Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is a part of the Char Dham Yatra and holds immense spiritual importance for Hindus.
Why Visit Kedarnath?
Spiritual Significance: Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims believe a visit here absolves them of past sins and brings divine blessings.
Stunning Landscape: Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and the Mandakini River flowing beside, the setting of the temple is both serene and majestic.
Trek of Faith: The journey to the temple requires a 16 km trek from Gaurikund, which is considered a test of devotion and endurance.
Mythological Importance: According to legends, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva here for redemption after the Kurukshetra war. When Shiva tried to avoid them, he turned into a bull and dived into the ground, leaving his hump visible at Kedarnath.
Temple Highlights
Constructed from massive stone slabs over a large rectangular platform.
Believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas and revived by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
The temple stands resilient despite harsh weather and natural calamities, symbolizing eternal faith.
Best Time to Visit
May to June and September to October are ideal months for the yatra, as the temple is closed during heavy snowfall in winter.
