Kedarnath is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage town located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Uttarkashi, also in Uttarakhand, is a popular base for travelers heading to Kedarnath due to its connectivity and facilities. This route is commonly traveled by pilgrims and trekkers during the Char Dham Yatra season.

This guide explains the main transport options from Uttarkashi to Kedarnath, including train, bus, car, and trekking details. You will also find a step-by-step travel plan, practical tips, and advice on the best time to travel to make your journey smooth and safe.

Getting from Uttarkashi to Kedarnath – Main Options

Train

Train travel is limited between Uttarkashi and Kedarnath as Kedarnath has no direct rail connection. However, trains to nearby stations can be used as part of the journey.

• The nearest major railway station to Uttarkashi is Dehradun, about 140 km away, connected by regular trains from Delhi and other cities. From Dehradun, you can take a bus or taxi to Uttarkashi.

• There is no railway line beyond Uttarkashi towards Kedarnath; the route involves road and trekking segments after Uttarkashi.

• Train travel is suitable for reaching Uttarkashi from major cities, but not for the entire journey to Kedarnath.

• Booking train tickets via IRCTC in advance is recommended, especially during the pilgrimage season from April to October.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to travel from Uttarkashi to Kedarnath, though the journey involves multiple segments and a trek.

• From Uttarkashi bus stand, you can catch a direct bus or shared taxi to Sonprayag, the last motorable point before Kedarnath, approximately 90 km away, taking around 4 to 6 hours depending on road conditions.

• MSRTC and private operators run frequent buses during the pilgrimage season, with fares ranging from INR 300 to 600 depending on the type of bus.

• The road passes through mountainous terrain on NH 34 and NH 108, which can be narrow and winding; monsoon season may cause delays due to landslides.

• From Sonprayag, you must trek about 16 km to Kedarnath; pony rides and helicopter services are also available but can be costly and crowded during peak season.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Uttarkashi to Kedarnath offers flexibility and comfort but requires careful planning due to challenging mountain roads.

• The route covers approximately 90 km via NH 34 and NH 108, taking about 4 to 6 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions.

• Roads are narrow and steep in places, with multiple toll plazas; ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and suitable for hilly terrain.

• Parking is available at Sonprayag, the last point accessible by vehicle; from there, you must proceed on foot or use local transport to reach Kedarnath.

• Driving during monsoon or winter is not recommended due to landslides and snow; summer months from May to October are ideal.

• Fuel stations are limited along the route; fill your tank in Uttarkashi before departure.

Trek

The final leg from Sonprayag to Kedarnath is a popular trekking route, suitable for those prepared for a moderate mountain hike.

• The trek is approximately 16 km long, passing through forests, rivers, and mountain trails, taking 5 to 7 hours depending on fitness and pace.

• Pony rides and palanquins are available for hire at Sonprayag for those unable to trek, but prices rise sharply during peak season.

• Carry adequate water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing; altitude and weather can change quickly.

• Local guides can be hired for safety and navigation, especially for first-time trekkers.

• Early morning starts are recommended to avoid afternoon rains and to reach Kedarnath before dark.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Uttarkashi to Kedarnath, combining road and trekking segments for a smooth journey.

• Start by booking your train ticket to Dehradun well in advance if coming from distant cities; this ensures timely arrival to Uttarkashi.

• From Dehradun, take a bus or taxi to Uttarkashi; MSRTC buses run regularly, and private taxis offer faster but costlier options.

• In Uttarkashi, arrange a bus or shared taxi to Sonprayag; check the weather and road conditions before departure to avoid delays.

• At Sonprayag, prepare for the trek by packing essentials and hiring a pony or guide if needed; start early to complete the trek comfortably.

• Upon reaching Kedarnath, rest and explore the temple area; plan your return considering the same route and transport availability.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a valid ID and pilgrimage permits if required; local authorities may check documents at checkpoints en route.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne illnesses common in mountain areas.

• Book bus and pony rides in advance during peak season (May to June, September) to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber where available to avoid overcharging, especially in Uttarkashi.

• Pack light but include rain gear, warm clothes, and sturdy footwear suitable for trekking and mountain weather.

• Be cautious during monsoon (July to September) due to landslides and slippery roads; check weather forecasts regularly.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The ideal time to travel from Uttarkashi to Kedarnath is during the summer and early autumn months when the weather is stable and roads are clear. Avoid winter months due to heavy snowfall and road closures.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains and landslides, which can disrupt travel and make trekking risky. Planning your trip outside heavy rain periods ensures a safer and more enjoyable journey.

• Avoid peak festival times like the Char Dham Yatra opening and closing days when transport is overcrowded and prices surge.

• Summer months (May to June) offer pleasant weather but expect more tourists and higher fares.

• Early mornings are best for starting the trek to avoid afternoon rains and fatigue from heat.

• Winter months (December to February) are not advisable due to snow blocking roads and the temple being closed.

Arrival at Kedarnath & What to Expect

Upon reaching Kedarnath, you will find a small town centered around the famous Kedarnath Temple. The area is pedestrian-only, so vehicles do not enter beyond Sonprayag.

Local transport options include pony rides and palanquins for moving around. Accommodation ranges from basic guesthouses to dharamshalas near the temple. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are not available here, so plan your onward travel accordingly.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Kedarnath from Uttarkashi combines bus or taxi travel to Sonprayag followed by a trek or pony ride to the temple town. This route balances accessibility with the traditional pilgrimage experience.

Planning ahead by booking transport and accommodation, checking weather conditions, and preparing for trekking will help you have a safe and fulfilling journey. With the right information and preparation, you can confidently undertake this sacred trip to Kedarnath.