Kedarnath Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated in the Rudra Himalaya range in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It holds immense religious significance and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered the holiest Shiva temples. The temple is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped peaks and lush green landscapes.
Brief History: The history of Kedarnath Temple dates back to ancient times, with references in several Hindu scriptures like the Mahabharata and the Puranas. Adi Shankaracharya is believed to have revived the temple in the 8th century. The current temple structure is said to have been built in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya and later renovated by various rulers.
Architecture: The temple is constructed in the traditional Kedarnath style with large stone slabs, and it is believed to be more than a thousand years old. The architectural marvel is evident in the stone carvings and the grandeur of the temple. The main shrine houses a sacred conical-shaped lingam, the representation of Lord Shiva.
Things to Do:
- Darshan at the Temple: Seek the blessings of Lord Shiva by offering prayers and performing darshan at the Kedarnath Temple.
- Visit Bhairavnath Temple: It is customary to visit the nearby Bhairavnath Temple, dedicated to Bhairava, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva.
- Trekking and Pilgrimage: The journey to Kedarnath involves trekking through scenic landscapes, providing a spiritual and adventurous experience.
- Explore the Surrounding Area: Take in the natural beauty of the region, including the Mandakini River and the snow-clad peaks.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 238 kilometers away. From there, one can hire a taxi or use other modes of transportation to reach Gaurikund, the base for the trek to Kedarnath.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, about 215 kilometers away. From Rishikesh, one can hire a taxi or use bus services to reach Gaurikund.
- By Road: Gaurikund is the base for the trek to Kedarnath and is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from major cities in Uttarakhand.
Location: Kedarnath Temple is located in the Rudra Himalaya range in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated near the Mandakini River and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the months of May to June and September to October. The temple remains closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall, and the region is inaccessible. Pilgrims typically avoid the monsoon season (July to August) due to the risk of landslides and difficult trekking conditions.