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Important Benefits You Must Know Of Using Credit Card

Personal Finance
08-11-2023
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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reports a rise of 26.5% in credit card users in India. The growing numbers show the popularity of credit cards. Reducing cash transactions and keeping track of spending benefit credit card users.

A credit card is more beneficial than a debit card. You only need to swipe it to buy now and pay later. Moreover, these cards have worldwide acceptance. They also provide you with the financial freedom you desire. Continue reading to learn what a credit card is and how it can help you.

What is a credit card?

A credit card or plastic money is a small card the size of your driving license. It bears,

  • The credit card number, 
  • The cardholder’s name, 
  • Expiry date, 
  • Signature, 
  • CVC code and other relevant details. 

The bank that issues the credit card checks your creditworthiness for approval. The credit limit depends on your credit score and income. You can only spend up to the pre-approved limit.

On approval, the issuer bank links the credit card to your credit limit, not your bank account. Thus, the bank deducts withdrawal or payment accounts from the credit limit and not your bank account balance, as in the case of debit cards.

Who Can Apply for a Credit Card? 

As per RBI guidelines, banks can issue credit cards via the credit card department. Indian banks can appoint a subsidiary company to issue credit cards. They may issue it to an Indian national or NRI, depending on their policy.

The bank approves the credit card of anyone:

  • Who is 18 years of age or older
  • Has a favourable credit score and negligible or zero payment defaults
  • Has a stable income as per bank needs for approval of credit cards
  • Is working at the same place for a year more. Top Benefits of Using Credit Cards

 Fulfil the above requirements and apply for a credit card to avail of several benefits. They are as follows:

Easy to use

It is compact and easy to carry in your wallet. You can use it to buy groceries, pay insurance premiums, or pay housing loan EMIs. Such payments don’t burden or reduce your bank account as the issuing bank does not link the card to your bank account. These are interest-free withdrawals, provided you pay back within the grace period.

Rewards, discounts, and bonuses

Reward points have value and may differ depending on the bank with which you apply for a credit card. However, most banks provide the following rewards to credit card holders:

Earn and exchange reward points for gifts.The bank rewards you with reward points for almost every transaction you make via credit card. The only condition is that the transactions should be for a specific amount. The bank offers a list of gifts, and you can redeem the gifts by using the reward points. Some banks even permit reward point redemption against the outstanding credit card balance.
Rewards for Reaching MilestonesThe bank may set milestones for customers to reach with their credit card spending. If you achieve the milestone, the issuer bank will give you many bonus points. You can use them to redeem expensive gifts.
Earn More Reward PointsYou can earn accelerated reward points using a co-branded credit card. Use the card to pay for travel (tickets and accommodations) or to buy groceries or other online commodities. For instance, a transaction that earns only one reward point may earn you three times more. 
Bonus Reward Points on Opting for a Credit CardSome banks and credit card issuing companies may offer many reward points for signing up. The condition may be to spend a specific amount via credit card in a fixed period to take advantage of the offer.
Renewals Earn Reward PointsA credit card is only valid for a limited time and has an expiration date. It is invalid after the expiration date, and you cannot use it without renewing. Most banks reward credit card users with reward points at each credit card renewal.
Reward Points for Spending on Add-onsA credit card-issuing bank may issue an add-on credit card to the credit card holder’s spouse or children.

It is advisable to check your reward points as they come with an expiration date. Redeem them online, offline, or through customer care before they become invalid. You can redeem them for various products on the credit card issuers’ catalogue, donate them to your favourite charity, exchange them for e-vouchers of branded merchandise, or use the cashback facility. Some brands and online stores offer discounts if you use a specific credit card.

Build your credit score.

Applying for a credit card if you plan to opt for a housing loan or any other form of funding is advisable. Banks and NFBCs rate you as creditworthy depending on your credit card records. Here’s what you must do to build your credit score with the help of a credit card:

  • Never exceed the pre-approved limit of the credit card.
  • Never default on payments.
  • Use only a minimal part of the approved credit.

Credit card EMI payments

Credit cards are of immense help when you need to buy an expensive product but don’t have the money to pay for it. It is an excellent option when you cannot repay within 3 months or in one lump sum. 

Here’s how a credit card EMI can help in emergencies:

  • Choose EMIs to pay small amounts in monthly instalments.
  • Check if your product has a zero-interest EMI offer. Please note that even if you have to pay interest on the EMI amount, it is still worth it. It will be lower than the credit card’s outstanding balance interest rates.
  • The tenure may vary from 3 to 18 months. Choose based on your ability to repay.

More Protection Via Credit Card

If someone tries to steal from you by using your credit card, you can alert the bank, and they will work to recover the funds. Thus, such fraudulent circumstances do not burden your bank account. It will not result in insufficient funds when you need them most. Moreover, it contains a detailed record of your transactions that works as proof of payment.

Conclusion 

Credit cards are, therefore, the most convenient way to shop. If busy shopping malls do not appeal to you, shop from home with a credit card. Apart from deferred payments, they are good for saving money through their offers, discounts, and reward points.

Piramal Finance is your window to excellent financing options. The knowledge blogs are well-researched and perfect guides to help you plan your savings and expenses.

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The Ultimate Guide to CIBIL Score for Home Loans: From 750+ to Loan Approval

Your CIBIL score is an important factor in determining your current credit score and determining if you are eligible for future loans. So, what is it, and how do you calculate it? It is really important to maintain a high CIBIL score (at least 700). Think of it as your financial report card; a higher score implies more people want to give you loans. Fun fact: taking loans and repaying them on time is, in fact, an important way to improve your CIBIL score! Table of Contents What is the CIBIL Score for a Home Loan? Why Do You Need a Good CIBIL Score? How is the CIBIL Score Calculated? How to Maintain and Improve a Credit Score for a Loan How Long Does It Take to Improve Your Score? Common Mistakes to Avoid Final Thoughts Frequently Asked Questions Key Takeaways ● CIBIL score for home loan is a three-digit number that tells banks how safely you handle money. Scores range from 300 to 900. ● The minimum CIBIL for a housing loan is usually 650, but banks prefer 700 or 750+ for easy approval and low rates. ● You can improve your credit score for a loan by paying bills on time, reducing debt, and keeping old accounts open. ● It usually takes 6-12 months of disciplined effort to increase your score. What is the CIBIL Score for a Home Loan? A CIBIL score is a credit score that shows your financial behaviour. It’s like a report card for your money habits, ranging from 300 to 900. CIBIL score for a home loan is crucial when banks are deciding whether to approve your loan or not. Think of it like a report card, like below: ● 300-549: Very bad (like failing in school) ● 550-649: Not good (like getting poor marks) ● 650-699: Okay (like average marks) ● 700-749: Good (like good marks) ● 750-900: Excellent (like being a topper!) If you have a score of 750 or above, most lenders see you as trustworthy and offer better interest rates and easier approval. Scores between 650 and 749 are considered “good,” but may come with stricter conditions or higher interest rates. Below 600, getting a loan becomes very difficult, and you need to work on your score first. Why Do You Need a Good CIBIL Score? Your score affects your chance of getting approved, how much you can borrow, and what interest rate you’ll get. Imagine if you and a friend both apply for a home loan: if you have a higher score, banks trust you more, give you faster approval, and offer better deals. That’s why the minimum CIBIL score for a housing loan is important. A higher score can save you money and make the loan process smooth and stress-free. How is the CIBIL score calculated? Your score is like a recipe with different ingredients: What They Look At How Much It Matters Paying bills on time 35% (Most important!) How much credit you use 30% How long you had credit 15% Types of loans you have 10% New loan applications 10% Think of it like this: ● Payment history: If you always pay your phone bill, electricity bill, and loan payments on time, you get good marks ● Credit usage: If you have a credit card with a ₹10,000 limit, try to use only ₹3,000. Using too much looks bad ● Credit age: Keeping old accounts open is like showing you've been responsible for a long time ● Credit mix: Having different types (credit card + loan) shows you can handle different things How to Maintain and Improve Credit Score for a Loan Here are simple credit score tips that anyone can follow: Pay Everything On Time ● Set reminders on your phone for all bill due dates ● Pay at least 2-3 days before the due date ● Never miss any payment, even small ones Don't Use Too Much Credit ● If your credit card limit is ₹10,000, use only ₹3,000 or less ● Pay off your credit card completely every month Don't Apply for Too Many Loans ● Every time you apply for a loan, your score goes down a little ● Wait at least 6 months between applications Keep Old Accounts Open ● Don't close your first credit card ● Old accounts show you've been responsible for a long time Check Your Report ● Get your free credit report once a year ● If you see mistakes, complain and get them fixed Pay Off Old Debts ● If you owe money to anyone, pay it back ● Even small unpaid bills can hurt your score How Long Does It Take to Improve Your Score? Just like losing weight or building muscles, improving your CIBIL score for a home loan takes time and patience: ● 3 months: You might see small improvements if you pay everything on time ● 6 months: You'll see good changes if you follow all the rules ● 12 months: Your score can improve significantly with consistent good habits Don't expect magic overnight. Think of it like growing a plant. You water it every day, and slowly it grows bigger and stronger. Final Thoughts Getting your dream home starts with taking care of your CIBIL score for a home loan. Think of your score as a friendship with banks. The better friend you are (by paying on time and being responsible), the more they'll want to help you. Start with small steps. Pay your phone bill on time. Don't use your entire credit card limit. Check your score every few months. These simple credit score tips will help you build a strong score that opens doors to your dream home. Remember, every responsible person started somewhere. With patience and good habits, your minimum CIBIL for housing loan goals is totally achievable. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is the minimum CIBIL for a housing loan?Most banks want at least 650, but 750+ makes everything much easier and cheaper. 2. How can I check my CIBIL score?Go to the CIBIL website or your bank's website. You can check once a year for free. 3. Can I get a home loan if my score is below 650?It's very hard, but some banks might say yes if you earn a lot or have someone to guarantee for you. 4. How often does my score change?Usually, every month, when banks send your payment information to CIBIL. 5. What's the fastest way to improve a credit score for a loan?Pay all bills on time, use less credit, and don't apply for new loans frequently. 6. Does checking my own score make it worse?No! Only when banks check it for loan applications, it might go down slightly. 7. What if I have no credit history at all?Some banks give "starter" loans, or you can get a credit card first to build history. 8. Will paying off loans early help my score?Yes! It shows you're responsible and can manage money well.
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Switzerland Trip Cost from India – Full Budget Guide

Switzerland, often called the “Paradise of Europe,” is famous for its snow-covered Alps, crystal-clear lakes, scenic train journeys, and charming towns. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic honeymoon or an adventurous vacation, knowing the Switzerland trip cost from India will help you plan your dream holiday better. India to Switzerland Flight Ticket Price Flights make up a major portion of your total trip cost. There are several one-stop flights from India to Zurich or Geneva via Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul. Round-trip airfare from India to Switzerland: ₹45,000 to ₹75,000 per person Premium airlines or peak season fares: ₹80,000 to ₹1,10,000 Booking 2–3 months in advance can help you find better deals Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, and Swiss Air operate regular flights connecting major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore to Switzerland. Visa and Travel Insurance Since Switzerland is part of the Schengen region, Indian travellers need a Schengen visa. Visa fee: Around ₹7,000 per person Travel insurance: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per person depending on duration Accommodation Costs in Switzerland Switzerland offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury mountain resorts. Budget stays: ₹4,000 to ₹6,000 per night Mid-range hotels: ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 per night Luxury resorts: ₹18,000 to ₹25,000 per night Staying in smaller towns like Lucerne or Interlaken instead of Zurich can help reduce your expenses while keeping you close to key attractions. Food and Dining Expenses Switzerland’s food is as rich as its culture, with influences from France, Germany, and Italy. Street food and snacks: ₹800 to ₹1,200 per meal Mid-range restaurants: ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per person Fine dining: ₹4,000+ per person For budget travellers, buying groceries and cooking simple meals can save a considerable amount, especially during long stays. Local Transport Costs Switzerland has one of the best public transportation systems in the world. Trains, buses, and boats are punctual and well-connected. Metro and buses: ₹300 to ₹500 per ride Swiss Travel Pass (unlimited train and bus travel): ₹20,000 to ₹35,000 for 8–15 days Car rentals: ₹5,000 to ₹8,000 per day (excluding fuel) If you plan to visit multiple cities, the Swiss Travel Pass is the most economical choice. Sightseeing and Activities Switzerland is packed with scenic attractions and adventure experiences. Cable car rides (Mount Titlis, Jungfraujoch): ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 per person Lake cruises and local tours: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per person Museum entries and heritage sites: ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person Free attractions like hiking trails, viewpoints, and lakeside walks are great options to balance your expenses. Switzerland Trip Cost for Couples and Families For a 7 to 10-day trip, here’s a general estimate of the total cost: Budget trip: ₹1.3 lakh to ₹1.8 lakh per person Mid-range trip: ₹2 lakh to ₹2.8 lakh per person Luxury trip: ₹3 lakh+ per person These costs include flights, accommodation, meals, local transport, and sightseeing. Can a Travel Loan Help? A vacation in Switzerland can be expensive, but it’s also a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you want to explore this stunning country without financial worry, a travel loan can help. It allows you to book flights, hotels, and tours now and repay the cost gradually through affordable EMIs. Final Thoughts The Switzerland trip cost from India varies depending on how you travel and stay, typically ranging between ₹1.3 lakh and ₹2.8 lakh per person. From the snowy peaks of the Alps to the peaceful lakes of Lucerne, every corner of Switzerland promises a postcard-perfect view. With careful planning and a well-managed budget, you can make your European dream vacation come true.
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Spain Trip Cost from India: A Complete Travel Budget Guide

Spain, one of Europe’s most vibrant and culturally rich destinations, offers everything from sunny beaches and architectural marvels to flamenco shows and delicious food. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Granada combine history, art, and modern energy, making Spain a dream vacation spot for Indian travellers. If you are planning to visit, here’s a complete guide to the Spain trip cost from India. India to Spain Flight Ticket Price Flights are one of the biggest parts of your Spain travel budget. Round-trip airfare from India to Spain (Delhi or Mumbai to Madrid or Barcelona): ₹45,000 to ₹70,000 per person Premium airlines may cost ₹80,000 to ₹1,00,000 during peak seasons Booking 2 to 3 months in advance and checking connecting flights can save money Major airlines like Lufthansa, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Air France offer frequent connections from India to Spain. Accommodation Costs in Spain Spain has options for every traveller, from backpackers to luxury seekers. Budget hostels and guesthouses: ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 per night Mid-range hotels: ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 per night Luxury hotels and resorts: ₹12,000 to ₹20,000 per night Staying in smaller towns or using Airbnb can help you save on accommodation, especially during summer. Food and Dining Expenses Spain is famous for its food culture, from tapas and churros to paella and sangria. Street food and local cafes: ₹600 to ₹1,000 per meal Mid-range restaurants: ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per person Fine dining experiences: ₹4,000+ per person A daily food budget of ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per person is comfortable for most travellers. Local Transport in Spain Spain has one of the best transportation systems in Europe. Metro and local buses: ₹250 to ₹500 per ride City travel passes: ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 per day Intercity trains (Madrid to Barcelona): ₹4,000 to ₹7,000 per person Car rentals: ₹5,000 to ₹7,000 per day You can also take high-speed trains like AVE for faster travel between cities. Sightseeing and Activities Spain offers something for everyone, from beaches to architecture and history. Sagrada Familia entry (Barcelona): ₹2,000 to ₹2,500 per person Prado Museum (Madrid): ₹1,500 per person Alhambra Palace (Granada): ₹2,000 per person Flamenco show: ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per person Beach activities and day tours: ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 per person Spain Trip Cost for Couples and Families For a 7 to 10 day trip, here’s an approximate cost: Budget trip: ₹1.3 lakh to ₹1.6 lakh per person Mid-range trip: ₹1.8 lakh to ₹2.3 lakh per person Luxury trip: ₹2.5 lakh+ per person This includes flights, accommodation, meals, local transport, and sightseeing. Can a Travel Loan Help? Spain is a country that offers unforgettable experiences, but it can be expensive for long stays or family trips. A travel loan can help you manage your trip expenses easily, allowing you to book flights, hotels, and tours without financial pressure. You can repay later in small, manageable EMIs while enjoying your dream European holiday. Final Thoughts A trip to Spain from India can cost between ₹1.3 lakh and ₹2.5 lakh per person, depending on your travel preferences. With smart planning, advance bookings, and the right budgeting, your Spanish adventure can be both memorable and affordable. From the beaches of Barcelona to the royal palaces of Madrid, Spain is a destination worth every rupee.
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Shimla Trip Cost 2025 – A Complete Travel Guide

Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is one of India’s most loved hill stations. With its snow-covered hills, colonial charm, toy train rides, and lively Mall Road, Shimla attracts travellers from all over the country. Whether you are planning a quick weekend getaway or a family vacation, understanding the Shimla trip cost can help you plan your journey better. Travel Cost to Shimla By Flight The nearest airport to Shimla is Jubbarhatti Airport, located about 22 km away, but only limited flights operate here. Most travellers prefer flying to Chandigarh Airport, which is about 120 km from Shimla. Delhi to Chandigarh flights: ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 (round trip) Taxi from Chandigarh to Shimla: ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 Shared cabs and buses: ₹800 to ₹1,200 per person By Train The Kalka–Shimla toy train is a UNESCO World Heritage route and a favourite among tourists. Delhi to Kalka (train): ₹400 to ₹1,200 Kalka to Shimla (toy train): ₹500 to ₹1,000 per person Duration: Around 5 to 6 hours with scenic mountain views By Road Shimla is around 340 km from Delhi. Volvo/AC bus: ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person Private cab: ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 (one-way) Self-drive: Around ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 for fuel Accommodation Costs in Shimla Shimla offers stays for every kind of traveller. Budget hotels and homestays: ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per night Mid-range hotels: ₹3,500 to ₹6,000 per night Luxury resorts: ₹8,000 to ₹15,000+ per night Staying near Mall Road or The Ridge is convenient but can be slightly more expensive than properties on the outskirts. Food and Dining Expenses Shimla offers a mix of local Himachali dishes, North Indian meals, and café-style food. Street food and local dhabas: ₹200 to ₹400 per meal Mid-range restaurants and cafes: ₹600 to ₹1,200 per person Fine dining or hotel meals: ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per person A daily food budget of ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person is ideal for most travellers. Sightseeing and Local Transport You can explore Shimla’s attractions using local taxis, rented bikes, or walking tours. Local taxi for a day: ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 Toy train rides within town: ₹100 to ₹300 Entry fees for attractions: ₹20 to ₹200 Popular Attractions in Shimla The Ridge and Mall Road Jakhoo Temple Kufri (snow point) Christ Church Green Valley Himalayan Bird Park Shimla Trip Cost for Couples and Families Here’s an estimated budget for a 3 to 4 days trip: Budget trip: ₹12,000 to ₹18,000 for two people Mid-range trip: ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 for two people Luxury trip: ₹45,000+ for two people This includes travel, stay, food, and local sightseeing. Can a Travel Loan Help? If you’re planning a longer vacation or want to enjoy a premium stay, a travel loan can make your journey easier. It allows you to cover flight bookings, accommodation, and sightseeing costs while repaying comfortably in EMIs later. Final Thoughts The Shimla trip cost varies depending on your travel style and preferences, ranging from ₹6,000 per person for budget travellers to ₹25,000 or more for luxury vacations. With beautiful landscapes, pleasant weather, and easy accessibility, Shimla is an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travellers. Plan ahead, book early, and enjoy the perfect hill station getaway without worrying about expenses.
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Pondicherry Trip Cost – A Complete Travel Budget Guide

Pondicherry, or Puducherry, is a charming coastal town on India’s southeast coast that beautifully blends French heritage with South Indian culture. With its peaceful beaches, colourful streets, spiritual retreats, and delicious food, it is one of India’s most loved weekend getaways. If you’re planning a vacation, understanding the Pondicherry trip cost will help you plan your travel smartly. Travel Cost to Pondicherry By Flight Pondicherry has a small airport with limited connectivity. The best option is to fly to Chennai International Airport, about 150 km away, and then travel by road. Delhi to Chennai flights: ₹5,000 to ₹9,000 (round trip) Mumbai to Chennai flights: ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 (round trip) Taxi or bus from Chennai to Pondicherry: ₹500 to ₹2,500 depending on the mode By Train Pondicherry is connected by train to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Delhi. Chennai to Pondicherry train: ₹250 to ₹600 per person Bangalore to Pondicherry train: ₹500 to ₹1,200 per person By Road Pondicherry is easily accessible by road, and the East Coast Road (ECR) is one of India’s most scenic routes. Chennai to Pondicherry (150 km): ₹800 to ₹1,500 by bus or ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 by taxi Bangalore to Pondicherry (310 km): ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 by bus or ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 by cab Accommodation Costs in Pondicherry Pondicherry offers a mix of heritage guesthouses, beachfront resorts, and boutique hotels. Budget hotels and hostels: ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 per night Mid-range hotels: ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per night Luxury resorts: ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 per night Staying near White Town or Promenade Beach gives you easy access to attractions but may cost slightly more. Food and Dining Expenses Pondicherry’s food scene reflects its French influence mixed with South Indian flavours. Street food and local cafes: ₹300 to ₹500 per meal Mid-range restaurants: ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person Fine dining and beachside restaurants: ₹2,000+ per person A daily food budget of ₹1,000 to ₹1,800 per person is ideal for a comfortable trip. Sightseeing and Local Transport Getting around Pondicherry is easy with rented scooters, bicycles, or auto-rickshaws. Scooter rentals: ₹400 to ₹600 per day Auto rides within city: ₹100 to ₹300 per trip Entry fees for attractions: ₹20 to ₹100 per person Top Attractions in Pondicherry Promenade Beach Auroville and Matrimandir Paradise Beach French Quarter (White Town) Aurobindo Ashram Serenity Beach Pondicherry Trip Cost for Couples and Families Here’s an estimated budget for a 3 to 4 days trip: Budget trip: ₹12,000 to ₹18,000 for two people Mid-range trip: ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 for two people Luxury trip: ₹45,000+ for two people This includes travel, stay, food, local transport, and sightseeing. Can a Travel Loan Help? If you’re planning a longer stay or a luxury vacation, managing expenses upfront can be challenging. A travel loan can make your Pondicherry trip hassle-free by covering flights, stays, and sightseeing costs while you repay conveniently through EMIs. Final Thoughts The Pondicherry trip cost largely depends on how you travel and where you stay, ranging from ₹6,000 per person for a budget holiday to ₹25,000 or more for a luxury vacation. With its calm beaches, French cafés, and colourful streets, Pondicherry offers the perfect escape for every kind of traveller. Plan ahead, book early, and enjoy a peaceful getaway by the sea.
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Kedarnath Trip Package – Cost and Travel Itinerary

Kedarnath, one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India, is nestled in the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kedarnath Temple is part of the Char Dham Yatra and attracts lakhs of devotees every year. The journey to this sacred shrine is both spiritual and scenic, making it a dream for those seeking peace and devotion. If you’re planning your visit, understanding the Kedarnath trip package details, cost, and travel options can help you plan your yatra efficiently. Travel Options to Kedarnath There are several routes and modes to reach Kedarnath, depending on your convenience and budget. By Air The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 240 km from Gaurikund (the base point for Kedarnath). Delhi to Dehradun flight: ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 (round trip) Taxi from Dehradun to Gaurikund: ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 per vehicle Helicopter services are also available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi to Kedarnath for those who want to skip the trek. Helicopter tickets cost between ₹5,000 and ₹8,000 per person (round trip). By Train The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, located around 210 km from Gaurikund. Delhi to Rishikesh train: ₹400 to ₹1,000 per person Cab or bus from Rishikesh to Gaurikund: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per person By Road Buses and shared taxis are available from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun to Gaurikund. The journey takes about 8 to 10 hours through beautiful mountain roads. Trekking to Kedarnath From Gaurikund, the Kedarnath trek spans about 16 kilometres. Ponies, palkis, and doli services are available for those who prefer not to walk. Pony ride: ₹3,000 to ₹4,500 per person Doli: ₹5,000 to ₹7,000 per person Porter: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 The trek offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and alpine forests, making it a spiritual as well as adventurous experience. Kedarnath Trip Package Cost Package prices vary based on departure city, duration, and inclusions such as meals, hotels, and transport. Budget Package: ₹9,000 to ₹15,000 per person (shared transport, basic stays, group tour) Mid-Range Package: ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 per person (comfortable hotels, meals, guide) Luxury Package: ₹35,000 to ₹50,000 per person (private cab, premium stays, helicopter option) If you choose to include nearby sites like Badrinath, Tungnath, or Guptkashi, costs may increase slightly but offer a complete Char Dham experience. Accommodation and Food Costs Accommodation options near Kedarnath are limited but sufficient for most pilgrims. Budget guesthouses: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per night Mid-range hotels in Guptkashi or Sonprayag: ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per night Luxury stays near Phata: ₹7,000 to ₹10,000 per night Meals are simple and vegetarian, with dhabas and ashrams offering thalis priced around ₹150 to ₹300 per person. Ideal Duration and Best Time to Visit The Kedarnath Temple opens in April or May and closes by October or early November before snowfall.A 4 to 5-day trip from Haridwar or Rishikesh is ideal to cover travel, stay, and darshan comfortably. How to Choose the Right Kedarnath Package Check if the package includes transport from Haridwar or Dehradun. Confirm meals, hotel quality, and local guide services. Verify inclusion of permits and temple entry arrangements. For senior citizens, helicopter-inclusive packages are highly recommended. Can a Travel Loan Help? Pilgrimage trips like Kedarnath can involve high travel and accommodation costs, especially for families. Opting for a travel loan can make it easier to manage these expenses while allowing you to repay conveniently through EMIs. Final Thoughts The Kedarnath trip package cost generally ranges between ₹9,000 and ₹30,000 per person, depending on comfort and inclusions. Whether you choose to trek or fly by helicopter, the journey to Kedarnath is an unforgettable spiritual experience. With a little planning and smart budgeting, you can make this holy yatra peaceful, memorable, and financially manageable.
14-10-2025
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