Most pilgrims sleep at Kedarnath base itself in the GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) tented colony and cottages, plus private lodges, ashram dharamshalas and a large seasonal tent city that together hold well over a thousand people; rooms are basic and book out fast in season, so reserve GMVN online in advance. Many break the journey lower down at Sonprayag, Gaurikund, Guptkashi, Phata or Sitapur, which have more hotels and are the pick-up points for helicopter and pony services. Nights are cold and power and network are patchy, so carry warm layers and cash.
At Kedarnath base, accommodation is functional rather than comfortable. The main options are the GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) tented colony, cottages and rooms just short of the temple, alongside private lodges, ashram and dharamshala rooms and a large seasonal tent city; together they hold well over a thousand pilgrims. Rooms are basic, cold and heavily booked in season, so reserve GMVN online well ahead and carry your own warm layers.
Many pilgrims choose not to sleep at the top at all. Lower halts at Sonprayag, Gaurikund, Guptkashi, Phata and Sitapur have a wider range of hotels and guesthouses, and these towns double as the pick-up points for helicopter flights and pony bookings. Basing here and doing the temple as a long day, or an overnight at the top, is a common strategy.
Whatever you choose, plan for mountain conditions: nights are genuinely cold, hot water and heating are limited, electricity and mobile network are patchy, and ATMs are scarce above Guptkashi. Carry enough cash, essential medicines and a headlamp, and keep expectations modest, since the value of the stay is proximity to the shrine, not the amenities.
← Back to the full Kedarnath darshan guideCompiled from public sources including euttaranchal.com - Kedarnath opening/closing dates 2026 · WanderOn - How to Reach Kedarnath · Rudraprayag District (Govt of Uttarakhand) - Kedarnath Yatra · euttaranchal.com - Kedarnath tourism. Timings and seasonal closures change; confirm with the temple trust before travelling.