Many pilgrims plan to visit Kedarnath and Badrinath (Do Dham) every year. These two holy temples are located in Uttarakhand. The best time to visit Kedarnath and Badrinath is during the temple-opening season. This spiritual journey brings peace, faith, and blessings to every traveler.
Kedarnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Badrinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Both temples are located in the Himalayas. The natural beauty of the mountains makes the journey very special.
Many people plan this trip together. They visit Kedarnath first and then go to Badrinath. The journey gives spiritual peace and a beautiful travel experience.
The best time to visit Kedarnath and Badrinath is from May to June and September to October. During these months the weather stays pleasant. The roads are open, and travel becomes easier.
In May and June, the temples open for pilgrims. The temperature remains comfortable for travel. Many devotees visit during this time.
The monsoon season from July to August is not the best time. Heavy rain can cause landslides in mountain areas. Travel may become risky during this season.
The months of September and October are also good for travel. The weather becomes clear, and the crowd is smaller.
| Temple Area | Sightseeing Place | Distance (Approx.) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath | Bhairavnath Temple | 1 km | Famous temple with mountain views |
| Kedarnath | Vasuki Tal | 8 km trek | Beautiful high-altitude lake |
| Kedarnath | Gaurikund | 16 km | Trek starting point and hot water spring |
| Kedarnath | Triyuginarayan Temple | 25 km | Sacred marriage place of Shiva and Parvati |
| Badrinath | Tapt Kund | Near temple | Natural hot water spring |
| Badrinath | Mana Village | 3 km | The last village of India near Tibet border |
| Badrinath | Vasudhara Falls | 9 km trek | Beautiful waterfall in the Himalayas |
| Badrinath | Brahma Kapal | Near temple | Sacred place for rituals and prayers |
The distance between Kedarnath and Badrinath (Do Dham)is about 220 Kilometers by road. Pilgrims usually travel through mountain roads and beautiful valleys.
The common route is:
Kedarnath → Sonprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Badrinath
This route passes through many scenic locations. Rivers, mountains, and small towns make the journey memorable.
Travel usually takes 8 to 10 hours depending on road conditions.
Most pilgrims start their journey from Delhi or Haridwar.
Route from Delhi
Delhi → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Rudraprayag → Sonprayag → Kedarnath
After visiting Kedarnath, travelers continue the journey:
Kedarnath → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Badrinath
The total travel distance from Delhi is around 500 Kilometers.
Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Sonprayag → Kedarnath
From Kedarnath, pilgrims travel to Badrinath through the same highway.
| Temple | Opening Date (2026) | Closing Date (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath Temple | 22 April 2026 | October / November (Bhai Dooj) |
| Badrinath Temple | 23 April 2026 | October / November (After Diwali) |
Note:
The temples open every year around Akshaya Tritiya.
Exact closing dates are announced later by the temple committee.
During winter, the temples close because of heavy snowfall in the Himalayas.
• Carry warm clothes because the weather can change quickly.
• Wear comfortable shoes for trekking to Kedarnath Temple.
• Keep basic medicines and water with you.
• Start your journey early in the morning.
• Book hotels and transport in advance during peak season.
The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple is about 16 kilometres. Pilgrims can walk or use pony, palki, or helicopter service for kerdarnath.
Here is a simple travel plan for the journey.
1st Day: Delhi to Haridwar travel and overnight stay.
2nd Day: Haridwar to Guptkashi or Sonprayag.
3rd Day: Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath and temple darshan.
4th Day: Return from Kedarnath and stay at Guptkashi.
5th Day: Travel to Badrinath and visit the temple.
6th Day: Return journey to Haridwar or Delhi.
This plan makes the trip comfortable and organised.
| Feature | Kedarnath Temple Trek | Badrinath Temple Trek |
|---|---|---|
| Trek Distance | About 16 km trek from Gaurikund | No trek required |
| Starting Point | Gaurikund | Direct road access |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate to difficult | Very easy |
| Travel Mode | Walking, pony, palki, helicopter | Car, bus, taxi |
| Altitude | 3,583 meters | 3,133 meters |
| Time Required | 6–8 hours trekking | Direct temple visit |
| Best For | Adventure and spiritual journey | Easy pilgrimage for all ages |
The journey to Kedarnath and Badrinath is full of devotion and natural beauty. Pilgrims travel through mountains, rivers, and peaceful valleys. Visiting these temples brings spiritual happiness and blessings.
If you plan your trip in the right season and follow the proper route, the journey becomes safe and memorable.
Start your spiritual trip with excellent planning and enjoy the divine experience of the Kedarnath and Badrinath temples.
The best time is from May to June and September to October.
The distance is about 220 km by road.
You must travel to Gaurikund first. Then trek 16 km to the temple.
Yes, many pilgrims visit both temples on the same journey.
Usually 5 to 6 days are enough for the trip.
Yes, helicopter service is available from Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi.
The trek starts from Gaurikund.
Most pilgrims start the trip from Haridwar or Rishikesh.