Will the original Kedarnath trekking route via Garud Chatti reopen?

Yes, the original 15.3km trekking route to Kedarnath via Garud Chatti, damaged in the 2013 floods, is expected to reopen for pilgrims in the upcoming yatra season.

What is the significance of the Garud Chatti route to Kedarnath?

The Garud Chatti route was the original main path to the Kedarnath shrine before it was severely damaged in the 2013 flash floods, and its reopening provides a shorter alternative.

What preparations are being made for the reopening of the Kedarnath Garud Chatti route?

Final preparations, including the installation of drinking water facilities and toilets, are in their final stages, with officials optimistic about the route's use during the upcoming yatra.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Kedarnath's Original Trek Route Reopens After Devastation

Kedarnath's Original Trek Route Reopens After Devastation

1 Feb

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Summary

Original Kedarnath trekking route via Garud Chatti to reopen soon.
Route was severely damaged by 2013 flash floods.
Preparations are in the final stages for the upcoming yatra.

Kedarnath's Original Trek Route Reopens After Devastation

The historic 15.3km trekking route to Kedarnath via Garud Chatti, rendered unusable by the catastrophic 2013 flash floods, is slated for reopening in the upcoming yatra season. This restored path is notably shorter than the existing 16.3km route that bypasses Garud Chatti via Lincholi. Officials are finalizing essential utilities such as drinking water and toilets along the Garud Chatti trail.

The original route, once the primary access to the Kedarnath shrine, suffered extensive damage, with key segments washed away. The administration is considering designating the Garud Chatti path exclusively for foot traffic, while ponies will be directed to the wider Lincholi trail. Reconstruction efforts, undertaken by the public works department and disaster management authorities, have focused on rebuilding damaged segments, including a crucial bridge at Rambada.