Bangalore to Kedarnath Distance – Complete Travel Guide

The holy shrine of Kedarnath in Uttarakhand is one of the most revered Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India. For devotees and travelers planning a spiritual journey from Bangalore, understanding the Bangalore to Kedarnath distance and the available routes is essential. The journey involves a combination of flights, trains, and road travel, as Kedarnath is not directly accessible by rail or air.

Bangalore to Kedarnath Distance Overview

The approximate distance from Bangalore to Kedarnath is 2,500 km by road. Since Kedarnath is nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, it cannot be reached directly by train or flight. Travelers usually combine air, rail, and road travel to reach Gaurikund, the last motorable point before Kedarnath. From Gaurikund, pilgrims trek about 16 km to reach the Kedarnath temple.

Bangalore to Kedarnath by Flight

Flying is the most convenient option for those seeking to reduce travel time.

• Nearest Airport to Kedarnath: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 238 km from Kedarnath).

• Flight Route: Bangalore → Dehradun (via Delhi or direct flights depending on availability).

• Flight Duration: Around 3–4 hours to Delhi and 1 hour from Delhi to Dehradun.

From Dehradun, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Rudraprayag, and Gaurikund.

Helicopter Services to Kedarnath

From Phata, Guptkashi, or Sersi, helicopter services are available to Kedarnath. This reduces travel time significantly and is ideal for elderly pilgrims.

Bangalore to Kedarnath by Train

While there is no direct train to Kedarnath, several trains connect Bangalore to cities near Kedarnath.

• Nearest Railway Stations:

  • Haridwar Railway Station (approx. 240 km from Kedarnath)

  • Rishikesh Railway Station (approx. 220 km from Kedarnath)

Train Routes from Bangalore

• Bangalore → Delhi (via Karnataka Express or Rajdhani Express).

• From Delhi, travelers can take a train to Haridwar or Rishikesh.

After reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh, buses and taxis are available to Gaurikund.

Bangalore to Kedarnath by Road

For those who prefer a road trip, the Bangalore to Kedarnath distance by road is around 2,500 km. The journey takes 45–50 hours depending on stops and routes chosen.

Suggested Road Route

• Bangalore → Hyderabad → Nagpur → Jhansi → Kanpur → Lucknow → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Rudraprayag → Gaurikund.

From Gaurikund, the 16 km trek or pony/palanquin services take pilgrims to Kedarnath temple.

Trekking from Gaurikund to Kedarnath

The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is one of the most significant parts of the journey.

• Distance: 16 km

• Time Required: 6–8 hours on foot

• Options Available:

  • Pony rides

  • Palanquins

  • Helicopter service from nearby helipads

The trek is scenic, passing through rugged mountain terrain, waterfalls, and mesmerizing views of the Mandakini River.

Best Time to Travel from Bangalore to Kedarnath

The Kedarnath temple remains open only from April/May to October/November.

• Summer (May–June): Pleasant weather, ideal for trekking.

• Monsoon (July–August): Heavy rains and landslides make travel risky.

• Autumn (September–October): Clear skies and cool weather, best season to visit.

Accommodation Options Near Kedarnath

Travelers from Bangalore can find a range of accommodation options:

• Budget Dharamshalas: Available in Gaurikund and Kedarnath.

• GMVN Guesthouses: Government-run lodges for pilgrims.

• Hotels in Guptkashi, Sonprayag, and Rudraprayag offer comfortable stays before trekking.

Important Travel Tips for Bangalore to Kedarnath Journey

1. Advance Booking: Book flights, trains, and hotels early, especially during peak Char Dham season.

2. Medical Fitness: The trek requires stamina; carry necessary medicines.

3. Weather Gear: Carry warm clothing, rain gear, and trekking shoes.

4. Helicopter Tickets: Book online in advance through authorized portals.

5. Travel Permits: Ensure you register on the official Char Dham Yatra portal before starting the journey.

Conclusion

The Bangalore to Kedarnath distance may seem long and challenging, but with proper planning, the journey becomes spiritually rewarding and memorable. By combining flights, trains, and road travel, pilgrims can reach Gaurikund and embark on the final trek to the divine Kedarnath temple. Whether you choose a helicopter ride for convenience or trek through the Himalayas, the experience is sure to be life-changing.