Kedarnath trek is considered to be one of the most enchanting treks in the Himalayas. It starts from Gaurikund and takes you to the Kedarnath Temple. Due to its high altitude, the Kedarnath trek can be physically demanding, especially for inexperienced trekkers. You should prepare for the trek both mentally and physically. The route is challenging and steep in some places so you need to be careful while undertaking the trek. Build your physical stamina, exercise regularly at least one month before the yatra, and choose the right trekking shoes. In this article, we will equip you with the knowledge required to undertake the Kedarnath trek in a hassle-free way.
Important Information About Kedarnath Trek
- Altitude – 11, 755 ft.
- Trek Duration – 1-2 days.
- Starting Point – Gaurikund
- Trek Distance – 16 km.
- Difficulty Level – Moderate.
- Temperature– Winter (-15°C to -2°C) Summer (10°C to 25°C)
- Nearest Airport– Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
- Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station
Things to Consider
- Before undertaking the Kedarnath trek, don’t forget to check the weather forecast.
- You should carry a lightweight backpack with all the important items required for the journey. Avoid carrying heavy luggage as it will make it a bit challenging to climb the mountains.
- While trekking don’t forget to try Garhwali dishes that you can easily find at the roadside Dhabas.
- Interact with the local people to learn interesting stories about the region and the mountain.
- You need to be physically fit for the yatra as the route is challenging and steep in some places.
Duration and Distance: How Long is the Kedarnath Trek?
Distance
From Gaurikund, the Kedarnath trek is 16 to 18 kilometers long. At Sonprayag most travelers arrive by taxi. However, from Gaurikund the actual trek begins, which is 5 km ahead of Sonprayag. Shared taxis take you to Gaurikund from Sonprayag—but during peak season the ride can be chaotic, so you need to plan for some waiting time.
Duration
You should start your trek early in the morning with ample breaks for soaking in the breathtaking views, rest, and snacks. Though some people can even take up to 10 hours depending on their fitness level.
On the first day of the trek, you need to cover around 6-7 km from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. The trail passes through some of the most scenic locations including Bheembali, Rambara, Jungle Chatti, Channi Camp, and Lincholi which are famous camping sites. You’ll also find a hot water spring.
On the second day, you will visit Kedarnath Temple and explore the nearby areas that are known for their natural beauty. You’ll then return back to Gaurikund. It will take around 5-6 hours to complete the return journey and you’ll have to cover around 9km of distance.
Checkpoints
In the Kedarnath trek route, there are 10 checkpoints. Let’s take a look at them.
- Gaurikund
- Bheembali
- Jungle Chatti
- Ram Bara
- Lincholi
- Channi Camp
- Chhota Lincholi
- Rudra Point
- Base Camp
- Kedarnath Temple
Make sure to reach the Kedarnath Temple before the evening aarti.
Kedarnath Trek Route Length
- The distance from Gaurikund to Jangalchatti is around 4 km.
- The distance from Jungle Chatti to Bheembali is around 3 km.
- The distance from Bheembali to Linchauli is around 4 km.
- The distance from Linchauli to Kedarnath Base Camp is around 4 km.
- The distance from Kedarnath Base Camp to Kedarnath Temple is around 4 km.
Best Time for Kedarnath Trek
- September to November and May to June is considered to be the best time to undertake the Kedarnath Trek as the weather is pleasant and moderate during this time of the year.
- Avoid undertaking treks during the monsoon season which typically lasts from July to August due to the chances of flooding and landslides.
Timings for the Trek
- For upcoming visitors, the last time is around 5 pm.
- For downgoing visitors, the last time is around 6 pm.
While undertaking the trek you should keep in mind that the trek’s duration may vary depending on the weather condition and the trek’s duration. You’re advised to undertake the trek under an experienced trekking guide’s guidance. Carry all the essential supplies and gear required for the trek.
Tips To Help Strengthen Your Body For A Trek
If your physical condition is not good or haven’t done a workout, follow these tips that will help you prepare for the Kedarnath trek.
When preparing for the trek, you need to focus on:
- Core
- Legs
- Shoulder
Another important factor is good breathing but with regular workouts, you will develop it automatically.
Here are a few tips you can follow to prepare for the trek.
Build Core & Upper Body Strength
Your upper body strength should be good if you have to carry on your back a heavy backpack throughout your trek. You can do a few exercises to build your upper body strength.
Pushups
Pushups are considered to be a great exercise to build in your upper body a good amount of strength. Regular pushups will help you in carrying heavy backpacks throughout the trek.
Strength Training
Strength training is considered to be an excellent way to help build muscles. As you embark on the Kedarnath Trek, you will find a lot of descends and ascends. You should develop the stomach and the muscles that surround it called the core. Strengthening the core is considered to be a great way to get your body ready for descending through and climbing the terrains.
Strengthen Your Legs
While trekking you will have to walk for long hours, making it important to build your leg strength. You can do the following exercises to strengthen your legs:
Jogging/Running
Jogging and running are ideal exercises to build your leg muscles that protect the knees and ankles and help boost your cardiovascular system. With slow jogging, you can start, with 1-2 km, and increase the distance slowly day by day.
Lunges and Squats
Both lunges and squats are perfect for strengthening the muscles of your leg. They can also be helpful in developing the core muscles.
Uphill Training
You’re recommended to add to your workout regime uphill training.
Conclusion
To have a smooth and enjoyable trekking experience to the Kedarnath shrine you need to be physically fit and have good stamina. You should also pack all the essentials required for the Yatra and start preparing for the trek at least one month before the yatra.
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