Kedarnath, India

Kedarnath is a small town located in the state of Uttarakhand in India. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus and is famous for the Kedarnath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The town is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level, amidst the stunning Garhwal Himalayas.

Religious Significance

The Kedarnath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and holds great religious significance for Hindus. It is believed that the temple was built by the Pandavas after the Mahabharata war to atone for their sins. The temple is visited by thousands of devotees every year who come to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.

Preferred Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to October, as the weather is pleasant and the temple is accessible during this time. The temple is open from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

How to Reach

Kedarnath is not directly accessible by road and one has to trek or use ponies to reach the temple. The nearest airport is in Dehradun, which is around 238 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, which is around 216 kilometers away. From both these places, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the trek to Kedarnath.

Where to Stay

There are limited accommodation options available in Kedarnath, including guesthouses and dharamshalas. It is advisable to book your stay in advance, especially during the peak pilgrimage season. For more comfortable options, one can stay in nearby towns like Gaurikund or Sonprayag.

Visiting Kedarnath is a spiritual experience like no other, as you get to witness the stunning natural beauty of the Himalayas while seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva. Make sure to plan your trip well in advance and be prepared for the trek to the temple.