BlogThe journey from Kedarnath to Badrinath represents one of the most spiritually significant and scenically spectacular routes in the Indian Himalayas. These two sacred shrines—Kedarnath, the abode of Lord Shiva, and Badrinath, the dwelling of Lord Vishnu—form an essential part of the revered Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. For countless devotees embarking on the Do Dham Yatra, understanding the Kedarnath to Badrinath distance is crucial for effective trip planning.
Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking divine blessings, an adventure traveler drawn to Himalayan landscapes, or a family planning a memorable spiritual journey, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information about traveling between these two holy destinations.
In this detailed article, we’ll explore the exact distance between Kedarnath to Badrinath, various route options, travel time expectations, transportation choices, accommodation recommendations, and everything you need to know for a safe and enriching journey. Kedarnath Tourism provides best Do Dham tour packages that expertly cover this sacred route with comfort and convenience.
Quick Answer: Kedarnath to Badrinath Distance
Before diving into details, here’s the essential information:
Direct Distance: The Kedarnath to Badrinath distance by road is approximately 220-225 kilometers (137-140 miles).
Travel Time: The journey typically takes 8-10 hours under normal road conditions.
Important Note: You cannot drive directly from Kedarnath temple to Badrinath temple. Kedarnath requires a 16 km trek from Gaurikund (the last motorable point), so the actual road journey is from Gaurikund/Guptkashi to Badrinath.
Actual Road Route:
- Kedarnath Temple → Trek to Gaurikund (16 km)
- Gaurikund → Guptkashi (30 km, 1 hour)
- Guptkashi → Badrinath (200 km, 8-9 hours)
Total Distance: Approximately 246 km including the trek distance
Now let’s explore this journey in comprehensive detail.
Understanding the Route: Geographical Context
The Starting Point: Kedarnath
Kedarnath Temple sits at an elevation of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it’s one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and holds immense spiritual significance. The temple is accessible only by:
- Trekking: 16 km from Gaurikund
- Helicopter: Direct landing near temple
- Pony/Palanquin: Alternative to trekking
Gaurikund (1,982 meters) serves as the base camp and last motorable point for Kedarnath pilgrimage.
The Destination: Badrinath
Badrinath Temple is located at 3,300 meters (10,827 feet) in the Chamoli district. This Vishnu temple is one of the Char Dhams and is directly accessible by road, making it more convenient than Kedarnath.
Why the Distance Matters
Understanding the distance between Kedarnath to Badrinath is essential because:
- Trip Planning: Helps determine how many days you need
- Budget Estimation: Transportation costs depend on distance
- Physical Preparation: Long mountain journeys require stamina
- Accommodation Booking: Knowing overnight stop options
- Safety Planning: Weather and road conditions over this distance
Detailed Route Breakdown: Kedarnath to Badrinath
The Complete Journey: Stage by Stage
Stage 1: Kedarnath to Gaurikund (16 km trek)
Distance: 16 kilometers
Time: 6-8 hours (descending is faster than ascending)
Mode: Trekking, pony, palanquin, or helicopter
After completing your darshan at Kedarnath temple and experiencing the spiritual serenity of this high-altitude shrine, you’ll begin your descent to Gaurikund. The trek follows the same route you ascended:
Key Points Along the Trek:
- Kedarnath Temple (0 km) → Start point
- Linchauli (6 km) → Rest point with small shops
- Rambara (12 km) → Main checkpoint, helipad location
- Gaurikund (16 km) → End point, hot springs, hotels
Trek Characteristics:
- Well-defined stone path
- Descending is easier on lungs but harder on knees
- Can be completed faster than upward journey
- Most pilgrims complete descent in 5-7 hours
Alternative: Helicopter service from Kedarnath to Guptkashi (saves 6-8 hours, costs ₹3,500-5,000)
Stage 2: Gaurikund to Guptkashi (30 km, 1 hour)
Distance: 30 kilometers
Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Elevation: Descending from 1,982m to 1,319m
This short drive connects Gaurikund to Guptkashi through a winding mountain road. Guptkashi serves as the main base town for Kedarnath pilgrimage.
Route Features:
- Scenic mountain road
- Passes through Phata (helicopter service point)
- Views of Mandakini River valley
- Relatively smooth road conditions
Guptkashi (Sitapur):
- Last major town before Kedarnath
- Numerous hotels and restaurants
- ATM facilities available
- Famous for Ardh Narishwar Temple
- Often used as overnight halt
Stage 3: Guptkashi to Badrinath (200 km, 8-9 hours)
This is the main leg of your journey—the actual Kedarnath to Badrinath road distance that most pilgrims refer to.
Detailed Route Map:
Guptkashi (0 km) → Starting point at 1,319m elevation
↓ 60 km, 2-2.5 hours
Chopta-Gopeshwar Junction (60 km) → Junction point, 2,680m
- Spectacular meadows
- Views of Chaukhamba peaks
- Road branches to Tungnath-Chandrashila
↓ 30 km, 1-1.5 hours
Chamoli (90 km) → District headquarters at 1,370m
- Fuel stations available
- Medical facilities
- Shopping area
- Lunch stop option
↓ 25 km, 1 hour
Pipalkoti (115 km) → Small town at 1,260m
- Popular lunch stop
- River confluence views
- Hotels available for overnight stay
↓ 20 km, 45 minutes
Joshimath (135 km) → Major town at 1,875m
- Gateway to Badrinath and Auli
- Winter seat of Badrinath deity
- Narsingh Temple (winter worship)
- Last major town before Badrinath
- Full amenities: hotels, ATMs, hospitals, fuel
- Cable car to Auli ski resort
↓ 25 km, 1 hour
Govindghat (160 km) → At 1,828m
- Base for Hemkund Sahib and Valley of Flowers
- Gurudwara and langar (free community kitchen)
- Gurdwara facilities
- Many pilgrims combine this side trip
↓ 20 km, 45 minutes
Pandukeshwar (180 km) → Ancient temple town at 1,920m
- Yogdhyan Badri Temple
- Associated with Pandavas from Mahabharata
- Scenic location
↓ 20 km, 45 minutes
Badrinath (200 km) → Final destination at 3,300m
- Badrinath Temple complex
- Tapt Kund (hot spring)
- Brahma Kapal (ritual site)
- Mana Village (3 km further, last Indian village)
- Hotels and dharamshalas
- Complete pilgrim facilities
Total Kedarnath to Badrinath Distance by Road Time
Summary:
- Trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund: 6-8 hours
- Gaurikund to Guptkashi: 1 hour
- Guptkashi to Badrinath: 8-9 hours
- Total travel time: 15-18 hours (typically split over 2 days)
Note: The distance between Badrinath to Kedarnath is the same (220-225 km by road), but travel time may vary slightly depending on traffic patterns and one-way road restrictions in certain sections.
Route Options and Transportation Choices
Standard Two-Day Journey (Most Common)
Day 1: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
- Morning darshan at Kedarnath
- Trek down to Gaurikund (6-8 hours)
- Drive to Guptkashi (1 hour)
- Overnight stay in Guptkashi
- Rest and recuperation
Day 2: Guptkashi to Badrinath
- Early morning departure (5-6 AM recommended)
- Lunch break at Pipalkoti or Joshimath
- Reach Badrinath by evening (3-5 PM)
- Evening temple visit or next morning darshan
Benefits:
- Adequate rest after Kedarnath trek
- Comfortable pace, less fatigue
- Flexibility for weather delays
- Time to enjoy scenery and stops
Ideal For: Families, elderly pilgrims, first-time visitors
Express One-Day Journey
Timeline:
- Early morning Kedarnath darshan (4-5 AM)
- Quick trek to Gaurikund (start by 6 AM)
- Reach Gaurikund by noon
- Immediate departure to Badrinath
- Late evening arrival in Badrinath (9-11 PM)
Challenges:
- Extremely tiring (15+ hours continuous travel)
- No buffer for delays
- Difficult for elderly or children
- Misses scenic beauty due to rushing
- Risk of altitude issues without acclimatization
Benefits:
- Saves one day
- Reduces accommodation costs
- Suitable for time-constrained travelers
Ideal For: Young, fit travelers with tight schedules
Extended Three-Day Journey with Sightseeing
Day 1: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
Day 2: Guptkashi to Joshimath with stops at Chopta, Tungnath (optional side trek)
Day 3: Joshimath to Badrinath with Govindghat visit (Hemkund Sahib base)
Benefits:
- Explore additional attractions
- Better altitude acclimatization
- Photography opportunities
- Less rushed, more spiritual
Ideal For: Adventure travelers, photographers, spiritual seekers
Transportation Options: Kedarnath to Badrinath Distance by Taxi and Other Modes
Private Taxi/Car Rental
Most Popular Choice
Types of Vehicles:
- Sedan (Dzire, Etios): 4 passengers, ₹10,000-14,000
- SUV (Innova, Ertiga): 6-7 passengers, ₹14,000-18,000
- Tempo Traveller: 10-12 passengers, ₹18,000-25,000
Kedarnath to Badrinath Distance by Taxi Costs:
- From Gaurikund to Badrinath: ₹10,000-15,000 (depending on vehicle)
- Per km rate: ₹50-70 approximately
- Costs include driver charges, fuel, toll taxes
- Overnight halt charges: ₹500-1,000 extra if driver stays
Booking Tips:
- Book through reputable operators like Kedarnath Tourism
- Confirm all-inclusive pricing
- Check vehicle condition before starting
- Ensure driver is experienced with mountain roads
- Get emergency contact numbers
Benefits:
- Flexible timing and stops
- Privacy and comfort
- Can accommodate luggage
- Direct point-to-point travel
- Suitable for families
Shared Taxi
Budget Option
Details:
- Shared with other pilgrims (usually 8-10 people in Innova/Xylo)
- Fixed departure times from major points
- Cost per person: ₹1,500-2,500
- Available from Guptkashi to Badrinath
Challenges:
- Less flexible timing
- Limited luggage space
- Must wait for vehicle to fill
- Cannot make personal stops
- Less comfortable
Best For: Solo travelers, budget-conscious pilgrims
Organized Tour Packages
Hassle-Free Option
Kedarnath Tourism provides best Do Dham tour packages including:
- Pre-planned itinerary covering Kedarnath to Badrinath
- Comfortable private vehicles
- Experienced drivers familiar with routes
- Accommodation bookings at all stops
- Guided sightseeing
- Emergency support
- Transparent pricing
- Flexibility for weather changes
Package Benefits:
- Everything organized in advance
- No stress of bookings and negotiations
- Expert local guidance
- Safety and reliability
- Best value for money
Typical Do Dham Package (Kedarnath + Badrinath):
- Duration: 6-8 days from Haridwar
- Includes all transfers, hotels, meals (optional)
- Cost: ₹25,000-45,000 per person (depending on comfort level)
Helicopter Services
Luxury Time-Saving Option
Route: Guptkashi/Phata → Kedarnath → Badrinath
Cost: ₹25,000-40,000 per person for Do Dham
Time Saved: Eliminates long road journey and trek
Booking:
- Must book weeks in advance
- Weather-dependent (frequent cancellations)
- Weight restrictions apply
- Limited luggage (5 kg per person)
Ideal For: Senior citizens, time-constrained travelers, physically challenged pilgrims
Road Conditions and Seasonal Considerations
Road Quality: What to Expect
Good Sections:
- Guptkashi to Pipalkoti: Reasonably well-maintained
- Joshimath to Badrinath: Improved in recent years
- Major stretches are paved
Challenging Sections:
- Chopta-Gopeshwar area: Narrow roads, sharp turns
- Landslide-prone zones during monsoon
- One-way traffic restrictions in certain areas
- Occasional traffic jams at narrow points
Recent Developments:
- All-weather road construction ongoing
- Widening projects in progress
- Some sections may have construction delays
Seasonal Variations
May-June (Peak Season)
Road Conditions: Generally good
Travel Time: Standard 8-9 hours
Considerations:
- Heavy traffic, possible delays
- Occasional afternoon showers
- Clear mountain views
- All facilities operational
July-August (Monsoon – Risky)
Road Conditions: Dangerous
Travel Time: Highly unpredictable, can extend to 12-15 hours
Considerations:
- Frequent landslides
- Road blockages common
- Flash flood risks
- Not recommended for travel
- Many operators suspend services
September-October (Best Season)
Road Conditions: Excellent
Travel Time: Can be faster, 7-8 hours
Considerations:
- Post-monsoon clear roads
- Spectacular autumn colors
- Clear Himalayan views
- Less crowded
- Best photography opportunities
- Pleasant weather
Traffic and Timing
Best Departure Time from Guptkashi: 5-7 AM
- Avoid afternoon mountain fog
- Reach before dark (essential for safety)
- Morning traffic is lighter
One-Way Traffic Zones:
- Some narrow sections have time-based one-way rules
- Uphill vehicles: Morning (7 AM-1 PM)
- Downhill vehicles: Afternoon (2 PM-7 PM)
- Plan accordingly to avoid waiting
Important Travel Tips for Kedarnath to Badrinath Journey
Before You Start
Essential Preparations:
- Physical Readiness:
- Rest well after Kedarnath trek
- Stay hydrated
- Light breakfast before departure
- Carry energy snacks
- Luggage Management:
- Pack light (porters available but expensive)
- Keep essentials in accessible bag
- Separate bag for valuables
- Documentation:
- Carry ID proof (mandatory)
- Registration confirmation (if done)
- Medical insurance papers
- Emergency contact numbers
- Health Precautions:
- Motion sickness medication
- Altitude sickness pills (Diamox if prescribed)
- Personal medications
- First-aid kit
During the Journey
Safety Tips:
- Motion Sickness Prevention:
- Sit in front seat if prone to sickness
- Take breaks every 2-3 hours
- Avoid heavy meals before travel
- Keep lemon/ginger candy handy
- Look at horizon, not phone
- Altitude Management:
- Badrinath is at 3,300m (similar to Kedarnath)
- Stay hydrated (3-4 liters water)
- Avoid alcohol
- Take it slow upon arrival
- Recognize symptoms: headache, nausea, fatigue
- Food and Water:
- Carry packed lunch (hygiene assured)
- Sealed water bottles
- Avoid roadside eateries in remote areas
- Dry fruits, biscuits for energy
- Clothing:
- Layer clothing (temperature varies)
- Keep warm jacket accessible
- Comfortable shoes for temple visits
- Rain protection (even in dry season)
- Photography:
- Multiple battery backups (cold drains batteries)
- Weather protection for camera
- Don’t ask driver to stop in dangerous areas
- Designated viewpoints available
Respect Local Culture:
- Remove shoes at temples and local homes
- Ask permission before photographing locals
- Don’t litter (carry plastic bags for waste)
- Respect religious customs
- Be mindful of traffic (give way to uphill vehicles)
Complete Haridwar to Badrinath to Kedarnath Distance
Many pilgrims start their journey from Haridwar (major railway station and spiritual city). Here’s the complete distance breakdown:
Haridwar to Kedarnath to Badrinath Circuit
Route 1: Haridwar → Kedarnath First
Haridwar to Guptkashi: 215 km, 7-8 hours
Guptkashi to Gaurikund: 30 km, 1 hour
Gaurikund to Kedarnath: 16 km trek
Kedarnath to Badrinath (via Guptkashi): 225 km, 9-10 hours
Total Road Distance (Haridwar → Kedarnath → Badrinath): Approximately 470 km
Total Time: 3-4 days minimum
Route 2: Haridwar → Badrinath First
Haridwar to Joshimath: 295 km, 9-10 hours
Joshimath to Badrinath: 45 km, 1.5 hours
Badrinath to Kedarnath (via Guptkashi): 225 km, 9-10 hours
Plus: 16 km trek to Kedarnath
Why the Sequence Matters:
- Traditional route: Kedarnath before Badrinath
- Weather considerations: Kedarnath closes earlier in season
- Acclimatization: Gradual altitude gain
- Personal preference and package availability
Kedarnath Tourism offers comprehensive packages covering the entire Haridwar to Badrinath to Kedarnath distance with optimal routing based on season and your preferences.
Why Choose Kedarnath Tourism for Your Do Dham Yatra
Planning the journey covering the Kedarnath to Badrinath distance requires local expertise, reliable transportation, and comprehensive support. Kedarnath Tourism provides best Do Dham tour packages with:
Complete Package Benefits
- Seamless Travel Planning:
- Pre-planned itineraries covering optimal routes
- Strategic overnight stops
- Buffer days for weather contingencies
- Reliable Transportation:
- Well-maintained, comfortable vehicles
- Experienced mountain drivers
- Flexible timing based on your pace
- Support vehicles for emergencies
- Accommodation Excellence:
- Pre-booked hotels at all locations
- Clean, comfortable rooms with hot water
- Strategic locations near temples
- Mix of budget to premium options
- Local Expertise:
- Knowledgeable guides
- Insider tips on best darshan timings
- Cultural and spiritual insights
- Language assistance
- Safety and Support:
- 24/7 emergency helpline
- First-aid facilities
- Medical assistance coordination
- Weather monitoring and route adjustments
- Value for Money:
- Transparent, all-inclusive pricing
- No hidden costs
- Group discounts available
- Customizable based on budget
- Hassle-Free Experience:
- Complete documentation assistance
- Registration support
- Temple darshan coordination
- Focus on spirituality, not logistics
Customization Options
- Family packages: Child-friendly pacing, suitable vehicles
- Senior citizen packages: Extra rest days, helicopter options
- Budget packages: Economical without compromising safety
- Luxury packages: Premium hotels, private vehicles, VIP darshan
- Adventure packages: Combined with trekking expeditions
Conclusion: Your Sacred Journey from Kedarnath to Badrinath
The Kedarnath to Badrinath distance of approximately 220-225 kilometers by road is more than just a physical journey through the majestic Himalayas—it’s a spiritual odyssey connecting two of Hinduism’s most revered shrines. From the rugged beauty surrounding Lord Shiva’s abode at Kedarnath to the serene splendor of Lord Vishnu’s sanctuary at Badrinath, every kilometer of this route offers divine experiences and breathtaking natural beauty.
Whether you complete this journey in an express one-day marathon, a comfortable two-day drive with proper rest, or an extended exploration spanning three or more days, adequate planning ensures a safe, enriching, and spiritually fulfilling experience.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Distance: 220-225 km by road from Gaurikund/Guptkashi to Badrinath
✅ Time: 8-10 hours driving + trek time
✅ Best Duration: 2-3 days for comfortable journey
✅ Recommended Season: May-June and September-October
✅ Cost: ₹5,000-40,000 per person (depending on comfort level)
✅ Safety: Choose experienced operators for mountain travel
The distance between Badrinath to Kedarnath remains the same whether you’re traveling in either direction, but the spiritual significance of completing this Do Dham circuit is immeasurable. Each temple offers unique blessings, and the journey between them provides ample time for reflection, connection with nature, and preparation for the divine darshan ahead.
Kedarnath Tourism stands ready to transform your understanding of the Kedarnath to Badrinath distance by road from mere statistics into an unforgettable pilgrimage experience. With decades of expertise in Himalayan spiritual tourism, comprehensive Do Dham packages, and unwavering commitment to pilgrim satisfaction and safety, they ensure your sacred journey is blessed with comfort, convenience, and divine grace.
Book your Do Dham Yatra package with Kedarnath Tourism today and let expert hands guide you through this transformative journey connecting Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu’s sacred abodes.
Har Har Mahadev! Jai Badri Vishal!
