Yes, you can drive a car to Kedarnath, but only up to the town of Gaurikund, which is the official road head. The final 16-kilometer stretch from Gaurikund to the Kedarnath Temple is not accessible by private vehicle and must be covered on foot, by pony, or by using a palanquin (doli). The journey by car is challenging and demands careful planning due to high-altitude terrain, narrow roads, and specific weather constraints.
The most common route is from Delhi to Kedarnath via Haridwar, Rishikesh, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Guptkashi. The roads are predominantly single-lane and wind through mountainous passes. A high-ground-clearance vehicle like an SUV is highly recommended over a sedan for navigating rough patches and potential landslides. The condition of the roads, especially after the monsoon season (July-September), can be severely damaged.
It is crucial to travel only during the official pilgrimage season, typically from late April/early May to early November. The temple and access routes are completely closed during winter due to heavy snowfall. Before embarking, ensure your vehicle is thoroughly serviced, with a focus on brakes, tires, and engine performance. You must also carry all necessary documents, including your driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance.
| Route Segment | Approximate Distance | Estimated Driving Time | Key Notes |
|---|
| Delhi to Rishikesh | 230 km | 6-7 hours | Start of hilly terrain |
| Rishikesh to Rudraprayag | 140 km | 5-6 hours | Confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers |
| Rudraprayag to Guptkashi | 50 km | 2-3 hours | Roads become significantly narrower |
| Guptkashi to Sonprayag | 20 km | 1+ hour | Last point for private vehicles (requires registration) |
| Sonprayag to Gaurikund | 5 km | 20-30 mins | Mandatory shuttle bus or shared taxi |
| Gaurikund to Kedarnath | 16 km | 6-8 hours (on foot) | Trekking path, no private vehicles |
Upon reaching Sonprayag, you must park your private vehicle and take a registered shared taxi or shuttle bus for the final 5 km to Gaurikund. From Gaurikund, the trek begins. Given the logistical complexity, many pilgrims find it more convenient to hire a private taxi with an experienced driver familiar with Himalayan roads, rather than risking their own car.
