BlogsKedarnath, one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India, is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, nestled at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is home to the Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a key part of the Char Dham Yatra. The temple’s spiritual significance, combined with its breathtaking surroundings, makes it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and adventure seekers alike.
Significance of Kedarnath
Believed to be built by the Pandavas and later restored by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, Kedarnath Temple holds immense religious importance.
It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped in the form of a naturally occurring conical Shiva Lingam.
The temple remains open only from April/May to October/November, as it gets covered in snow during winter. During the off-season, the deity is moved to Ukhimath for worship.
How to Reach Kedarnath
The nearest town accessible by road is Gaurikund, from where pilgrims undertake a 16 km trek to the temple.
Options for travel include trekking, pony rides, palanquins (palki), and helicopter services from nearby locations like Phata, Guptkashi, and Dehradun.
Attractions Around Kedarnath
Vasuki Tal – A glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Gandhi Sarovar – A crystal-clear lake near Chorabari Glacier.
Bhairavnath Temple – Dedicated to Bhairav, considered the protector of Kedarnath.
Triyuginarayan Temple – The legendary site where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were married.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time for the Kedarnath Yatra is from May to June and September to October, avoiding the monsoon season due to landslides and unpredictable weather conditions.
Kedarnath is not just a pilgrimage but an experience of spiritual awakening, adventure, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Whether you're a devotee seeking divine blessings or a traveler looking for serenity in the Himalayas, Kedarnath offers an unforgettable journey of faith and devotion.
