Journey Overview:
Contents
Journey Overview: Travel Details: Route and Transportation:From Haridwar to Gaurikund:Gaurikund to Kedarnath: Accommodation:Gaurikund:Kedarnath: Trek Details:Key Points:Travel Tips: Helicopter Travel: Food and Prasad: Temple Visit:Darshan Times:Mobile Networks: Important Tips: Historical Significance: Budget Estimates: Final Words:
- Start Point: Haridwar
- Destination: Kedarnath Temple
Travel Details:
- Departure Time: Around 6:30 AM from Haridwar
- Travel Time to Temple: Approximately 16 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath
Route and Transportation:
From Haridwar to Gaurikund:
- By Bus: Buses are available from 3:00 AM to 10:00 AM, costing around ₹700 to ₹800. Book online through the GMVN website.
- By Taxi: Private taxis cost between ₹10,000 to ₹15,000.
Gaurikund to Kedarnath:
- On Foot: 16 km trek; a walking stick is recommended, available for ₹50.
- By Horse: ₹2,950 one way.
- By Palanquin: ₹10,000 round trip.
- By Mule: Available from Bhim Bali or Lincholi; price varies based on weight.
Accommodation:
Gaurikund:
- Sunil Lodge: Deluxe rooms available for around ₹3,500 per night. Basic rooms cost about ₹1,000. GMVN offers rooms from ₹2,000 to ₹3,500.
- Tips: Book in advance as options are limited.
Kedarnath:
- GMVN Camp: Dormitory style accommodation with shared facilities. Prices range from ₹800, including complimentary dinner.
Trek Details:
Key Points:
- Jungle Chatti: 4 km from Gaurikund; good for food and rest.
- Bhim Bali: 1 km from Jungle Chatti.
- Rambada: 1 km from Bhim Bali; significant point affected by past disasters.
Travel Tips:
- Weather Gear: Carry raincoat, gloves, jacket, inner wear, socks, winter cap, and good quality shoes.
- Essentials: Buy necessary items like water bottles and snacks at Gaurikund to avoid high prices along the trek.
Helicopter Travel:
- Booking: Available online from Guptkashi, Vata, and Sirsi.
- Cost: Approximately ₹7,740 for a round trip.
Food and Prasad:
- Meals: Basic meals in Kedarnath cost around ₹200. Bhandaras offer free meals.
- Prasad: Ranges from ₹50 to ₹250.
- GMVN Breakfast: ₹150 for Poori, potato, and tomato (limited quantity).
Temple Visit:
Darshan Times:
- Morning: 5:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Evening: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Mobile Networks:
- Available: Airtel, Vodafone, Jio (Network quality varies by location).
Important Tips:
- Best Time to Visit: May and June are ideal. Avoid monsoon season due to landslides and opt for late September to October if you prefer fewer crowds.
- Accommodation Booking: GMVN rooms require booking at least 2 months in advance.
Historical Significance:
- Legend: Kedarnath is associated with the Pandavas’ quest for forgiveness and Shiva’s concealment as a buffalo. The temple houses idols of Shiva, Arjun, Yudhishthir, Nakul, Sahdev, and Lakshmi Narayan.
Budget Estimates:
- By Bus: ₹5,000 per person (includes transport, accommodation, and meals).
- By Car: ₹9,000 per person (includes transport, accommodation, and meals).
- By Helicopter: ₹15,740 per person (includes helicopter fare, transport, and meals).
- By Scooty: ₹9,800 per person (includes rent, fuel, accommodation, and meals).
Final Words:
The Kedarnath Yatra is a profound experience combining spiritual fulfillment with adventure. Ensure you are well-prepared, book in advance, and respect the local environment. Enjoy your journey to this sacred and stunning destination!
