If you’re planning a pilgrimage trip to Uttarakhand, India, visiting Gangotri and Kedarnath would be on your list. These two sacred sites are located in the Uttarkashi district, and while both are popular for their religious significance, they also offer stunning natural beauty.
In this article, we will discuss the best route to travel from Kedarnath to Gangotri, two of Uttarakhand’s most popular Char Dhams that attract millions of devotees each year. Kedarnath Temple, situated in Rudraprayag district on the banks of the Mandakini river, requires an 18-kilometer trek from Gaurikund, while Gangotri Temple, located on the banks of the Bhagirathi river in Uttarkashi district, can be reached directly by road.
However, if you’re wondering how far is Gangotri from Kedarnath by road, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll explore the distance between these two holy places and how you can get there by road.
About Gangotri and Kedarnath
Gangotri is a small town situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the four pilgrimage sites that make up the Chota Char Dham Yatra. The town is located at an elevation of 3,100 meters above sea level and is home to the Gangotri Temple, which is dedicated to the Goddess Ganga. The temple is said to be the source of the River Ganges, which is considered holy by Hindus.
Kedarnath, on the other hand, is a town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is also one of the Chota Char Dham Yatra sites and is famous for the Kedarnath Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level.
How to Reach from Kedarnath to Gangotri:
Distance Chart Kedarnath to Gangotri:
- Kedarnath to Gangotri: 18 Kms Trek + 322 Kms by road
- Kedarnath to Uttarkashi: 18 Kms Trek + 222 Kms by road
- Gaurikund to Kedarnath: 18 Kms Trek
- Rishikesh to Gangotri: 268 kms by road
- Rishikesh to Kedarnath: 216 Kms + 18 Kms Trek
Mode of Transportation:
- No rail facility available between Kedarnath and Gangotri
- No flight facility is available between Kedarnath and Gangotri; the nearest airport is Jollygrant Airport in Dehradun
- Helicopter facility is available for both Kedarnath and Gangotri
How to Reach by Road:
- The last road station of Kedarnath is Gaurikund; the road available from Gaurikund to Gangotri
- Kedarnath temple is reached by trekking 18 kilometers from Gaurikund
- Public transport available from major places like Guptkashi, Srinagar, Rishikesh, Tehri, Uttarkashi
- Taxi or private vehicle is the best option to travel between Kedarnath and Gangotri.
Pro Tips: Travelers must first decide on means of travel, such as foot+road, helicopter+road, and helicopter+foot+road.
Kedarnath to Gangotri Shortest Distance :
The shortest distance between Gaurikund and Gangotri is approximately 322 kilometers, which can be covered in about 10 hours. However, there are other road routes available that travelers can take based on their convenience to travel from Kedarnath to Gangotri.
To make the most of your journey, it is recommended to plan your trip well in advance. One can explore the stunning natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes on the way to Gangotri, making the journey more memorable.
When planning to travel from Kedarnath to Gangotri, it’s important to consider the various routes available to cover the distance. The shortest road distance between the two destinations is approximately 322 kilometres, including an 18-kilometre trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. Alternatively, you can opt for a helicopter ride to Kedarnath and then continue your journey by road to Gangotri.
For those starting from Uttarkashi, the minimum road distance to Kedarnath is approximately 222 kilometres, including the 18-kilometre trek from Gaurikund. The minimum road distance from Rishikesh to Kedarnath is approximately 216 kilometres, followed by an 18-kilometre trek.
If you’re traveling from Rishikesh to Gangotri, the shortest road distance is approximately 268 kilometers. You can choose from various modes of transportation, including foot+road, helicopter+road, or helicopter+foot+road, depending on your preference and convenience.
Shortest Road Routes from Kedarnath to Gangotri
Kedarnath and Gangotri are two holy shrines located in the state of Uttarakhand in India. Many devotees visit these places every year to seek blessings. If you’re planning a trip from Kedarnath to Gangotri by road, there are three routes you can take. Let’s take a closer look at each of these routes:
Route 1: Lambgaon-Tilwara Route
The Lambgaon-Tilwara route is the shortest road route, covering a distance of 322 km. However, the road is mostly single lane, so it can take around 10-11 hours to complete the journey. Here are some of the major destinations that fall on this route:
Kedarnath ➜ 18kms Trek ➜ Gaurikund ➜ Sonprayag ➜ Phata ➜ Guptkashi ➜ Kund ➜ Agastyamuni ➜ Tilwara ➜ Mayli ➜ Ghansali ➜ Chamiala ➜ Dikholi Band ➜ Kuteti Devi Temple ➜ Uttarkashi ➜ Bhatwadi ➜ Sukhi ➜ Jhala ➜ Harsil ➜ Dharali ➜ Bhairon Valley ➜ Gangotri
Route 2: Lambgaon-Maletha-Srinagar Route
The Lambgaon-Maletha-Srinagar route covers a distance of 342 km, and is also mostly single-lane. It can take around 11-12 hours to complete the journey. Here are some of the major destinations that fall on this route:
Kedarnath ➜ 18kms Trek ➜ Gaurikund ➜ Sonprayag ➜ Phata ➜ Guptkashi ➜ Kund ➜ Agastyamuni ➜ Tilwara ➜ Rudraprayag ➜ Srinagar ➜ Kirtinagar ➜ Maletha ➜ Razakhet ➜ Pratapnagar ➜ Chinyalisaur ➜ Dharasu ➜ Bhatwadi ➜ Sukhi ➜ Jhala ➜ Harsil ➜ Dharali ➜ Bhairon Valley ➜ Gangotri
Route 3: New Tehri-Rishikesh Route
The New Tehri-Rishikesh route is the longest of the three routes, covering a distance of 468 km. However, the road quality is better than the other two routes. It can take around 13-14 hours to complete the journey. Here are some of the major destinations that fall on this route:
Kedarnath ➜ 18kms Trek ➜ Gaurikund ➜ Sonprayag ➜ Phata ➜ Guptkashi ➜ Kund ➜ Agastyamuni ➜ Tilwara ➜ Rudraprayag ➜ Srinagar ➜ Devprayag ➜ Rishikesh ➜ New Tehri ➜ Ratwari ➜ Syansu ➜ Chinyalisaur ➜ Dharasu ➜ Uttarkashi ➜ Bhatwadi ➜ Sukhi ➜ Jhala ➜ Harsil ➜ Dharali ➜ Bhairon Valley ➜ Gangotri
These are the three routes you can take to travel from Kedarnath to Gangotri by road. Choose the one that suits you best based on your time and preference. Keep in mind that all these routes offer scenic beauty and glimpses of the natural beauty of Uttarakhand.
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Best time to visit Gangotri and Kedarnath
The best time to visit Gangotri and Kedarnath is from May to June and from September to November. The weather during this time is pleasant, and the skies are clear, making it ideal for sightseeing. However, during the monsoon season (July and August), the roads leading to these places become slippery and prone to landslides, making it risky to travel.
Road conditions and travel tips
The road from Kedarnath to Gangotri is mountainous terrain and can be challenging for inexperienced drivers. The route passes through narrow and winding roads, and there are sharp bends and steep slopes. Therefore, it is advisable to hire a professional driver who is familiar with the terrain.
Moreover, it is recommended to carry warm clothing as the temperature drops considerably in higher altitudes. It is also advisable to carry sufficient food and water, as there are not many options for food and water on the way. Lastly, it is crucial to take breaks and rest frequently to avoid altitude sickness and exhaustion.
Places to see on the way from Kedarnath to Gangotri
The journey from Kedarnath to Gangotri by road has breathtaking views of the Himalayas and natural landscapes. Some of the popular spots on the way include:
- Tehri Dam
- Dharasu Bend
- Uttarkashi
- Gangnani Hot Water Springs
- Gangotri National Park
Accommodation options in Gangotri and Kedarnath
Both Gangotri and Kedarnath have limited accommodation options, primarily consisting of guesthouses and budget hotels. However, these places offer a unique experience, with most of the hotels offering stunning views of the Himalayas. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, as the availability of rooms may be limited.
Popular tourist attractions in Gangotri
Apart from the Gangotri Temple, there are several other places to see in Gangotri. Some of the popular tourist attractions include:
- Bhagirath Shila
- Pandava Gufa
- Kedar Tal
- Gaumukh Glacier
- Tapovan
Popular tourist attractions in Kedarnath
Kedarnath also offers several tourist attractions apart from the Kedarnath Temple. Some of the popular places to see include:
- Vasuki Tal
- Gandhi Sarovar
- Triyuginarayan Temple
- Shankaracharya Samadhi
Food options in Gangotri and Kedarnath
The local cuisine of Gangotri and Kedarnath mainly consists of vegetarian dishes, with rice, dal, and vegetables being the staple food. There are also several small eateries and food stalls on the way that serve hot tea, maggi, and other snacks. However, it is advisable to carry your food and water, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
Safety measures for travellers
While travelling to Gangotri and Kedarnath, it is crucial to take some safety measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Some of the safety measures include:
- Hiring a professional driver
- Wearing warm clothing and carrying sufficient food and water
- Taking breaks and resting frequently
- Avoiding travelling during the monsoon season
- Carrying necessary medications, especially for altitude sickness.
Current and 15-Day Temperature Forecast
Check out the temperature forecast for Gangotri and Kedarnath over the next 15 days. Stay updated on the weather conditions before planning your visit to these destinations.
Gangotri Weather: Temperature Today and Next 15 Days
To see the temperature forecast for Gangotri today and the next 15 days, click the following link: Gangotri Weather
Kedarnath Weather: Temperature Today and Next 15 Days
To see the temperature forecast for Kedarnath today and the next 15 days, click the following link: Kedarnath Weather
Please click on the respective links to access the detailed temperature forecasts for Gangotri and Kedarnath.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kedarnath and Gangotri are two popular pilgrimage destinations located in Uttarakhand, India. The Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in the Rudraprayag district, while Gangotri Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Ganga, is situated in the Uttarkashi district. While Kedarnath can be reached by an 18-kilometer trek from Gaurikund, Gangotri can be accessed directly by road. The shortest distance between Gaurikund and Gangotri is approximately 322 kilometres, and the entire journey can be covered in about 10 hours by road. However, there are multiple road routes available for travellers to choose from based on their convenience. One can also opt for a helicopter ride to Kedarnath and then continue their journey to Gangotri by road.
FAQs:
What is the distance between Kedarnath and Gangotri?
The shortest distance between Kedarnath and Gangotri is approximately 322 kilometers, including an 18-kilometer trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath.
How can one reach Gangotri and Kedarnath by road?
One can reach Kedarnath by trekking 18 kilometers from Gaurikund, while Gangotri can be accessed directly by road. Public transport is available from major places like Guptkashi, Srinagar, Rishikesh, Tehri, and Uttarkashi.
Is there any rail or flight facility available between Kedarnath and Gangotri?
No, there is no rail or flight facility available between Kedarnath and Gangotri. The nearest airport is Jollygrant Airport in Dehradun, and helicopter services are available for both Kedarnath and Gangotri.
How long does it take to cover the distance between Kedarnath and Gangotri by road?
It takes approximately 10 hours to cover the shortest distance of 322 kilometers between Kedarnath and Gangotri by road.
What are some tips for travelers planning to visit Kedarnath and Gangotri?
Travelers must first decide on means of travel, such as foot+road, helicopter+road, and helicopter+foot+road. It is recommended to plan the trip well in advance and explore the stunning natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes on the way to Gangotri, making the journey more memorable.
