If you are planning a spiritual journey to Uttarakhand, the Kedarnath to Badrinath distance is one of the most frequently searched travel questions. Both temples are part of the sacred Chardham Yatra, and thousands of devotees travel between these two holy destinations every year. Although both temples are located in the Garhwal Himalayas, the roads, terrain, and travel conditions are entirely different, making this journey exciting yet challenging.
This detailed, original, and fully SEO-optimized guide explains everything you need to know about the Kedarnath to Badrinath distance, routes, travel time, transport modes, best season, quick travel options, and tips for a smooth yatra.
What is the Kedarnath to Badrinath Distance?
The total distance from Kedarnath to Badrinath is approximately 220 km–250 km, depending on the route and road conditions.
However, Kedarnath is not directly connected by motor road. You must first trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund and then continue the road journey toward Badrinath.
So the complete breakdown is:
➡ Kedarnath to Gaurikund trek: 16 km
➡ Gaurikund to Badrinath road distance: ~205 km–230 km
➡ Total Kedarnath to Badrinath distance: ~220–250 km
Route Overview: How to Travel from Kedarnath to Badrinath?
Since Kedarnath has no motorable roads, the journey begins with a downhill trek to Gaurikund. From there, the drive towards Badrinath passes through Guptkashi, Chopta, Chamoli, and Joshimath.
Most Common Route:
Kedarnath → Gaurikund → Sonprayag → Guptkashi → Ukhimath → Chopta → Mandal → Chamoli → Joshimath → Badrinath
This route is scenic and smooth, offering majestic views of the Himalayas, alpine forests, and river valleys.
Kedarnath to Badrinath Distance – Segment-Wise Breakdown
Here is the detailed segment-wise distance and time:
| Route Segment | Distance | Mode | Approx Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kedarnath to Gaurikund | 16 km | Trek | 5–7 hours |
| Gaurikund to Sonprayag | 4 km | Jeep/Shared Cab | 15–20 min |
| Sonprayag to Guptkashi | 30 km | Road | 1 hr |
| Guptkashi to Ukhimath | 13 km | Road | 30 min |
| Ukhimath to Chopta | 29 km | Road | 1 hr |
| Chopta to Mandal | 13 km | Road | 30 min |
| Mandal to Chamoli | 25 km | Road | 1 hr |
| Chamoli to Joshimath | 56 km | Road | 2 hrs |
| Joshimath to Badrinath | 45 km | Road | 1.5 hrs |
➡ Total Road Distance: ~215–230 km
➡ Total Travel Time: 10–12 hours (excluding trek)
Travel Time from Kedarnath to Badrinath
The total time required depends on:
- Trekking speed
- Weather conditions
- Traffic
- Road repairs or landslides
- Time of departure
Average Travel Time:
- Trek to Gaurikund: 5–7 hours
- Drive to Badrinath: 9–11 hours
✔ Overall Time = 14–18 hours
Most pilgrims split the journey and stay one night in Guptkashi, Ukhimath, or Chopta before continuing to Badrinath the next morning.
Best Way to Travel from Kedarnath to Badrinath
There are mainly three options:
1. Trek + Road Travel (Most Popular)
This is the most common and practical way to travel.
Process:
- Trek from Kedarnath to Gaurikund
- Take jeep to Sonprayag
- Hire taxi/bus to Badrinath
Ideal For:
- Budget travelers
- Families
- Group pilgrims
2. Helicopter Travel (Fastest Option)
Helicopter service connects Kedarnath with Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi.
From there, you can take a helicopter to Badrinath (if available) or continue the journey by road.
Two Ways to Use Helicopter:
✔ Option A: Kedarnath → Sersi/Phata → Badrinath (Direct Helicopter Package)
This is available in peak season (limited seats).
✔ Option B: Kedarnath → Sersi (Helicopter) → Road to Badrinath
This saves trekking time and is comfortable for senior citizens.
Ideal For:
- Senior travelers
- Premium travelers
- Those wanting a same-day darshan
3. Private Taxi / Car Rental
Hiring a private taxi from:
- Sonprayag
- Guptkashi
- Rudraprayag
- Joshimath
is the most comfortable road option.
Benefits:
- Flexible timing
- Multiple sightseeing stops
- Comfortable for families
Kedarnath to Badrinath Travel Cost
Travel cost varies depending on mode:
✔ Trekking Cost:
- Free (unless you hire pony/palanquin)
✔ Pony (Ghoda) Charges:
₹3,500 – ₹7,000 (one way)
✔ Helicopter Cost:
- Kedarnath to Sersi/Phata: ₹2,600 – ₹3,000
- Sersi/Phata to Badrinath: ₹8,000 – ₹12,000
- Kedarnath → Badrinath Premium Package: ₹80,000 – ₹1,20,000
✔ Taxi Cost from Sonprayag/Guptkashi to Badrinath:
₹6,000 – ₹12,000 (depending on vehicle type)
✔ Shared Taxi/Bus:
₹500 – ₹1,200 per person
Why is the Kedarnath to Badrinath Distance Long Despite Being Close on the Map?
Many pilgrims are surprised because the temples appear close on Google Maps.
However:
- Kedarnath lies in the Mandakini Valley
- Badrinath lies in the Alaknanda Valley
- Steep mountains and glaciers separate them
- No direct road is possible due to rocky Himalayan terrain
- Pilgrims must descend one valley and climb another
This makes the road journey longer.
Important Places En-Route from Kedarnath to Badrinath
The route between Kedarnath and Badrinath passes through many important spiritual and scenic locations.
1. Sonprayag
Famous for the confluence of Mandakini and Basuki rivers.
2. Guptkashi
Known for the Vishwanath Temple and Ardhnareshwar Temple.
3. Chopta (Mini Switzerland of India)
A breathtaking hill station known for dense forests and the base point of the Tungnath trek.
4. Chamoli
A beautiful district with rivers, valleys, and charming villages.
5. Joshimath
The winter seat of Lord Badri Vishal.
6. Govindghat
Starting point of:
- Valley of Flowers Trek
- Hemkund Sahib Yatra
7. Mana Village
India’s last village near Badrinath.
Best Time to Travel from Kedarnath to Badrinath
The ideal months:
✔ May to June (Summer)
Best weather, clear roads.
✔ September to October (Post-Monsoon)
Stable climate, fewer crowds.
Avoid:
- July–August (Heavy Landslides)
- Late October–April (Snowfall / Temple closed)
Safety Tips for Traveling from Kedarnath to Badrinath
- Start the journey early morning
- Avoid traveling at night due to landslide-prone zones
- Carry warm clothes (weather changes rapidly)
- Keep medicines, water, and light snacks
- Pre-book hotels in Joshimath or Badrinath
- Follow BRO (Border Roads Organisation) instructions
- Check temple opening/closing dates
Why Travel from Kedarnath to Badrinath?
Many pilgrims complete both Dhams together as:
- They are part of Char Dham Yatra
- Badrinath is considered the final dham
- Pilgrims believe visiting both brings spiritual completeness
The journey between the two shrines is filled with natural beauty, devotional charm, and unforgettable mountain views.
FAQs About Kedarnath to Badrinath Distance
1. What is the exact Kedarnath to Badrinath distance?
Around 220–250 km including trek + road.
2. Can I travel from Kedarnath to Badrinath in one day?
Yes, if you trek early and hire a private taxi. But a break in Guptkashi or Chopta is recommended.
3. Is there a direct helicopter from Kedarnath to Badrinath?
Yes, but only in peak months and limited seats.
4. What is the fastest way to reach Badrinath from Kedarnath?
Helicopter + private taxi combination.
5. Which is better: staying in Chopta or Joshimath en-route?
Chopta is scenic; Joshimath is practical with better facilities.
Conclusion
The Kedarnath to Badrinath distance may seem long, but the journey is spiritually fulfilling and naturally breathtaking. With a total travel distance of around 220–250 km, pilgrims must first trek down to Gaurikund and then proceed by road or helicopter to Badrinath.
Whether you’re traveling for devotion, adventure, or both, this route offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the Himalayas and divine blessings.