Kedarnath Yatra Guide 2026 — Registration, Route, Packing & Tips

Step-by-Step Process

Yatra Registration Guide

Complete your Chardham Yatra registration online before you travel. Here's exactly how to do it.

Option 1: Online Registration

Visit the Official Portal

Go to the Chardham Yatra registration portal at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in

Create Account & Fill Details

Upload Documents

Upload a valid photo ID (Aadhaar/Passport).

Registration is Completely Free

The official Chardham Yatra registration is free of charge. No payment is required.

Download & Print Your E-Pass

Once approved, download your e-pass and keep a printed copy with you throughout the yatra.

Option 2: Offline Registration

Offline Registration Counters

If you cannot register online, offline registration facilities are available at various physical counters located in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Sonprayag, and many other places along the route.

⚠️ Important Notice

Registration is mandatory for all pilgrims. Without a valid e-pass, entry to Kedarnath may be denied.

Kedarnath Temple illuminated at night against the Himalayan peaks

Plan Your Journey

Route & Travel Guide

Multiple ways to reach Kedarnath — by air, train, or road. Here's the complete breakdown.

How to Reach Kedarnath

✈️ By Air

Fly to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun — the nearest airport. From there, take a taxi to Sonprayag (~250 km, 8-9 hours drive).

🚂 By Train

Alight at Haridwar or Rishikesh Railway Station. Take a bus or taxi to Sonprayag via Rudraprayag.

🚗 By Road

Delhi → Haridwar → Rudraprayag → Sonprayag (approx 450 km). Well-connected via NH-7. UKRTC buses, private buses, and cab services available.

Sonprayag to Kedarnath

From Sonprayag, take a shared jeep or auto to Gaurikund (5 km). The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is 16 km (8 to 10 hours on foot).

🐴 Alternative Transport Options

Pony / Horse: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 (one way)
Palki / Doli: ₹6,000 – ₹12,000 (one way)
Helicopter: ₹7,000 – ₹9,000 (one way, subject to weather)

Pilgrims trekking from Gaurikund to Kedarnath along the scenic Himalayan trail

Be Prepared

Survival Guide

Kedarnath sits at 3,583 metres. Proper preparation is the difference between a spiritual experience and a medical emergency.

🎒 What to Pack

Warm clothing — thermals, down jacket, gloves, wool cap
Comfortable trekking shoes with strong grip
Rain poncho or waterproof jacket
Medicines — Diamox (altitude), Disprin, ORS, personal medication
Torch / flashlight and power bank
Dry snacks and reusable water bottle
Carry some cash as sometimes internet goes and cash works

🌤️ Weather Information

May – June: 5°C to 15°C — clear skies, best months for yatra
Sep – October: 2°C to 12°C — occasional rain, post-monsoon clarity
Night temperatures can drop below 0°C — always carry extra layers

🚨 Altitude Safety Tips

Kedarnath is at 3,583m — altitude sickness is real and can affect anyone
Ascend slowly, take frequent breaks, and stay hydrated
Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before and during the trek
If you feel severe headache, nausea, or dizziness — descend immediately and seek medical help

Majestic view of Kedarnath Temple with snow-capped Himalayan peaks in the background

At a Glance

Quick Reference

🕐

Temple Timings

5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Morning Darshan (Jyotirlinga): 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Temple Bhog: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Evening Darshan: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
* Timings are subject to change according to the month/season.

📅

Yatra Season

May to November
Kapat (doors) open: April/May (Akshaya Tritiya)
Kapat closing: November (Bhai Dooj)
Peak months: May – June & Sep – Oct

📞

Emergency Contacts

SDRF Helpline: 1070
Disaster Helpline: 1077
Medical aid available at Kedarnath base camp
District Control Room: 01364-226200

Your Complete Kedarnath Yatra Guide