Kedarnath is one of the holiest shrines of Lord Shiva and a major part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. Every year, lakhs of devotees visit this sacred temple in the Himalayas to seek blessings. If you are planning your trip in 2025, one of the most important steps is Kedarnath booking. Without proper registration and booking, entry to the temple area is not allowed.
To make your journey smooth, here is a step-by-step guide that explains how to complete your Kedarnath booking for 2025, what documents you will need, and useful tips for a hassle-free pilgrimage.
Why Kedarnath Booking is Important?
The Uttarakhand Government has made it mandatory for all pilgrims to register before visiting Kedarnath. This system is in place to:
- Manage the heavy rush of devotees.
- Ensure safety and security during the yatra.
- Keep track of pilgrims in case of emergencies.
- Provide medical and travel assistance when required.
So, before you start your journey, completing the Kedarnath booking process is a must.
Step 1: Choose Your Travel Dates
The Kedarnath temple usually opens in May (on the day of Akshaya Tritiya) and closes around November (on the day of Bhai Dooj). The temple remains closed in winter due to heavy snowfall.
Before starting your Kedarnath booking, finalize your travel month and date. Remember:
- May and June are the busiest months due to summer holidays.
- September and October are comparatively less crowded.
- Avoid monsoon season (July–August) because of landslides and rain.
Step 2: Registration for Kedarnath Yatra
The official registration is done through the Uttarakhand Tourism Department. You can register in two ways:
1. Online Registration
- Visit the official Uttarakhand Tourism portal.
- Select “Yatra e-Registration”.
- Fill in details like your name, mobile number, Aadhaar/PAN/Voter ID.
- Upload scanned ID proof.
- Choose Kedarnath booking from the yatra options.
- You will get a confirmation slip on your registered email/phone.
2. Offline Registration
If you are not comfortable with online booking, you can register at yatra counters available in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, and Sonprayag. You will need to carry your ID proof and passport-sized photo.
Tip: Online Kedarnath booking is more convenient and saves time.
Step 3: Book Helicopter Services (Optional)
Many pilgrims prefer to reach Kedarnath by helicopter, especially senior citizens or those short on time. Helicopter services are available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi.
To book:
- Visit the authorized helicopter booking website.
- Select your travel date.
- Enter passenger details and upload ID proof.
- Make online payment and download the ticket.
Remember, helicopter seats are limited, so it’s better to book as early as possible along with your Kedarnath booking.
Step 4: Book Accommodation in Advance
Kedarnath gets huge crowds, and accommodation becomes a big challenge if you don’t plan early. Options include:
- GMVN guesthouses (run by the government).
- Dharamshalas and ashrams.
- Private hotels at Sonprayag, Gaurikund, or near the temple.
Booking rooms in advance along with your Kedarnath booking ensures you don’t face last-minute problems.
Step 5: Plan Your Route
There are two main ways to reach Kedarnath:
- By Trekking – From Gaurikund, you trek 16 km to reach the temple. Ponies, palkis, and mules are available for those who cannot walk.
- By Helicopter – Direct drop near the temple, followed by a short walk.
Choose your route depending on health, time, and budget. Trekking devotees must carry fitness certificates if required.
Step 6: Health & Travel Preparations
Kedarnath is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters. The weather is cold, oxygen levels are low, and the trek is challenging. Before finalizing your Kedarnath booking, keep in mind:
- Carry warm clothes, gloves, woolen caps, and raincoats.
- Keep medicines for cold, fever, headache, and altitude sickness.
- Consult your doctor if you have breathing or heart issues.
- Carry ID proof and booking slips at all times.
Step 7: Biometric Verification
After online registration, you need to complete biometric verification at designated counters. It confirms your identity and travel details. Biometric counters are available at:
- Haridwar
- Rishikesh
- Dehradun
- Guptkashi
- Sonprayag
Without biometric verification, your Kedarnath booking will not be valid.
Step 8: Temple Darshan Procedure
Once you reach Kedarnath, follow the guidelines given by the temple committee:
- Maintain queue discipline for darshan.
- Photography inside the temple is not allowed.
- Keep your belongings in lockers.
- Respect the sanctity of the place.
If you want special pujas like Rudrabhishek, advance booking is also available through the official portal.
Step 9: Combine with Other Dhams
Many devotees prefer to combine their Kedarnath trip with Badrinath Yatra. Visiting both shrines together is considered highly auspicious. Since both temples are part of Char Dham, you can plan your travel accordingly.
If you are booking through reliable travel organizers like 4dhamyatra, you can easily include both Kedarnath and Badrinath in a single itinerary. This saves time and ensures a smooth journey.
Step 10: Keep Safety Tips in Mind
- Always check the weather forecast before starting.
- Avoid trekking at night.
- Keep enough cash, as ATMs are limited.
- Stay hydrated and eat light food.
- Follow instructions from local authorities.
Useful Documents for Kedarnath Booking
When you register, make sure you have these:
- Aadhaar card / Voter ID / PAN card / Passport (any one).
- Passport-size photograph.
- Medical fitness certificate (if asked).
- Travel booking receipts (helicopter or hotel).
Final Thoughts
The journey to Kedarnath is not just about travel; it’s about faith, devotion, and inner peace. Completing your Kedarnath booking in advance ensures that your yatra is smooth, safe, and stress-free. Whether you trek the path or choose the helicopter ride, the divine aura of Kedarnath will leave you with unforgettable memories.
For those who also wish to continue their spiritual journey, combining it with Badrinath Yatra is a great option. Together, both pilgrimages bring a sense of fulfillment that words can hardly describe.
If you plan early, prepare properly, and keep this step-by-step guide handy, your Kedarnath Yatra in 2025 will surely be one of the most meaningful experiences of your life.
