Kedarnath

Kedarnath, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, is a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks, it is part of the Char Dham Yatra. Accessible via a trek, Kedarnath offers spiritual solace and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for devotees and nature lovers.
District:
Rudraprayag
Division :
Garhwal
State :
Uttarakhand
Zip Code :
246445
Elevation:
3,583 m
When to Visit:
May to October (6 Months)

Overview

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Kedarnath, a sacred town in Uttarakhand, is renowned for the Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Located at an altitude of 3,583 meters amidst the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas, it is a spiritual haven and a trekker’s paradise. The town is accessible through a challenging 16-kilometer trek from Gaurikund, offering scenic vistas of dense forests, waterfalls, and rivers.

Kedarnath is part of the Char Dham Yatra and holds immense significance in Hindu mythology, symbolizing devotion and penance. The temple’s architecture, constructed using large grey stones, stands resilient against natural calamities, showcasing ancient engineering marvels. Best visited between May to June and September to October, Kedarnath offers a serene atmosphere for both spiritual seekers and adventure enthusiasts. It remains snow-bound during winters, making it inaccessible.

Places To Visit

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Kedarnath Temple

The Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the primary attraction. Built using massive stone slabs, it features a stunning backdrop of the Himalayas. A holy pilgrimage site, the temple exemplifies faith, resilience, and spirituality.

Gaurikund

Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath trek, is known for its thermal hot springs and religious significance. It is believed that Goddess Parvati meditated here, adding a spiritual touch to this picturesque destination.

Bhairav Temple

Located near Kedarnath, Bhairav Temple is dedicated to Bhairav Nath, the fierce form of Lord Shiva. The temple offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding valleys and is considered the guardian deity of Kedarnath.

Vasuki Tal

A pristine glacial lake situated 8 km from Kedarnath, Vasuki Tal is a serene spot surrounded by snow-clad mountains. Ideal for trekkers, the lake reflects the pure essence of Himalayan beauty and tranquility.

Shankaracharya Samadhi

This is the final resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, who revived the Char Dham pilgrimage. Located behind the Kedarnath Temple, the Samadhi is a place of historical and spiritual significance.

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How To Reach

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Via Air

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 238 km from Kedarnath. From there, hire a taxi to Gaurikund and trek further.

Via Train

The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, around 216 km away. From Rishikesh, buses or taxis can take you to Gaurikund.

Via Road

Kedarnath is accessible via motorable roads up to Gaurikund. Regular bus and taxi services operate from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Your Common Questions

The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to October when the weather is pleasant and safe for trekking.
The trek to Kedarnath is moderate to challenging, covering 16 km. Proper preparation, good fitness levels, and acclimatization are essential.
No, Kedarnath is inaccessible in winter due to heavy snowfall. The idol is moved to Ukhimath for worship during this time.
Yes, helicopter services operate from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sitapur, offering a convenient option for reaching Kedarnath.
Yes, there are basic guesthouses, dharamshalas, and tents available in Kedarnath. Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons.
Essential items include warm clothing, trekking shoes, rain gear, first aid, and ID proof. Ensure you pack light for the trek.

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