Best Dharamshalas in Kedarnath

Kedarnath, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, is situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand at an elevation of 3,583 meters. The town is famous for the Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is part of the Chota Char Dham Yatra. Pilgrims from all over the world visit Kedarnath to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and to experience the spiritual ambiance surrounded by the majestic Himalayas and the serene Mandakini River.

For pilgrims, finding suitable accommodation near the Kedarnath Temple is crucial for a comfortable and peaceful stay. Dharamshalas, known for their economical and basic facilities, are popular choices among devotees. Here is an extensive list of some of the best Dharamshalas in Kedarnath, which are both affordable and provide essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.

1. Gayatri Bhawan

• Location: Gauri Kund - Kedarnath Dham Trekking Way, Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, 246445
• Distance from Temple: 52 meters
• Description: Gayatri Bhawan is conveniently located just a short walk from the Kedarnath Temple. It offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities. The Dharamshala provides picturesque views of the Himalayas, adding to the spiritual experience. The serene environment and proximity to the temple make it an ideal choice for pilgrims.

2. Rajasthan Seva Sadan

• Location: Near Kedarnath Temple, Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, 246445
• Distance from Temple: 50 meters
• Description: Rajasthan Seva Sadan is known for its peaceful ambiance and well-maintained accommodation. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and equipped with essential facilities. The Dharamshala also offers food services, making it a convenient option for pilgrims who prefer having meals on the premises.

3. Gujarat Bhawan

• Location: Kedarnath Road, Phata, Uttarakhand, 246471
• Distance from Temple: Phata Village, 1 km from Phata helipad
• Description: Gujarat Bhawan, located in Phata Village, is a budget-friendly Dharamshala that provides basic amenities and comfortable accommodation. It is especially convenient for those using helicopter services to Kedarnath, as it is situated near the Phata helipad. The Dharamshala offers food services and other facilities to ensure a pleasant stay.

4. Meerut Mandal and Mewar Sadan

• Location: GauriKund - Kedarnath Trekking Way, Near Kedarnath Temple, Rudraprayag, Kedarnath, Uttarakhand 246445
• Distance from Temple: 100 meters
• Description: Meerut Mandal and Mewar Sadan are located close to the Kedarnath Temple. These Dharamshalas provide basic facilities and clean accommodations, making them suitable for pilgrims looking for a convenient and affordable stay near the temple.

5. Punjab Sindh Awas

• Location: Main Market, Haryana Nagar Seva Sadan, Shri Satyanarayan Mandir, Chandani Chowk, near Kedarnath Temple, Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, 246445
• Distance from Temple: 100 meters
• Description: Punjab Sindh Awas offers comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation just a short distance from the Kedarnath Temple. The rooms are well-maintained and equipped with basic amenities. The Dharamshala also provides hygienic vegetarian food, ensuring that pilgrims have a comfortable stay.

6. Jay Jalaram Ashram

• Location: Jay Jalaram House, Near Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand, 246445
• Distance from Temple: 100 meters
• Description: Jay Jalaram Ashram is situated in a picturesque location near the Kedarnath Temple. The rooms are clean, well-maintained, and equipped with basic amenities. The serene surroundings and close proximity to the temple make it a popular choice among pilgrims.

7. Shri Swami Ramanand Sant Ashram

• Location: Hanuman Gufa, Garudchatti, Gaurikund - Kedarnath Trekking Way, Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, 246471
• Distance from Temple: Along the trekking route
• Description: Shri Swami Ramanand Sant Ashram offers a peaceful environment for pilgrims. The ashram includes a temple where daily prayers are held, adding to the spiritual experience. It is an ideal place for individuals and families looking for a tranquil stay near Kedarnath.

8. Bharat Sevashram Sangha (Gaurikund)

• Location: Beside Gauri Mata Temple, Gaurikund, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, 246445
• Distance from Temple: 15 km
• Description: Bharat Sevashram Sangha in Gaurikund is a budget-friendly Dharamshala that provides convenient accommodation for pilgrims. The ashram is well-maintained, clean, and offers a peaceful environment. It is a good choice for those starting their trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath.

9. Behl Ashram Hotel

• Location: Near Kedarnath Temple, Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
• Distance from Temple: Close proximity
• Description: Behl Ashram Hotel is one of the best options for a budget-friendly stay near the Kedarnath Temple. It offers large double bedrooms that are ideal for families or groups. The rooms are comfortable and equipped with basic amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay for pilgrims.

10. Kali Kamliwali Dharamshala (Rudraprayag)

• Location: Sangam Bazar, Kedarnath Road, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
• Distance from Temple: Located in Rudraprayag, along the route to Kedarnath
• Description: Kali Kamliwali Dharamshala is a well-known accommodation option for pilgrims traveling to Kedarnath. It offers large rooms with double beds and basic facilities such as food, parking, and power backup. The Dharamshala is known for its comfortable stay and reasonable pricing.

11. Bharat Sevashram Sangha (Ukhimath)

• Location: Chopta Mandal Gopeshwar Road, Ukhimath, Uttarakhand
• Distance from Temple: Located in Ukhimath, a popular stopover for pilgrims
• Description: Bharat Sevashram Sangha in Ukhimath offers budget-friendly and comfortable accommodation for a short stay. The Dharamshala provides two-bed deluxe rooms with attached bathrooms and essential amenities. It is a preferred choice for pilgrims looking for a convenient stopover before heading to Kedarnath.

12. Anoop Yatri Niwas (Phata)

• Location: Near Phata Helipad, Kedarnath Road, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
• Distance from Temple: Close to Phata helipad
• Description: Anoop Yatri Niwas offers a variety of warm and comfortable bedrooms, including two-bedroom non-AC, three-bedroom, and four-bedroom sets. The rooms are equipped with necessary amenities like attached bathrooms and heaters. The Dharamshala also offers food, parking, and other facilities to ensure a comfortable stay.

13. Gayatri Sadan (Kedarnath)

• Location: Near Kedarnath Temple, Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
• Distance from Temple: 100 meters
• Description: Gayatri Sadan provides a pleasant and warm stay for pilgrims. The Dharamshala offers three-bedroom and four-bedroom options with essential facilities such as attached bathrooms, heaters, and blankets. Additional services include food, CCTV, and luggage storage, making it a convenient choice for pilgrims.

14. Behl Ashram (Kedarnath)

• Location: 225 Near Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand
• Distance from Temple: Close proximity
• Description: Behl Ashram is a top choice for both long and short stays during the Kedarnath Yatra. It offers comfortable and spacious rooms with various configurations, including double, triple, and six-bedroom options. The Dharamshala provides hot water, room service, and 24-hour concierge service. The picturesque location with snow-capped mountains adds to the overall experience.

15. Punjab Sindh Awas (Kedarnath)

• Location: Main Market, Near Post Office, Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
• Distance from Temple: Close proximity
• Description: Punjab Sindh Awas offers deluxe rooms with basic facilities and a homely essence. The Dharamshala provides numerous amenities such as children’s activities, a restaurant, room service, laundry service, parking, and family rooms. The satisfactory services and warm environment make it a popular choice among pilgrims.

Booking and Travel Tips

1. Advance Booking: During the peak season, it is advisable to book accommodation in advance to ensure availability. Many Dharamshalas can be contacted directly for reservations.
2. Basic Amenities: Most Dharamshalas provide basic amenities such as clean rooms, attached bathrooms, and food services. However, it is recommended to carry essential items like toiletries and warm clothing due to the cold weather.
3. Location and Accessibility: Choose a Dharamshala based on its proximity to the Kedarnath Temple and other facilities like helipads or trekking routes. This ensures convenient access to the temple and other services.
4. Peak Season: The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to October when the weather is favorable, and the temple is open for devotees. During this period, accommodation can be in high demand, so planning ahead is crucial.
5. Transportation: The trek to Kedarnath starts from Gaurikund. Helicopter services are available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi. Choose accommodation based on your mode of travel to ensure ease of access.

Kedarnath is not just a pilgrimage destination but a journey of spiritual discovery. Staying in a Dharamshala adds to the essence of this journey, providing a serene and economical option for pilgrims. Each Dharamshala mentioned above offers unique features and facilities, ensuring that pilgrims have a comfortable and memorable stay during their visit to the sacred town of Kedarnath.