Kedarnath Trek — 14 km Gaurikund to Kedarnath
The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is 14 km uphill, gaining 1,500 meters in altitude. Here's everything you need to know — route, difficulty, services, and preparation.
Trek Overview
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Distance | 14 km (one way) |
| Start Point | Gaurikund (6,500 ft / 1,982 m) |
| End Point | Kedarnath (11,755 ft / 3,583 m) |
| Altitude Gain | ~1,600 m (5,250 ft) |
| Duration (up) | 6-8 hours (average) |
| Duration (down) | 4-5 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Difficult |
| Best Season | May-June, Sep-Oct |
Route Breakdown
- Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti (4 km): Gentle climb through forested area. Paved path, tea stalls available. Easiest section.
- Jungle Chatti to Bheembali (3 km): Steeper climb. Path narrows. First challenging section for beginners.
- Bheembali to Linchauli (2 km): Moderate climb. Beautiful views of Mandakini valley open up.
- Linchauli to Base Camp (3 km): Steady uphill. Rest stops available. Helicopter helipad visible.
- Base Camp to Kedarnath Temple (2 km): Final push. Flat-ish terrain. Temple visible in the distance. Emotional moment for pilgrims.
Difficulty & Fitness
The trek is rated moderate to difficult. The main challenges are altitude (you end at nearly 12,000 ft), continuous uphill for 14 km, and unpredictable weather. A reasonably fit person can complete it in 6-8 hours up and 4-5 hours down.
Minimum fitness preparation:
- Start walking 5 km daily at least 3-4 weeks before the trek
- Include stair climbing in your routine
- Practice with a loaded backpack (5-7 kg)
- If you get breathless climbing 3 flights of stairs, consult a doctor first
Pony & Palki Services
| Service | Rate (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pony (one way up) | ₹2,500 - ₹3,500 | Most popular option |
| Pony (round trip) | ₹4,000 - ₹6,000 | Same pony waits for you |
| Palki/Doli (4-person carry) | ₹6,000 - ₹10,000 | For elderly/disabled |
| Kandi (basket carry) | ₹5,000 - ₹8,000 | Single-person basket |
| Pitthu (human porter) | ₹4,000 - ₹6,000 | Carries you on back |
Fares are approximate, as of August 2026 — official rates at heliyatra.irctc.co.in
Rates are government-regulated but vary by season. Always get a receipt from the official counter at Gaurikund. Bargaining with individual operators is common but ensure you use registered service providers.
What to Pack
- Footwear: Waterproof trekking shoes with good ankle support (not sneakers/sandals)
- Clothing: Layered warm clothes, windproof jacket, rain poncho
- Essentials: Water bottle, energy bars, ORS packets, glucose, dry fruits
- Medical: Diamox (altitude sickness), Disprin, bandages, personal medicines
- Tech: Powerbank (no charging points on trek), torch/headlamp
- Documents: Printed registration QR code, ID proof, medical certificate
Altitude Sickness Prevention
At 11,755 ft, altitude sickness is a real risk. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and breathlessness. Most people acclimatize fine, but take these precautions:
- Spend a night in Guptkashi or Sonprayag before starting the trek
- Walk slowly — the trek is not a race
- Stay hydrated — drink 3-4 liters of water throughout the trek
- Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills the night before
- If symptoms worsen, descend immediately — don't push through
- Carry Diamox (acetazolamide) — consult your doctor about dosage before the trip
Related Guides
Trek Route Map
Detailed 14 km trek route from Gaurikund with altitude profile
Kedarnath Weather
Live weather updates & best time to visit Kedarnath
Accommodation
Where to stay near Kedarnath — dharamshalas, hotels & tents
How to Reach
Travel guide — Delhi/Haridwar/Rishikesh to Kedarnath by road, rail & air