Kedarnath Trekking Route: A Day-by-Day Trekker’s Itinerary

Embark on the sacred Kedarnath trekking route from Gaurikund to Kedarnath with this detailed guide that maps every kilometre, rest stop, terrain type, and essential tip for conquering the 16 km pilgrimage on foot.

The Kedarnath trek is more than a pilgrimage—it’s a spiritual adventure through the heart of the Himalayas. Covering a distance of 16 kilometres from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, the trail is steep, scenic, and filled with stories of faith and resilience. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned mountain lover, understanding the terrain, planning rest stops, and knowing what to expect at each stage can make your journey smoother and more fulfilling.

In this blog, we offer a day-by-day breakdown of the Kedarnath trekking route, sharing practical insights on altitude changes, difficulty level, food and accommodation points, as well as options for mules, palkis, and porters. Let’s begin your path to one of the holiest Shiva shrines in India.

If you’re looking for a complete travel guide including how to reach Gaurikund, accommodation, weather, registration process, and temple darshan details, don’t miss our Kedarnath Yatra: A Complete Detailed Guide.

Day-by-Day Itinerary: Kedarnath Trek from Gaurikund

Day 1: Arrival at Gaurikund – The Trek Base

Altitude: ~6,500 ft (1,981 m)
Recommended Stay: 1 night for acclimatisation
Facilities: Guesthouses, registration counters, eateries, medical checkposts

Tip: Start your trek early the next morning (by 4–5 AM) to avoid afternoon weather changes.

Day 2: Gaurikund to Kedarnath Trek – Full Day Trek

Trek Distance: 16 km
Estimated Time: 6 to 10 hours (depending on fitness, breaks, and weather)
Total Altitude Gain: 6,000+ ft

Shri Gauri Mai Mandar, Gaurikund, Rudraprayag,Uttrakhand

Here’s a kilometre-by-kilometre breakdown:

0–4 km: Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti
- Elevation Gain: Moderate to steep
- Highlights: Lush green forest, Mandakini River, waterfalls
- Facilities: Basic refreshments and mule boarding points at Jungle Chatti
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate
- Tip: Keep a trekking stick for balance on slippery sections.

4–7 km: Jungle Chatti to Bheembali
- Elevation Gain: Steeper section
- Terrain: Paved path with railing support
- Facilities: Bheembali has food stalls, medical aid, and resting shelters
- Scenic Value: Beautiful views of deep valleys and snow-dusted peaks
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

7–10 km: Bheembali to Lincholi
- Elevation: Now entering high altitude zone (~9,000+ ft)
- Terrain: Sharp switchbacks, occasional rockslides
- Facilities: Lincholi has government-run medical base camps and basic tent stays
- Tip: Drink ORS water and stay hydrated; symptoms of AMS (acute mountain sickness) may start here.

10–14 km: Lincholi to Kedarnath Base Camp
- Terrain: Gradual incline with breathtaking views of the Kedarnath peak
- Weather: Usually colder and windier
- Facilities: The base camp offers tented accommodation, food stalls, toilets, and government rest houses

14–16 km: Kedarnath Base Camp to Kedarnath Temple
- Final Ascent: Paved and well-maintained; crowded in peak season
- Emotionally Moving: The temple finally reveals itself near the end, creating a profound moment for the trekkers
- Stay Option: Rooms at GMVN, temple trust lodges, or private guesthouses

Trek Difficulty: What to Expect

Overall Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Suitable For: People with basic fitness and no severe altitude-related medical issues
Risk Factors: Weather shifts, rockslides, altitude sickness, exhaustion
Training Tip: Walk daily for a month before the trek; include stairs and light jogging

Mules, Porters, and Palkis – What Are Your Options?

1. Mules (Khachar)

Cost: ₹2,500–₹3,500 (one way)
Availability: Gaurikund mule stand

Best For: Elderly or those with knee/leg issues

2. Porters (Pithu)

Cost: ₹1,500–₹2,000
Service: Carry small kids, bags, or support the elderly
Best Tip: Always fix the rate beforehand

3. Palkis (Palanquins)

Cost: ₹4,500–₹7,000 depending on weight
Best For: Senior citizens and physically unfit devotees

Important: Only registered services with valid IDs should be hired. Fraudulent mule operators are common in rush season.

Essential Tips for Kedarnath Trek

Start Early: Begin the trek before 6 AM to avoid unpredictable afternoon rains and fog
Keep Hydrated: Carry glucose and ORS powder
Dress in Layers: Weather shifts drastically from Gaurikund to Kedarnath
Pack Light: Essentials only—poncho, water, dry fruits, ID, medicines
Mobile Connectivity: BSNL and Jio work best near the Kedarnath base
Medical: Government medical tents are available at Bheembali and Lincholi

When Is the Best Time to Trek to Kedarnath?

Ideal Months: May to mid-June and September to mid-October
Avoid: Monsoon months (late June to August) due to high landslide risk

Conclusion

The Gaurikund to Kedarnath trek is a journey of the soul, wrapped in stunning Himalayan views and spiritual purpose. Whether you choose to trek each step or take assistance, this route offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends peace, humility, and a deep connection with Lord Shiva and the Himalayas.

Prepare well, trek responsibly, pack smart, and respect the terrain—you’re walking a path blessed by centuries of faith and devotion.

FAQ Kedarnath Trekking

Yes, children above 6–7 years can trek if they’re healthy. Use porters for toddlers or senior citizens.

Solo trekking is common, but stick to the route and avoid late evenings. Travelling in small groups is advisable.

Yes, you can find GMVN tents at Jungle Chatti, Lincholi, and Kedarnath Base Camp.

Kedarnath Trekking Route: A Day-by-Day Trekker’s Itinerary

Day-by-Day Itinerary: Kedarnath Trek from Gaurikund

Day 1: Arrival at Gaurikund – The Trek Base

Day 2: Gaurikund to Kedarnath Trek – Full Day Trek

Trek Difficulty: What to Expect