Kedarnath is the other name of heaven on Earth. It's a dream destination for everyone. It's both beautiful and dangerous. So you must be fully aware of everything in and out of the Kedarnath temple before visiting this location. So let's dive deep to explore some of the unexplored aspects of Kedarnath temple before planning our trip In this blog, you will read all the information about Kedarnath temple with us.
Kedarnath temple is stationed near the Mandakini River in the state of Uttarakhand. This state is specifically known for its vast number of temples and pilgrimages. Thousands of people travel to this destination to experience spirituality. Out of all the temples, Kedarnath temple is considered a precious gem for Uttarakhand. Chota Char Dham Yatra, Do Dham Yatra, 12 jyotirlinga in India, and Panch Kedar all include the Kedarnath temple as one of their holy sites. The temple is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas at 3,583 meters above sea level. Mandakini River flowing near it has a story associated with Lord Shiva. It is mentioned that the gods once entrusted Lord Shiva with their defence against demons. Lord Shiva took the form of a bull, killed, and threw all the demons into the river.
The temple’s monument has stood the hindrances cast by time and calamities. The temple’s history is connected to the Pandavas. They belonged to the Kuru Clan and were cousins of Kauravas. They were sons of the Kunti Devi and Pandu. All of them were one of a kind and had different abilities. Kauravas also considered Pandavas as their enemy and were jealous of them. Their rivalry grew to an extent that led to the Kurukshetra War. The Pandavas exterminated Kauravas. They won back their kingdom of Hastinapur under the supervision of Lord Krishna. The death of Kauravas caused anguish in the hearts of the Pandavas. They regretted their actions and wanted desperately to attain Moksha. Lord Krishna advised them to atone for their sins, by apologizing to Lord Shiva. On the other end, Lord Shiva was upset at the path chosen by the Pandavas to win the war. He decided to teach Pandavas a lesson, by disallowing them liberation. Pandavas were unaware of Lord Shiva’s intention and searched for him. Mahadev hid in a large town called Guptkashi. He attained the form of a bull called Nandi. Pandavas successfully found Lord Shiva but failed to apologize to him. He ran away, disappearing into the earth's surface. Bhim tried to catch the disappearing bull but was unable to match its speed.
There is another variation of the same around the Kedarnath temple. Bhim who also projects his abnormal physical strength in the epic of Mahabharata caught the hind legs and the tail. The body of the bull was torn and emerged at five different locations. These locations where the parts appeared were transformed into temples that were built by Pandavas. These temples were together called Panch Kedar, and are all dedicated to Lord Shiva. The location where the hump of the bull emerged was made into the Kedarnath temple. The location where the arms of the bull appeared was called Tungnath Temple. The place where the face appeared was made into the Rudranath temple. The place where the stomach of the bull emerged was called Madhyamaheshwar temple which was initially constructed by the Pandavas. The location where the hair of the bull appeared was called Kalpeshwar temple. Kedarnath temple is the first one visited in the Panch Kedar. These temples are always visited in order by the pilgrims.
The opening and closing dates of the Kedarnath temple were announced. The opening dates of the year 2024 are said to be on the 25th of April. The Kaapat of the Kedarnath temple will open by 6:20 a.m. On November 14th, the temple will close it is on Basant Panchami's Eve, the senior priest chooses the opening times. The dates are always announced on the Maha Shivratri. Kedarnath Yatra remains open only for six months. So the opening and closing dates are always decided as per these six months.
The best time to pay a visit to the Kedarnath temple is when the climate is pleasant. Summer seasons are known to be the best time to visit. The Kedarnath Dham experiences summer during the months between April to June. Pre-winters are also desirable for the visit. The Kedarnath Dham experiences pre-winters during the months between September to October. Winters that the Kedarnath temple experiences are considered to be harsh. The holy shrine receives heavy snowfall. This phenomenon blocks the transportation routes and roads which makes trekking difficult. Pilgrims are not allowed near the Kedarnath temple. The temple remains closed for six months. During the winters the idol of the god is transported to a place called Ukhimath. There is a temple called Omkareshwar where the idol is placed and worshipped. All the rituals and pujas are continued and followed by the priest. After the winter months are over, the idol is carried back to the Kedarnath temple in a Doli.
Planning a trip to Kedarnath is an exciting experience, but packing the right things is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here’s a simple guide to help you with Things to carry for Kedarnath Yatra
Kedarnath is located in the Himalayas, where the weather is cold, even in summer. Carry
You’ll need sturdy and comfortable trekking or walking shoes because the journey to Kedarnath involves a 16 km trek. Make sure your shoes are:
Unexpected rain is common in the mountains. Pack:
Carry a lightweight, durable backpack to hold your essentials. It should be:
Pack basic items for personal hygiene and care:
It’s important to be prepared for minor health issues. Carry:
Keep yourself hydrated and energized during the trek. Carry:
Power cuts or trekking after sunset can happen. Carry a small torch with extra batteries for safety.
Your phone is your lifeline for navigation and communication. Carry:
If you plan to visit the temple, carry:
Kedarnath Temple is not only a holy place but also surrounded by many beautiful and peaceful spots. After visiting the temple, you can explore these attractions nearby to enjoy nature, history, and spirituality. Let’s look at some must-visit places to visit near Kedarnath Temple.
Bhairav Nath Temple is just 1 km from Kedarnath Temple. It is dedicated to Bhairavnath, a fierce form of Lord Shiva. People believe that Bhairavnath protects the Kedarnath Temple during the winter months. From this temple, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Gandhi Sarovar, also called Chorabari Lake, is a small lake about 3 km from the temple. The water in this lake is clear and reflects the snowy peaks around it. The short trek to the lake takes you through beautiful green meadows and small waterfalls. It’s a peaceful and refreshing spot.
Shankaracharya Samadhi is located near the Kedarnath Temple. It is the final resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, a famous saint who played a big role in spreading Hinduism. This spot is calm and perfect for people who want to feel connected to history and spirituality.
Vasuki Tal is a high-altitude lake about 8 km from Kedarnath Temple. The trek to Vasuki Tal is a bit challenging, but the beauty of the place makes it worth the effort. The lake is surrounded by tall mountains and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.
Gaurikund is about 14 km from Kedarnath Temple and is the starting point of the trek to the temple. It has hot water springs where pilgrims take a holy dip before beginning their journey. Gaurikund is also linked to the story of Goddess Parvati meditating here to win Lord Shiva’s love.
Sonprayag is a small town around 20 km from Kedarnath Temple. It is where the Mandakini and Basuki rivers meet. The place is quiet and surrounded by beautiful views of mountains, making it a great stop on your way to Kedarnath.
Triyuginarayan Temple is about 25 km from Kedarnath. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married. It is also known as The Universe's First Love Marriage. The temple has an eternal flame that has been burning for centuries. The temple is surrounded by greenery and is a very peaceful spot.
Guptkashi temple is 46 km from Kedarnath and is famous for its ancient temples, like the Vishwanath Temple and Ardhnarishwar Temple. The town also offers wonderful views of the Chaukhamba peaks.
Chopta, about 70 km from Kedarnath, is called the Mini Switzerland of India. It is a scenic hill station with green meadows and snowy mountains. If you enjoy trekking, you can visit Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, which is near Chopta.
Ukhimath Temple is 41 km from Kedarnath and is the winter home of Lord Kedarnath. When the Kedarnath Temple closes during winter, the idols are moved to Ukhimath for worship. The town is quiet and surrounded by beautiful views of the Himalayas. These attractions near Kedarnath Temple add more meaning and beauty to your trip. Whether you are a nature lover, a history fan, or a spiritual seeker, these places will make your journey unforgettable.
Kedarnath Temple, nestled in the Himalayas, is one of the holiest sites for Hindus. Located in Uttarakhand, reaching this sacred temple requires planning and effort. Here’s a simple guide on how you can get there:
The nearest airport to Kedarnath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 250 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gaurikund, the base point for the Kedarnath trek.
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, about 230 km from Kedarnath. Other nearby stations include Haridwar and Dehradun. Once you reach the station, you can take a taxi or bus to Gaurikund.
Kedarnath is not just a spiritual destination but also a place surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayas. It offers a mix of religious, adventurous, and serene experiences. Here are the top things to do in Kedarnath:
The Kedarnath Temple is the main attraction. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is a must-visit for its spiritual significance and stunning architecture. Participate in the morning and evening prayers (aarti) to feel a deep sense of peace.
The 16 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is an adventure in itself. As you walk through scenic landscapes, tall mountains, and gushing rivers, the journey feels rewarding. The trek is challenging but worth every step for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Gandhi Sarovar, also known as Chorabari Tal, is a small, crystal-clear lake about 3 km from Kedarnath Temple. The trek to the lake is short and beautiful, offering mesmerizing views of snow-covered peaks and greenery.
Located near Kedarnath Temple, Bhairav Temple is dedicated to Bhairavnath, who is believed to protect the Kedarnath valley. The temple also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
This is the resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, a revered saint who revived Hinduism. It is located near Kedarnath Temple and is an important spiritual site for pilgrims.
Kedarnath is a paradise for photographers. Capture the beauty of the majestic Himalayan peaks, lush meadows, and serene rivers. The natural landscapes provide endless opportunities for stunning photos.
For trekkers, a visit to Vasuki Tal is a must. This high-altitude lake is about 8 km from Kedarnath Temple and is surrounded by snow-clad peaks. The trek is moderately challenging but offers breathtaking views.
Before starting the trek, take a dip in the natural hot water springs at Gaurikund. It is believed that the water has healing properties and provides relief to tired muscles.
Interact with the locals to learn about the culture and traditions of the region. You can also explore nearby villages to see their way of life and enjoy the simple, warm hospitality of the people.
Kedarnath’s serene surroundings are perfect for meditation and self-reflection. Sit by the riverside or in a quiet spot to connect with nature and your inner self.
For a unique experience, take a helicopter ride to Kedarnath. The aerial views of the mountains and valleys are breathtaking, making it a memorable journey.
The Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, located nearby, is home to diverse flora and fauna. If you’re lucky, you might spot animals like musk deer, snow leopards, and Himalayan monals. Kedarnath is a place where spirituality and natural beauty come together. Whether you’re there for religious reasons or to explore the scenic wonders, you will leave with unforgettable memories.
Registration is a mandatory step to be followed to visit the Kedarnath temple. Registration can be done through the official website. The process involves giving details like name, gender, phone number or E-mail ID, and a passport-size photograph. When all these criteria mentioned in the form are filled in, the registration process is completed by clicking on the submit option. Every pilgrim who is visiting the Kedarnath temple must carry a hard copy of the registration compulsorily. There is also another way of registration which is by offline mode. Many offline registration centres are placed at the entrances of the Chota Char Dham. People who are looking for helicopter services should compulsorily have a copy of the registration. Pilgrims who will bring the digital format or fail to bring a hard copy will not be allowed near the entrance of the Kedarnath temple.
1. Temple of Kedarnath is also one of the 12 jyotirlingas that are constructed in remembrance of Lord Shiva.
2. The Kedarnath trek is more than 16 km in distance with its base camp located in Guptkashi.
3. Kedarnath temple's history says that it stayed under the ice for 400 years.
4. Kedarnath temple is said to be older than 1000 years and has miraculously withstood natural calamities.
5. Kedarnath temple was not at all mentioned in the epic Mahabharata. The Skanda Purana is the religious text which talks about the Kedarnath temple for the first time.
6. The Shiva Lingam at the temple has a unique conical shape which explains the fact that the hump of the bull appeared at this place.
7. Kedarnath temple was later reconstituted by the prodigy Adi Shankaracharya. The place where he took the Moksha lies near the temple. The site is called Shankaracharya Samadhi.
8. Kedarnath temple remained unscathed in the dangerous flood that happened in the 2013 Uttarakhand. Many people died and many went missing. Later, the rescue team transported those who had sought safety to a safe location. A huge rock that was carried along with the flood guarded the temple by changing the direction of the flood waters.
9. Rock is called Bhim Shila and it is also worshipped by the visiting pilgrims because according to experts the rock was cut out in perfect measurements to protect the edifice. The stone is called the armour that is designed by the almighty himself to protect the shrine.
10. There is also the existence of another temple called Bhairavnath temple which is given the tag of the guardian that protects the Kedarnath from demons.
Manchala Mushfir Private Limited provides variable packages for the Kedarnath Yatra. Kedarnath Yatra Package Cost will start from INR 9500 per person for a 4-day 3-night trip starting from Haridwar. This package will include your transportation, meals, guide, registration, premium stay, river rafting, and all. Packages cost of Kedarnath will vary depending upon the starting ending point, stay location, facilities included, etc. For more details, you can visit our Kedarnath Yatra package page.
- Temperature: 5 degrees to 17 degrees Celsius (41°F to 63°F)
- Weather: the weather is usually Pleasant and cool, with clear skies this month.
- Best for: this is the best time for Pilgrimage, trekking, and sightseeing in Kedarnath.
in the summer months the best time to visit Kedarnath temple. At this time the snow starts to melt and the temple is reopening in late April to early May because of winter closure. carry warm clothes because it is necessary due to the cold temperature at night.
- Temperature: 5 degrees Celsius to 15 degrees Celsius (41°F to 59°F)
- Weather: the weather is Rainy, with frequent heavy showers and landslides.
- Challenges: this month the Travel risks due to landslides and slippery paths.
During monsoon season, heavy rains are common, and traveling from Kedarnath in that season might well cause people trouble. However the green mountains and clouds up on high provide a special attraction for adventurers.
- Temperature: 0°C to 12°C (32°F to 54°F)
- Weather: Cold, with clear skies and stunning views.
- Best for: Peaceful pilgrimages and enjoying the serene landscape.
When the monsoon waters have retreated, it is stable weather again. The snow-covered mountain tops in crisp air must be heaven, indeed. This season is the best for photography enthusiasts.
- Temperature: -10°C to 5°C (14°F to 41°F)
- Weather: Harsh and snowy, with freezing temperatures.
- Temple status: Closed; the deity is moved to Ukhimath.
In the winter, Kedarnath temple in snow, making travel impractical for most people. The temple is closed, and everything is covered with a thick layer of snow. During this time the goddess is worshipped in Ukhimat
Kedarnath temple is the most famous temple in India. it is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level. the temple is situated in the Rudraprayag district near the Mandakini River. it is one of the parts of Do Dham Yatra dedicated to the lord shiva.
The Shiva Kedarnath Temple is famous for the part of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It is also part of the Char Dham Yatra and Do Dham Yatra, making it the oldest site. its location makes your journey unforgettable and includes the high Himalayan peaks and surrounding meadows.
Kedarnath Temple is also of high altitude pilgrimage and its structure of the ancient stone architecture is believed to be thousands of years old. The temple is also famous for having natural calamities, including severe floods, making it a historical place in india.
However, it is said that this temple was built by Pandavas after Mahabarth, but it was renovated by Adi Shankaracharya in the early part of the 8th century only. This places the temple at about thousands of years in existence with strong links to both Hindu mythology and history.
On the premises of Kedarnath Temple, the actual site of worship is the ancient stone lingam dedicated to the Lord Shiva. They have a low quantity of light inside and the walls are filled with icons of different gods. and its construction, which is simple but very worshipful and spiritual, followers of the temple gain profound respect.
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