Kedarnath—a perfect combination of spirituality and the raw nature of the Himalayas.
Located at an altitude of more than 11,700 feet in Uttarakhand, this holy place is not only about the famous Kedarnath Temple but also offers a wholesome experience that transforms the heart of every visitor. Snow-covered mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and a spiritual serenity that pervades the air, laced with the stories of ancient legends of gods and seers—Kedarnath is a pilgrimage of faith, beauty, and tranquility.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning after years, this guide brings you the top 10 things to do in Kedarnath, along with travel tips, nearby attractions, and how you can make your trip easier with Kedarnath Yatra by helicopter services from Syandan Aviation.
Getting There: Your Journey to the Abode of Shiva
The way to Kedarnath is thus one of the things that makes the pilgrimage very special.
The road is open till Gaurikund, from where you have to walk 16 km to the temple. If you are not fit for the walk or have elderly people with you, you may consider using helicopter services to reach Kedarnath from Phata, Sersi, or Guptakashi.
Syandan Aviation is the perfect choice for quick and comfortable helicopter flights, with really awe-inspiring views of the snow-covered Himalayas from the air. The flight is a very short one, of just about 10–15 minutes, making it more of a divine glide instead of an arduous physical trek.
1. Seek Blessings at Kedarnath Temple
The spiritual focus of your trip is the Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built more than a millennium ago with huge stone slabs, and it remains strong and sturdy in the midst of glaciers, cloudbursts, flash floods, and the cold winds. The experience of early morning aarti here is like a dream—the calming noise of the bells, the uplifting resonance of mantra chanting, and the fresh air of the mountains, all coming together to create an enchanting atmosphere of absolute devotion.
There is no doubt that you must be at the temple early to have darshan because the temple gets very crowded during May–June.
2. Witness the Magical Evening Aarti
If mornings are heavenly, then evenings at Kedarnath are magical. After the sun retreats behind the mountains, the temple is lit up with innumerable diyas. The valley gets soaked in the sound of the rhythmic chants and the smell of the incense, thus making it an utterly indescribable experience.
Such a divine show is imperative to be witnessed by a visitor of the shrine—a moment when the flow of time appears to stop.
3. Trek to Bhairavnath Temple
Bhairavnath Temple is reachable by a brief uphill hike from the main temple (approximately 500 metres). The temple, which is dedicated to Bhairav, the fierce form of Lord Shiva and the protector deity of Kedarnath, gives an exhilarating view of the valley and snow-clad mountains.
People of the area believe that Bhairavnath keeps watch over Kedarnath when it is closed in the off-season.
4. Visit Shankaracharya Samadhi
The Samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya is located just behind the Kedarnath Temple. He is the revered Hindu scholar and seer who rejuvenated the Badrinath and Kedarnath pilgrimages, which later developed into the Uttarakhand Char Dham pilgrimage tradition. It is said that he took samadhi here at the age of 32. The original samadhi was damaged in the 2013 floods but was later restored and inaugurated in 2021. The serene vibe that remains here is very suitable for contemplation and meditation.
5. Explore Gandhi Sarovar (Chorabari Tal)
A 3–4 km trek from Kedarnath takes you to Gandhi Sarovar, a small glacial lake known for its serene reflection of the surrounding peaks. It’s said that Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed here. The trek is moderate and rewards you with stunning scenery and peaceful solitude—a hidden gem among Kedarnath tourist places.
6. Trek to Vasuki Tal
If you love adventure, you simply cannot miss Vasuki Tal—about 8 km from Kedarnath. It is a beautiful lake covered by nature all around. Snowy peaks and blossoming wild alpine flowers embrace this icy blue lake. The trek to Vasuki Tal is difficult, but to those who love a rugged trail with spectacular Himalayan views, it’s a great place to be.
7. Capture the Valley and Glacier Trails
The hiking route from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is filled with beautiful natural views of evergreen forests, waterfalls, and foggy cliffs. Places such as Rambara and Jungle Chatti are perfect for clicking some amazing pictures. In case you are going to Kedarnath by helicopter, still indulge in nature walks, as each sight looks like a painting.
8. Take a Holy Dip at Gaurikund Hot Springs
The majority of the devotees, before starting their trek or heli ride to Kedarnath, have a holy dip at Gaurikund, which is considered to be the bathing place of Goddess Parvati. The sulfur springs in this region are both healing and inviolable. According to one traditional story, passed from one generation to another, it was here that Parvati meditated deeply to win Lord Shiva’s affection and blessings.
9. Relish Local Garhwali Cuisine
After a day full of hikes or temple visits, eat at some small local eateries. Pahadi dishes that are derived from the unique natural bounties are just the right kind of food when on this spiritual journey. Mandua Roti, Kafuli, and Aloo ke Gutke are some of these simple foods, cooked with naturally grown ingredients straight from the mountains, and they are the ideal way to feel the warmth of the Uttarakhand people’s hospitality.
There are some nice dhabas around Gaurikund and Guptkashi where you get the unforgettable experience of authentic Garhwali thalis, which get more flavorful due to the chilly mountain air.
10. Experience Kedarnath by Helicopter
If trekking is not your cup of tea and you still want to experience the beauty of Kedarnath, then a helicopter ride is definitely the right option. Seeing the snow-capped peaks, steep valleys, and sparkling Mandakini River from the air is really breathtaking.
Syandan Aviation offers reliable Kedarnath helicopter booking, making it easy for devotees, families, and senior citizens to visit the shrine comfortably. You can book your flight with a quick call or WhatsApp to 8826694905 and enjoy a safe, scenic, and time-saving Yatra.
Bonus: Places to Visit Around Kedarnath
- Triyuginarayan Temple: The place where Lord Shiva is believed to have married Goddess Parvati is widely known.
- Guptkashi: It is most famous for its Vishwanath Temple as well as its beautiful nature.
- Sonprayag: The joining of the Mandakini and Basuki rivers, which is said to wash away the sins of any devotee headed to Kedarnath.
Best Time to Travel Kedarnath
The best time to visit Kedarnath is between May and June and from mid-September to the end of October, when the weather is good and the temple remains accessible. It is also the peak season for booking helicopters in Kedarnath, so it is advisable to make your bookings in advance with Syandan Aviation.
Don’t expose yourself to the rainy season (July-September), when there will be heavy rain and landslides.
Travel Tips Before You Go
- Use layered clothing so that you can take off some of it once it gets warmer. And keep in mind that even in summer, nights are usually cold.
- It is a very good idea to always have a poncho or an umbrella ready because the weather can change rapidly.
- Before the final leg to Kedarnath, keep a day for acclimatization at locations such as Guptkashi or Phata.
- Make sure you have some identification papers, and if you take any medicine, bring it with you as well.
- If you suffer from asthma or shortness of breath or are generally not the fittest, it is advisable to carry a portable oxygen cylinder to help you breathe at Kedarnath.
- People planning to take the helicopter flight should make their bookings early to be away from the crowd and rush.
Why Pilgrims Choose Syandan Aviation
“Based on available information & customer feedback regarding Kedarnath helicopter services, Syandan Aviation stands out as a very safe and secure option.” My research tells me:
- They are the leaders of the industry who are very professional and have a well-maintained fleet.
- There are no hidden charges, and the booking process is very transparent.
- The support service is always ready to help the elderly and group travellers.
Syandan Aviation personnel assist you right from the moment you book your yatra with them, whether you are booking Kedarnath or Do Dham, or Char Dham Yatra helicopter packages.
Conclusion—Where Heaven Touches Earth
There is really no place like Kedarnath—one of the most divine & blissful experiences.
It doesn’t matter if you visit for blessings, peace, or thrill—this holy place imparts something deep and meaningful to every one of its visitors, and when flying with Syandan Aviation, you can get all those things at once: the awe of the Himalayas from the air and the serenity of the temple from within.
So, do not delay in booking your helicopter flight to Kedarnath, and your faith will literally take off.
FAQs
1. What are the top things to do in Kedarnath?
Besides visiting Kedarnath Temple, the top things to do are trekking to Bhairavnath, exploring Gandhi Sarovar, and experiencing the divine morning and evening aartis.
2. Which are the best tourist places near Kedarnath?
Good destinations near Kedarnath include the Triyuginarayan Temple, Guptkashi, Sonprayag, and Vasuki Tal.
3. How can I reach Kedarnath easily?
One can either walk from Gaurikund or take a helicopter from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi to reach Kedarnath. Syandan Aviation offers this service.
4. Is Kedarnath suitable for senior citizens?
Of course, the security is guaranteed, in particular, by helicopter services. Elderly pilgrims usually choose to fly with Syandan Aviation because of personalized attention for convenience and comfort.
5. How do I book Kedarnath helicopter tickets online?
Easily, by going to Syandan Aviation’s website and then selecting your place of departure and travel date before finally confirming your helicopter flight to Kedarnath.
Also Read:
Best Time to Visit Char Dham in 2026 Guide
Kedarnath Temple Opening and Closing Date for 2026
Kedarnath Helicopter Service Explained (Timings, Rules, Tips)