Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance by Train

The Haridwar to Kedarnath distance by train is one of the most frequently asked questions by pilgrims and travelers planning their sacred journey to the holy shrine of Lord Shiva. While Kedarnath itself does not have a railway station due to its high-altitude Himalayan location, Haridwar acts as the most prominent starting point for devotees. Understanding the railway connectivity, routes, and nearest stations will help travelers plan their trip efficiently.

Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance Overview

• Total Distance (Approx.): 250 – 300 km (multi-mode travel)

• Nearest Railway Station to Kedarnath: Rishikesh Railway Station (around 210 km away from Kedarnath)

• Starting Point: Haridwar Railway Station

• End Journey Point: Gaurikund (trek starting point for Kedarnath Temple)

Travelers must note that the Haridwar to Kedarnath distance by train is not direct. Instead, the journey includes a combination of train, road, and trekking or helicopter service.

Haridwar Railway Station as the Starting Point

Haridwar Junction is one of the busiest and most connected stations in Uttarakhand. It links to major Indian cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Kolkata, and Mumbai, making it an ideal hub for the Kedarnath Yatra.

• Station Code: HW

• Major Trains: Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi, Mussoorie Express, Doon Express, and more.

• Facilities: Cloakrooms, retiring rooms, food stalls, taxi stands, and bus services.

From Haridwar, pilgrims can choose connecting train routes or opt for roadways to reach Kedarnath.

Nearest Railway Stations to Kedarnath

Since Kedarnath does not have a direct railway station, travelers need to combine their rail journey with road travel. Here are the nearest stations:

1. Rishikesh Railway Station (RKSH)

   • Distance from Kedarnath: Approx. 210 km

   • Distance from Haridwar: 25 km

   • Significance: This is the closest railway station to Kedarnath and is well-connected with Haridwar.

2. Dehradun Railway Station (DDN)

   • Distance from Kedarnath: Approx. 250 km

   • Distance from Haridwar: 50 km

   • Advantage: Better connectivity to metropolitan cities.

3. Kotdwar Railway Station (KTW)

   • Distance from Kedarnath: Approx. 250 km

   • Distance from Haridwar: 115 km

   • Usefulness: Less crowded but limited connectivity compared to Rishikesh.

Among these, Rishikesh Railway Station is the most convenient option for pilgrims.

Detailed Route: Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance by Train

1. Haridwar to Rishikesh by Train

   • Distance: 25 km

   • Duration: 40–50 minutes

   • Trains Available: Passenger trains and local services.

2. Rishikesh to Gaurikund by Road

   • Distance: 210 km

   • Duration: 8–9 hours by bus or taxi

   • Route: Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund

3. Gaurikund to Kedarnath Trek

   • Distance: 16 km trek

   • Duration: 6–8 hours (on foot), 5–6 hours (pony/doli), 15 minutes (helicopter service from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi).

Thus, the complete Haridwar to Kedarnath distance by train journey involves rail travel to Rishikesh, road transport to Gaurikund, and finally, a trek or helicopter ride.

Alternative Travel Options

Although the Haridwar to Kedarnath distance by train is not direct, several travel alternatives are available:

• By Road Only: Haridwar to Kedarnath via NH 7 covering approx. 250 km.

• By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) is the nearest airport, around 238 km from Kedarnath. From here, one can take taxis or helicopter services.

• By Helicopter Service: From Phata, Guptkashi, or Sersi directly to Kedarnath Helipad (5–7 minutes flying time).

Train Routes from Major Cities to Haridwar for Kedarnath Yatra

Since many devotees travel from across India, here are popular routes:

• From Delhi: Shatabdi Express, Mussoorie Express, Jan Shatabdi.

• From Mumbai: Bandra Terminus – Haridwar Express.

• From Kolkata: Doon Express, Howrah – Dehradun Express.

• From Lucknow: Lucknow – Haridwar Express.

This makes Haridwar an accessible base for all travelers before starting the Kedarnath journey.

Best Time to Travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath by Train

• Summer Season (May–June): Pleasant weather and the official start of the Kedarnath Yatra after the temple reopens.

• Monsoon Season (July–September): Risk of landslides, heavy rainfall, and route closures. Not recommended.

• Autumn Season (September–October): Ideal time with clear skies and moderate weather.

• Winter Season (November–April): Kedarnath Temple remains closed due to heavy snowfall.

Tips for Travelers Planning Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance by Train

1. Book Train Tickets Early: Especially during peak yatra season.

2. Carry Essentials: Warm clothes, raincoats, medicines, trekking gear, and identity proofs.

3. Choose Accommodation in Advance: Hotels and Dharamshalas fill up quickly near Guptkashi and Gaurikund.

4. Check Weather Forecast: Mountain weather can be unpredictable.

5. Opt for Helicopter Booking Online: To avoid last-minute rush.

Conclusion

The Haridwar to Kedarnath distance by train may not be a direct journey, but with proper planning, it becomes a spiritual adventure worth experiencing. Starting from the sacred ghats of Haridwar, traveling through scenic railways and winding Himalayan roads, and finally trekking to the divine Kedarnath Temple offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey for every devotee. Whether you choose rail, road, or helicopter services, the journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath is a blend of faith, endurance, and devotion.