Kedarnath Yatra 2024: Registration, Timings, Opening Date, Helitaxi, Horse-Carriage

Kedarnath, along with Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, is one of the four primary pilgrimage sites for the Chota Char Dham in India. Together with the holy site of Gaurikund, the Kedarnath Temple is considered to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. For Shiva believers, the trip to Kedarnath, which is located in the Rudraprayag area of Uttarakhand, is extremely important. Within the temple, Lord Shiva in his “Sadashiva” form is worshipped atop a unique cone-shaped rock.

It is anticipated that registration for the Chardham Yatra 2024 would open soon for the coming season. Learn about the easy procedures for registering online, the required paperwork, the costs, and more.

Registration is required for all devotees, even though there is no cost for Chardham devotees.

Kedarnath Temple Highlights

Kedarnath Temple Highlights

Kedarnath Temple Opening and Closing Dates 2024

Kedarnath Temple is scheduled to open on May 14 and close on November 2, 2024. The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the summer and post-monsoon seasons (April-June and September-October), when the weather is good, and the roads are open.

The Kedarnath Temple closes two days after Diwali and opens on an auspicious day that is typically proclaimed during Maha Shivaratri. Winter closure occurs, and it reopens in April or May of 2024. We’ll soon have updates for 2024 accessible.

The gates of Kedarnath Temple open following intense worship conducted by Pujaris and Rawal. Following the priests’ first opening puja, pilgrims can receive darshan.

There is a huge celebration at the closing ceremony. Baba Kedar Doli is accompanied by Garhwal Bands to its winter residence at Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.

Kedarnath Temple Darshan Timings

The maximum crowd for darshan is in the morning; fewer people visit in the evening (7:00-8:00 PM)

Kedarnath Temple Route and Transportation

• The trip starts at Haridwar and continues by bus to Gaurikund.
• There is a 16-kilometer hike from Gaurikund to the temple.
• In Gaurikund, a walking stick costs ₹ 50.
• It costs ₹ 50 per person for a shared jeep from Haridwar to Sonprayag.
• Rishikesh, Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Agastya Muni are all on the route.
• From the Haridwar railway station, buses to Gaurikund depart every hour between 3 and 10 am for ₹ 700 to ₹ 800.
• Kedarnath Dham may be reached by private cab for between ₹ 10000 and ₹ 15000 from Haridwar.

Kedar-nath Dham Accommodation

• When it comes to hotels, Sonprayag has more choices than Gaurikund.
• It is advised to remain at Gaurikund in order to get a head start.
• In Sunil Lodge, Gaurikund, a deluxe room goes for about ₹ 3500.
• A supper is included in the ₹ 800 fee of the GMVN camp near Kedarnath Dham per night.

Kedarnath Yatra Trek Highlights

• Along the way, there are interesting sites including Rambada, Bhim Bali, and Jungle Chatti.
• After Rambada, the actual journey to Kedarnath Dham begins.
• For individuals who are unable to walk, hiring a mule is advised.
• The return trip to Palanquin costs ₹ 10,000, which is more pleasant than riding a horse (about ₹ 6,000).

Additional Tips

• Raincoat, gloves, jacket, inner socks, winter cap, and umbrella are necessities for the hike.
• There are several mobile networks with different connection quality options, such as Jio, Vodafone, and Airtel.
• Although the yatra plan is meant to last three days, a more comfortable four-day trip is advised.

Kedarnath Temple Horse-drawn carriages Rates

Fixed rates of horses and mules for the Sonprayag/Gaurikund to Kedarnath walking route (for passengers)

Kedarnath Temple Horse-drawn Carriages Rates

Kedarnath Temple Helicopter Ride Price

Exclusively through the IRCTC HeliYatra website, pilgrims can now book helicopter tickets to Shri Kedarnath Dham conveniently.

• Children 02 years of age and older are given a seat at full adult price.
• Children under the age of two: no ticket, no seat.
• 02 kids and 02 babies max each sortie.
• For instance: 02 kids, 02 babies, 04 adults each sortie.
• Reach Helipad one hour ahead of your scheduled time.
• Arrive at the access point two hours in advance for security and check-in.

Kedarnath Temple Modes of Registration

• Online: Use this web portal to register.
• App for mobile devices: Get the “Tourist Care Uttarakhand” app for iOS and Android.
• Send “Yatra” a message to +91 8394833833 on WhatsApp to start the registration process.

Kedarnath Temple Online Registration Process

Chardham Yatra Registration:

• Register fully for the Chardham Yatra at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in.

Streamlined Booking Process:

• On the IRCTC website, register for the Chardham Yatra and then create a HeliYatra account.
• For the requested departure time, use your Group ID or Registration Number to verify seat availability.

Secure Online Payment:

• Choose your preferred departure time, then finish the reservation by paying online using the selected method.
• Start your Kedarnath Yatra by bringing the IRCTC Heliyatra ticket to the designated Helipad site.

Commence Your Kedarnath Yatra:

• With your IRCTC HeliYatra ticket in hand, set out to see Shri Kedarnath Dham.
• With confidence, go out on your spiritual journey at the designated Helipad location.

Treks to Visit Near Kedarnath Temple

Along with being a well-liked trekking destination, Kedarnath offers a plethora of beautiful and spiritual locations nearby.

• Madhyamaheshwar Temple: Dedicated to Shiva’s midsection (Madhya), or belly part or navel (Nabhi), Madhyamaheshwar Temple is one of the Panch Kedars. Situated in a picturesque verdant valley encircled by snow-capped hills lies the temple.
• Rudranath Temple: Dedicated to Shiva’s visage, or Rudra, Rudranath Temple is the third of the Panch Kedars. The temple sits amidst snow-capped hills on a meadow at a high altitude.
• Trekking to Vasuki Tal: About ten kilometers from Kedarnath lies the stunning alpine lake known as Vasuki Tal. The moderately challenging hike to Vasuki Tal takes five to six hours to accomplish. The peaks that encircle the lake are covered in snow.
• Trekking to Chorabari Tal: About 15 kilometers from Kedarnath, Chorabari Tal is another stunning alpine lake. It takes roughly 6-7 hours to finish the walk to Chorabari Tal, which is more difficult than the trek to Vasuki Tal. The lake provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is situated in a secluded part of the Himalayas.
• Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila Trek: is a well-liked three-day walk that leads to some of the most picturesque and revered locations in the Kedarnath area. The journey starts at Chopta village and travels via alpine lakes, meadows, and forests. Chandrashila, the trek’s highest point, provides breathtaking vistas of the Garhwal Himalayas, including Nanda Devi and Kedarnath Peak.

How to Reach Kedarnath

• By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 239 kilometers distant, is the closest airport to Kedarnath. To go to Kedarnath from the airport, you can simply take public transportation or rent a cab outside the terminal.
• Helicopter: Kedarnath may also be reached by helicopter from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sitapur. This is a good choice for people who would prefer not to make the hike. This is appropriate for older travelers or those with physical disabilities.
• By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station, which is roughly 221 kilometers distant, is the closest train station to Kedarnath. Gaurikund is the starting point for the journey to Kedarnath, and you may get there by bus or taxi from Rishikesh.
• By Road:-
• Bus: Regular buses travel to Gaurikund, the starting point of the Kedarnath hike, from Uttarakhand’s major cities.
• Car/Taxi: From adjacent cities like Rishikesh or Haridwar, you can easily get a taxi or drive to Gaurikund. If you’re not familiar with the area, it’s suggested to hire an experienced driver because the road conditions in the hilly terrain can be difficult. Taking shared taxis is the most cost-effective and popular option.

What would you pack for the Kedarnath Trek?

Kedarnath is a trek destination in the rough Himalayan landscape that calls for meticulous planning and preparation. Having the proper supplies with you might help ensure a safe and comfortable journey. The following is a detailed list of items you should pack for the Kedarnath trek:

Clothes and Sneakers:

• Comfy Trekking Shoes: Make a wise purchase of well-made, waterproof, well-gripped trekking shoes. Prior to the hike, make sure they are well-broken in.
• Carry many pairs of moisture-wicking socks in order to keep your feet dry and avoid blisters.
• Trekking Shirts and Pants: Trekking shirts and pants that are quick to dry, lightweight, and moisture-wicking are vital. Steer clear of denim since it takes a long time to dry.
• Warm Layers: If you’re trekking during the winter, bring a thin, warm jacket or fleece. Because the temperature can change, layers are necessary.
• Rain Gear: To protect you from sudden downpours, you’ll need a lightweight, packable rain jacket and a rain cover for your bag.

Accessories and Backpack:

• Trekking Backpack: Select a cozy backpack featuring a hip belt and padded shoulder straps. It should not be overly enormous, just big enough to hold your necessities.
• Water Bottle: Always have two or more reusable, one- to 1.5-liter water bottles with you. During the hike, it’s important to stay hydrated.
• Snacks: To sustain your energy levels throughout the hike, bring energy bars, dry fruits, and other small, high-energy snacks.
• Trekking poles: Not necessary but very advised, particularly for the descent. They lessen the strain on your knees and offer stability.
• Headlamp/Flashlight: A compact, high-powered flashlight or a headlamp with an extra battery pack to help with nighttime navigation.

Safety and Health:

• Basic medications such as painkillers, anti-inflammatory pills, bandages, antiseptic cream, blister pads, and other personal prescriptions you may require should be included in your first aid kit.
• Individual Identity: Keep a waterproof pouch with your ID, emergency contact information, and any required permits.
• Wear sunglasses and sunscreen to shield yourself from the intense sun at higher elevations.
• Toiletries: paper towel, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, and toothbrush. To reduce your influence on the environment, use biodegradable soap.

Kedarnath Temple FAQs

Does the Kedarnath Yatra require registration?
Yes, UTDB helps with registration for all guests visiting Kedarnath. To minimize last-minute rush, it is advised to register well in advance. All guests, including small children and senior individuals, must register.

How can the Kedarnath Yatra 2024 be booked?
Joining the UTDB website allows you to make reservations for your Kedarnath Yatra.

What kind of documentation is required for Kedarnath?
You might need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID evidence, such as an Aadhaar card, passport, driver’s license, or voter ID card, in order to visit Kedarnath, which is located in Uttarakhand. This is needed in order to register and get the proper permits.

Do we have to reserve seats in advance for Kedarnath Darshan?
It’s true that purchasing tickets in advance is advised for visits to Kedarnath Temple, particularly during the busiest months of May through November.

Can I bring my phone to Kedarnath yatra?
There are several notice and caution boards scattered throughout the temple grounds that make it very evident that cell phone use is not permitted inside the premises. This place prohibits photography and videography.

In summary

For followers of Lord Shiva, The Kedarnath Temple is a major pilgrimage destination in the Garhwal Himalayas. It draws tourists from all over the world with its distinctive architecture, spiritual aura, and religious significance. It provides a serene and beautiful setting for both tourists and spiritual seekers.

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