How to Reach Kedarnath from Delhi by Train and Bus
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The Complete Guide to a Budget-Friendly Kedarnath Yatra from Delhi
Embarking on the Kedarnath Yatra is a dream for millions of devotees, a pilgrimage that tests your faith and rewards you with a spiritual experience like no other. While there are multiple ways to reach this revered Himalayan shrine, traveling by a combination of train and bus is one of the most popular and economical choices, offering a unique blend of convenience and scenic beauty. This detailed guide will take you through the entire journey from the capital city of Delhi to the holy sanctum of Kedarnath, providing a step-by-step itinerary to make your yatra smooth and memorable.
The journey can be broken down into three distinct phases:
- The train journey from Delhi to the nearest railway station.
- The road journey by bus from the railway station to the last motorable point.
- The final trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple.
“The journey to Kedarnath is not just about reaching a destination; it's about the devotion in every step, the serene landscapes, and the spiritual awakening along the way.”
Phase 1: Delhi to the Nearest Railway Station
The first leg of your pilgrimage is a comfortable train ride from Delhi to the foothills of the Himalayas. The two most convenient railway stations serving the Kedarnath route are **Rishikesh (RKSH)** and **Haridwar (HW)**. Both are well-connected to major railway stations in Delhi like New Delhi (NDLS), Delhi Junction (DLI), and Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM).
Recommended Trains & Travel Time
The train journey typically takes between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the train and its route. Booking your tickets well in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak pilgrimage season (May-June and September-October).
| Train Number | Train Name | Origin | Departure Time | Approx. Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14041 | Mussoorie Express | DLI | 10:25 PM | 8 hr 21 min |
| 18477 | Utkal Express | NZM | 1:20 PM | 8 hr 30 min |
| 19031 | Yoga Express | DLI | 5:05 AM | 7 hr 20 min |
Upon arrival at either Rishikesh or Haridwar, your train journey concludes, and the next phase of the adventure begins. These stations are bustling hubs, providing easy access to buses and shared taxis for the onward journey.
Phase 2: The Bus Journey to the Foothills
From Rishikesh or Haridwar, you will need to take a bus or a shared taxi to reach the last motorable point, Sonprayag. This is the most scenic part of the journey by road, as the route winds through the beautiful Garhwal Himalayas. The road from Rishikesh to Sonprayag spans approximately 216 km, and the travel time can be anywhere from 7 to 9 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Bus Options
Government buses, operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UKSRTC), and numerous private buses and shared jeeps are available from the Rishikesh bus stand. These buses operate primarily in the morning, as per a regulation that prohibits travel on the hilly roads after sunset for safety reasons. It is advisable to start your bus journey early in the morning to reach Sonprayag before evening.
The route passes through several spiritually significant towns and stunning landscapes, including Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi.
The last stop for all buses and private vehicles is **Sonprayag**. No private vehicles are allowed beyond this point.
For those who wish to reach Sonprayag faster, a shared taxi or a private cab is a viable alternative. While more expensive, it offers the flexibility to stop and rest as you wish.
Phase 3: Sonprayag to the Kedarnath Temple
From Sonprayag, the final push to the temple begins. This is a short but critical part of the journey.
- Sonprayag to Gaurikund: A 5 km stretch that can only be covered by shared jeeps or taxis authorized by the government. These are readily available and cost around ₹50 per person. The ride is short, about 15-20 minutes, and the vehicles drop you right at the entry point of the trek in Gaurikund.
- Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple: This is the most demanding but spiritually rewarding part of the pilgrimage—a 16 km trek. The trail is well-defined and features rest stops, food stalls, and shelters along the way. While physically challenging, the breathtaking views and the collective devotion of fellow pilgrims make the journey unforgettable.
Alternative Modes for the Trek
If you are unable to trek the entire distance, there are other options available from Gaurikund:
- Pony & Palki (Dandi)
- You can hire a pony or a palki (a palanquin carried by four men) for the trek. The rates are fixed by the government and are prominently displayed at the Gaurikund base camp.
- Helicopter Service
- A helicopter service is also available from helipads at Phata, Sirsi, and Guptkashi. However, a separate online booking and registration is required for this.
Essential Travel Tips and Regulations for 2025
The government of Uttarakhand has made **mandatory online registration** for all pilgrims. Without registration, you will be denied entry at checkpoints. It is free of cost and can be done on the official portal registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
. The registration process provides a unique QR code, which must be carried on your person throughout the journey.
The body is an amazing machine, but at a high altitude, it requires extra care. Hydration is key. The air is thinner, so take frequent breaks and carry energy bars. A basic medical checkup for fitness is also highly recommended before the trip.
In conclusion, the journey to Kedarnath from Delhi by train and bus is a beautiful and spiritual experience that can be undertaken with proper planning. By combining the speed of the train with the convenience of a bus, you can complete the majority of the distance while preserving your energy for the final, most sacred part of the yatra.
A peaceful journey awaits you. May Lord Shiva bless your path.