Top 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Kedarnath

Kedarnath is one of the most sacred places in India. It lies in the Himalayan valley and has an intense spiritual meaning besides its sublime beauty. The route to Kedarnath is not only tough but also full of experiences. And, if you are planning to take this holy pilgrimage, these are some of the important things better known so as to ensure your safety and enjoy the tour. 
Here are the top 10 tips before visiting Kedarnath that will get you ready for the journey.

1. Best Time to Visit

Kedarnath has severe winter times and is closed for nearly six months; it opens by late April or early May. May and June, as well as September and October, are the best months to visit as the weather is more favorable, and safer trails for the pilgrims. August is excluded as during that period of monsoon when heavy rains and landslides cause quite a lot of damage.

2. Physical Fitness is Key

The trek to Kedarnath involves ascension to the temple from Gaurikund, which is 16 km and may not be easy for those who have not been habitual of going to high altitudes or trekking. One needs to prepare well in advance by walking regularly, doing cardio exercises, or light treks for improvement in stamina. All this will make the journey much more friendly with physically fit individuals.

3. Book Accommodation in Advance

Kedarnath can get very congested during the pilgrimage season, so booking ahead for your lodging is advisable. There are plenty of choices, from humble lodges to government guest houses. And, what’s the point of staying elsewhere, like Sonprayag or Gaurikund, if Kedarnath is full?

4. Pack Wisely

Packing the right essentials is definitely necessary for your Kedarnath trip. Sometimes the weather can be unpredictable; therefore, you may require warm clothes in the summer. For the trip, you must carry strong trekking shoes, a raincoat, woolen socks, gloves, and a cap. All these things aside, you would hate to get burnt on the trek, so include energy bars, water bottles, sunscreen, a first aid kit, and other medicines that you may require. Drinking so much water is required so that you keep yourself hydrated and healthy during the trek.

5. Acclimatize to the Altitude

Kedarnath is at an altitude of 3,583 meters; it may not be pleasing to those with a fear of heights. It’s always better to acclimatize in one of the towns, either Guptkashi or Sonprayag, for a day or two before you push ahead on your trek. That minimizes the risk of altitude sickness, which can arise in several forms: headaches, nausea, and some fatigue.

6. Carry Cash

ATM facilities are relatively very few in the Kedarnath region. There will absolutely be no safe digital payments because of network connectivity. Hence carry enough cash for food, accommodation, and any other local purchases that you may want during your visit.

7. Weather Conditions

Climatic conditions can change in a flash. Fog may set in within an hour, or it may rain or the sun may shine at any moment. It is also quite common for the temperature to drop at night. Make sure you consult the weather forecast before starting on your trek.

8. Trek Responsibly

The route to Kedarnath is also a scary one, and it’s essential to respect the surroundings. Try not to litter anywhere on the path, and if you can, carry a small plastic bag with you so that the litter is properly disposed of. This way, the beauty of nature is maintained for future pilgrims by keeping the surroundings tidy.

9. Medical Precautions

If you have some other medical issues, it is always better to consult a doctor before arriving in Kedarnath. Carry your medicines and if you have respiratory problems, do not forget to pack the portable oxygen canister, as even high altitude can be difficult to breathe at. Medical camps also en route are available, but prevention is always better than cure.

10. Plan Ahead for Darshan

The queue to have the darshan of the deity is pretty long with such numbers of pilgrims visiting Kedarnath. Online registration for Yatra helps save time. Your best bet is the early morning or late afternoon when not so many pilgrims visit for darshan.

Conclusion

Visiting Kedarnath is an experience that comes about once in a lifetime. However, it does demand some thorough preparation and planning to ensure a safe and fulfilling journey. Keeping these tips before visiting Kedarnath in mind will make the pilgrimage much easier and less stressful.

For a hassle-free trip, consider booking with Travel It – a trusted tour and travel agency located in Dehradun. We do offer all kinds of travel packages like 4 Dham Yatra and 2 Dham Yatra for smooth and well-organized pilgrimages. You may also visit our website for more options to make your journey to Kedarnath a smooth one.