Badrinath travel guide

Distance between Badrinath and Kedarnath

The aerial distance between Badrinath Temple and Kedarnath Temple is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles). However, due to the rugged terrain and lack of direct roads connecting the two temples, the actual travel distance is much greater.

Route Options:

1. Road Route:

While there is no direct road route between Badrinath and Kedarnath due to the challenging terrain, travelers can opt for a combination of road and trekking routes to reach their destination. The most common route involves traveling from Badrinath to Joshimath, then proceeding to Gaurikund, the base camp for Kedarnath trek.

  • Badrinath to Joshimath: The distance between Badrinath and Joshimath is approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) and can be covered by road. Joshimath serves as a major hub for pilgrims visiting Badrinath and is well-connected by buses and taxis.
  • Joshimath to Gaurikund: From Joshimath, travelers need to proceed to Gaurikund, which is around 221 kilometers (137 miles) away. This stretch of the journey involves traveling through picturesque landscapes and requires a combination of road transport and trekking.

2. Trekking Route:

The trekking route from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple is one of the most popular pilgrimage treks in India, known as the Kedarnath Trek. It spans approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) and takes pilgrims through rugged mountain trails, picturesque valleys, and pristine forests.

Time Required:

The journey from Badrinath to Kedarnath via the road and trekking route typically takes multiple days to complete due to the distance and challenging terrain. Travelers need to allocate sufficient time for travel, acclimatization, and rest during the pilgrimage.

Weather Considerations:

Both Badrinath and Kedarnath are situated at high altitudes amidst the Himalayas, making them susceptible to extreme weather conditions, especially during the winter months. Pilgrims are advised to plan their journey during the summer and early autumn months when the weather is more favorable for travel and trekking.