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Kedarnath is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India, known for its ancient Shiva temple nestled in the Himalayas. People from all over the country visit this place for its spiritual significance and the breathtaking scenery that surrounds it.
If you're planning to visit Kedarnath from Mumbai, the journey may seem a bit complex due to the long distance and various modes of transport involved. However, with proper planning, you can make this trip smoother and more enjoyable.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the different ways you can reach Kedarnath from Mumbai and provide valuable tips for making your trip hassle-free.
Reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh from Mumbai
Since Kedarnath is located in a remote part of Uttarakhand, you cannot reach it directly from Mumbai. The first step is to get to either Haridwar or Rishikesh, two cities that serve as the main starting points for the Kedarnath trek.
By Air
The most convenient way to reach Haridwar or Rishikesh from Mumbai is by taking a flight. There are no direct flights to either of these cities, so you’ll need to fly to the nearest airport, which is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
Flight Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours from Mumbai to Dehradun.
Distance from Dehradun to Haridwar: 53 km (about 1.5 hours by road).
Distance from Dehradun to Rishikesh: 21 km (about 45 minutes by road).
After landing in Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Haridwar or Rishikesh.
By Train
If you're traveling on a budget, trains are another good option. Several trains run from Mumbai to Haridwar, which is closer to Kedarnath.
Popular trains: Mumbai LTT Haridwar AC Express, Dehradun Express.
Travel Time: Around 24-28 hours.
Trains offer a comfortable and affordable way to reach your destination, but make sure to book your tickets well in advance, as trains to Haridwar can get crowded, especially during the pilgrimage season.
By Road (Bus or Car)
Though traveling by bus or car from Mumbai to Haridwar or Rishikesh is an option, it is not recommended unless you enjoy long road trips. The distance between Mumbai and Haridwar is about 1,700 km, which would take more than 30 hours by road.
However, if you prefer a road trip, you can break the journey into several stops at cities like Udaipur, Jaipur, or Delhi to make it more manageable.
Traveling from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Kedarnath
Once you reach Haridwar or Rishikesh, Kedarnath is still about 250-280 kilometers away, depending on the route you take. The road journey from these cities to Kedarnath is scenic but can be long, so it’s essential to know your options.
By Road (Taxi, Bus, or Shared Jeep)
From Haridwar or Rishikesh, you can hire a private taxi or take a bus to reach Sonprayag, the last motorable point before Kedarnath.
Bus or taxi options: Private taxis and government buses are available, but during peak seasons, booking in advance is recommended.
Travel Time: Around 8-10 hours by road.
Fare: A bus journey can cost between ₹300-₹500, while a taxi might cost around ₹3,000-₹5,000 depending on the type of vehicle.
Once you reach Sonprayag, you will need to switch to a shared jeep to Gaurikund, which is about 5 km away. Gaurikund is the official starting point of the Kedarnath trek.
By Helicopter
For those who want to avoid the long road journey, helicopter services are available from several helipads like Phata, Guptkashi, or Sersi to Kedarnath. This is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Kedarnath.
Helicopter Duration: A 10-15 minute flight.
Cost: Around ₹2,500-₹4,000 per person, depending on the service provider.
Advance Booking: Highly recommended, especially during the pilgrimage season.
Helicopter services save you a lot of time, but due to high demand, flights may get delayed or canceled due to weather conditions, so always have a backup plan in case this happens.
The Kedarnath Trek
If you’re not taking the helicopter, you’ll need to trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, which is a distance of about 16 km. The trek is moderately challenging and passes through stunning landscapes of the Himalayas.
Trek Duration: Approximately 6-8 hours.
Difficulty Level: Moderate, but can be challenging for those who are not used to trekking or high-altitude conditions.
Facilities Along the Trek: There are several rest stops, food stalls, and medical aid centers along the way. Ponies and palanquins are available for those who find the trek too difficult.
It’s important to wear proper trekking shoes and carry warm clothing as the temperature can drop suddenly, especially as you approach Kedarnath.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
Kedarnath is open to pilgrims only from April/May to November. The rest of the year, the temple is closed due to heavy snowfall. The ideal time to visit is between May and June or September and October when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear.
Avoid the monsoon season (July-August) as the region is prone to landslides, which can make traveling dangerous.
Important Tips for Your Kedarnath Trip
Acclimatization: Since Kedarnath is at a high altitude (3,583 meters), make sure you give your body time to acclimatize. Spend a day at a lower altitude like Rishikesh before heading to Kedarnath.
Physical Fitness: The trek to Kedarnath can be challenging, so starting some basic fitness training a few weeks before your trip is advisable.
Book in Advance: Whether it's trains, flights, or helicopter services, booking in advance is crucial, especially during the peak pilgrimage season.
Carry Essentials: Warm clothing, rain gear, trekking shoes, first aid kits, and necessary medications should be part of your packing list.
Stay Connected: Mobile network coverage can be patchy as you move closer to Kedarnath, so inform your family and carry a power bank for emergencies.
Conclusion
Reaching Kedarnath from Mumbai might seem like a long journey, but the experience is truly rewarding. Whether you choose to travel by train, flight, or helicopter, or take a scenic road trip, the pilgrimage to Kedarnath is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual adventure. With proper planning and a little preparation, you’ll be able to make your trip comfortable and memorable.
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