Gangotri to Kedarnath is a long, holy trip in Uttarakhand. You move from the river source of Ganga to the high temple of Shiva. You can go by road, by helicopter, or walk parts on foot. This guide explains routes, times, safety, family tips, and simple maps.
This article is about Gangotri to Kedarnath. It tells you how to go. It is for families and all kinds of travellers from India. As used by official sites and travel guides to check facts. It was written in simple words. You will find maps, a table, and easy tips. you can visit here by choosing our Chardham Yatra and Do Dham Yatra by Helicopter.
What Are These Places?
- Gangotri is where people pray to river Ganga. It sits high in the hills. The Gangotri area has a white temple and the river start.
- Kedarnath is a famous Shiva temple. It sits higher than Gangotri, near snow and big peaks. Many people do a trek to reach it.
Quick Facts You Must Know About Gangotri to Kedarnath
- Gangotri sits high in the hills near Uttarkashi.
- Kedarnath temple is at about three thousand five hundred eighty four meters above sea level. It is cold and thin air there.
- Nearest major airport for both places is Jolly Grant, Dehradun. From Dehradun you must drive many hours.
How far is Gangotri to Kedarnath?
Road distances in mountains change with route and road work. Some sites show long routes and some show shorter ones.
Note: Numbers change with new roads or repairs. Please check local travel news before you start.
Route Options from Gangotri to Kedarnath
- Full road + trek
- Drive from Gangotri to a town like Uttarkashi. Then go toward Rudraprayag and Guptkashi. From Guptkashi drive to Gaurikund. Then walk the trek to Kedarnath.
- Good for families who like the road and can do short walks during the Gangotri to Kedarnath journey.
- Drive from Gangotri to a town like Uttarkashi. Then go toward Rudraprayag and Guptkashi. From Guptkashi drive to Gaurikund. Then walk the trek to Kedarnath.
- Road + helicopter
- Drive to a helipad town like Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi. Take a chopper to Kedarnath. Return the same way.
- Good for elders and small kids or if you have less time. Helicopter services run on set days and need online booking. Check official heliyatra/IRCTC or district updates.
- Drive to a helipad town like Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi. Take a chopper to Kedarnath. Return the same way.
- Slow and easy split for Gangotri to Kedarnath
- Break the trip into small drives. Stop at safe hotels. Rest at Uttarkashi or Rudraprayag. Walk only a little each day. This is best for elders and children.
- Break the trip into small drives. Stop at safe hotels. Rest at Uttarkashi or Rudraprayag. Walk only a little each day. This is best for elders and children.
Travel Time Plan for Families
Use this as a safe plan. Go slow. Add a rest day.
- Day one: Leave Dehradun or Delhi. Reach Uttarkashi area. Rest.
- Day two: Visit Gangotri in the morning. Stay near Gangotri or start drive toward Rudraprayag.
- Day three: Drive to Guptkashi area. Sleep early.
- Day four: Reach Gaurikund. Start trek or take helicopter next morning.
- Day five: Darshan at Kedarnath. Return to Gaurikund or helipad town.
- Day six: Drive back slowly to a safe town.
This plan keeps walking low for elders and kids on the Gangotri to Kedarnath journey.
Helicopter to Kedarnath — Facts
Helicopters runs from places like Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi. Flights often run in pilgrimage season. Check IRCTC Heliyatra for booking and dates. Book early. Weather can cancel flights.
Safety and Weather on the Gangotri to Kedarnath Route
- Both places are high. The air is thin. Children and elders can feel weak. Take time to rest.
- Summer days are okay. Nights are cold. Monsoon (rain) brings landslides. Roads can close. Check news before you go.
- Carry a small first-aid kit. Drink boiled or bottled water. Avoid risky streams.
What to Carry
- Warm clothes and rain cover.
- Good walking shoes.
- Small medicines (for cold and headache).
- Water bottle and dry snacks.
- ID and basic papers.
- Mobile charger and powerbank.
Trek Details
- Gaurikund to Kedarnath trek: about sixteen km of uphill and flat parts. It takes from six to eight hours for many people. People rest at small stops. Carry water and slow down if you feel short of breath.
- Gangotri to Gaumukh: Many pilgrims walk to Gaumukh—the glacier where Ganga starts. Distances can vary. Many trekkers split this into two days. Check local guides.
Health and Altitude Tips
- Go slow. Take small steps.
- Sleep one night at mid-height to adjust.
- Drink water. Avoid heavy work on first day.
- If someone has chest pain or severe breath trouble, get help fast.
Road and Transport Tips
- Roads in mountains are narrow. Drivers should be calm.
- Book taxis with local firms that know the route.
- Keep a local SIM card or a backup plan if phones lose signal.
Official checks before you start
- Check Uttarakhand tourism pages for Gangotri and Kedarnath for opening dates and rules. These pages tell about travel and weather updates.
- Check the official Kedarnath temple committee site for temple timings and darshan rules.
Final tips for families
- Plan one or two rest days. Do not rush.
- Talk to your family about the walk speed. Keep kids close.
- Choose helicopter only after checking weather and booking site.
Conclusion
Gangotri to Kedarnath is a holy and strong journey. It links the start of Ganga to the shrine of Shiva. For families, the trip can be safe and lovely if you plan slow and check official news. Use helicopters for elders only when the weather is good. Carry warm clothes and small medicines. Ask local guides when in doubt. Read the official Uttarakhand pages before you go so you have the latest rules and road news.
