How to Reach Kedarnath to Badrinath

The Kedarnath to Badrinath route is the shrine stretch of the reversed Chardham Yatra. Pilgrims who have had darshan at Kedarnath (The jyotirlinga of Shiva) journey next to Badrinath ( Home of Lord Vishnu) Cover roughly 210-225 km through Himalayan terrain, this segment unite two major spiritual center over 8-11 hours, depend on route and mode. 

Tourists travel from Kedarnath to Gaurikund (16-18 km trek), then continue via Sonprayag by road through Ukhimath, Chopta, Gopeshwar, Joshimath and Vishnuprayag. Some choose routes shorter but rough roads via Chopta, and others choose longer but better maintained highways via Rudraprayag. Chardham Yatra by Helicopter transfer shortcuts between helispots. 

This path is not a way to travel, it is a chance to feel the divine of the Himalayas. As you move ahead, you also think about the gods and your purpose. This path takes you to the final and highest point of the Char Dham Yatra, where everything ends with the holy darshan of Lord Badrinarayan.

Distance between Kedarnath to Badrinath

The major Question which arises “How far is Badrinath from Kedarnath?”As both are located near Uttarakhand but there is no direct road connection. This mean distance will depend on how you will travel, by which transport. Let’s break down in simple way. 

Travel time can vary depending on the road condition and weather. By Road it can take 8 to 10 hours and by Helicopter it can only take 15-20 minutes. So while helicopters cover less distance and save time, it depends on the weather. 

Understanding the distance helps you plan your journey. If you prefer by road, then you will go on long journeys. If you prefer speed and comfort then go for helicopters. 

How to Reach Kedarnath to Badrinath by Road

It is one of the beautiful yet challenging parts of Chardham Yatra. They are not directly connected by a single road. That’s why you need a proper plan for your road journey. 

Step by Step Road Journey 

Step 1: The journey starts from Kedarnath, as it is located in mountains and does not have moderate roads. You have to walk to Gaurikund. You can do this by foot or palki. 

Step 2: From Gaurikund take a jeep or taxi to Sonprayag. It will be the shortest drive. Transport will only be allowed to go to Sonprayag due to traffic restrictions. 

Step 3: From Sonprayag your journey begins by taking a bus or taxi to Rudraprarag, which passes from Guptkashi and Agastyamuni. The roads are hilly and have many rest points near the road. 

Step 4: Then from Rudraprayag it will be the longest journey. On the way you will drive through Karnaprayag, Nandprayag, Chamoli and Pipalkoti before reaching Joshimath. The entire route is full of mountain views, river valleys and small towns.

Step 5: The last stop is Joshimath to Badrinath. The roads are narrow. Always check the opening and closing times as these roads are closed for safety reasons.

How to Reach Kedarnath to Badrinath by Helicopter

If you want to cover your journey in a small time or travelling with elderly or children. Then Helicopter is the best way to reach. There is no direct Helicopter route from Kedarnath to Badrinath, but you can easily connect to Helicopter service by nearby Helipads. It is best for those who want to complete their yata in a short time. 

Step-by-step

1. After Kedarnath Darshan, take a helicopter ride from the helipad where you have started. Most tourists use Phata, Sersi or Guptkashi helipad. The flight is around 8 to 10 minutes.
2. From the same Helipad you can book Helicopter that goes to Badrinath. These are generally part of Chardham or Do Dham Helicopter packages. But it requires advance booking. 

Important things to keep in mind before Booking

• Book your Helicopter seat early, especially if you are travelling during the busy season..
• Each helicopter carries a few passengers at a time, seats are limited. 
• They don’t fly in bad weather. 
• Always carry your valid ID and see the guidelines issued by the Helicopter department.

Travelling from Helicopter is a convenient way. It not only saves time but also gives you comfort and beautiful views of Himalayan Range. This is truly the Best Option for a stress free experience during your Chardham Yatra. 

Places to stop between Kedarnath to Badrinath 

Travelling from Kedarnath to Badrinath offers many Beautiful views. The midways stops are not for break, they are a part of a spiritual journey. 

Gaurikund

From Kedarnath you will reach Gaurikund, it is the starting point of your road journey. People used to believe that Goddess Parvati meditated here to get Lord Shiva. There is a small temple dedicated to her and near the temple there is a hot water spring, where pilgrims often come. 

Facilities: 

• Shared Jeeps and Taxis
• Tea stalls and small dhabas
• Basic lodges.

Guptkashi 

Guptkashi is covered with snow and known for Ardhnarishwar and Vishwanath Temple. Where many tourists stop there for blessings. Good place to eat for the night. 

Why stop here: 

• Clean hotels and guest houses
• Nearby helipad at Phata and Sersi
• Medical and food facilities

Rudraprayag

It is the point where Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers meet. The town is very spiritual with ancient temples and river views. Most people stay here for a break. 

What Makes it Special:

• Holy river confluence
• Shri Koteshwar Mahadev Temple
• Availability of transport, fuel, and hospitals

Karnaprayag

The town is named after Karna from Mahabharat, who believed to meditate here. The Pinder River meets the Alaknanda river. You can enjoy the peaceful sound of flowing water. 

Why Pilgrims Like It:

• Historical significance
• Budget-friendly lodges
• Small food joints and shops

Chamoli

This is a district town with calm and beautiful valleys. Good place to eat lunch or refill your supplies before continuing to Joshimath.

Special Points:

• Local market for snacks, dry fruits
• Petrol pumps
• Police and medical help available

Joshimath

The base point to visit Badrinath, It is also a winter seat of Lord Badrinaryan. You can find many good hotels here, along with ATMs, restaurants, and shops selling puja items. It’s better to stay here for a night and start for Badrinath early in the morning.

Major Attractions:

• Narsingh Temple
• Adi Shankaracharya Math
• Ropeway to Auli (optional)

Travel Tips for Kedarnath to Badrinath Journey 

1. Start your day with travelling early in the morning. Mountains are best to cover during daylight. It’s safer, you’ll get fewer traffic jams, and if any delays happen, you’ll still reach your next stop before dark.
2. Pack light but smartly

You don’t need heavy luggage. Carry only what’s essential:

• Warm clothes, even in summer
• Raincoat or umbrella
• Basic medicines like pain killer, paracetamol, and motion sickness tablets
• Dry fruits, Snacks, and water bottles
• Power bank, torch, and extra batteries

3. Book the taxi and jeep from the authorized center. Shared jeeps are common and cheap, but if you’re with elders, consider booking a private cab for comfort.
4. Check the latest road updates from locals or hotel staff. Landslides, roadblocks, and sudden rain can delay or cancel travel. During monsoon or early snowfall, some roads between Joshimath and Badrinath may temporarily close. 
5. Mobile networks may not work properly in higher regions. Keep enough cash with you because ATMs don’t always work, and many places don’t accept cards.

Final Thoughts

Travelling from Badrinath to Kedarnath is not just a question of hilly areas or crossing rivers but it is one of faith, patience and humility. It links two Jyotirlingas of Shiva and Vishnu, but in doing so, it links the soul with divinity. As you bid adieu to the bells of Kedarnath and head towards the serene darshan of Badrinath ji, your heart gradually starts to feel relaxed. The weary body might hurt, but the inner calm continues to increase. For each yatri, this journey becomes an individual account, a challenge of health, power, time, and above all, bhakti. Whether you go by road, by train, by bus, or by Chardham Yatra by Helicopter it is how true your intention should be.

Common FaQ

Q.1 How do you travel from Kedarnath to Badrinath in a way that’s comfortable for older people and children?
Take a helicopter. It’s quick, skips the bumpy roads, and saves time and effort. You go off down from Kedarnath to a helipad like Phata or Sersi, then get on another chopper to Badrinath. Just book early, seats go fast in peak season.

Q.2 Can we complete our Do Dham (Kedarnath and Badrinath) in one day?
Yes, you can, but only if you start super early. On the road, you trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund (16 km). Then you drive non-stop through Sonprayag, Rudraprayag, Joshimath, and land at Badrinath in the evening. Or if you take helicopters, it’s under an hour total depending on weather permitting. Always have a backup plan though.

Q.3 What are the best places to take a break on the way?
Take your time at Guptkashi, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Chamoli—every stop has something special to offer. Joshimath is a great overnight stop as it has hotels, food and even hospitals. These aren’t just rest breaks, they’re part of your spiritual flow.

Q.4 Is the road safe during monsoon?
No. July and August turn the roads into risky messes, mud, rain, landslides. If your heart’s set on this trip, check with locals before you go. Better yet, wait till after monsoon.

Q.5 Do you need to book things ahead of time?
Yes, Whether it’s a jeep, taxi, or chopper book early, especially in May and June. Hotels fill up fast. And don’t forget your yatra registration. It’s mandatory now, no ID, no entry.

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