3 Days in Kedarnath for Adventure Trip

Start your spiritual journey with the iconic Kedarnath Temple, explore the surrounding sacred sites, and soak in the serene mountain vibes.

Activities

Kedarnath Temple Darshan

Begin your day with a visit to the revered Kedarnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The ancient stone temple, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offers a powerful spiritual experience. Arrive early to avoid crowds and witness the morning aarti.

Kedarnath Temple, Kedarnath6:00 AM - 8:00 AM (morning aarti)Free (donations accepted)

Tips:

• Dress warmly—it can be chilly even in summer.
• Carry a small bag for shoes as they aren’t allowed inside.

Walk to Bhairavnath Temple

A short but steep 1.5 km trek from Kedarnath Temple leads to Bhairavnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Bhairav, the guardian of Kedarnath. The hike rewards you with panoramic views of the valley and the temple below.

Bhairavnath Temple, hilltop above Kedarnath9:00 AM - 10:30 AMFree

Tips:

• Wear sturdy shoes—the path can be rocky.
• Carry water and snacks—there are no shops along the way.

Explore Gandhi Sarovar

A peaceful 4 km trek from Kedarnath takes you to Gandhi Sarovar, a glacial lake named after Mahatma Gandhi. The turquoise waters against the backdrop of Chaukhamba Peak make it a perfect spot for quiet reflection.

Gandhi Sarovar, near Kedarnath11:00 AM - 2:00 PMFree

Tips:

• Start early—the weather can turn unpredictable by afternoon.
• Pack a light lunch—there are no food stalls here.

Must Try Foods

A mix of spiritual sites and natural beauty, with time to soak in the mountain vibes and local flavors.

Activities

Trek to Vasuki Tal

A challenging but rewarding 8 km trek from Kedarnath to the stunning Vasuki Tal lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The turquoise waters and serene atmosphere make it worth the effort. Pack water and snacks, and start early to avoid afternoon clouds.

Vasuki Tal, starting from Kedarnath TempleStart by 7 AM to return by early afternoonFree (unless hiring a guide, around ₹500-800)

Tips:

• Wear sturdy shoes—the trail is rocky and steep in parts.
• Carry a light jacket; it gets windy near the lake.

Visit Shankaracharya Samadhi

A peaceful spot near the temple where Adi Shankaracharya is believed to have attained enlightenment. The small shrine and quiet surroundings offer a reflective break from the busier temple areas.

Behind Kedarnath TempleAnytime between 8 AM - 6 PMFree

Tips:

• Combine this with a short walk around the temple complex.
• Respect the silence—it’s a meditative space.

Evening at Kedarnath Market

Wander through the small but lively market near the temple. Pick up local souvenirs like rudraksha beads or woolen caps, and chat with shopkeepers over steaming cups of masala chai.

Kedarnath Market, near the temple entrance4-7 PM, when the market buzzes with pilgrims and trekkersVaries (souvenirs start at ₹100)

Tips:

• Bargain gently—prices are often inflated for tourists.
• Try the hot ginger-lemon-honey drink for a local remedy against the cold.

Must Try Foods

A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots and soaking in the spiritual vibe of Kedarnath, with time for reflection and local flavors.

Activities

Morning meditation at Chorabari Tal

Start your day with a peaceful trek to Chorabari Tal (also called Gandhi Sarovar's quieter cousin). The glacial lake is less crowded and perfect for some quiet meditation or just soaking in the mountain views. The 4 km trek from Kedarnath is moderate, with the sound of the Mandakini river accompanying you most of the way.

Chorabari Tal, 4 km from Kedarnath Temple6:00 AM to 9:00 AM (best light and fewest people)Free (unless hiring a local guide for ~₹500)

Tips:

• Carry a light jacket - it's chilly by the lake even in summer
• Look for the small Shiva shrine near the lake's edge

Visit the ancient Bhim Shila

This massive boulder behind the Kedarnath Temple isn't just a geological wonder - locals believe Lord Shiva placed it here to protect the temple during the 2013 floods. The short walk around it offers great views of the temple's backside and some fascinating flood survival stories from the priests.

Behind Kedarnath Temple10:30 AM (after temple crowds thin out)Free

Tips:

• Ask the local priests about the 2013 flood stories - they witnessed it firsthand
• Look for the water marks on nearby buildings to grasp the flood's scale

Evening puja at Ukhimath

Before heading back, stop at Ukhimath (the winter seat of Kedarnath) to witness the evening aarti at Omkareshwar Temple. The priests from Kedarnath relocate here during winter, carrying the temple's sacred practices with them. The vibe is more local here, with fewer tourists and beautiful mountain views.

Ukhimath, 40 km from Kedarnath (on return route to Guptkashi)5:30 PM (check exact timing as it varies seasonally)Free (donations welcome)

Tips:

• Try the temple's prasad - special black sesame sweets
• The market nearby sells good quality woolens at local prices

Must Try Foods