Planning a trip to Kedarnath? It all begins with reaching Gaurikund — the final stop before the trek. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a nature lover, or simply curious about the Himalayas, knowing how to get from Rishikesh to Gaurikund makes your journey smoother and more enjoyable. From road routes and transport options to travel tips and what to expect on the way, we’ve got everything you need to make this part of your yatra hassle-free and memorable.
Distance from Rishikesh to Gaurikund
The distance between Rishikesh and Gaurikund is approximately 210 kilometers by road. However, due to the mountainous terrain and winding roads, the journey can take around 8 to 10 hours depending on weather and traffic conditions.
Route Map and Road Conditions
Most Common Route:
Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Sonprayag → Gaurikund
This scenic route offers a breathtaking journey through the Garhwal Himalayas. Here’s a quick breakdown of the major halts along the route:
Rishikesh to Devprayag (70 km): Smooth road, riverside drive along the Ganga
Devprayag to Srinagar (35 km): Some winding sections
Srinagar to Rudraprayag (35 km): Good road with moderate traffic
Rudraprayag to Guptkashi (50 km): Starts getting mountainous
Guptkashi to Sonprayag (30 km): Narrow, hilly terrain
Sonprayag to Gaurikund (5 km): Only local shuttle/jeep available
Note: Private vehicles are not allowed beyond Sonprayag. You must take a shared jeep or local transport from Sonprayag to Gaurikund.
Transportation Options from Rishikesh to Gaurikund
1. By Private Car or Taxi
Hiring a private car or taxi from Rishikesh to Gaurikund is one of the most comfortable options. It gives you the flexibility to stop at any of the Panch Prayags en route.
Estimated Cost: ₹5000 – ₹7000 (One-way)
Time Taken: 8 to 10 hours
Vehicle Type: Innova, Bolero, Ertiga (recommended for hilly roads)
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2. By Bus (Government or Private)
Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private buses operate between Rishikesh and Sonprayag. From Sonprayag, a local jeep will take you to Gaurikund.
Departure Point: Rishikesh Bus Stand (near Railway Station)
Timings: Early morning (3:00 AM – 6:00 AM)
Fare: ₹400 – ₹600
Duration: 10–12 hours (including stops)
3. Shared Taxis
For budget travelers, shared taxis from Rishikesh to Guptkashi or Sonprayag are available at major taxi stands. You may have to switch vehicles en route.
Fare: ₹800 – ₹1200 per person
Best For: Solo travelers or backpackers
Best Time to Travel
The road to Gaurikund remains open from April/May to November, depending on weather conditions. During monsoon months (July–August), landslides are common.
Importance of Gaurikund
Gaurikund holds immense religious significance as the starting point of the Kedarnath trek. It is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati meditated to win Lord Shiva’s heart. The temple of Gauri Devi and the natural hot water spring here attract thousands of devotees.
Pilgrims often take a dip in the Gaurikund hot spring before starting the Kedarnath trek as a ritual purification.
Gaurikund to Kedarnath Trek Info
Once you reach Gaurikund, the 16 km uphill trek to Kedarnath Temple begins. Trekking options include:
On Foot: 6–8 hours for average fitness levels
Pony/Mule Services: ₹2500 – ₹4000
Palanquins (Dandi/Kandi): ₹6000 – ₹9000
Helicopter (from Phata/Guptkashi): ₹2500 – ₹4000 (one-way)
Mandatory Registration for the Kedarnath trek is available online at the Uttarakhand Tourism Portal or offline at Sonprayag.
Where to stay between Rishikesh and Gaurikund
Here are some reliable stay options between Rishikesh and Gaurikund:
Guptkashi:
1. GMVN Tourist Rest House
2. Kedar Valley Resort
3. Hotel Himalayan Comforts
Sonprayag:
1. Hotel Devlok
2. Hotel Jagat Raj
3. Tented Camps
Gaurikund also has budget dharamshalas and guesthouses for pilgrims, though availability during peak season is limited.
4-Day Rishikesh to Kedarnath Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh & Local Sightseeing
1. Morning: Arrive in Rishikesh (by train, flight to Dehradun + taxi, or bus)
2. Check-in at your hotel or ashram
3. Visit Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan, Ram Jhula, and Lakshman Jhula
4. Attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat in the evening
5. Dinner & overnight stay in Rishikesh
Day 2: Rishikesh to Guptkashi/Sonprayag (Drive – 210 km / 8–10 hours)
1. Start early (around 4:00 AM) to avoid traffic
2. En route, visit Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Srinagar
3. Reach Guptkashi or Sonprayag by evening
4. Check into your hotel or guesthouse
5. Dinner & overnight stay
Tip: Guptkashi is a better place to stay due to more amenities. Sonprayag has limited options.
Day 3: Guptkashi/Sonprayag to Kedarnath (16 km Trek)
1. Early morning: Drive or take a shared jeep from Guptkashi to Sonprayag, then to Gaurikund
2. Start the 16 km trek to Kedarnath (on foot or by mule/palanquin)
3. Reach Kedarnath by afternoon or evening
4. Visit Kedarnath Temple and attend the evening aarti
5. Stay overnight in Kedarnath (GMVN camps or guesthouses)
Day 4: Kedarnath to Rishikesh (Trek Down + Drive)
1. Wake up early and visit Kedarnath Temple again if missed
2. Start the trek back to Gaurikund
3. Take jeep from Gaurikund to Sonprayag, and drive back to Rishikesh
4. Reach Rishikesh by late evening or night
5. End of the trip or stay an extra night in Rishikesh for rest
Optional Tips:
1. If you’re short on time, you can use helicopter services (from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi)
2. Always keep buffer time for weather delays, especially during monsoon
3. Register online for the Char Dham Yatra e-pass before starting your trip
Travel Tips for Rishikesh to Gaurikund
1. Start Early: Leave Rishikesh by 4:00 AM to avoid traffic and reach Sonprayag before dark.
2. Check Weather Forecast: Heavy rains or landslides can delay or block roads.
3. Book Hotels in Advance: Especially during Kedarnath Yatra season (May–June, Sept–Oct).
4. Keep Essentials Handy: Power bank, snacks, water, medicines, raincoat, etc.
5. ATM & Fuel Stations: Available at Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi.
Essential Contact Information
Final Travel Summary
Guest Photo Gallery
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