Planning Bangalore to Kedarnath travel takes a bit of extra thought, since Kedarnath itself has no airport, no railway station, and no direct road all the way to the shrine. The most practical way to make this journey is to fly from Bangalore into Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, then continue by road and, if needed, on foot or by helicopter. This guide lays out the full route so you can plan your Char Dham trip with confidence.
Why Dehradun Airport Is Your Best Entry Point
Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest functioning airport to the Kedarnath route, making it the natural gateway for travellers coming from Bangalore. Flying in saves you a day or more compared to travelling entirely by train and road, which matters if your holiday time is limited or you are travelling with elderly family members.
Bangalore to Dehradun Flight Options
Several airlines run one stop flights between Bangalore and Dehradun, usually connecting through Delhi. Total travel time including the layover generally runs between four and six hours. Morning departures from Bangalore are worth prioritising, since they get you into Dehradun with enough daylight left to begin the onward road journey the same day if you choose to.
The Road Route from Dehradun to Kedarnath
From Jolly Grant Airport, the drive toward Kedarnath follows the route through Rishikesh, Devprayag, Srinagar, and Rudraprayag, before reaching Gaurikund, which is the last point accessible by road. This stretch covers roughly 220 to 240 kilometres and takes about 9 to 10 hours by car, depending on road conditions and the number of stops along the way.
Most travellers break this journey into two days, staying overnight in Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, or Sonprayag, rather than attempting the entire drive in one sitting. This also gives your body time to adjust to the gradually increasing altitude.
From Gaurikund to Kedarnath: Trek or Helicopter
Once you reach Gaurikund or nearby Sonprayag, you have two ways to complete the final stretch to Kedarnath. The traditional route is a trek of approximately 16 kilometres from Gaurikund, which typically takes six to eight hours on foot, or less with pony and palanquin services available along the way.
Alternatively, helicopter services operate from designated helipads such as Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi, cutting the final leg down to a short flight of around eight minutes. This option suits older travellers or anyone short on time, though seats fill up quickly during peak yatra season and are subject to weather conditions.
Char Dham Yatra Registration
Every pilgrim travelling to Kedarnath must complete biometric registration, which can be done online in advance or at registration counters along the route. Carrying a printed copy of your registration confirmation, along with a valid photo identity document, is essential before you begin the trek or take a helicopter.
Best Time for Bangalore to Kedarnath Travel
The Kedarnath temple typically opens between late April and early May and closes around late October or early November, based on the annual Hindu calendar and weather conditions. The most comfortable months for this journey are May, June, September, and October, since the peak monsoon period from July to August brings a higher risk of landslides on hill roads.
Suggested Itinerary Outline
A common plan looks like this: fly from Bangalore to Dehradun on day one and rest overnight near the airport or in Rishikesh. Drive toward Guptkashi or Sonprayag on day two, breaking the journey with an overnight halt. On day three, complete the trek or helicopter transfer to Kedarnath, spend time at the temple, and begin the return journey the following day.
| Contact Chauhan Taxi Services for a price quote based on your travel dates and group size, or if you are planning a full Char Dham tour and need help building a complete itinerary. |
Travel Tips for This Route
Book your taxi from Jolly Grant Airport well in advance, since demand rises sharply during Char Dham season. Choose a vehicle suited to hill roads and your group size, such as an Innova or Innova Crysta for families, since these offer more comfortable seating for the long drive.
Pack layered clothing for the altitude drop, carry regular medication, and consult your doctor beforehand if you have a pre existing health condition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many travellers underestimate the total travel time and try to reach Kedarnath in a single rushed day, which is neither comfortable nor advisable on winding hill roads. Others skip advance biometric registration and face checkpoint delays, or book their taxi only after landing instead of before their flight.
Conclusion
Bangalore to Kedarnath travel is entirely manageable with the right plan: fly into Jolly Grant Airport, take a comfortable pre booked taxi through Rishikesh and Rudraprayag, and choose between the traditional trek or a helicopter for the final stretch to the shrine. Chauhan Taxi Services offers dedicated Char Dham taxi packages from Dehradun Airport, with experienced hill road drivers who know this route well. Contact us for a price quote based on your travel dates and group size, or to help you plan your complete Kedarnath itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct flight from Bangalore to Kedarnath?
No, Kedarnath has no airport. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, from where you continue by road and then by trek or helicopter.
How long does the journey from Dehradun Airport to Kedarnath take?
The drive from Jolly Grant Airport to Gaurikund takes about 9 to 10 hours, followed by a trek of six to eight hours or a short helicopter ride to reach Kedarnath.
Do I need to register before visiting Kedarnath?
Yes, biometric registration is mandatory for all Char Dham Yatra pilgrims and can be completed online in advance or at registration counters along the route.
What is the best time of year for Bangalore to Kedarnath travel?
May, June, September, and October offer the most comfortable travel conditions, while the monsoon months of July and August carry a higher risk of landslides.
Can I book a helicopter instead of trekking to Kedarnath?
Yes, helicopter services operate from helipads such as Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi, though seats are limited and subject to weather, so early booking is recommended.
What kind of vehicle is best for the Dehradun to Kedarnath route?
An Innova, Innova Crysta, or similar SUV is generally more comfortable than a sedan for this long hill drive, especially for families or groups travelling together.
Should I break the journey into multiple days?
Yes, most travellers stay overnight in Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, or Sonprayag rather than attempting the full drive from the airport in a single day.
