Nestled in the serene lap of the Himalayas, Kedarnath stands as a symbol of spirituality and devotion. As you plan your pilgrimage to this divine abode of Lord Shiva, the journey from Delhi to Kedarnath promises to be a soul-enriching experience. In this blog, we will guide you through the steps of planning your Kedarnath trip from Delhi, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable adventure.
1. Decide the Ideal Time to Visit
The first step in planning any trip is to determine the best time to visit the destination. For Kedarnath, the ideal pilgrimage season is between late April to early November. During this period, the weather is relatively pleasant, and the temple remains open for devotees. The monsoon season (July to September) should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides.
2. Choose Your Mode of Transport
From Delhi, there are multiple transportation options to reach Kedarnath:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Kedarnath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 238 km away from Kedarnath. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach your destination.
- By Train: The closest railway station to Kedarnath is Haridwar, situated around 226 km away. After reaching Haridwar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gaurikund, the base for the Kedarnath trek.
- By Road: If you prefer a road trip, you can hire a private taxi or take a bus from Delhi to Rishikesh or Haridwar. From there, continue your journey to Gaurikund, which is approximately 210 km away from Rishikesh and 232 km from Haridwar.
3. Plan Your Itinerary
Depending on your mode of transport and the number of days you have for the trip, plan your itinerary accordingly. If you are taking a helicopter service to Kedarnath, you can cover the journey in a shorter duration. However, if you opt for the trek, allocate at least 3-4 days for the round trip from Gaurikund to Kedarnath and back.
Day 1: Start your journey from Delhi and reach Haridwar or Rishikesh. Spend the night there to relax and prepare for the road ahead.
Day 2: Drive from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Gaurikund. The road journey offers scenic views and is an experience in itself. Once you reach Gaurikund, rest for the night to begin the trek the next day.
Day 3: Begin your trek to Kedarnath early in the morning. The 14 km trek can take around 6-8 hours, depending on your pace and physical fitness. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and stay overnight in Kedarnath.
Day 4: Visit the revered Kedarnath Temple, seek blessings from Lord Shiva, and immerse yourself in the divine ambiance. Afterward, trek back to Gaurikund and stay the night there.
Day 5: Begin your return journey to Delhi, concluding your blissful pilgrimage to Kedarnath.
4. Accommodation and Essential Items
Arrange for accommodation in Haridwar or Rishikesh for the first night and in Gaurikund for the trekking days. You’ll find various hotels, guesthouses, and dharamshalas that cater to travelers and pilgrims. Carry essential items like trekking shoes, warm clothing, rain gear, water bottles, first aid kit, and necessary identification documents.
5. Seek Divine Blessings and Stay Humble
Above all, remember that the Kedarnath pilgrimage is not just a physical journey, but a spiritual one as well. Stay humble, show respect to fellow travelers, and immerse yourself in the devotion and serenity of the place.
In Conclusion
Planning a Kedarnath trip from Delhi requires careful consideration of transportation, itinerary, and essential items. As you embark on this soul-enriching journey, let the spiritual aura of Kedarnath touch your heart and fill your soul with divine blessings. May your pilgrimage be a memorable and transformative experience that stays with you forever.