Kedarnath

In short: Kedarnath: from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple (3,583 m). Length: around 16 km from Gaurikund, duration: 1 to 2 days. Best time: May to June, September and October.

Overview

Kedarnath is one of India's most important Shiva temples and part of the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit in the state of Uttarakhand. The temple stands at around 3,580 metres, and the climb from Gaurikund is around 16 kilometres long.

Because of the snow, the temple is open only from about May to October or November. During the monsoon from July to August there is a high risk of landslides, and the 2013 floods hit the region hard.

Thousands of people walk up every day in season, and some use ponies or helicopters. Registration is compulsory. Expect thin air and cold, even in summer.

Who is this route for?

This route is a poor choice for a first attempt. You should be sure-footed and have stamina, and several weeks of training will pay off here.

You can find more routes under Pilgrimage routes in Asia, Pilgrimage in India, sorted by religion under Hindu pilgrimage routes.