Haridwar is a sacred city in Uttarakhand, located on the banks of the Ganges River. Kedarnath is a famous Himalayan pilgrimage site nestled in the Garhwal region. Many travelers journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath to visit the revered Kedarnath Temple and experience the spiritual aura of the mountains.

This guide explains the main travel options from Haridwar to Kedarnath, including trains, buses, cars, and helicopters. You will also find a step-by-step travel plan, practical tips, and advice on the best time to visit. This will help you plan your trip confidently and enjoy a hassle-free pilgrimage.

Getting from Haridwar to Kedarnath – Main Options

Train

Train travel is popular for the first leg from Haridwar to nearby railway stations like Rishikesh or Dehradun. However, there is no direct train to Kedarnath due to its remote location. Trains are suitable for comfortable travel on plains before continuing by road.

• The nearest major railway stations to Haridwar are Rishikesh (approx 20 km) and Dehradun (approx 53 km), both well connected by frequent trains from Haridwar Junction.

• Train fares between Haridwar and Dehradun range from ₹50 to ₹200 depending on class, with travel times around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering a comfortable start to your journey.

• Trains run frequently throughout the day, but booking in advance on IRCTC is advised during peak pilgrimage seasons like summer and winter holidays.

• From Dehradun or Rishikesh, you will need to switch to road transport as no trains go closer to Kedarnath due to mountainous terrain and lack of rail lines.

• Be aware that during monsoon months, train schedules can be disrupted by fog or landslides in the region, so check updates before traveling.

Bus

Buses are the most common way to cover the road journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath. State-run and private buses connect Haridwar to key towns like Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and Sonprayag, the last motorable point before the trek.

• Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private operators run buses from Haridwar to Rishikesh and Rudraprayag, with fares ranging from ₹100 to ₹400 and travel times of 1 to 6 hours depending on the route.

• From Rudraprayag, shared taxis and buses run to Sonprayag (approx 40 km), the base for the Kedarnath trek, taking about 2 hours on hilly roads with fares around ₹150 to ₹300.

• Bus frequency is higher during the pilgrimage season (May to October), but buses can get crowded during festivals like Badri-Kedar Utsav, so book tickets early.

• Roads can be narrow and winding with occasional landslides during monsoon, so travel cautiously and check weather conditions before departure.

• Rest stops with local eateries are available along NH 58 and NH 109, where you can try simple Uttarakhand cuisine and refresh yourself.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Haridwar to Kedarnath offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to stop at scenic spots. However, the mountainous roads require careful driving skills and awareness of local conditions.

• The distance from Haridwar to Sonprayag by road is about 210 km, taking roughly 8 to 10 hours depending on traffic and road conditions, mainly via NH 58 and NH 109.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are available in Haridwar, with daily rates starting around ₹1500 to ₹2500 for small cars; ensure the vehicle is suitable for hilly terrain.

• There are multiple toll plazas on the route, so keep cash handy for toll payments and parking fees near Sonprayag and Gaurikund.

• Driving during early morning hours helps avoid traffic jams, especially during peak pilgrimage season and weekends when roads get busy.

• Fuel stations are available in towns like Rishikesh and Rudraprayag, but are sparse near Sonprayag, so fill up before the final leg of the journey.

Helicopter

Helicopter services provide the fastest and most convenient way to reach Kedarnath, especially for pilgrims with limited time or mobility issues. This option is popular during the pilgrimage season but is weather-dependent.

• Helicopter flights operate from Phata (near Guptkashi) and Dehradun airports to the Kedarnath helipad, reducing travel time to about 15-20 minutes from Phata and 45 minutes from Dehradun.

• Booking helicopter tickets can be done online via the Uttarakhand Tourism website or at authorized counters in Haridwar and Rishikesh; prices range from ₹4000 to ₹7000 per person one way.

• Flights are frequent during May to October but may be canceled due to fog, rain, or strong winds, so check weather updates and confirm your booking on the day of travel.

• Helicopter services operate from early morning till late afternoon; avoid late evening bookings as visibility reduces and flights are not available after sunset.

• Carry valid ID and arrive at the helipad well before your scheduled flight to complete security and boarding formalities smoothly.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Haridwar to Kedarnath. It covers key actions to take for a smooth and safe pilgrimage.

• Book your train or bus tickets from Haridwar to Rishikesh or Dehradun in advance using IRCTC or UTC online portals to avoid last-minute hassles and secure your seat during busy seasons.

• From Rishikesh or Dehradun, arrange a bus or taxi to Rudraprayag or Sonprayag; shared taxis can be booked at local stands, but pre-booking cabs via Ola or Uber apps is recommended for comfort.

• At Sonprayag or Gaurikund, prepare for the trek to Kedarnath by checking weather conditions, wearing comfortable trekking shoes, and carrying essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear.

• If you prefer, book a helicopter flight from Phata or Dehradun to Kedarnath well in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage months, to avoid unavailability and last-minute cancellations.

• Carry valid ID proofs, pilgrimage permits if required, and keep emergency contact numbers handy; also inform family or friends about your travel itinerary for safety.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey to prevent stomach issues; buy water from trusted shops or use water purification tablets if needed.

• Book tickets early during the Char Dham Yatra season (May to October) as transport services get fully booked quickly, especially buses and helicopters.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in towns like Rishikesh and Rudraprayag to avoid overcharging and ensure reliable service.

• Pack light but include warm clothes, raincoats, and sturdy trekking shoes, as weather in the mountains can change rapidly even in summer.

• Be cautious of altitude sickness symptoms during the trek; take rest breaks and stay hydrated to acclimatize properly.

• Carry cash in small denominations as many remote areas and local vendors do not accept digital payments or cards.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath is during the summer months from May to June and post-monsoon from September to October. These months offer clear weather and safer road conditions.

Winter months see heavy snowfall and road closures, making travel difficult and risky. The monsoon season (July-August) brings landslides and slippery roads, so avoid traveling then unless necessary.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi in Haridwar as transport services are crowded and prices rise sharply.

• Early morning departures help avoid afternoon fog and traffic jams on mountain roads, ensuring smoother and safer travel.

• Monsoon rains can cause landslides on NH 58 and NH 109, leading to delays or route closures; check local news and weather forecasts before starting.

• Winter travel requires special permits and proper gear due to snow and cold; most pilgrimage services close from November to April.

Arrival at Kedarnath & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Kedarnath, you will find a small town centered around the famous Kedarnath Temple. The area is pedestrian-only, so vehicles stop at Gaurikund or the helipad.

Local transport options include porters, ponies, and palanquins to help with luggage or for those unable to trek. Basic accommodation and eateries are available, but facilities are simple and often crowded during peak season.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are not available in Kedarnath itself, so plan your return transport from Gaurikund or Sonprayag. Carry cash for local services and be prepared for limited connectivity.

Conclusion

Traveling from Haridwar to Kedarnath involves a combination of train or bus travel, road journeys, and trekking or helicopter rides. The most efficient option depends on your budget, time, and physical ability. Helicopters offer speed and comfort, while buses and cars provide economical and flexible travel.

Plan your trip carefully by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for mountain travel challenges. With proper planning and awareness of local conditions, you can enjoy a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath.