Kedarnath Temple, located in the picturesque surroundings of the Himalayas, is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level in the Rudra Himalaya Range of Uttarakhand. This article will take you on a journey to explore the history, significance, and charm of this holy shrine.  

History of Kedarnath Temple  

The history of Kedarnath Temple dates back to the ancient times when it is believed that the Pandavas, the heroes of the Indian epic Mahabharata, built the temple to please Lord Shiva. According to another legend, Adi Shankaracharya, the great philosopher and theologian of India, visited the temple in the 8th century and established it as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva in the country.  

Significance of Kedarnath Temple  

Kedarnath Temple is a significant pilgrimage destination for Hindus as it is believed that a visit to the temple can wash away one's sins and lead to salvation. The temple is also a part of the Char Dham Yatra, a popular pilgrimage circuit in Uttarakhand that includes three other holy destinations: Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.  

Architecture of Kedarnath Temple  

The Kedarnath Temple is a fine example of ancient Indian architecture. Built of large stone slabs, the temple has a conical-shaped roof and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The idol of Lord Shiva, which is made of black stone, is located inside the temple.  

How to Reach Kedarnath Temple  

Reaching Kedarnath Temple is an adventure in itself. The temple is located in the remote area of the Himalayas and can only be reached by trekking for a distance of 14 kilometers from Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the journey. The trek is challenging but offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys.  

Best Time to Visit Kedarnath Temple  

The best time to visit Kedarnath Temple is during the months of May to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and the trek is easier. The temple remains closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall in the area.  

Things to Do in Kedarnath  

Apart from visiting the temple, there are several other things to do in Kedarnath. One can take a dip in the holy Mandakini River, visit the Bhairavnath Temple, or go on a trek to the nearby Vasuki Tal Lake. The town of Kedarnath also offers some local shopping options, where one can buy souvenirs and local handicrafts.  

Accommodation in Kedarnath  

There are several options for accommodation in Kedarnath, ranging from budget lodges to luxury tents. Most of the accommodation options are located in Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the trek to Kedarnath.  

Safety Tips for Visiting Kedarnath  

Visiting Kedarnath Temple can be a challenging experience, and it is important to take some safety precautions to make the journey smoother. Some of the tips include carrying warm clothes, comfortable shoes, and a first-aid kit. One should also avoid trekking during the monsoon season and carry enough food and water supplies.  

Hidden facts about Kedarnath Temple:-

Kedarnath Temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India, located in the state of Uttarakhand. Here are some lesser-known facts about the temple:

Age of the temple: The Kedarnath Temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas around 3,000 years ago, during the Mahabharata era.

Reconstruction history: The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods. The current structure of the temple was built in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya.

Unique architecture: The temple's unique architecture is said to be a blend of the Nagara style and the Dravidian style. The temple is also made entirely of stone, including the dome and the shikhara.

The Jyotirlinga: Kedarnath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered to be the holiest Shiva temples in India.

Winter closure: The temple is closed during the winter months due to extreme weather conditions. The deity is moved to Ukhimath for the duration of the winter and is worshipped there.

Gandhi's ashes: A part of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed in the Mandakini River near Kedarnath in 1948.

The Bhairavnath Temple: Located near the Kedarnath Temple is the Bhairavnath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, a fierce form of Shiva. It is believed that the visit to Kedarnath is incomplete without visiting this temple.

The origin of the name: The name Kedarnath is derived from two words - "Kedar," which means powerful and "nath," which means Lord. The temple is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, who is also known as Kedarnath.

These are some of the hidden facts about Kedarnath Temple that make it a unique and significant place for pilgrims and tourists alike.

How to reach Kedarnath Temple by train and nearest railway station?  

The nearest railway station to Kedarnath Temple is Haridwar Junction, which is approximately 250 kilometers away. From Haridwar, one can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the trek to the temple.  

There are several trains that connect Haridwar to major cities in India, such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. Some popular trains that run between Haridwar and New Delhi include the Jan Shatabdi Express, Mussoorie Express, and Haridwar Express.  

How to reach Kedarnath Temple by air and nearest airport?  

Closure  

Kedarnath Temple is a place of spiritual significance and natural beauty. It offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and spirituality, making it an ideal destination for pilgrims and nature lovers alike. The trek to the temple may be challenging, but the stunning views of the Himalayas and the peaceful environment make it worth the effort. A visit to Kedarnath Temple is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can leave a lasting impression on one's soul.  

FAQs  

Is Kedarnath Temple only accessible by trekking? 

• Yes, Kedarnath Temple can only be reached by trekking for a distance of 14 kilometers from Gaurikund, which is the base camp for the journey.  

What is the best time to visit Kedarnath Temple? 

• The best time to visit Kedarnath Temple is during the months of May to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and the trek is easier.  

What are some safety tips for visiting Kedarnath? 

• Some safety tips for visiting Kedarnath include carrying warm clothes, comfortable shoes, and a first-aid kit. One should also avoid trekking during the monsoon season and carry enough food and water supplies.  

Can I book accommodation in Kedarnath online? 

• Yes, there are several online booking options available for accommodation in Kedarnath.  

What are some other nearby attractions to visit while in Kedarnath? 

• Some other nearby attractions to visit while in Kedarnath include the Bhairavnath Temple and the Vasuki Tal Lake. One can also take a dip in the holy Mandakini River or explore the local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts.