The Kedarnath Trek is one of India's most sacred and spectacular high-altitude journeys. As one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and part of the Char Dham Yatra, the Kedarnath Temple sits majestically at 3,584m, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and the roaring Mandakini River.
Our 7-day itinerary takes you through the lush Lincholi meadows, dense oak and rhododendron forests, and dramatic alpine landscapes before culminating at the ancient stone temple — a moment that leaves every trekker speechless. This is not just a trek; it's a transformative pilgrimage.
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Darshan
Seek blessings at one of India's 12 Jyotirlingas — a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience.
Lincholi Meadow Views
Breathtaking alpine meadows with panoramic views of Kedar Dome and surrounding peaks.
Himalayan Tent Camping
Sleep at 2,600m in comfortable tents beside the Mandakini river — stars like you've never seen.
Glacier & Snow Scenery
Trek through snow patches (May/Jun) and witness the Chorabari Glacier near the summit.
Rhododendron Forests
Walk through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and deodar — magical in spring bloom.
Mandakini River Trail
Trek alongside the roaring Mandakini river — sacred waters that guide your path to Kedarnath.
Arrive Haridwar / Rishikesh — Drive to Guptkashi
Arrive at Haridwar or Rishikesh railway station. Transfer (approx. 8 hrs) to Guptkashi via Devprayag and Rudraprayag — a scenic mountain drive through Garhwal. Evening arrival, dinner and overnight rest.
Guptkashi → Gaurikund → Jungle Chatti
Drive from Guptkashi to Gaurikund (the trek base, 1,982m). Begin the trek through dense forest to Jungle Chatti (2,200m). Visit the Gaurikund hot springs before departing.
- 6:00 AM: Breakfast at Guptkashi
- 7:00 AM: Drive to Gaurikund (30 min)
- 8:00 AM: Register at forest check post
- 8:30 AM: Trek begins — Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti
- 11:00 AM: Visit Gaurikund hot springs
- 1:30 PM: Reach Jungle Chatti, lunch
- 3:00 PM: Rest, acclimatization walk
- 7:00 PM: Dinner, trek briefing
Jungle Chatti → Lincholi Meadow
Trek through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests to Lincholi Meadow (2,600m). Stunning views of Kedar Dome begin to appear. This is the most photogenic section of the trail.
Lincholi → Bheembali → Kedarnath Temple
The iconic day! Trek from Lincholi via Bheembali (3,100m) to Kedarnath (3,584m). Arrive for evening aarti at the ancient Kedarnath Temple. A profoundly spiritual and emotional moment.
- 5:00 AM: Early breakfast, packed lunch
- 5:30 AM: Trek begins in darkness with headlamps
- 8:00 AM: Reach Bheembali — rest and tea
- 10:00 AM: Snow section begins (May/Jun)
- 12:30 PM: Arrive Kedarnath, check in
- 2:00 PM: Lunch, rest and free time
- 4:00 PM: Evening aarti at Kedarnath Temple
- 7:00 PM: Dinner, celebrate your achievement!
Morning Darshan + Descent to Lincholi
Wake for the mesmerizing early morning abhishek and darshan at the temple. Visit the Chorabari Glacier nearby. Begin descent back to Lincholi for the night.
Lincholi → Gaurikund → Guptkashi
Final descent from Lincholi to Gaurikund. Brief rest, then drive back to Guptkashi. Celebrate your trek completion with a group dinner and certificate ceremony.
Guptkashi → Haridwar / Rishikesh Departure
After breakfast, transfer back to Haridwar or Rishikesh (approx. 8 hrs). Drop at railway station or hotel. Leave with a heart full of blessings and memories of the Himalayas.
Included
Not Included
I've been to Kedarnath twice before by helicopter and pony, but trekking there with MilesNPeople was a completely different — and far more profound — experience. Standing at the temple gates after 4 days of walking, I understood why this is called a pilgrimage and not a trip. Our guide Raju was exceptional.
The Lincholi meadow at sunset is something I will never forget. Snow-capped peaks, the sound of the Mandakini, and the warm campfire — it felt like we were in another world. The team took excellent care of us, the food was surprisingly good, and the whole experience felt deeply safe and well-organized.
The trek is rated Moderate. While no prior technical experience is needed, reasonable fitness is required — you should be able to walk 8–12km per day at altitude. We recommend 4 weeks of cardio training before the trek. Our experienced guides ensure the pace suits all members.
The temple opens in late April/May and closes in October/November after Diwali. May–June offers snow on trail (beautiful, but requires more caution). September–October is ideal — clear skies, mild weather, and smaller crowds. The monsoon season (July–Aug) is best avoided due to landslide risk.
Our itinerary is carefully designed for gradual acclimatization. We carry an oxygen cylinder and first aid. Warning signs include severe headache, nausea, and confusion — if you experience these, inform your guide immediately. We'll always prioritize your health over the summit.
Yes, horses and dolis (palanquins) are available locally at Gaurikund at additional cost (approx. ₹2,500–₹4,000 one way). However, we recommend trekking for the complete experience. Your guide can help arrange this if needed due to health reasons.
Essentials: Layered warm clothing (temperature drops to 0°C at night), waterproof trekking shoes, poncho/rain cover, trekking poles, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, personal medications, a water bottle, and a 40–45L backpack. We'll share a detailed packing list upon booking.