Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Kedarnath, a holy town and the abode of Lord Shiva, beckons pilgrims and adventure seekers alike. But for those planning a trip from the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, a crucial question arises: How far is Kedarnath from Mumbai?
The answer, like the journey itself, is multifaceted. The approximate distance between Mumbai and Kedarnath falls between 1447 km and 1929 km, depending on the chosen route. This variation stems from the diverse travel options available, each offering a unique experience.
Breaking Down the Distance
- By Air: While there’s no direct flight from Mumbai to Kedarnath, you can fly to Dehradun or Jolly Grant Airport, located approximately 230 km from Kedarnath. This leg of the journey takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes. The remaining distance can be covered by car or taxi, adding another 6-7 hours to your travel time.
- By Train: Train travel offers a scenic and budget-friendly option. However, there’s no direct train connectivity either. You can take a train to Haridwar or Rishikesh, followed by a road trip to Kedarnath, extending the travel time to around 32-36 hours.
- By Road: Road trips offer the flexibility to explore hidden gems along the way. The journey, spanning across 2-3 days, takes you through scenic landscapes and quaint towns. Be prepared for winding roads and potential traffic congestion, especially during peak season.
How to Reach Kedarnath From Mumbai By Air?
While Kedarnath itself doesn’t have an airport, reaching this holy town from Mumbai by air is the most convenient and time-saving option. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Booking Your Flight:
- Nearest Airports: The nearest airports to Kedarnath are Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (239 km away) and Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (243 km away).
- Popular Airlines: Several airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, Vistara, and Air India offer regular flights from Mumbai to Dehradun and Delhi.
- Booking Tips: Book your flights well in advance, especially during peak season (May-June and September-October) to avail the best deals and avoid last-minute hassles.
2. Onward Journey to Kedarnath:
- Arranging Transportation: Upon arrival at either Dehradun or Delhi airport, you’ll need to arrange transportation to Gaurikund, the base camp for Kedarnath. Taxis, shared cabs, and even helicopter services are available at both airports.
- Travel Time: The road journey from Dehradun or Delhi to Gaurikund takes approximately 6-7 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
3. Reaching the Temple:
- Trekking: From Gaurikund, a 16-km trek leads you to Kedarnath temple. Depending on your fitness level, this trek can take anywhere between 4-8 hours. Alternatively, you can hire ponies or palanquins for the ascent.
- Helicopter Services: During peak season and for those with limited mobility, helicopter services are available from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, reducing the travel time to just 30 minutes.
Additional Tips:
- Weather Conditions: Kedarnath is located in the Himalayas and experiences harsh weather conditions, especially during winters. Check the weather forecast before planning your trip and pack accordingly.
- Permits: A mandatory registration process is required to visit Kedarnath. You can obtain the online registration form from the official website of the Kedarnath Shrine Board.
- Accommodation: Limited accommodation options are available in Kedarnath, especially during peak season. Book your stay well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
By following these steps and keeping the additional tips in mind, you can ensure a smooth and comfortable journey to Kedarnath from Mumbai using the air route. Remember, the spiritual significance and breathtaking beauty of Kedarnath make the journey itself a worthwhile experience.
How to Reach Kedarnath From Mumbai By Train?
While not the fastest way to reach Kedarnath, travelling by train offers a scenic and budget-friendly alternative to flying. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Booking Your Train Ticket:
- No Direct Trains: There are no direct train connections from Mumbai to Kedarnath. You’ll need to book a train ticket to either Haridwar or Rishikesh, both of which are well-connected to Mumbai by various trains.
- Popular Trains: Several trains like the Mumbai Central – Dehradun Express, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus – Haridwar Superfast Express, and Bandra Terminus – Rishikesh Garib Rath Express offer convenient travel options.
- Booking Tips: Book your train tickets well in advance, especially during peak season (May-June and September-October) to secure confirmed berths.
2. Onward Journey to Kedarnath:
- Arranging Transportation: Upon arrival at Haridwar or Rishikesh, you’ll need to arrange transportation to Gaurikund, the base camp for Kedarnath. Taxis, shared cabs, and buses are readily available at both stations.
- Travel Time: The road journey from Haridwar or Rishikesh to Gaurikund takes approximately 7-8 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
3. Reaching the Temple:
- Trekking: From Gaurikund, a 16-km trek leads you to Kedarnath temple. Depending on your fitness level, this trek can take anywhere between 4-8 hours. Alternatively, you can hire ponies or palanquins for the ascent.
- Helicopter Services: During peak season and for those with limited mobility, helicopter services are available from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, reducing the travel time to just 30 minutes.
Additional Tips:
- Weather Conditions: Kedarnath is located in the Himalayas and experiences harsh weather conditions, especially during winters. Check the weather forecast before planning your trip and pack accordingly.
- Permits: A mandatory registration process is required to visit Kedarnath. You can obtain the online registration form from the official website of the Kedarnath Shrine Board.
- Accommodation: Limited accommodation options are available in Kedarnath, especially during peak season. Book your stay well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
By following these steps and keeping the additional tips in mind, you can navigate your train journey from Mumbai to Kedarnath effectively. While it may take longer than flying, the train option allows you to experience the diverse landscapes of India and witness the changing scenery along the way.
How to Reach Kedarnath From Mumbai By Road?
Embarking on a road trip from Mumbai to Kedarnath is an experience in itself. While the journey is long, encompassing roughly 1447 km to 1929 km depending on the chosen route, it offers the freedom to explore hidden gems, experience diverse landscapes, and truly connect with the spirit of the pilgrimage. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:
1. Planning Your Route:
There are multiple routes to reach Kedarnath from Mumbai by road, each offering unique experiences:
- Via Ahmedabad, Udaipur, and Delhi: This route, stretching approximately 1929 km, takes you through major cities and allows for stopovers at popular tourist destinations.
- Via Nashik, Shirdi, Indore, and Bhopal: This route, spanning roughly 1700 km, provides an opportunity to visit religious sites like Shirdi and historical cities like Bhopal.
- Via Pune, Solapur, Hyderabad, and Nagpur: This route, covering around 1650 km, lets you explore the Deccan Plateau and historical landmarks like Hyderabad.
2. Choosing Your Vehicle:
The choice of vehicle depends on your preferences and budget. Consider factors like:
- Car: Offers comfort and flexibility, but requires multiple drivers for long journeys.
- SUV: Provides better handling on mountainous terrains, suitable for off-road sections.
- Tempo Traveller: Ideal for larger groups, offering ample space and luggage storage.
3. Important Considerations:
- Weather Conditions: Kedarnath experiences extreme weather, especially during winters. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry winter gear if traveling during colder months.
- Road Closures: Be aware of potential road closures due to landslides or bad weather conditions. Check with local authorities for updates before your trip.
- Accommodation: Booking stays in advance, especially during peak season, is crucial as options along the route can be limited.
4. The Journey:
The road trip itself is an adventure, offering diverse landscapes:
- Maharashtra: Lush greenery, historical sites, and vibrant cities.
- Madhya Pradesh: Scenic hills, historical monuments, and wildlife sanctuaries.
- Uttar Pradesh: The spiritual heartland of India, with holy towns and ancient temples.
5. Reaching Kedarnath:
Upon reaching Gaurikund, the road journey ends, and the 16-km trek to Kedarnath temple commences. You can choose to:
- Trek: Embrace the challenge and enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
- Pony/Palanquin: Hire ponies or palanquins for assisted ascents.
- Helicopter: Opt for a helicopter service during peak season or if you have mobility limitations.
Reaching Kedarnath by road is a test of endurance and a chance to connect with the pilgrimage’s spiritual essence. Remember, the journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. So, pack your bags, plan your route, and embark on an unforgettable adventure to Kedarnath.
Beyond the Distance
The distance between Mumbai and Kedarnath is more than just kilometers on a map. It represents a spiritual quest for many, a chance to escape the urban chaos and immerse oneself in the serenity of the Himalayas.
While planning your trip, remember to factor in the time of year, weather conditions, and availability of permits, which are mandatory for visiting Kedarnath.
So, how far is Kedarnath from Mumbai? The answer lies not just in the numbers, but in the experience you seek. Whether you crave a swift flight, a scenic train journey, or an adventurous road trip, the distance becomes a stepping stone towards a memorable pilgrimage or an unforgettable adventure.
FAQs: Mumbai to Kedarnath Distance
1. How far is Kedarnath from Mumbai?
Ans. The distance between Mumbai and Kedarnath varies depending on the chosen travel mode and route. Here’s a general idea:
- By Air: Approximately 1438 km (aerial distance) + road journey from the nearest airport (around 230 km).
- By Train: No direct train connectivity; expect a distance of around 700-800 km to Haridwar/Rishikesh + road journey to Kedarnath (around 230 km).
- By Road: The distance ranges from 1447 km to 1929 km, depending on the specific route chosen.
2. What is the fastest way to reach Kedarnath from Mumbai?
Ans. Flying to Dehradun or Delhi, followed by a taxi or shared cab to Gaurikund (the base camp), is the fastest option. However, the final leg to Kedarnath temple involves a trek or alternative means like ponies or helicopters.
3. What is the most budget-friendly way to reach Kedarnath from Mumbai?
Ans. Traveling by train to Haridwar or Rishikesh and then taking a shared cab or bus to Gaurikund is the most economical option. However, this option takes considerably longer than flying.
4. What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?
Ans. The ideal time to visit Kedarnath is during the summer months (May-June and September-October) when the weather is pleasant. However, be prepared for crowds during peak season.
5. Do I need a permit to visit Kedarnath?
Ans. Yes, a mandatory online registration process is required to visit Kedarnath. You can obtain the form from the official website of the Kedarnath Shrine Board.
6. What are the road conditions like between Mumbai and Kedarnath?
Ans. Road conditions can vary depending on the route and the time of year. Expect some stretches with winding roads, potential traffic congestion, and even occasional closures due to bad weather.
7. Where can I stay during my trip to Kedarnath?
Ans. Accommodation options in Kedarnath are limited, especially during peak season. Booking your stay well in advance, particularly in Gaurikund or nearby towns, is crucial.
