Some journeys are more than destinations – they are experiences that test you, heal you, and stay with you forever. My solo trip to Kedarnath in late September 2025 was one such journey.
I’m sharing my personal story along with a detailed guide so that whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group, you can plan smoothly and know what to expect.
My Journey – From Mumbai to the Himalayas
I started from Mumbai, boarding an overnight train to Delhi. The rhythmic sound of the train and the thought of finally heading to Kedarnath kept me awake with excitement.
Next morning, I reached Delhi and went straight to the ISBT bus terminal to catch a bus to Rishikesh. That ride was long but full of anticipation – each mile felt like I was leaving behind the chaos of city life and moving closer to the calm of the Himalayas.
🌿 Two Days in Rishikesh – Adventure & Calm
I gave myself two days in Rishikesh before heading uphill. The weather was pleasant, the river flowed with grace, and the vibe of the town felt meditative.
- I did river rafting, with the icy splashes of the Ganga making my heart race.
- I took a holy dip in the river Ganga, something I’d always wanted to do.
- Evenings were slow – sipping chai at a riverside café and listening to the sounds of the water.
This pause in Rishikesh not only recharged me but also gave me the courage for what lay ahead.
🚐 Towards Sonprayag & Gaurikund
From Rishikesh, I traveled by road towards Sonprayag, the base stop for Kedarnath. From there, I took a shared jeep to Gaurikund, which is the official starting point of the trek.
I stayed overnight in Gaurikund, gathered essentials, and went to bed early – because the next morning was going to be the real test.
🥾 The Kedarnath Trek – My First in Uttarakhand
At 4 AM sharp, I began my trek. The air was cold, the path dimly lit, and pilgrims around me chanting “Har Har Mahadev.”
The trek is 16 km uphill, steep and challenging, especially for someone like me doing their first trek in Uttarakhand. By afternoon, my legs ached, and my lungs begged for rest, but the mountains and faith pulled me forward.
One thing I feel strongly about – I did not (and never will) use ponies or palanquins. These animals are often treated harshly, and it breaks my heart to see them suffer. My belief is simple:
👉 If you cannot trek, don’t force the animals. Seek blessings from wherever you are, and let the Himalayas remain pure.
By evening, tired but full of joy, I finally stood in front of the Kedarnath temple. Surrounded by snow peaks, the temple radiated a silence so powerful that I forgot all my exhaustion.
I had my darshan of Lord Shiva, and that moment felt eternal. That night, I stayed in a modest hotel near the temple, resting my weary body and heart full of gratitude.
🙏 The Return & Haridwar
Next morning, I started descending back to Gaurikund. Going down was faster but tough on the knees. By evening, I was back at Sonprayag.
Before ending my trip, I made a stop at Haridwar. Attending the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri was magical – thousands of lamps floating on the river, chants echoing in the air, and the river glowing like fire under the night sky.
Finally, I boarded a night bus back to Delhi, closing my journey where it had begun.
🗺️ Travel Guide to Kedarnath (September 2025)
Now, here’s everything you need to plan your own Kedarnath journey, based on my experience.
🌤️ Weather in September
- Day: 5°C to 15°C
- Night: 0°C to 3°C
- Best time as monsoon ends and winter hasn’t fully set in.
🎒 Packing Checklist
- Thermal wear, fleece jacket, windproof layer, gloves, woollen cap.
- Trekking shoes (waterproof, good grip).
- Rain poncho, torch, power bank, first-aid kit, energy bars.
- Light cotton clothes for darshan (layer with jackets).
- Cash – ATMs are rare and unreliable.
🚍 How to Reach
- From Mumbai: Train/flight to Delhi → Bus/train to Haridwar/Rishikesh.
- From Delhi:
- Delhi → Haridwar (5 hrs by train)
- Haridwar/Rishikesh → Sonprayag (by shared jeep/bus, 10–12 hrs).
- Sonprayag → Gaurikund (shared jeep, 5 km).
- Trek 16 km → Kedarnath.
🚁 Helicopter Option
If you want comfort or time is limited: Helicopter rides from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi. Must pre-book online.
💰 Budget Estimate (1 Week Trip)
- Train/Bus: ₹2,000–₹4,000 (Mumbai–Delhi–Rishikesh roundtrip).
- Stay: ₹800–₹2,000 per night (dharamshala/guesthouse).
- Food: ₹200–₹300 per meal (veg thalis).
- Trek: Free if walking; ponies/palanquin ₹3,000–₹6,000 (not recommended).
- Helicopter (optional): ₹4,500–₹7,000 one-way.
👉 Solo Budget: ₹12,000–₹18,000
👉 Couple Budget: ₹20,000–₹30,000
👉 Group Budget: ₹12,000–₹15,000 per person (shared costs).
🌄 Other Places to Add (for 1-Week Trip)
- Rishikesh – River rafting, yoga cafés, Ganga aarti.
- Haridwar – Evening Ganga aarti at Har Ki Pauri.
- Chopta & Tungnath – Short trek to the world’s highest Shiva temple.
- Auli – Ropeway and views of Nanda Devi.
- Badrinath & Mana Village – India’s last village near the border.
💭 Final Words
Traveling solo to Kedarnath was tough, emotional, and unforgettable. The trek tested my limits, but the temple reminded me of the strength we all carry within.
Whether you travel alone, with a partner, or in a group – remember to:
- Respect the mountains and animals.
- Carry only what you need.
- Keep an extra day in hand for delays.
- And most importantly – let go of the rush.
Because at Kedarnath, it’s not just about reaching a destination – it’s about discovering yourself.
Har Har Mahadev!