Nearest Railway Station to Kedarnath, Route Map & Train List

If you’re planning to visit Kedarnath, you probably already know—it’s not just a destination, it’s a journey of finding inner peace. Whether you are on a spiritual quest, need a thrill of adventure, or just want to get close to the Himalayas and fully perceive them, there is a lot of emotion in this journey.

But before any of that, there’s the practical stuff. Like how to actually get there.

There’s a pretty good chance you’ve been seeking answers to questions such as “Kedarnath nearest railway station name” or “how to reach Kedarnath by train” and have felt that the information did not come in a structured way. This is exactly the reason why we are here with this one stop solution for all your needs, to help you understand how to go to Kedarnath.

Is There a Train to Kedarnath?

Let’s start with what many first-time travelers are surprised to learn: there is no direct railway station near Kedarnath Temple.

It’s not because no one’s tried. It’s simply because the temple sits at an altitude of over 11,700 feet in the Himalayas, in one of the most rugged and remote terrains in northern India. You can’t run trains on cliff edges and glaciers. Not yet, anyway.

So, the journey becomes a combination of train + road + trek. And while that might sound complicated, the truth is—it’s what makes the experience so memorable.

So What’s the Nearest Railway Station to Kedarnath?

The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh (RKSH), which is approximately 210 km away. While there isn’t a railway station directly at Kedarnath, Rishikesh is well-connected to major Indian cities by train. From Rishikesh, you can then take a bus or taxi to Gaurikund, the last motorable point before the trek to Kedarnath Temple.

There are two main railway stations that travelers use as starting points for the Kedarnath route:

Rishikesh Railway Station (Station Code: RKSH)

• Distance from Kedarnath: Around 210 km

• Good to know: This is technically the closest railway station to the temple. However, it’s a small station with fewer train options. Most long-distance trains terminate at Haridwar instead.

• What it’s like:Think of Rishikesh as more calming and less congested than Haridwar, however, this comes in a package with lower crowds and lack of good transport facilities. It is a perfect place to start your journey to Kedarnath if you’re already in Uttarakhand or coming from nearby areas.

Also Explore- Nearest Railway Station to Rishikesh

Haridwar Railway Station (Station Code: HW)

• Distance from Kedarnath: Roughly 240 km
  
  Why choose it: Haridwar is a bustling town and plays an important role as the major transit point of all the important railways and trains running throughout the country to Haridwar linked with all the major cities of India-Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, Madras, places like Ahmedabad in the West and many more.

• What it’s like: Haridwar is more crowded and more developed than Rishikesh, but it is university more adequate for the majority of people.

If you’re from out of town and cannot find a place to stay at Kedarnath, your next stop would have to be Haridwar and then Rishikesh. This, of course will be easiest to people who will be stopping for the day at Kedarnath while within Haldwani or even within Rishikesh and it would be easier to make the point from there.

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How to Reach Kedarnath from Haridwar or Rishikesh

Once you’ve reached Haridwar or Rishikesh, the real journey begins. And let us tell you, it’s not going to be easy at all. In fact, reaching Kedarnath will test your strength, dedication and devotion in reaching Lord Shiva’s home. 

You’ll now need to switch to road travel. Most people book a shared cab, private taxi, or state-run bus to go further into the hills.

Here’s a breakdown of the road route:

Haridwar/Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath (trek)

• From Haridwar to Sonprayag: Approx. 225 km (8–10 hours by road)

• From Sonprayag to Gaurikund: 5 km (local jeeps available)

• From Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple: 16 km trek

The road journey is scenic but long, winding, and sometimes tiring. Make sure you’re well-rested and prepared for mountain driving.

Popular Trains to Reach Kedarnath (via Haridwar/Rishikesh)

Here are some well-known trains that can bring you to Haridwar or Rishikesh. Choose one based on where you’re starting your journey:

These trains run regularly during the pilgrimage season, but tickets get booked quickly—especially in April–June. So yes, book early!

Best Time to Visit Kedarnath

The Kedarnath Temple remains closed for the most part of the year. due to the conditions in the region in regards to extreme cold and high altitude. For devotees, it is said to be opened for not more than six months.

The Temple Opens:

• Around late April or early May (exact date depends on Akshaya Tritiya)
  

The Temple Closes:

• Around late October or early November (after Diwali)
  

Ideal Time to Visit:

• May to June: Summer months; clear skies, bearable cold
  
• September to mid-October: Post-monsoon freshness; fewer people, great trekking weather

When to Avoid:

• July & August: Heavy monsoon rains; landslides are common
  
• November to March: The temple is closed; high snow levels
  

Make sure that you cross verify the temple calendar dates, the official temple calendar, too whenever you decide for a temple. Also, have at least a one or two-day buffer because heaven knows what weather will keep you sitting in the hills for an extra day.

Also Know- Best Places to Go in October in India

Places to Explore Near Kedarnath

After traveling all the way up to Kedarnath, you should not miss the opportunity to also visit the beautiful environment surrounding it. Whether it be spiritual sites, hidden lakes, or tranquil villages, this area offers more than what you may imagine.

Gaurikund

Your journey begins from this point. The location is named after the Goddess Parvati (Gauri), it’s a popular belief that she sat in meditation here so Lord Shiva would marry her. 

There is also a natural hot water spring where you can bathe in. It is said that the water is healing and people who have traveled for a long distance say it feels great as the water is warm.

Triyuginarayan Temple

Triyuginarayan is a serene shrine with a possibly centuries-old flame ever burning supposedly from the time of Shiva and Parvati’s marriage.

It is situated in the depths of mythic ambiance, in the middle of the peaceful surroundings around some 25 kms away from Sonprayag on foot.

Bhairav Temple

Some distance beyond Kedarnath Temple, there is a small temple of a deity named Bhairon. This temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairavnath, a manifestation of Lord Shiva, and is considered to be the protecting deity of Kedarnath. This temple can be seen from a distance across the valley and even within the valley from certain locations.

You will be afforded enchanting and exceptional sights from here. You see the entire valley of Kedarnath below, and early in the day, one can hope to have the place to themselves.

Vasuki Tal

Lake Vasuki Tal is an alpine lake of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India, that requires a challenging 5 mile walk from the town of Kedarnath for one to reach the lake. It may take a little effort, but people who are interested in extreme tourism and wish to see something exclusive will always remember such a location. It is peaceful and calm, perfect to relax and meditate. It is the kind of serene place where the only thing that can be heard for miles around is the sound of the mountain breeze wisping by.

Rudraprayag & Guptkashi

These are sites / towns that you shall come across on the way. At Rudraprayag, you will find that the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers combine here. It is considered a highly sacred place.

In Guptkashi, the place has a lot of ancient temples and beautiful views in the mountains. Everyone should be able to regroup a bit at this point while spending the night before the trail or even after finishing the path.

Travel Tips for Kedarnath Pilgrims

Performing the Kedarnath Yatra is more than just reaching the temple; it is crucial to do it with the care of the mountain and yourself. Here are several pieces of advice that are usually given by experienced pilgrims.

• Start walking soon after sunrise: Goal is to start around 5-6 in the morning. The climate here is very inhospitable.
  
• Put on sturdy shoes: This is not a time for comfortable walking sneakers. Make sure you are wearing strong shoes otherwise you might get tired or injured while walking.
  
• Dress in layers: In the morning, it can cause sunburns and in the afternoon, the chill could take you by surprise.
  
• Don’t forget to take care of yourself: in other words, carry some nuts sent with you, and some water, a pain killer, a torch, a first aid kit and glucose.
  
• Be alert and listen to your body: Is your chest pulling in tight or has your head exploded? Stop, sit down, rehydrate.
  
• Network will fade: Download offline maps, inform family in advance.
  
• Book accommodation early: Especially during peak months.
  
• Stay humble: Remember, this is a sacred space for many.
  
• Do not throw trash publicly: It is most important to remember that Kedarnath and all the surrounding areas are sacred. Dispose off trash in the bins only. 

The most important thing is to enjoy the journey. Breathe in the mountain air. Watch the clouds roll by. Let the quietness teach you something.