KEDARNATH - BADRINATH YATRA

“Journey to the Abodes of Lord Shiva and Vishnu”

Kedarnath - Badrinath Yatra 2025: Complete Guide, Cost, Itinerary & Tips

Duration

5 Days/ 4 Nights

Pickup/Drop

Haridwar

Region

Uttarakhand

Age Group

05yrs-70yrs

Max. Altitude

11,755 ft

Best Time

April - November

Know About Kedarnath And Badrinath

The Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra is a highly revered pilgrimage in Uttarakhand, attracting thousands of devotees annually. Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, are key spiritual destinations on the Char Dham circuit. The yatra is best done from May to October when weather conditions are ideal.
Pilgrims can reach Kedarnath via trekking or helicopter, while Badrinath is accessible by road. This yatra offers a unique spiritual experience combined with stunning Himalayan views. Proper planning, including travel, accommodation, and safety tips, ensures a smooth and fulfilling pilgrimage.

1. Kedarnath Temple – Sacred Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva

  • Location: Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand
  • Altitude: 3,583 meters (11,755 feet)
  • Deity: Lord Shiva (as Kedarnath)
  • Importance: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Kedarnath is the most remote and spiritually powerful stop in the Chardham Yatra. It is surrounded by snow-covered peaks and the Mandakini River.
  • Main Attractions: Kedarnath Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, Samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya
  • Trek: A 16–18 km trek from Gaurikund (helicopter and pony options available)

2. Badrinath Temple – Sacred Shrine of Lord Vishnu

  • Location: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand
  • Altitude: 3,300 meters (10,826 feet)
  • Deity: Lord Vishnu (as Badri Narayan)
  • Importance: The last and most significant temple in the Char Dham Yatra, Badrinath is part of the original Char Dham (Dwarka, Rameswaram, Puri, Badrinath) and the Chota Char Dham.
  • Main Attractions: Badrinath Temple, Tapt Kund, Mana Village (last Indian village), Neelkanth Peak
  • Accessibility: Well connected by road, no trekking needed

Kedarnath-Badrinath Temples Opening And Closing Dates In 2025

Opening Dates

  • Kedarnath Temple: May 2, 2025 (Mahashivaratri)
  • Badrinath Temple: May 4, 2025 (Basant Panchami)

Closing Dates

  • Kedarnath Temple: October 23, 2025 (Bhai Dooj)
  • Badrinath Temple: October 29, 2025 (Vijayadashami

Kedarnath-Badrinath Temples Darshan Timings 2025

Kedarnath Temple Darshan Timings

  • Morning Darshan: 4:00 AM to 3:00 PM
  • Evening Darshan: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  • Abhishek Pooja: Begins at 4:00 AM (requires special booking)
  • Kedarnath Aarti: Morning Rudrabhishek and evening Shringar Aarti

Badrinath Temple Darshan Timings

  • Morning Darshan: 4:30 AM to 1:00 PM
  • Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  • Abhishek Pooja: Conducted early morning
  • Badrinath Aarti: Maha Abhishek and evening Shayan Aarti

Kedarnath-Badrinath Itinerary

Day 1. Haridwar To Phata

Total Distance: ~215 kms
Time: 8 to 10 hours by road
Route: Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Agastyamuni → Guptkashi → Phata

The journey from Haridwar to Phata is a crucial part of the Kedarnath Yatra, as Phata serves as a base for helicopter services and is close to the Kedarnath trekking point. Covering around 215 kilometers, the route winds through some of Uttarakhand’s most sacred and scenic locations, offering a mix of spiritual ambiance and natural beauty.
Pilgrims usually begin their journey early in the morning from Haridwar. The initial leg of the trip heads towards Rishikesh, about 25 km away, and then proceeds to Devprayag, where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers merge to form the holy Ganga. Devprayag is a popular stop for quick sightseeing and tea breaks.
The route then moves through Srinagar (Garhwal), a good place to refuel and have lunch. From there, the road ascends gradually toward Rudraprayag, another holy confluence where the Mandakini joins the Alaknanda River. Continuing further, travelers pass through Agastyamuni and Guptkashi, the latter being another major pilgrim stop with good accommodation options.
The final stretch from Guptkashi to Phata is about 10–12 km. Phata is a small village that has gained popularity due to its helipad, offering regular helicopter services to Kedarnath Temple. Many pilgrims choose to stay overnight in Phata to catch early morning flights or to rest before starting the trek from nearby Sonprayag or Gaurikund.

Total Distance By road + trek: 36 kms
Phata to Sonprayag: ~15 km by road
Sonprayag to Gaurikund: ~5 km (by shared jeep)
Gaurikund to Kedarnath: 16 km trek

Time:8 – 10 hours
By helicopter: ~10 minutes (plus waiting/check-in time)
By road + trek: 8 – 10 hours

Route Options:

  • Option 1: Phata to Kedarnath by Helicopter
    Board the helicopter from Phata Helipad
    10-minute flight to Kedarnath Helipad (approx. 500 meters from the temple)
    Short walk (10–15 mins) to Kedarnath Temple
  • Option 2: Phata to Kedarnath by Road + Trek
    Take a shared jeep from Sonprayag to Gaurikund
    Begin 16 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath (moderate to difficult level)
  • Option 3: Horse, Pitthu, Palaquine
    If you are unable to do Kedarnathtrek then hire horse/ pitthu/ palaquine to reach Kedarnath temple, which are easily availabe

Phata is a major hub for pilgrims heading to Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest shrines in India and a key site of the Char Dham Yatra. From Phata, pilgrims have two main options: by helicopter or by road and foot trek.
The fastest and most convenient option is the helicopter ride from Phata to Kedarnath, which takes only 10 minutes. Advance booking is essential, especially during peak season (May–June and September–October). Upon landing at Kedarnath Helipad, the temple is just a 500-meter walk. This is ideal for elderly pilgrims, those with limited time, or anyone looking to avoid the long trek.
For those who prefer or need to travel by road and trek, the journey starts with a drive from Phata to Sonprayag, followed by a short shared jeep ride to Gaurikund — the base camp for the Kedarnath trek. The 16 km trek to Kedarnath is challenging due to steep climbs and high altitude but offers stunning Himalayan views, spiritual stops, and basic rest points.

Total Distance By road + trek: 36 kms
Kedarnath to Gaurikund: 16 km trek
Sonprayag to Gaurikund: 5 km (by shared jeep)
Sonprayag to Phata: 15 km by road

Time:8 – 10 hours
By helicopter: 10 minutes (plus waiting/check-in time)
By road + trek: 8 – 10 hours

Route Options:

  • Option 1: Kedanath to Phata by Helicopter
    Board the helicopter from Kedarnath Helipad
    10-minute flight to Phata Helipad
  • Option 2: Kedarnath To Phata by Road + Trek
    Take a shared jeep from Gaurikund to Sonprayag
    Begin 16 km trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund
  • Option 3: Horse, Pitthu, Palaquine
    If you are unable to do Kedarnath trek then hire horse/ pitthu/ palaquine to reach Gaurikund, which are easily availabe

The return journey from Kedarnath to Phata can be completed by helicopter or trekking and road. If you opt for a helicopter, head to the Kedarnath Helipad, located just 500 meters from the temple. The ride takes only 10 minutes, offering a quick and comfortable return to Phata. Due to high demand during peak yatra months, early booking is essential. Weather can impact flight schedules, so flexibility is advised.
If you choose to return on foot, start the 16 km downhill trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund. The trail passes through Rambara, Jungle Chatti, and other rest stops. The downhill path is easier than the ascent but still requires caution due to steep slopes and uneven terrain.

Total Distance: 200 kms
Time: 8 hours
Route: Phata → Guptkashi → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Chamoli → Joshimath → Badrinath

The journey from Phata to Badrinath is a scenic and spiritually significant road trip through the Garhwal Himalayas. Badrinath is one of the four sacred Char Dham temples, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and located at an altitude of 3,300 meters.
After completing your Kedarnath Yatra from Phata, you will head north toward Badrinath Temple. The most common and beautiful route takes you from Phata to Guptkashi, then through Chopta (known as the “Mini Switzerland of India”) and onward to Gopeshwar. From there, the road connects to Joshimath, the last major town before Badrinath. The final 45 km stretch from Joshimath to Badrinath passes through winding roads, stunning valleys, and landslide-prone zones — so careful driving is essential.

Total Distance: 300 kms
Time: 10 hours
Route: Phata → Badrinath → Joshimath → Chamoli → Karnaprayag → Rudraprayag → Srinagar (Garhwal) → Devprayag → Rishikesh → Haridwar

The journey from Badrinath to Haridwar marks the completion of the sacred Char Dham Yatra for many pilgrims. This route takes you through the breathtaking valleys and spiritual towns of Uttarakhand, following the Alaknanda River for much of the journey.
The first leg of the drive descends from Badrinath to Joshimath, a scenic stretch of about 45 km. From Joshimath, you’ll pass through key towns like Chamoli, Karnaprayag, and Rudraprayag, all known for their confluences and temples. As you move further, you’ll reach Srinagar (Garhwal) and then Devprayag, the sacred point where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda merge to form the River Ganga.
After Devprayag, the route descends to the plains via Rishikesh, and finally reaches Haridwar, the spiritual city where pilgrims take a holy dip in the Ganga to conclude their divine journey.

Places To Visit In Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra

Kedarnath Yatra Places

  • Kedarnath Temple
  • Bhairavnath Temple
  • Gaurikund
  • Vasuki Tal
  • Triyuginarayan Temple
  • Sonprayag
  • Guptkashi

Badrinath Yatra Places

  • Badrinath Temple
  • Tapt Kund
  • Mana Village
  • Vyas Gufa
  • Ganesh Gufa
  • Bheem Pul
  • Vasudhara Falls
  • Charan Paduka
  • Satopanth Tal
  • Narad Kund

Nearby Places

  • Joshimath
  • Rudraprayag
  • Karnaprayag
  • Nandaprayag
  • Chopta

Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra Package Includes

Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra Package Excludes

Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra Booking Terms & Conditions

Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra Cancellation & Refund Policy

Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra Frequently Asked Questions

How to plan Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra?

To plan Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra, start from Haridwar or Rishikesh, visit Kedarnath first, then proceed to Badrinath via Joshimath. Book hotels early, arrange transportation or helicopter service, and complete the online registration before travel.

A complete Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra itinerary 2025 typically includes:

  • Day 1: Haridwar to Guptkashi/Phata

  • Day 2: Phata to Kedarnath

  • Day 3: Kedarnath to Guptkashi

  • Day 4: Guptkashi to Badrinath

  • Day 5: Badrinath to Haridwar
    This covers both temples in 5–6 days comfortably.

The best time to visit Kedarnath and Badrinath is from May to June and September to mid-October. Avoid the monsoon season (July–August) due to landslides and weather-related delays.

Yes, you can do the Kedarnath and Badrinath Yatra by helicopter. Kedarnath helipads operate from Phata, Guptkashi, Sersi, and Dehradun. Some luxury packages include same-day helicopter visits to both shrines.

Yes, many operators offer Kedarnath and Badrinath tour packages from Haridwar. These packages typically include transport, accommodation, meals, temple visits, and VIP darshan if requested.

The Kedarnath Badrinath Yatra cost ranges from ₹8,000 to ₹25,000 per person, depending on the package type, transport mode, hotel class, and helicopter inclusion. Budget and luxury options are both available.

Yes, the Kedarnath Badrinath Yatra is safe for senior citizens if well-planned. Use helicopter services, book priority darshan, and avoid peak dates or monsoon season. Carry medical prescriptions and consult a doctor before the trip.

Yes, Kedarnath Badrinath registration online is mandatory. Visit the official Uttarakhand Tourism website, register yourself, and carry a printout of the confirmation and your photo ID during travel.

The Haridwar to Kedarnath and Badrinath distance is around 525–550 km total. Haridwar to Kedarnath (via Gaurikund) is about 250 km, and Kedarnath to Badrinath is about 230 km by road.

The Kedarnath to Badrinath route goes through Guptkashi → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Badrinath. It takes approximately 9–10 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

To return from Badrinath to Haridwar, take the road via Joshimath → Rudraprayag → Devprayag → Rishikesh → Haridwar. The journey is about 320 km and takes 10–12 hours.

  • Warm clothes

  • Trekking shoes

  • Raincoat & umbrella

  • First-aid kit & personal medicines

  • Yatra registration printout

  • Photo ID & offline map

  • Energy snacks & water bottles

The average Phata to Kedarnath helicopter fare is between ₹2,400 to ₹3,500 per person (one-way). Prices vary by operator and season. Book early via approved aviation services or Uttarakhand Tourism’s official portal.

Yes, you can plan the Kedarnath Badrinath Yatra in budget by choosing shared transportation, budget hotels, and group tours. Several packages under ₹9,000 are available from Haridwar and Rishikesh.

How To Reach Kedarnath-Badrinath Temples

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Reach Kedarnath-Badrinath Temples From Your Places

1. Starting Point of Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra

  • The official starting point of the Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra is Haridwar or Rishikesh, both well-connected by road, rail, and air.
  • From there, you can follow this traditional route:
    Haridwar →  Guptkashi (Kedarnath) → Joshimath (Badrinath)

2. Nearest Railway Stations to Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra

  • Rishikesh Railway Station – Closest to all Kedarnath-Badrinath sites
  • Haridwar Junction – Major railhead for pilgrims
  • Dehradun Railway Station – Convenient for Gangotri & Yamunotri

3. Nearest Airports to Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra

  • Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun – Nearest airport to Kedarnath-Badrinath
  • Regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore
  • Helicopter services for Kedarnath and Badrinath start from Sahastradhara Helipad in Dehradun

4. How to Reach Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra by Road

  • You can drive or hire a taxi from: Delhi to Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra by road: 6 – 8 days round trip
  • Haridwar to Kedarnath-Badrinath by car: Ideal for full circuit
  • State transport buses and private cabs also operate from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun

5. City-wise Travel Options

  • Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra from Delhi
  • Best connected via road, train, and flight
  • Delhi → Haridwar → Kedarnath-Badrinath route
  • Kedarnath-Badrinath from Mumbai
  • Flight Mumbai to Kedarnath-Badrinath tour packages available
  • Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra from Kolkata
  • Flight to Dehradun or Delhi
  • Kolkata to Haridwar train is also available
  • Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra from Bangalore / Hyderabad / Chennai
  • Direct flights to Dehradun → road/heli journey from there

6. Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra by Helicopter (Fast & VIP Option)

  • Duration: 1 to 3 days
  • Departure: From Dehradun (Sahastradhara Helipad)
  • Covers: Dehradun →  Kedarnath → Badrinath
  • Ideal for senior citizens and VIP travelers

Things To Pack For Kedarnath - Badrinath Yatra

Planning your spiritual journey to the sacred temples of Kedarnath and Badrinath requires not just devotion but also careful preparation—especially when it comes to packing. These Himalayan pilgrimage sites are located at high altitudes with unpredictable weather, steep trekking routes, and limited amenities. Packing the right items ensures your Char Dham Yatra is safe, comfortable, and spiritually fulfilling.
In this guide, we’ve compiled a complete packing list for Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra, tailored for all pilgrims—whether you’re traveling by foot, pony, or helicopter. From essential travel documents, thermal clothing for Kedarnath, to health and hygiene kits for high altitude travel, everything has been covered with attention to details.

  • Thermal innerwear (mornings and nights are cold even in May–June)
  • Woolen sweaters or fleece jackets
  • Down jacket or heavy windproof jacket (for Kedarnath especially)
  • Raincoat or waterproof poncho (for sudden rain)
  • 2–3 quick-dry T-shirts
  • 2 pairs of trekking pants / warm track pants
  • Woolen cap + gloves + muffler or neck gaiter
  • Extra socks (preferably
  • woolen + cotton pairs)
  • Sleepwear and undergarments
  • Comfortable trekking shoes with good grip
  • Flip-flops/slippers (for evening wear or bathing)
  • Rucksack (40–60L) for trekking
  • Small daypack for daily darshan
  • Rain cover for backpack
  • Dry bags or polybags for wet clothes
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo sachets
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Sunscreen lotion (SPF 50+)
  • Lip balm + petroleum jelly
  • Moisturizer (skin dries quickly in cold)
  • Hand sanitizer and face wipes
  • Toilet paper and tissue rolls
  • Sanitary napkins (for women)
  • Pain reliever (Paracetamol, Crocin, etc.) Cold/cough medicine (D Cold, Vicks, etc.)
  • Antacid and stomach medicine (Digene, Eno, etc.)
  • ORS sachets and glucose powder
  • Muscle spray or balm
  • Band-aids and antiseptic (Dettol/Savlon)
  • Any prescribed medications
  • Inhaler (for asthma or breathing issues)
  • Medical certificate (if required for helicopter travel)
  • Government ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)

  • Yatra registration printout (mandatory)

  • Cash (ATMs are scarce and may not work)

  • Hotel and transport booking confirmations

  • Water bottle (insulated or steel)
  • Energy bars, dry fruits, ORS
  • Small lock for your luggage
  • Umbrella (if not carrying a raincoat)
  • Prayer items if needed (rudraksha, mala, etc.)
  • Power bank (with at least 10,000 mAh)
  • Charging cable + adaptor
  • Flashlight/torch (essential for Kedarnath nights)
  • Extra batteries (for torch or camera)

Kedarnath - Badrinath Yatra Photos

Kedarnath-Badrinath Yatra Group Available Dates 2025

MAY
JUNE
JULY
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
12, 15, 20, 25, 28, 30, 31
1, 3, 5, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 28
2, 4, 5
20, 25, 28, 30
5, 8, 12, 16, 19, 24, 29
1, 3, 5, 10, 14, 18, 22, 26, 29
1, 2, 4

KEDARNATH-BADRINATH PACKAGE COST

FIX GROUP DEPARTUES
₹11,499/- Per Person
Private Trek Package
₹12,499/- Per Person
Deluxe/ Premiume Package
₹16,499/- Per Person