Vaishno Devi to Kedarnath Distance: Complete Information of a Holy Journey
Vaishno Devi to Kedarnath Distance is not just a geographical measurement, but it is a sacred journey associated with faith, devotion and spiritual experiences. Two major pilgrimage sites of India – Vaishno Devi (Jammu and Kashmir) and Kedarnath (Uttarakhand) – become the center of faith for millions of devotees every year.
In this article, we will know in detail:
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What is the distance from Vaishno Devi to Kedarnath?
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What are the main routes of travel?
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Which medium is the best?
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What is the time, cost and necessary preparation in the journey?
🛕 Vaishno Devi and Kedarnath: Two centers of faith
Vaishno Devi Temple is situated on the Trikuta Hills and is the main place of worship of three forms of Mata Shakti – Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati.
Kedarnath Temple is one of the Panch Kedars dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located at an altitude of 3584 meters. It is also an important part of the Char Dham Yatra.
🧭 What is the distance from Vaishno Devi to Kedarnath?
Vaishno Devi to Kedarnath Distance can be around 816 to 900 kilometers by road. This distance can be slightly up or down according to the route and transportation chosen.
🚍 Major routes and travel options
✨ Option 1: Train + Bus (Most popular and economical)
📌 Route 1 (around 817 km):
Katra → Jammu → Pathankot → Ambala → Saharanpur → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Gaurikund → Kedarnath (18 km trek)
Travel time: around 18-19 hours
Advantage: Route is simple and suitable for travellers
📌 Route 2 (around 870 km):
Katra → Jammu → Jalandhar → Ludhiana → Ambala → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Gaurikund → Kedarnath
Travel time: around 20-21 hours
Advantage: Roads Better, comfortable journey
🚉 Step-by-step description
1️⃣ Katra to Jammu Tawi (50 km)
Easily accessible by taxi/bus
Time: 1.5 hours
2️⃣ Jammu to Haridwar/Rishikesh (by train)
Trains: Hemkunt Express, Jammu Tawi Express
Time: 10-12 hours
3️⃣ Haridwar/Rishikesh to Gaurikund
By bus, taxi or shared cab
Distance: 210 km
Time: 8-10 hours
4️⃣ Gaurikund to Kedarnath (trek)
On foot, horse, cane or helicopter options
Distance: 18 km
Time: 6-10 hours
🛫 Option 2: Air travel + helicopter
✈️ Jammu to Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport)
Flight time: 1.5 to 3 hours
Cost: ₹4500 – ₹18000
🚖 Dehradun to Gaurikund
8 hours by taxi/bus
Helicopter service (available from Phata, Guptkashi, Sirsi)
🚁 Helicopter service to Kedarnath
Flight time: 10-15 minutes
Cost: ₹2500 – ₹6000 (one way)
🧗♂️ Gaurikund to Kedarnath Trek: Challenges and Tips
The 18 km long trek is part of the toughest but most sacred journey of Vaishno Devi to Kedarnath Distance. It is full of high altitude, cold and difficult paths.
✔️ Trek Preparation:
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Physical Exercise: Make it a habit to do daily walks, yoga, and climbing stairs before the trek
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Package: Woolen clothes, waterproof jackets, medicines, energy bars, water
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Accommodation: Dharamshala, tents, hotels in Gaurikund and Kedarnath – book in advance
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Network and Payment: Network is limited in Kedarnath area, keep some cash
📅 Best Time to Visit
| Month | Travel Conditions |
|---|---|
| May – June | Best – Clear weather |
| July – August | Avoid – Heavy rain |
| September – October | Best – Post monsoon |
| November – April | Closed – Snowfall and temple remains closed |
💰 Estimated Expense Details
| Trip Part | Expense (₹ Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Katra – Jammu | ₹500 – ₹800 |
| Jammu – Rishikesh Train | ₹600 – ₹1200 |
| Rishikesh – Gaurikund | ₹800 – ₹1500 |
| Gaurikund – Kedarnath Trek | ₹0 – ₹3500 |
| Accommodation and food | ₹2000 – ₹4000 |
| Total Expenses | ₹3500 – ₹9000+ |
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ What is the Vaishno Devi to Kedarnath Distance?
Answer: The distance by road is 816 – 900 kilometers.
❓ What is the distance from Gaurikund to Kedarnath?
Answer: 18 kilometers, which can be covered on foot, mule or helicopter.
❓ Are there other 'Kedars' apart from Kedarnath?
Answer: Yes, Panch Kedar includes:
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Tungnath
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Rudranath
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Madhyamaheshwar
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Kalpeshwar
❓ Which is the best route?
Answer: Train + bus combination is cheap and practical. If time is short then flight + helicopter will be better.
✅ Conclusion
Vaishno Devi to Kedarnath Distance may be 800+ kilometers, but this journey gives an opportunity to absorb the depth of devotion, beauty of Himalayas and spiritual heritage of India.
If you do this journey with proper planning, preparation and true devotion, then this experience can become an unforgettable chapter of your life.
🙏 Jai Mata Di! Har Har Mahadev!