Getting to Kedarnath is a two-stage operation: drive to Gaurikund or Sonprayag at the base of the trail, then trek, ride, or fly the last 16 km to the shrine.
By road. The nearest large town is Rudraprayag, about 70 km below at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini. From there it is another 4–5 hours of mountain road through Guptkashi, Phata, and Sonprayag. Private vehicles must stop at Sonprayag; shared shuttles run the last 5 km of narrow road to Gaurikund.
By bus. Government buses run from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun to Sonprayag in 8–10 hours. Private operators offer faster but more expensive seats.
By air. Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun is the nearest commercial airport, about 240 km away — a full day's drive. From there many pilgrims take the helicopter service from Phata or Sersi straight to Kedarnath, a 10-minute flight that bypasses the trek.
Permits. A free biometric registration is mandatory before starting the trek; do this at Sonprayag or online before arriving.