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Kedarnath
Location
Rudraprayag district in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state, India.
Distance
National Capital Delhi: 443 km State Capital Dehradun: 228 km
Altitude
3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level.
Best Season To Visit
May to June and September to October
Facts About Kedarnath
Kedarnath, situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, is a sacred town revered by Hindus as one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the country. Perched at an altitude of approximately 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath is nestled amidst majestic peaks, lush forests, and pristine natural beauty.
The town is renowned for the ancient Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. According to Hindu mythology, Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, divine manifestations of Lord Shiva, and is believed to be one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations for devout Hindus.
The Kedarnath Temple, constructed in the traditional North Indian architectural style, is located near the head of the Mandakini River and is surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas. The temple complex comprises the main sanctum sanctorum, where the sacred lingam of Lord Shiva is enshrined, as well as other smaller shrines and pavilions.
Pilgrims undertake the arduous journey to Kedarnath to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and to pay homage to their ancestors. The pilgrimage typically involves a trek of approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Gaurikund, the base camp, to Kedarnath, which passes through rugged terrain, dense forests, and scenic landscapes.
Apart from its religious significance, Kedarnath offers stunning natural beauty and opportunities for spiritual reflection and meditation. The serene ambiance, fresh mountain air, and panoramic views of the Himalayas create a tranquil environment conducive to introspection and inner peace.
Despite being nestled in a remote and challenging terrain, Kedarnath attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year, especially during the pilgrimage season from May to October. During this time, the town comes alive with religious fervor, cultural festivities, and the sound of hymns and chants echoing through the mountains.
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Kedarnath :- Famous Visiting Places
1. Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath Temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is part of the Char Dham Yatra and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Situated at an elevation of 3,583 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas, the temple is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and the Mandakini River. The temple's history dates back to the Mahabharata era, and it is believed that the Pandavas built the temple to seek forgiveness from Shiva. The temple's architecture is simplistic yet powerful, with a stone facade that has withstood the test of time. Pilgrims undertake a challenging trek to reach Kedarnath, adding to the spiritual significance of the journey.
2. Agastyamuni
Agastyamuni, named after the sage Agastya, is a small town located on the banks of the Mandakini River in Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand. It is famous for the Agasteshwar Mahadev Temple, which is dedicated to sage Agastya. According to legend, the sage meditated here for years, and the temple is built on the spot where he performed penance. The town is not only a spiritual hub but also a base for travelers heading to Kedarnath. The temple's surroundings are serene, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, making it a peaceful retreat for pilgrims and tourists alike.
3. Chandrashila
Chandrashila, meaning 'Moon Rock', is a peak located at an elevation of about 4,000 meters, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. It is the summit of the Tungnath trek, and the Chandrashila trek is one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand, especially during the winter when the region is blanketed in snow. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama meditated here after defeating Ravana, adding a spiritual significance to the location. The trek to Chandrashila is not just about reaching the peak but also about experiencing the spiritual and natural beauty along the way.
4. Triyuginarayan
Triyuginarayan is a small village located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, famous for the Triyuginarayan Temple, which is believed to be the site where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were married. The temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, houses the Akhand Dhuni, a perpetual flame that has been burning since the divine wedding. The temple's architecture is similar to the Kedarnath Temple, with a simple yet significant design. The surrounding area is lush and green, with beautiful views of the mountains, making it a serene destination for both pilgrims and nature lovers.
5. Guptakashi
Guptakashi is a significant town in the Rudraprayag district, known for its rich religious heritage and stunning views of the Chaukhamba peaks. The town is home to the ancient Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Ardhanarishvara Temple, which depicts Shiva in his half-male, half-female form. According to mythology, Guptakashi is where Lord Shiva hid from the Pandavas before revealing himself in Kedarnath. The town serves as a major stopover for pilgrims heading to Kedarnath, offering a blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty.
6. Bhairavnath Temple
Bhairavnath Temple is located just above the Kedarnath Temple and is dedicated to Bhairava, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. The temple is perched on a hill and offers panoramic views of the Kedarnath valley and surrounding peaks. Bhairava is considered the guardian deity of the Kedarnath Temple, and it is believed that he protects the temple and the valley during the winter months when the temple is closed. Pilgrims visit Bhairavnath Temple after their darshan at Kedarnath, seeking the deity's protection and blessings.
7. Gaurikund
Gaurikund is a significant stop on the way to Kedarnath, located at an altitude of 1,982 meters. It is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati meditated and performed penance to win Lord Shiva's heart. The site is home to the Gauri Temple, dedicated to her, and a hot water spring known as Gaurikund, where pilgrims traditionally bathe before embarking on the Kedarnath trek. The area is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it a spiritually and naturally significant spot.
8. Chorabari Tal
Chorabari Tal is also known as Gandhi Sarovar, is a high-altitude glacial lake located near Kedarnath in the Rudraprayag district. The lake is situated at an altitude of about 3,900 meters and is fed by the Chorabari Glacier. The lake is serene and pristine, offering stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. According to legend, the lake was named after Mahatma Gandhi, whose ashes were immersed here. The trek to Chorabari Tal from Kedarnath is short but offers breathtaking views of the Kedarnath peak and the surrounding glaciers, making it a popular destination for trekkers and pilgrims.
9. Kalpeshwar Temple
Kalpeshwar Temple is one of the Panch Kedar temples and is located in the Urgam Valley of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 2,134 meters. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is unique because it is the only Panch Kedar temple that remains accessible throughout the year. The temple is renowned for its natural beauty and spiritual significance, with the main deity being worshipped in the form of Jata (hair) of Shiva. The temple is surrounded by dense forests and offers serene views of the valley, making it a peaceful retreat for pilgrims.
10. Vasuki Tal
Vasuki Tal is a high-altitude lake located near Kedarnath, at an elevation of about 4,135 meters. The lake is surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks and is known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil environment. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu bathed in this lake, and the water is believed to be sacred. The trek to Vasuki Tal from Kedarnath is challenging, passing through rough terrain and offering stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. The serene beauty and spiritual significance of Vasuki Tal make it a rewarding destination for trekkers and pilgrims alike.
How to Reach
By Road
Kedarnath is good connectivity via road and one can reached kedarnath from Delhi by different route. Both public and private service operator provide their services to kedarnath.
By Train
Rishikesh railway station is the nearest railway station which is 210 km from Gaurikund.
By Air
Jolly Grant airport Dehradun is the nearest airport which is approx 110 km from Kedarnath. From Dehradun taxi or bus can be a good option to reached Kedarnath.
Climate & Weather
summer
Summer (April to June): Summers in Kedarnath are cool, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 18°C. The snow starts melting, making the path to the temple accessible. Pilgrims flock to the region during this time, as the temple opens for darshan.
monsoon
Monsoon (July to September): Kedarnath receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon, with temperatures between 7°C and 15°C. The region is prone to landslides, and the pilgrimage can be challenging due to slippery paths and unpredictable weather.
autumn
Autumn (October to November): Autumn is chilly, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 12°C. The weather is clear, and the temple remains open until November. This is the last opportunity to visit before winter sets in.
winter
Winter (December to February): Kedarnath experiences harsh winters, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. The temple is closed, and the region is covered in deep snow, making it inaccessible.
Hotels Around Kedarnath
Kedarnath, being primarily a pilgrimage destination, offers limited accommodation options compared to other tourist destinations. However, there are some guesthouses, lodges, and campsites available for travelers and pilgrims visiting the sacred town. Here are a few accommodation options in Kedarnath:
GMVN Tourist Rest House: Operated by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN), the GMVN Tourist Rest House offers basic accommodation facilities for pilgrims and travelers. The rooms are simple and clean, providing a comfortable stay amidst the serene surroundings of Kedarnath.
Shri Kedar Guest House: Situated near the Kedarnath Temple, Shri Kedar Guest House offers modest accommodations for pilgrims and visitors. The guesthouse provides basic amenities and a convenient location for those wishing to explore the sacred sites in and around Kedarnath.
Himalayan Comfort Stay: Located close to the Kedarnath Temple, Himalayan Comfort Stay offers simple accommodations in the form of tents and rooms. The stay provides basic amenities and warm hospitality, allowing guests to experience the tranquility of the Himalayas.
Chardham Camps: Chardham Camps offer tented accommodations for pilgrims and travelers seeking a unique stay experience in Kedarnath. The camps provide comfortable tents with basic amenities and meals, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.
Kedar Valley Resort: Situated amidst picturesque surroundings, Kedar Valley Resort offers comfortable accommodations for travelers visiting Kedarnath. The resort provides basic amenities, warm hospitality, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
It's important to note that accommodation options in Kedarnath are limited and may vary in terms of facilities and services. Additionally, due to the remote location and high altitude of Kedarnath, facilities may be basic compared to other tourist destinations. Visitors are advised to book their accommodations in advance, especially during the peak pilgrimage season, to ensure availability and a comfortable stay.: