Kedarnath Registration 2023: How to Register and Get a Bus Ticket from Haridwar to Kedarnath

Kedarnath, nestled in the Himalayan range, is one of the holiest places in India. Thousands of devotees flock to this sacred site every year to pay homage to Lord Shiva. Kedarnath is located at a height of 3,583 meters above sea level, and the trek to the shrine is quite challenging. Nevertheless, the journey is worth it as devotees are rewarded with stunning views of the Himalayas.

The Kedarnath Temple was rebuilt in 2013 after it was severely damaged by floods. Since then, the number of pilgrims visiting Kedarnath has increased steadily, and the government has introduced measures to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims. One of these measures is the requirement for pilgrims to register before embarking on the journey to Kedarnath. In this article, we will discuss the Kedarnath registration process and how to get a bus ticket from Haridwar to Kedarnath.

How to Register for Kedarnath Yatra 2023

The registration process for Kedarnath Yatra 2023 will begin in April or May 2023. The exact dates have not been announced yet, but it is important to keep an eye on the official website of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) for updates. The registration process can be completed online through the UTDB website or at one of the registration counters set up in Haridwar, Rishikesh, or other locations.

Here are the steps to follow to register for Kedarnath Yatra 2023:

1. Visit the UTDB website and click on the Kedarnath Yatra 2023 registration link.
2. Fill in the required personal details such as name, age, gender, address, and contact information.
3. Upload a recent passport-sized photograph.
4. Choose the mode of transportation (helicopter, pony, or on foot) for the journey from Gaurikund to Kedarnath.
5. Select the date and time slot for the journey.
6. Pay the registration fee online.
7. Download and print the registration slip.

Please note that the registration fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. Also, it is mandatory for all pilgrims to undergo a medical check-up before registering for Kedarnath Yatra 2023.

How to Get a Bus Ticket from Haridwar to Kedarnath

Haridwar is the starting point of the Kedarnath Yatra, and pilgrims can travel from Haridwar to Gaurikund by bus. Gaurikund is the base camp for the trek to Kedarnath, and from there, pilgrims can choose to travel on foot, by pony, or by helicopter. Here are the steps to follow to get a bus ticket from Haridwar to Kedarnath:

1. Visit the official website of the Uttarakhand Road Transport Corporation (UTC) and click on the “Online Booking” link.
2. Choose the “Haridwar” as the starting point and “Gaurikund” as the destination.
3. Select the date and time of travel.
4. Choose the type of bus (ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo).
5. Pay the bus fare online.
6. Download and print
   
7. Pilgrims must carry a valid photo ID proof along with the registration slip while traveling to Kedarnath. This can be any government-issued ID, such as Aadhar card, driving license, or passport.
   
   
8. The bus ticket price from Haridwar to Gaurikund varies depending on the type of bus and the season. During peak season (May to June), the ticket price is generally higher than during the off-season (July to April).
9. Here are the approximate bus ticket prices for different types of buses:
10. Ordinary bus: Rs. 250-300
11. Deluxe bus: Rs. 400-500
12. Volvo bus: Rs. 700-800
13. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the operator. Pilgrims can book their bus tickets online through the UTC website or at one of the ticket counters in Haridwar.
14. Pilgrims can also choose to hire a private taxi or car from Haridwar to Gaurikund. However, this option is generally more expensive than taking a bus and is not recommended for budget travelers.
    
    
15. Once the pilgrims arrive in Gaurikund, they need to undergo a mandatory registration process before starting their trek to Kedarnath. Here are the steps involved in the registration process:
16. Pilgrims need to provide their personal details such as name, age, gender, and address. They also need to provide their mobile number and email address for communication purposes.
17. Pilgrims need to select the mode of transportation they will be using to reach Kedarnath. They can choose to trek on foot, ride a pony, or hire a palanquin.
18. Pilgrims need to select the type of accommodation they prefer in Kedarnath. They can choose from different types of accommodation such as dharamshalas, guesthouses, and tents.
19. Pilgrims need to upload a recent passport-size photograph during the registration process.
20. Pilgrims need to make the payment for the registration fees, which is Rs. 50 per person.
21. After completing the registration process, pilgrims will receive a registration slip with a unique registration number. They need to keep this registration slip safe as it will be required at various checkpoints during their trek to Kedarnath.
22. Pilgrims must carry a valid photo ID proof along with the registration slip while traveling to Kedarnath. This can be any government-issued ID, such as Aadhar card, driving license, or passport.
23. It is important to note that the registration process can also be completed online through the official website of the Uttarakhand government. However, it is recommended that pilgrims complete the registration process in person at Gaurikund to avoid any technical glitches or issues.
    
24. Once the pilgrims have completed the registration process at Gaurikund, they can begin their trek to Kedarnath. The trek is approximately 16 kilometers long and can take anywhere between 6 to 8 hours to complete, depending on the pilgrim’s fitness level and the weather conditions.
25. Here are some important things to keep in mind while trekking to Kedarnath:
26. Dress appropriately: The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so it is important to dress in layers and carry warm clothes, rain gear, and comfortable trekking shoes.
27. Carry enough water and snacks: It is important to stay hydrated and energized during the trek, so carry enough water and snacks like energy bars, nuts, and fruits.
28. Take breaks: The trek can be challenging, so it is important to take regular breaks and rest whenever needed. There are several rest stops and small tea shops along the way where pilgrims can take a break and recharge.
29. Be respectful: The Kedarnath temple is a holy place, and pilgrims should maintain a respectful and peaceful demeanor while trekking and visiting the temple.
30. Follow safety guidelines: It is important to follow safety guidelines and stay on the designated trekking trail. Pilgrims should avoid taking shortcuts or deviating from the trail to prevent accidents and mishaps.
31. Once the pilgrims reach Kedarnath, they can visit the Kedarnath temple and offer their prayers. There are several accommodation options available in Kedarnath, including dharamshalas, guesthouses, and tents. Pilgrims can also hire a pony or a palanquin to travel back to Gaurikund if they do not wish to trek back.
32. Overall, the trek to Kedarnath is a beautiful and fulfilling experience that requires proper planning and preparation. Pilgrims should keep these tips in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
    
33. Pilgrims who are traveling to Kedarnath from Haridwar have the option of traveling by bus. The bus journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath is approximately 225 kilometers and takes around 9 to 10 hours, depending on the traffic and weather conditions.
34. Here is the approximate bus ticket price from Haridwar to Kedarnath:
35. Government buses: The Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) operates regular bus services from Haridwar to Kedarnath. The bus ticket price for these government buses is around Rs. 450 to Rs. 500 per person.
36. Private buses: There are several private bus operators that offer bus services from Haridwar to Kedarnath. The bus ticket price for these private buses can vary depending on the operator, type of bus, and the season. On average, the ticket price for private buses ranges from Rs. 800 to Rs. 1200 per person.
37. It is important to note that the bus services from Haridwar to Kedarnath are available only during the Char Dham Yatra season, which starts in May and ends in November. Outside of the Yatra season, pilgrims will have to make their own arrangements for transportation.
38. Pilgrims can book their bus tickets online through various travel websites or can book directly at the bus station in Haridwar. It is recommended to book the tickets in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid any last-minute hassles.
39. Overall, traveling by bus from Haridwar to Kedarnath is a convenient and cost-effective option for pilgrims who do not wish to drive or hire a taxi.