Rudraprayag to Kedarnath – Distance, Bus Fare, Helicopter

Rudraprayag to Kedarnath – Distance, Bus Fare, Helicopter

Kedarnath

Kedarnath, one of the holiest shrines in Hinduism dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. Set amidst the majestic Garhwal Himalayan range, the journey to Kedarnath is a blend of spiritual fulfillment and adventurous travel. This guide covers all the details you need to know about traveling from Rudraprayag to Kedarnath, including distances, transportation options, costs, and other essential information.

Rudraprayag to Kedarnath

The distance from Rudraprayag to Kedarnath is approximately 86 kilometers. This journey is typically divided into two parts: a 74-kilometer road trip from Rudraprayag to Gaurikund, followed by a 16-kilometer trek or helicopter ride from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. The road trip offers scenic views of the Himalayan landscape, while the trek or helicopter ride provides a unique and spiritually enriching experience as you approach the sacred Kedarnath temple.

  1. Rudraprayag to Gaurikund: About 74 kilometers by road.
  2. Gaurikund to Kedarnath: About 16 kilometers, which can be covered by trekking or helicopter.

Kedarnath

Travel by Bus

1. Route and Distance:

  • Rudraprayag to Gaurikund: The bus journey traverses through scenic towns such as Agastyamuni, Guptkashi, and Sonprayag before reaching Gaurikund.

 

2. Bus Fare:

  • The bus fare from Rudraprayag to Gaurikund ranges from INR 150 to INR 300 per person, depending on the type of bus service. State-run buses tend to be more economical, while private buses may charge slightly higher fares. The journey typically takes about 4 to 5 hours, offering a cost-effective way to travel through the picturesque landscapes of Uttarakhand towards Gaurikund, the starting point for the trek to Kedarnath.

 

3. Travel Time:

  • The travel time from Rudraprayag to Gaurikund by road typically takes around 4 to 5 hours. This duration can vary based on road conditions, weather, and traffic. From Gaurikund, the trek to Kedarnath generally takes an additional 6 to 8 hours, depending on individual fitness levels and pace. For those opting for helicopter services from nearby helipads like Phata, the flight to Kedarnath takes approximately 8 to 10 minutes, with the entire process including boarding and checks lasting around 1 to 2 hours.

 

4. Bus Services:

  • Several bus services, both state-run and private, operate from Rudraprayag to Gaurikund, especially during the pilgrimage season from May to June and September to October. State-run buses are more economical, while private buses offer more comfort at slightly higher fares. Checking the bus schedule in advance is advisable due to high demand during peak times.

 

Travel by Helicopter

1. Helicopter Services:

  • Helicopter services to Kedarnath are available from helipads located in Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi, with Phata being the most popular.

 

2. Prices:

  • Helicopter services from Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi to Kedarnath typically cost between INR 2,300 and INR 3,500 for a one-way trip per person. A round trip generally costs between INR 4,500 and INR 7,000 per person. Prices can vary based on the service provider and the season. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the peak pilgrimage periods.

 

3. Travel Time:

  • The helicopter journey from Phata to Kedarnath takes approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Including boarding and other formalities, the total process typically lasts around 1 to 2 hours.

 

4. Booking:

  • Booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Bookings can be made online via various tour operators or directly through helicopter service providers.

 

Travel by Car or Taxi

1. Private Taxi:

  • Private taxis from Rudraprayag to Gaurikund offer a convenient mode of transportation for travelers. The fare for a one-way journey typically ranges from INR 2,500 to INR 4,000, depending on factors such as vehicle type, season, and negotiation skills. These taxis provide flexibility in terms of departure time and can accommodate small groups or families comfortably. It’s advisable to book in advance or negotiate the fare before commencing the journey.

 

2. Shared Taxi:

  • Shared taxis are a popular and cost-effective option for traveling from Rudraprayag to Gaurikund. Passengers can share the fare, which generally ranges from INR 300 to INR 500 per person for a one-way trip. These taxis operate on a first-come, first-served basis and depart once they have enough passengers. Sharing a taxi not only reduces travel expenses but also allows passengers to interact with fellow travelers and enjoy the journey together.

 

3. Travel Time:

  • The travel time by bus from Rudraprayag to Gaurikund typically spans about 4 to 5 hours. This duration may vary depending on factors such as road conditions, weather, and traffic congestion. Buses traverse through scenic routes, offering passengers an opportunity to admire the breathtaking landscapes of Uttarakhand while en route to Gaurikund, the gateway to the sacred pilgrimage site of Kedarnath.

 

Trekking from Gaurikund to Kedarnath

1. Trek Details:

  • The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath covers a distance of approximately 16 kilometers and offers a spiritually enriching experience amidst the stunning Himalayan landscapes. The path is well-marked and includes numerous rest points, food stalls, and medical facilities along the way. It typically takes 6 to 8 hours to complete the trek, depending on individual pace and fitness level. For those unable to trek, pony and palki (palanquin) services are available, offering an alternative means of reaching Kedarnath.

 

2. Pony and Palki Services:

  • For those unable to undertake the trek, pony, and palki (palanquin) services are available. Pony rides cost between INR 2,000 and INR 3,500, while palki services range from INR 4,500 to INR 7,000.

 

3. Travel Time:

  • The trek usually takes 6 to 8 hours, depending on one’s pace and fitness level. Pony rides shorten this time to about 4 to 5 hours.

Rudraprayag to Kedarnath

Accommodation Options

1. Rudraprayag:

  • Accommodation ranges from budget hotels to guesthouses, with prices between INR 500 and INR 2,500 per night.

2. Gaurikund:

  • Gaurikund offers budget lodges and guesthouses, with prices ranging from INR 500 to INR 1,500 per night.

3. Kedarnath:

  • In Kedarnath, options include basic guesthouses, dharamshalas, and tents. Prices range from INR 300 to INR 2,000 per night. Booking in advance is advisable due to limited availability.

 

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Kedarnath is during the pilgrimage season:

  • Summer Season (May to June): Pleasant weather and manageable trekking conditions.
  • Autumn Season (September to October): Clear skies and fewer crowds.

The temple remains closed from November to April due to heavy snowfall.

 

Important Tips

1. Health Check:

  • Ensure you are physically fit for high-altitude travel. Acclimatization is essential to prevent altitude sickness.

2. Weather Preparedness:

  • Carry warm clothing, rain gear, and sturdy footwear as the weather can change rapidly.

3. Permits:

  • Obtain necessary permits for the trek from Sonprayag or Gaurikund authorities.

4. Safety:

  • Follow safety guidelines and avoid travel during adverse weather conditions.

 

 

Conclusion

The journey from Rudraprayag to Kedarnath offers a mix of spiritual devotion and natural beauty. Whether traveling by road, helicopter, or on foot, each mode of transport presents a unique experience. Thorough planning and preparation, understanding of travel options, and awareness of costs ensure a smooth and memorable pilgrimage to the sacred Kedarnath temple.

 

Also Check Out:

 

Thank you and Safe Journey.

Tags:

Leave a Reply