Where is Kedarnath and Badrinath? Location Best And Complete Guide

Where is Kedarnath and Badrinath

Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath and Badrinath are two of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. These holy destinations hold immense significance for devotees seeking spiritual solace and are an inThe Himalayas have long been a sanctuary for seekers, pilgrims, and adventurers alike.

Among the most revered spiritual destinations in this majestic mountain range are Kedarnath and Badrinath — two of the four sacred sites that form the Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage that holds immense significance in Hinduism. These holy abodes are not just places of worship; they are symbols of faith, resilience, and divine connection. For thousands of devotees every year, visiting Kedarnath temple and Badrinath temple is a lifelong dream, a journey that promises spiritual purification and inner peace.

If you’re planning your Kedarnath trip package or Char Dham tour package, understanding the exact location, accessibility, and significance of these two destinations is essential. This comprehensive word guide will take you through everything you need to know about where Kedarnath and Badrinath are located, their spiritual and geographical importance, how to reach them, the best time to visit, and what to expect during your pilgrimage. We’ll also explore the history, culture, and natural beauty surrounding these sacred sites, ensuring you’re fully prepared for a meaningful and memorable journey.

What is the Char Dham Yatra?

Before diving into the specifics of Kedarnath and Badrinath, it’s important to understand the broader context of the Char Dham Yatra. The term “Char Dham” translates to “four abodes,” referring to four holy temples located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. These are:

Yamunotri – The source of the Yamuna River.
Gangotri – The origin of the Ganges River.
Kedarnath – One of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Badrinath – A major Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Together, these four sites form a sacred circuit believed to cleanse the soul of sins and help the devotee attain moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). The yatra is traditionally undertaken in a specific order, starting with Yamunotri, followed by Gangotri, then Kedarnath, and concluding at Badrinath.

The journey covers approximately 1,200 kilometers and typically takes between 10 to 16 days, depending on the pace, mode of travel, and stops along the way. While physically demanding, the yatra is open to pilgrims of all ages, with various travel options — including road trips, helicopter services, and trekking — making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Booking a Kedarnath tour package or a full Char Dham Yatra package simplifies the entire experience, handling everything from transportation and accommodation to permits and guided support. Whether you’re a first time pilgrim or a seasoned traveler, a well organized package ensures a safe, seamless, and spiritually enriching journey.

Where is Kedarnath Located?

Kedarnath is nestled in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, at an elevation of approximately 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level. It lies in the Garhwal Himalayas, surrounded by snow capped peaks and the serene flow of the Mandakini River. The Kedarnath temple, one of the most sacred shrines in Hinduism, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas — self manifested forms of the deity.

The temple is located within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area rich in biodiversity and home to rare species like the Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and snow leopard. The region’s natural beauty, combined with its spiritual significance, makes Kedarnath a must visit destination for both devotees and nature lovers.

Key Geographic Details:

State: Uttarakhand
District: Rudraprayag
Nearest Major Towns: Gaurikund, Sonprayag, Guptkashi
Closest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approximately 240 km away)
Nearest Railway Stations: Rishikesh and Haridwar (both well connected to major Indian cities)
Trek Starting Point: Gaurikund (14 km from the temple)

Kedarnath is not accessible year round due to extreme weather conditions. The temple typically opens in late April or early May and closes by October or early November, depending on religious rituals and snowfall. During the winter months, the region is buried under heavy snow, making travel impossible and the temple inaccessible.

The Spiritual Significance of Kedarnath Temple

The Kedarnath temple holds a central place in Hindu mythology and spiritual tradition. It is believed to have been established by the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, who sought Lord Shiva’s blessings to atone for the sins of war. According to legend, Shiva took the form of a bull and disappeared into the ground, with different parts of his body appearing at five different locations. The hump of the bull is said to have appeared at Kedarnath, making it one of the Panch Kedar temples.

The temple itself is an architectural marvel, built from large stone slabs and standing as a testament to ancient craftsmanship. Despite being over a thousand years old, it has withstood the test of time, surviving harsh weather and natural disasters. In 2013, the region was hit by devastating floods, but the temple remained largely intact, reinforcing its divine aura in the eyes of devotees.

Visiting the Kedarnath temple is more than just a religious act — it’s a journey of the soul. The final trek from Gaurikund, the sound of temple bells, the sight of the sacred lingam, and the peaceful ambiance of the Himalayas all contribute to a deeply transformative experience.

a crowd standing in front of the kedarnath temple in kedarnath india during a ceremony

How to Reach Kedarnath

Reaching Kedarnath requires careful planning, as the final stretch involves either a challenging trek or a helicopter ride. Here are the most common ways to reach this sacred destination:

1. By Road

Most pilgrims begin their journey from Haridwar or Rishikesh, both of which are well connected by rail and road to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. From Haridwar or Rishikesh, you can take a taxi or bus to Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath trek.

The road journey passes through scenic towns like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Sonprayag, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the Mandakini River. The total distance from Haridwar to Gaurikund is approximately 220–240 kilometers and takes about 8–10 hours by road.

2. By Helicopter

For those who cannot undertake the 14 kilometer trek, helicopter services are available from Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun or from Phata and Sonprayag. These flights take about 15–20 minutes and offer a bird’s eye view of the mountains, making them a popular choice for elderly pilgrims, families, and those with limited time.

Many Kedarnath trip packages include helicopter bookings, priority darshan slots, and return transfers, making the journey hassle free.

3. By Trek

The 14 kilometer trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath temple is a spiritual and physical challenge that takes 6–8 hours on average. The trail winds through lush forests, rocky paths, and river crossings, with stunning views at every turn.

Ponies, palanquins (doli), and porters are available for those who need assistance. The trek is doable for anyone with moderate fitness, and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the temple is unparalleled.

Key Landmarks on the Way to Kedarnath

The journey to Kedarnath is as meaningful as the destination itself. Along the route, you’ll pass through several spiritually and naturally significant places:

1. Gaurikund

Believed to be where Goddess Parvati meditated to win Lord Shiva’s heart, Gaurikund is the starting point of the trek. It has hot water springs where pilgrims take a ritual bath before beginning their ascent.

2. Sonprayag

Located at the confluence of the Mandakini and Basuki rivers, Sonprayag is a peaceful stop with views of the surrounding peaks. It’s also a key point for helicopter services and a popular rest spot for travelers.

3. Guptkashi

Known as “Kashi of the Mountains,” Guptkashi is home to ancient Shiva temples, including the Bhairavnath Temple and Mansa Devi Temple. It’s a great place to rest, reflect, and soak in the spiritual energy of the region.

4. Chorabari Tal (Kedarnath Lake)

A glacial lake located about 3 kilometers from the Kedarnath temple, this serene spot is believed to be the bathing place of Lord Shiva. It’s a popular destination for trekkers and photographers.

5. Bhairavnath Temple

Situated just 1 kilometer from Kedarnath, this temple is dedicated to a fierce form of Shiva and is often visited after darshan at the main temple.

Where is Badrinath Located?

Badrinath is the final and most visited of the four Char Dhams. It is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, at an elevation of 3,133 meters (10,279 feet) above sea level. The Badrinath temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form as Badrinarayan, seated in a meditative pose.

The temple lies on the banks of the Alaknanda River, one of the two headstreams of the Ganges, and is surrounded by the Nar and Narayan mountains. The region is known for its stunning natural beauty, with snow covered peaks, lush meadows, and cascading waterfalls.