Amit Khanna
Sameer Staff answered 3 months ago
Kedarnath, a significant pilgrimage site in Uttarakhand, India, offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors. Here are the details for first-time visitors:
Accommodation Options in Kedarnath
GMVN Guest Houses and Tourist Bungalows:
Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) operates guest houses and tourist bungalows in Kedarnath. These are budget-friendly and provide basic amenities.
Facilities: Clean rooms, attached bathrooms, hot water, and simple meals.
Booking: Advance booking can be done online through the GMVN website.
Dharmashalas:
Several religious trusts and organizations operate dharmashalas (pilgrim rest houses) offering free or low-cost accommodation.
Facilities: Basic lodging with shared bathrooms and common dining areas.
Popular Dharmashalas: Bharat Seva Ashram Sangha, Swarg Ashram Trust.
Tented Camps:
During the pilgrimage season, tented camps are set up by private operators.
Facilities: Tents with beds, blankets, and basic sanitation facilities.
Location: These camps are typically located near the temple and provide a rustic experience.
Private Hotels and Lodges:
Several private hotels and lodges offer a range of accommodation options from budget to mid-range.
Facilities: Rooms with attached bathrooms, hot water, room service, and meals.
Popular Options: New Himachal House, Punjab Sindh Awas, Bikaner House.
Yatri Niwas:
Government-run Yatri Niwas provides budget accommodation specifically for pilgrims.
Facilities: Dormitory-style accommodation with shared facilities.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Advance Booking: Due to the high influx of pilgrims, especially during the peak season (May to June and September to October), it’s advisable to book accommodation in advance.
Clothing: Carry warm clothing, as the weather in Kedarnath can be quite cold, especially at night.
Altitude Sickness: Be prepared for high altitude conditions; take necessary precautions and consult a doctor if you have health concerns.
Travel Light: Pack light but include essentials like a torch, raincoat, first aid kit, and personal medications.
Food: Most accommodations offer simple vegetarian meals, but it’s a good idea to carry some dry snacks and energy bars.
Connectivity: Mobile network coverage can be patchy, so inform your family and friends about limited connectivity.
Weather Conditions: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. It’s advisable to check weather updates before your trip.
How to Reach Kedarnath
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 238 km away.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, about 216 km away.
By Road: Kedarnath is connected by road up to Gaurikund, from where you need to trek 16 km to reach the temple. Pony, palanquin, and helicopter services are available from Gaurikund for those who prefer not to trek.
Additional Information
Trekking Route: The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is scenic but challenging. It’s recommended to start early in the morning.
Helicopter Service: Several private operators offer helicopter services from Phata, Sersi, Guptkashi, and Sitapur to Kedarnath, providing a quick and comfortable alternative to trekking.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to October, avoiding the monsoon season (July to August) due to the risk of landslides and heavy rainfall.
For more information and booking, you can visit the official websites of GMVN and other trusted travel portals.