Kedarnath and Badrinath are two of the most revered pilgrimage sites located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Nestled in the Himalayas, these sacred towns attract thousands of devotees and travelers every year. The journey to these holy places is an adventure through scenic mountain roads and challenging terrains.

This guide will help you understand the main ways to reach Kedarnath and Badrinath, including trains, buses, cars, and helicopters. You will also find step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and advice on the best time to visit for a safe and comfortable pilgrimage.

Getting from Major Cities to Kedarnath and Badrinath – Main Options

Train

Train travel is suitable for reaching the nearest railway stations before continuing by road to Kedarnath and Badrinath. It is popular among pilgrims from northern India due to good rail connectivity.

• The nearest major railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh, about 230 km away, connected to major cities like Delhi and Dehradun. Trains run frequently, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹800 depending on class.

• For Badrinath, Rishikesh railway station is also the closest railhead. From here, road transport options are available. The train journey from Delhi to Rishikesh takes around 5 to 6 hours.

• Train services can be crowded during peak pilgrimage seasons like Char Dham Yatra and winter holidays, so booking tickets early via IRCTC is advisable to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Rishikesh station has basic facilities, and you can find prepaid taxis and buses outside for onward travel. Avoid late-night arrivals as local transport options reduce after dark.

Bus

Buses are a common and economical way to reach Kedarnath and Badrinath, especially from Rishikesh and Haridwar. State-run and private buses operate regularly.

• Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) runs direct buses from Rishikesh and Haridwar to Sonprayag for Kedarnath and to Badrinath town. The journey takes 8 to 10 hours and costs between ₹200 and ₹600.

• Buses to Kedarnath stop at Sonprayag, from where you must trek or take a pony or helicopter to the temple. The trek is about 16 km and takes 6 to 8 hours.

• For Badrinath, buses reach directly to the town, which is well connected by road via NH7. Roads are narrow and winding, so expect slower speeds and occasional delays during monsoon.

• Bus frequency increases during pilgrimage seasons but can be overcrowded. Booking tickets at bus depots early in the morning is recommended to secure seats.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving your own car or hiring a taxi offers flexibility and comfort for visiting Kedarnath and Badrinath. It is preferred by families and groups.

• The route from Rishikesh to Kedarnath via NH7 and NH107 covers about 230 km and takes 8 to 10 hours by car, depending on traffic and road conditions.

• For Badrinath, the drive from Rishikesh is around 300 km and takes 9 to 11 hours via NH7, passing through scenic towns like Joshimath and Chamoli.

• Mountain roads have many hairpin bends and toll plazas, so drive carefully and avoid night travel due to limited street lighting and wildlife crossings.

• Parking is limited near Kedarnath base camp at Sonprayag and Badrinath town; use designated parking areas and consider local taxis for last-mile travel.

• During monsoon, landslides and roadblocks are common, so check weather and road status before starting your journey.

Flight

Helicopter services are the fastest and most convenient way to reach Kedarnath and Badrinath, especially for elderly or time-constrained pilgrims.

• Helicopter rides operate from Phata, Guptkashi, and Dehradun airports to Kedarnath helipad, reducing travel time to about 15 to 20 minutes. Fares range from ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per person one way.

• For Badrinath, helicopter services are available from Dehradun and Phata to Badrinath helipad, taking around 20 minutes.

• These services run mainly from April to November, weather permitting. Flights may be canceled during heavy rain, fog, or high winds.

• Booking helicopter tickets in advance during peak season is essential, and carry valid ID and pilgrimage permits as required.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Kedarnath and Badrinath, helping you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book train tickets to Rishikesh or Haridwar early via IRCTC to secure your preferred dates and classes, especially during pilgrimage seasons.

• From Rishikesh, choose your onward transport—bus, taxi, or self-drive—based on comfort and budget. Reserve bus tickets at the depot or taxis through trusted operators or apps like Ola and Uber.

• If heading to Kedarnath, plan your trek or pony ride from Sonprayag carefully. Carry light luggage and arrange accommodation in advance at Gaurikund or nearby.

• For Badrinath, ensure your vehicle or bus reaches the town early to avoid night travel on mountain roads. Book hotels or guesthouses ahead during peak times.

• Check weather forecasts and road conditions a day before departure. Carry essential medicines, warm clothes, and bottled water for the journey.

• Consider booking helicopter rides if you have limited time or health concerns. Confirm timings and helipad locations to coordinate with your ground travel.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a valid photo ID and pilgrimage permits if required, as authorities may check at checkpoints on the way to Kedarnath and Badrinath.

• Drink only bottled or purified water during your trip to avoid waterborne illnesses common in mountain areas.

• Book all tickets—train, bus, and helicopter—well in advance through official websites or authorized agents to avoid scams and last-minute price hikes.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Rishikesh and Haridwar for safe and reliable local transport.

• Pack light but include warm clothing, rain gear during monsoon, and comfortable trekking shoes for the Kedarnath trek.

• Monsoon season can cause landslides and roadblocks; avoid traveling during heavy rains and always check local advisories before starting.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kedarnath and Badrinath is from late April to early November when the weather is pleasant and roads are mostly clear. Winters bring heavy snowfall, closing access routes.

During peak pilgrimage seasons like the Char Dham Yatra (May to October), expect heavy traffic and crowded transport services. Planning early morning departures can help avoid delays.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Navratri when roads and accommodations are overcrowded and expensive.

• Monsoon months (July to September) bring heavy rains causing slippery roads and landslides, making travel risky and slower.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid afternoon fog and traffic jams on mountain roads.

• Winter months (December to March) see road closures due to snow, so plan accordingly if visiting outside the main season.

Arrival at Kedarnath & What to Expect

Upon reaching Sonprayag by road or bus, you will begin the trek or take a pony or helicopter to Kedarnath temple. The trek is scenic but steep, requiring moderate fitness. Local guides and porters are available for hire.

Kedarnath town has basic accommodation and food options. Local transport is limited, so plan your stay near the temple or base camp. Prepaid taxis and shared jeeps operate between major points during the pilgrimage season.

Arrival at Badrinath & What to Expect

Badrinath is accessible by road, and buses or taxis drop you near the temple town. The town is well developed with many hotels, guesthouses, and eateries catering to pilgrims.

Local transport includes cycle rickshaws and taxis for short distances. Prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs are available at the bus stand and main entry points. Badrinath town is compact, so walking is also convenient.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Kedarnath and Badrinath depends on your budget, fitness, and time. Train travel to Rishikesh followed by a bus or taxi ride is economical and popular. Helicopter services offer speed and comfort but at a higher cost.

Plan your journey well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Book all tickets early, check weather and road conditions, and pack appropriately for mountain travel. With careful preparation, your pilgrimage to these sacred Himalayan sites will be safe, comfortable, and spiritually fulfilling.