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Introduction: Connecting Two Sacred Journeys
Kedarnath and Kailash Mansarovar are two of the holiest sites for Lord Shiva devotees. While Kedarnath lies deep in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Kailash Parvat stands tall in the Tibetan Plateau. Many pilgrims dream of undertaking both in one lifetime.
How far is Kailash Mansarovar from Kedarnath?
The direct aerial distance between Kedarnath and Mount Kailash is around 450 to 500 km.
However, there is no direct road between the two.
Practical Travel Distance (by road and trek):
Kedarnath - Dharchula (by road): ~500 km
Dharchula - Lipulekh Pass (by trek): ~80–90 km
Lipulekh - Taklakot (Tibet border): ~20 km
Taklakot - Darchen (base of Kailash): ~110 km
Total practical travel distance:
Approx. 700–750 km, depending on the exact route chosen.
Travel Modes: Kedarnath to Kailash Mansarovar
Since there is no one transport route between Kedarnath and Kailash, here are three common ways yatris travel:
Route 1: Via Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand Government Yatra)
This is the traditional route, managed by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.
Route Overview:
Kedarnath - Guptkashi - Pithoragarh - Dharchula - Gunji - Lipulekh Pass
Cross into Tibet and reach Taklakot, then drive to Darchen
Key Facts:
Duration: 22–24 days
Mode: Bus + Trekking (high altitude)
Difficulty: High—requires physical fitness
Cost: Subsidized by government (~?1.8 to ?2 lakh)
Entry Quota: 250 pilgrims per year (lottery-based)
Route 2: Kedarnath to Kathmandu via Nepal – Private Helicopter Yatra
This is the most popular modern route, used by pilgrims combining Char Dham Yatra and Kailash Mansarovar by helicopter.
Route Overview:
Kedarnath - Rishikesh - Dehradun - Lucknow - Nepalgunj - Simikot - Hilsa - Taklakot - Darchen
Key Facts:
Duration: 9–10 days
Mode: Road + Helicopter + Jeep
Difficulty: Low to moderate
Cost: ?2.6 to ?3 lakh per person
Ideal for: Senior citizens, families, working professionals
If you are taking a helicopter trip, it is easier to return from Kedarnath. You can then join our Kailash mansarovar yatra by helicopter
Route 3: Overland Yatra via Kathmandu (By Road)
This route is used by pilgrims preferring road travel through Nepal.
Route Overview:
Kedarnath- Rishikesh - Gorakhpur - Kathmandu - Syabrubesi - Kyirong - Saga - Darchen
Key Facts:
Duration: 14–15 days
Mode: Bus + Jeep
Difficulty: Moderate
Cost: ?2.2 to ?2.5 lakh
Entry Quota: Flexible—suitable for larger groups
Spiritual Connection: Kedarnath and Kailash
Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and the most remote among the Char Dham. It is believed that Lord Shiva meditated at Kedarnath before taking residence at Mount Kailash.
Pilgrims who finish both journeys in their lifetime are thought to gain spiritual merit. They also find freedom from karmic cycles.
Suggested Itinerary: Kedarnath to Kailash Mansarovar (Helicopter Route)
Day 1: Kedarnath to Guptkashi-Rishikesh
Day 2: Travel to Lucknow
Day 3: Fly to Nepalgunj
Day 4: Nepalgunj - Simikot (by air)
Day 5: Simikot - Hilsa - Taklakot (Tibet)
Days 6–7: Acclimatization in Taklakot
Day 8: Drive to Mansarovar Lake
Day 9: Reach Darchen—base of Mount Kailash
Days 10–12: Perform Kailash Parikrama and return
This route balances comfort and spiritual depth. Contact us to book a seat on our helicopter yatra.
Important Tips for Pilgrims Starting from Kedarnath
Take a break for 1 to 2 days after your Kedarnath visit. This will help your body recover before you start your high-altitude trip to Kailash.
Keep your Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Uttarakhand and Chinese visa (if going via Tibet).
Pack essential medicines for AMS (Altitude Sickness).
If you're elderly or have health concerns, helicopter routes are the safest.
Conclusion: Two Peaks, One Faith
Kedarnath and Kailash are two important places for Lord Shiva. One is in India, and the other is in Tibet. They both share a deep spiritual connection. Though they are separated by geography, they are united in their energy, symbolism, and divine presence.
The trip from Kedarnath to Kailash Mansarovar is more than just travel. It is a special chance for spiritual change.
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