Kedarnath
Abode of Lord Shiva in the Majestic Himalayas
Overview
Nestled at an altitude of 3,583 meters in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is a sacred town and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is also one of the most important sites in the Char Dham Yatra. Surrounded by the stunning snow-clad peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath offers an unparalleled spiritual and natural experience.
Religious Significance
Kedarnath holds immense importance in Hindu mythology and is deeply associated with the Mahabharata. According to legend, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva to absolve their sins. Lord Shiva, unwilling to forgive them easily, took the form of a bull and hid in the Garhwal Himalayas. The hump of the bull is said to have emerged in Kedarnath, while the other parts of Shiva’s body appeared in nearby locations, collectively known as the Panch Kedar.
The Kedarnath Temple is believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas and later restored by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
Key Attractions
Kedarnath Temple
Constructed of massive stone slabs, the temple is a marvel of ancient architecture. Inside the sanctum, a conical rock is worshipped as Lord Shiva in his Sadashiva form. The temple remains open to devotees from May to November and is closed during winter due to heavy snowfall.
Bhim Shila
A large boulder that stood firm during the devastating 2013 floods, protecting the temple from destruction. It is now revered as a divine symbol.
Shankaracharya Samadhi
Located near the temple, this is the final resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, who is credited with reviving Hinduism and the Char Dham pilgrimage.
Gaurikund
The starting point of the Kedarnath trek, Gaurikund has a sacred hot water spring where Goddess Parvati is believed to have meditated to win Lord Shiva’s love.
Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar)
A serene glacial lake situated 3 kilometers from Kedarnath. The lake reflects the nearby snow-covered peaks and is a popular trekking destination.
The Kedarnath Trek
The 16-kilometer trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is a journey filled with breathtaking views of lush valleys, waterfalls, and towering peaks. Ponies, palanquins, and helicopter services are available for those who cannot trek on foot.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (May to June): Pleasant weather, perfect for pilgrimage and trekking.
Autumn (September to October): Clear skies and moderate temperatures.
The temple is closed during winter (November to April), and the idol of Lord Shiva is moved to Ukhimath for worship.
Travel Tips
- Carry warm and waterproof clothing as temperatures can drop drastically, especially at night.
- Wear sturdy trekking shoes and pack essential items like a first aid kit, flashlight, and snacks.
- Acclimatize yourself to the high altitude to avoid health issues.
- Book accommodations and other services in advance during peak seasons.
Spiritual and Natural Bliss
Kedarnath is not just a place of worship but a destination that offers profound spiritual solace amidst nature’s grandeur. Whether you’re a devotee seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings, a trekker chasing Himalayan adventures, or a traveler exploring India’s cultural heritage, Kedarnath is a journey of a lifetime.