Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance by Road: Complete Travel Guide

Planning a spiritual journey to Kedarnath? If you’re starting your trip from Haridwar, one of the most prominent pilgrimage cities in India, you’re in for a scenic and spiritual ride. There are different routes to reach Kedarnath, and the most preferred is from Haridwar. The entire stretch of this route is quite scenic and gives you a divine riding experience. 

In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the distance between Haridwar to Kedarnath by road, the travel options available, ideal routes, and essential tips for a smooth journey. Whether you’re traveling by car, bus, or looking for car rental services in Haridwar, this guide has everything you need to know.

What is the Distance Between Haridwar to Kedarnath?

The best way to reach Kedarnath from Haridwar is by road. The distance between Haridwar to Kedarnath by road is approximately 239 kilometers, depending on the route you choose. This includes the drive up to Gaurikund, which is the last motorable point before Kedarnath. From Gaurikund, you need to trek about 16 kilometers on foot to reach the Kedarnath temple.

While many people search for the Kedarnath to Haridwar distance, it’s important to note that the motorable portion ends at Gaurikund. The rest of the journey is purely a trek, giving you the scenic view of the majestic Himalayas.

Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance by Road – Route Overview

Here’s the most commonly followed route to cover the Haridwar to Kedarnath distance by road:

Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund

• Total Road Distance: ~239 km
  
• Trek Distance from Gaurikund to Kedarnath: 16 km
  
• Total Travel Time (Road + Trek): 10 to 12 hours (excluding stops and rest)
  

Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance Time

While the distance between Haridwar to Kedarnath might seem manageable, the hilly terrain and winding roads make the journey a bit time-consuming. Here’s a breakdown of the travel time:

Mode of Transport	Approx Time to Reach Gaurikund	Trek to Kedarnath	Total Time
Car / Taxi	8-9 hours	5-6 hours	~14 hours
Bus	10-12 hours	5-6 hours	~16 hours

If you’re planning to return from Kedarnath to Haridwar, the return trip will take about the same time, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance by Car

Driving by car from Haridwar to Kedarnath is an experience which you cannot miss. You will get car rental services in Haridwar, taking you to Kedarnath. The Haridwar to Kedarnath road trip can be a breathtaking experience with lush greenery, rivers, and mountains guiding your way.

Advantages of Travelling by Car:

• Multiple stops for sightseeing and food
  
• Flexibility to detour and explore places like Rishikesh, Devprayag, or Triyuginarayan
  
• Ideal for families and elderly passengers
  

To make your journey hassle-free, you can easily find reliable car hire services in Haridwar at cheap rates, further offering well-maintained vehicles and experienced drivers familiar with hilly terrains.

Haridwar to Kedarnath Distance by Bus

For budget travelers or solo pilgrims, taking a bus is a cost-effective option. Government and private buses operate frequently from Haridwar to Gaurikund during the Char Dham Yatra season.

Key Details:

• Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) runs regular buses.
  
• Departure usually starts early in the morning.
  
• Ticket prices range from INR 500 to INR 1000, depending on the bus type.
  
• Duration: 10 to 12 hours due to multiple stops
  

Keep in mind that you might have to change buses at Rudraprayag or Guptkashi, depending on availability.

Kedarnath to Haridwar Distance

The return journey from Kedarnath to Haridwar follows the same route and distance. It’s advisable to plan your descent early in the day to avoid any last-minute rush or adverse weather conditions, especially during the monsoon. You can book two-way car rental services in Haridwar to Kedarnath to avoid any booking hassle later. 

Many travelers prefer staying overnight at Guptkashi or Rudraprayag to break the long journey into more manageable parts.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

The Kedarnath region remains open for pilgrims only for a limited time every year, usually between late April and early November. The best time to travel is during:

• May to June (pre-monsoon): Pleasant weather, lush landscapes
  
• September to October (post-monsoon): Fewer crowds, clear skies
  

Avoid traveling during the monsoon (July-August) due to frequent landslides and road closures.

Things to Do in Rishikesh – En Route from Haridwar

Before embarking on your Kedarnath journey, don’t miss exploring Rishikesh, located just 20 km from Haridwar. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh offers a mix of spirituality, adventure, and scenic beauty. There are many things to do in Rishikesh, making it worth exploring.

You will need at least 2-3 days to explore this divine place, and the best way is to book a car rental service in Rishikesh that will take you to different places in this holy city. 

Top Attractions:

• Triveni Ghat Aarti – A serene experience by the Ganga river
  
• Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula – Iconic suspension bridges
  
• River Rafting & Camping – For adventure lovers
  
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – A divine shrine nestled in the hills
  

Adding a day to explore Rishikesh can enhance your Char Dham journey with unforgettable experiences.

Travel Tips for Haridwar to Kedarnath Trip

• Start early: The roads are narrow and prone to traffic jams later in the day.
  
• Book in advance: Whether you need accommodation or car rental services in Haridwar, book early, especially in peak season.
  
• Check weather forecasts: Always check for rain or landslide warnings.
  
• Carry essentials: Warm clothes, raincoats, medicines, and snacks are a must.
  
• Respect local guidelines: Follow instructions from authorities during the trek for safety.

Local Facilities Along the Route from Haridwar to Kedarnath

Local Dhabas & Food Stops

• Shiv Shakti Dhaba (Rishikesh–Devprayag stretch): Great for tea and light snacks.
• Motel Devlok (Srinagar Garhwal): Clean food stop with restrooms.
• Mandakini View Restaurant (Rudraprayag): Family-friendly with views of the river.

Fuel Stations

• Indian Oil – Rishikesh Badrinath Road
• HP Petrol Pump – Srinagar Garhwal
• Bharat Petroleum – Near Guptkashi

Make sure to refuel before reaching Sonprayag, as options become scarce beyond that point.

Medical Stores & Emergency Help

• Rudraprayag: Rudra Medico and Lifeline Medical Store
• Guptkashi: Dev Medical Store (also stocks basic trekking meds)
• Sonprayag: First aid available near police post and base camp

Final Thoughts

Covering the Haridwar to Kedarnath distance by road is a journey filled with scenic beauty, spiritual energy, and a touch of adventure. Whether you’re traveling by car, bus, or a mix of both, this sacred trip will leave you rejuvenated and inspired. With proper planning, the distance between Haridwar to Kedarnath becomes more of a divine road trip than just a commute.

Need help planning your trip? Looking for comfortable travel options? SafarCabby is the right platform. Here you will find top vendors offering car rental service with driver to explore the divine place. Explore reliable car rental services in Haridwar and make your pilgrimage seamless and stress-free.

If you’re planning a complete spiritual journey, Kedarnath is just one of the four key dhams. Consider exploring the entire pilgrimage route with our expertly curated Char Dham Yatra packages, covering Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath for a truly divine experience.

FAQs

Is there direct road connectivity from Haridwar to Kedarnath?

No, there is no direct road connectivity to Kedarnath. The motorable road ends at Gaurikund, which is the last point accessible by vehicles. From there, pilgrims must trek 16 kilometers through scenic yet steep mountainous terrain to reach the Kedarnath temple, located at a high altitude.

How long does it take to travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath?

Traveling from Haridwar to Kedarnath typically takes around 9 hours by car or taxi to reach Gaurikund, followed by a 5 to 6-hour uphill trek to the temple. Weather conditions, road traffic, and physical fitness can impact overall travel time, so plan accordingly and start your journey early.

Can I visit Rishikesh on the way to Kedarnath?

Yes, Rishikesh is located between Haridwar and Kedarnath and is an ideal stopover. You can explore attractions like Laxman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, and enjoy yoga, river rafting, and spiritual vibes. Spending a few hours or even a day in Rishikesh enriches your overall pilgrimage experience to Kedarnath.