Kedarnath Yatra 2023 - How to plan a trip [Complete Travel Guide]

Kedarnath Yatra is one of the most revered religious journeys in India. Every year, thousands of devotees visit the Kedarnath temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. If you are planning to undertake this spiritual journey in 2023, complete the travel guide to help you plan your trip.

Kedarnath Yatra 2023 Trip Plan

About Kedarnath:

Kedarnath is a town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level and is home to the famous Kedarnath temple. The temple is one of the four sacred shrines in the Char Dham Yatra and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Kedarnath temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and from September to November. The temple is closed during winter due to heavy snowfall and is open from April to November. The monsoon season, which lasts from July to August, should be avoided due to landslides and floods in the region.

How to Reach Kedarnath

By Air:

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 238 km away from Kedarnath. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kedarnath.

By Train:

The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, which is about 216 km away from Kedarnath. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kedarnath.

By Road:

Kedarnath is well connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun to reach Kedarnath.

Accommodation:

There are several accommodation options available in Kedarnath, ranging from budget guest houses to luxury hotels. The government also provides accommodation options for pilgrims. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.

Things to Do in Kedarnath Yatra

Apart from visiting the Kedarnath temple, there are several other things to do in Kedarnath:

1. Trek to Kedarnath:

The trek to Kedarnath is considered to be one of the most challenging treks in the region. The trek starts from Gaurikund, which is about 14 km away from Kedarnath.

2. Visit Vasuki Tal:

Vasuki Tal is a high-altitude lake situated at an altitude of 4,135 meters above sea level. It is about 8 km away from Kedarnath and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

3. Attend the evening aarti:

The evening aarti at the Kedarnath temple is a must-attend for all devotees. The aarti is performed every day at 7 pm and is a sight to behold.

4. Explore the surrounding areas:

Kedarnath is surrounded by several picturesque villages and towns, such as Guptkashi, Sonprayag, and Gaurikund.

Tips for Planning:

Make sure to carry warm clothes as the temperature drops significantly at night.
Keep a first aid kit handy in case of any medical emergencies.
Avoid carrying too much luggage as the trek to Kedarnath can be challenging.
Make sure to carry a valid ID proof as it is required for registration at various checkpoints.

In conclusion, Kedarnath Yatra is a spiritual journey that every devotee should undertake at least once in their lifetime. With proper planning and preparation, you