Kedarnath Temple is a famous Hindu temple situated in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the four important shrines known as the Char Dham Yatra in India and holds great significance in Hindu mythology. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is 3,583 meters above sea level on the Garhwal Himalayan range.
The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas of the Mahabharata fame, and it is said that they came here to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva after the war. The current temple is believed to have been constructed by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, and it has undergone many renovations and restorations since then.
Kedarnath Temple is known for its unique architecture, which includes a huge stone Nandi bull at the entrance and a Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) made of large stone slabs. The temple also has a conical Shikhara (spire) covered with gold. The temple is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, which adds to its serene and peaceful environment.
The temple opens every year in April/May and closes in October/November due to heavy snowfall in the region. During the opening season, thousands of devotees from all over the country and the world visit the temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The temple is also accessible by a trek from Gaurikund, a popular starting point for the tour.
The Kedarnath Temple is not only a religious site but also a tourist attraction due to its historical and cultural significance. The temple is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, which makes it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. The nearby Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many rare and endangered species of animals, including the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and musk deer.
The Kedarnath Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, with its beautiful location and unique architecture. It attracts devotees and tourists alike, and its serene environment makes it an ideal place for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Places To Visit Near Kedarnath Temple:
Badrinath Temple:
Located approximately 200 kilometres from Kedarnath, Badrinath Temple is another important Hindu pilgrimage site. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is amidst the stunning Himalayan peaks and offers a serene spiritual experience. The nearby Mana Village, the last inhabited village before the Indo-Tibetan border, is worth a visit.
Triyuginarayan Temple:
Situated approximately 25 kilometres from Kedarnath, Triyuginarayan Temple is a sacred site believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married. Picturesque views of the Himalayan ranges surround the temple and offer a peaceful ambience. The eternal flame that burns before the temple is said to have witnessed the sacred wedding ceremony.
Rudraprayag:
Located approximately 80 kilometres from Kedarnath, Rudraprayag is a town situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. It holds great religious significance and is named after Lord Shiva, known as Rudra. Visitors can explore the ancient temples in Rudraprayag, including the Rudranath and Koteshwar Temples. The town also serves as a base for trekking and exploring nearby natural attractions.
Approximately 80 kilometres from Kedarnath, Chopta is a scenic hill station called the "Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand." It offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba. Chopta serves as the base for the trek to Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world. It is a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers, with beautiful meadows, dense forests, and a tranquil environment.
Gaurikund:
Located approximately 17 kilometres from Kedarnath, Gaurikund is the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath Temple. It is named after Goddess Parvati, also known as Gauri, and is believed to be where she performed penance to win Lord Shiva's affection. Gaurikund has hot water springs where devotees take a holy dip before beginning their pilgrimage to Kedarnath.