Discover how to travel from Haridwar to Badrinath and Kedarnath without a vehicle, using public transport, trekking routes, and local tips for a smooth spiritual journey!
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Best Ways on How to Travel from Haridwar to Badrinath and Kedarnath Without a Vehicle
1. Overview of the Route from Haridwar to Badrinath and Kedarnath
Haridwar is a popular starting point for pilgrims heading to the Char Dham sites, including Badrinath and Kedarnath. The route to these shrines from Haridwar involves traveling through Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, and other key locations. The total distance from Haridwar to Badrinath is approximately 320 km, and to Kedarnath, it is around 250 km. Since both shrines are located in the Garhwal Himalayas, the journey involves winding roads, steep climbs, and sometimes unpredictable weather.
2. Traveling from Haridwar to Badrinath Without a Vehicle
To reach Badrinath from Haridwar without a vehicle, you can use a combination of buses, shared taxis, and local transportation. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Haridwar to Rishikesh
- Mode of Transport: Local Bus or Shared Taxi
- Distance: 20 km
- Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Cost: ₹50-₹100
From Haridwar, the first step is to reach Rishikesh, which is about 20 km away. You can take a local bus or shared taxi from Haridwar Bus Stand to Rishikesh. The journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour.
Step 2: Rishikesh to Joshimath
- Mode of Transport: Government Bus or Private Bus
- Distance: 255 km
- Duration: 8-10 hours
- Cost: ₹400-₹600
Once in Rishikesh, you will need to take a bus to Joshimath. Both government-operated and private buses are available from the Rishikesh Bus Stand. The bus journey can take 8-10 hours due to the hilly terrain. It’s advisable to start early in the morning to reach Joshimath by evening.
Step 3: Joshimath to Badrinath
- Mode of Transport: Shared Jeep or Taxi
- Distance: 45 km
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Cost: ₹150-₹300
From Joshimath, shared jeeps or taxis are available for Badrinath. The distance is around 45 km and takes about 2-3 hours. These jeeps usually wait until they are filled to capacity before departing, so be prepared for some waiting time.
Discover the best buses and shared taxis that connect Haridwar to Badrinath and Kedarnath, offering budget-friendly travel options. Find out more here.
3. Traveling from Haridwar to Kedarnath Without a Vehicle
Reaching Kedarnath from Haridwar involves a combination of road travel and trekking. Here’s how you can do it without a private vehicle:
Step 1: Haridwar to Sonprayag
- Mode of Transport: Government Bus or Shared Taxi
- Distance: 225 km
- Duration: 8-10 hours
- Cost: ₹500-₹700
From Haridwar, you need to reach Sonprayag, the last road point before Kedarnath. You can take a government bus or a shared taxi to Sonprayag from Haridwar or Rishikesh. The journey takes 8-10 hours, so starting early is crucial.
Step 2: Sonprayag to Gaurikund
- Mode of Transport: Shared Jeep
- Distance: 5 km
- Duration: 15-30 minutes
- Cost: ₹50-₹100
From Sonprayag, you need to take a shared jeep to Gaurikund, which is the base for the trek to Kedarnath. The distance is only about 5 km, and the jeep ride takes 15-30 minutes.
Step 3: Gaurikund to Kedarnath (Trek)
- Mode of Transport: Trekking, Pony, or Palki
- Duration: 6-8 hours (by trek), 4-5 hours (by pony/palki)
- Distance: 16 km
- Cost: ₹3000-₹5000 (for pony/palki)
The final stretch to Kedarnath is a 16 km trek from Gaurikund. You can trek on foot, which takes around 6-8 hours, or you can hire a pony or palki for a more comfortable journey, which costs around ₹3000-₹5000.
4. Important Tips for Traveling Without a Vehicle
- Start Early: Public transportation options like buses and shared taxis generally operate in the early morning hours. Starting early also allows you to reach your destination before dusk.
- Pack Light but Smart: Carry essentials like warm clothing, rain gear, water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
- Book Accommodations in Advance: During peak pilgrimage season, accommodation options in places like Joshimath, Sonprayag, and Gaurikund fill up quickly.
- Stay Updated on Weather Conditions: The weather in the Himalayas can change rapidly. Keep an eye on weather updates and be prepared for delays.
- Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Both Badrinath and Kedarnath are highly revered shrines, and maintaining decorum is essential.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I travel from Haridwar to Kedarnath and Badrinath in one trip without a vehicle?
Yes, you can travel to both shrines without a vehicle by following the route described above. However, it requires careful planning, especially regarding accommodation and timing.
Q2: What is the best time to travel to Badrinath and Kedarnath?
The best time to visit is from May to June and September to October. The weather is favorable, and the roads are generally open.
Q3: Are there any alternatives to trekking to Kedarnath?
For those unable to trek, there are helicopter services available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi to Kedarnath, which need to be booked in advance.
Read Other Article’s : 13 Incredible Places to Visit in Kedarnath That Will Leave You in Awe!
Bringing It All Together
Traveling from Haridwar to Badrinath and Kedarnath without a vehicle is entirely possible with proper planning and knowledge of available transportation options.
Whether you’re traveling by bus, shared taxi, or trekking, this guide provides all the information you need to embark on a memorable spiritual journey. Always prioritize safety and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Uttarakhand on your pilgrimage.
