessPrepare with regular walking before the trip.
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ClothingCarry heavy woolens as temperatures drop significantly.
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MedicalCarry basic first aid and altitude sickness medication.
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BookingBook helicopter tickets well in advance.
Safety Tips
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Altitude SicknessAcclimatize properly before starting the trek.
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WeatherCheck weather forecasts; avoid trekking in heavy rain.
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HydrationDrink plenty of water during the trek.
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EmergencyFollow instructions from local authorities and police.
People Also Ask
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Is the trek hard?Yes, it is a steep 16 km climb.
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Can I drive to Kedarnath?No, the last 16 km must be trekked.
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Are ponies available?Yes, for the trek.
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Is registration needed?Yes, mandatory for all pilgrims.
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Where to stay?GMVN guest houses and private lodges.
Quick Info
- From Ukhimath, Uttarakhand, India
- To Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, India
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
May to June and September to October.
Things to Do in Kedarnath
1
Kedarnath Temple
Visit the sacred Jyotirlinga temple.
2
Bhairav Nath Temple
Trek further to visit this temple overlooking the valley.
3
Gaurikund
Take a dip in the hot water springs.
4
Meditation
Spend time in the serene Himalayan environment.
Tags
Ukhimath to Kedarnath
Kedarnath trek
Gaurikund to Kedarnath
Kedarnath pilgrimage
Ukhimath transport
Uttarakhand travel
Himalayan trek
Kedarnath temple
