Kedarnath Overview
Kedarnath Yatra is one of the most revered pilgrimages in India, drawing lakhs of devotees each year to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and forms part of the Char Dham Yatra. The journey offers a perfect blend of spiritual enlightenment and scenic beauty, with snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and gushing rivers accompanying you all the way. The motorable road ends at Gaurikund, from where a 16 km trek begins to the holy shrine. For those who wish to avoid the strenuous trek, helicopter services are also available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi. The Kedarnath temple is not only an architectural marvel built in ancient stone but also a powerful symbol of faith and endurance. Whether you’re here for religious devotion or the allure of the Himalayas, the Kedarnath Yatra is a life-changing experience.
Quick Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Guptkashi
- Distance: 260 km | Duration: 9-10 hrs
- Altitude: 1,319 m / 4,327 ft
Day 2: Guptkashi to Kedarnath (via Gaurikund)
- Drive Distance: 30 km
- Trek Distance: 16 km | Duration: 6-7 hrs
- Altitude: 3,583 m / 11,755 ft
Day 3: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
- Trek Distance: 16 km | Duration: 5-6 hrs
- Drive Distance: 30 km
Day 4: Guptkashi to Dehradun
- Distance: 260 km | Duration: 9-10 hrs
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Dehradun to Guptkashi
Begin your spiritual journey early in the morning from Dehradun. Drive through Rishikesh and Devprayag, witnessing the sacred confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers that form the Ganga. Continue toward Rudraprayag and eventually reach Guptkashi in the Mandakini valley. On arrival, check into your hotel. In the evening, visit the Ardhanareshwar Temple and relax amid the serene Himalayan surroundings.
Day 02: Guptkashi to Kedarnath (via Gaurikund)
After an early breakfast, drive 30 km to Gaurikund. From here, begin your 16 km trek to Kedarnath. You may also opt for ponies, palanquins, or helicopter services depending on your preference. The route offers captivating views of waterfalls, mountain streams, and snow-covered cliffs. Upon reaching Kedarnath, check into your accommodation and attend the soul-soothing evening aarti at the temple.
Day 03: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
Rise early and participate in the temple rituals. After breakfast, descend the 16 km trail back to Gaurikund and then drive to Guptkashi. This return leg gives you time to take in the beauty of the trail at a more relaxed pace. Reach Guptkashi and unwind at your hotel after a spiritually rich day.
Day 04: Guptkashi to Dehradun
On the final day, drive back to Dehradun with cherished memories and a renewed spirit. The scenic journey winds along rivers, forests, and charming hill towns. Optionally, take a brief halt at Rishikesh for local shopping or a riverside meal before concluding your yatra.
Inclusion / Exclusion
Inclusions:
- Accommodation (Guest house, Home stay, Camping).
- Meals while on trek (Veg. + Egg).
- Trek equipment (Sleeping bag, mattress, kitchen & dining tent, crampon, utensils, tent).
- All necessary permits and entry fees.
- First aid medical kits, stretcher, and oxygen cylinder.
- Mountaineering qualified & professional trek leader, guide, and support staff.
Exclusions:
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Food during the transit.
- Insurance.
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the inclusions.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Change/Cancellation of Booking by the Participant
Process
The cancellation process is completely automated. Please log in to your Mountain Hike account and follow the instructions on your dashboard. You can choose between Instant Refund or Cash Refund as per the policy below.
Replacement of Participants
Participants can be replaced through the Mountain Hike dashboard if the booking status is “Paid” and at least 5 days remain before departure. If you face issues, email themountainhike@gmail.com with a screenshot of the error. The new participant must submit a signed undertaking form.
Note: Any Volvo/Train transport booked for the original participant will be automatically canceled and is non-transferable.
Cash Refund Policy
Cash refunds apply only for bookings made without promotional codes or vouchers. Refund amounts will be deducted as follows:
- 30+ days before departure: 5% deduction
- 15-30 days before departure: 50% deduction
- Less than 15 days before departure: No Refund
Refunds will be processed to the original payment method and are based on the Base Price of the trek, excluding transport, insurance, and portage fees.
Voucher Refund Policy
Voucher refunds are available for all types of bookings, including promotional offers. Refund amounts will be:
- 5+ days before departure: No deduction
- Less than 5 days: No Refund
Vouchers are valid for 10 months from the date of issue. The refunded voucher amount does not include service tax paid during the original booking.
Cancellation or Change Initiated by Mountain Hike
We reserve the right to modify or cancel an event due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, natural disasters, low participation, or any force majeure events. If this occurs, you will be given the choice of:
- A replacement event of equivalent value
- A full refund (processed as a voucher valid for 6 months)
If cancellation is due to low participation, participants can choose between a cash refund or a voucher.
Changes/Cancellation After Departure
Due to Force Majeure
No refund will be provided for cancellations due to force majeure after departure.
Other Reasons
If cancellations occur for reasons other than force majeure, we will attempt to arrange alternative services or provide a refund in the form of a 6-month voucher (or cash, if preferred).
Participant Dropout During the Event
No refund will be provided if a participant voluntarily drops out of the trek. Any additional costs incurred for return arrangements will be borne by the participant.
Early Return from an Event
If a participant returns early due to force majeure or an event ending sooner than planned, additional expenses (extra nights, transport) must be covered by the participant.
Emergency Evacuation
In case of a medical emergency, we will arrange evacuation to the nearest hospital. Any costs for porters, vehicles, ambulance services, or hospitalization must be covered by the participant.