Kedarnath

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT KEDARNATH.

One of the most revered temple destinations of India, Kedarnath town is nestled in the mighty Garhwal Himalayas. The town, built around the revered Kedarnath temple, is located at an altitude of 3,580 m, near Chorabari glacier, which is the source of the Mandakini river. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the ancient temple has exquisite architecture and is built of extremely large but evenly shaped grey stone slabs. A conical rock formation inside the temple is worshipped as Lord Shiva in his “Sadashiva” form.  The Kedarnath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a part of Char Dham pilgrimage circuit, and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India. Behind the Kedarnath temple, stand the Kedarnath peak, Kedar Dome and other Himalayan peaks.

The historical name of this region is "Kedar Khand" and legend says, the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata, after having defeated the Kauravas, felt guilty of having killed so many people and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for redemption. The Lord eluded them repeatedly and took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull. The Lord dived into the ground, leaving his hump on the surface at Kedarnath. The remaining portions of Lord Shiva appeared at four other places and are worshipped there as his manifestations. The arms of the Lord appeared at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, the belly at Madmaheshwar and his locks (hair) at Kalpeshwar. 

The Kedarnath temple is a sacred shrine located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Hindu deity of destruction, regeneration and wisdom. It is one of the twelve major Hindu temples in India and is one of the holiest temples in India. The Kedarnath temple is also one of the most visited temples in India. Each year, millions of people from all over the world visit the Kedarnath temple to offer their respect and homage to Lord Shiva.

The Kedarnath temple is one of the most famous and sacred Hindu temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is considered to be the supreme deity in Hinduism. The Kedarnath temple stands as a manifestation of Shiva's infinite grace and merciful nature. It is also a symbol of selflessness, devotion, spiritual realization and asceticism. In addition, it is a place where people go to find inner peace and tranquility.

The Kedarnath temple is located at an altitude of 3,700 feet above sea level and has a natural cave structure that resembles a hare. The cave - which has only one entrance and no exits - is believed to be created by Lord Shiva himself. It serves as a place for Hindus to worship Lord Shiva- as well as for people to seek spiritual guidance and healing. This makes sense given that Lord Shiva is known as the god of wisdom, knowledge, spirituality and miracles among other things. In addition, it is said that Lord Shiva blessed this place so that people can find inner peace and spiritual awakening through devotion to him.

Many people from all over the world visit this sacred site each year to experience its supernatural properties for themselves. Those who make this pilgrimage usually do so to seek spiritual healing or guidance from Lord Shiva themselves. They have also done so for religious purposes or as partogenetic rites of passage. Regardless of why they are visiting the Kedarnath temple, many have witnessed miracles at this site; some have even experienced an altered state of consciousness while inside the cave itself.

The Kedarnath temple is one of the most famous shrines in India due to its various miraculous properties. Every year, millions of people from around the world visit this site to gain greater spiritual enlightenment or physical health from Lord Shiva himself. Although many have experienced these wonders firsthand, others have witnessed these occurrences with their own eyes. No matter what your reasons are for visiting the Kedarnath temple, you will find that it does indeed have a profound effect on those who partake in its magic.

THINGS TO DO IN KEDARNATH

Kedarnath, one of the 4 most prominent pilgrimages of India, is a unique destination of spiritual, religious and adventurous value to its visitors. As Kedarnath is bordered by mountain ranges, two of the most prominent activities here are rock climbing and trekking. Tourists can hike up to the Kedarnath Temple or Chandrashila Peak. A stopover to Gandhi Sarovar, 4 km from the main town, is also an option. There aren’t many shops in Kedarnath, however small stores tend to sell spiritual themed mementos. Read on to find our top picks for things to do in Kedarnath.

1) Relax at Vasuki Tal.

A massive lake, located in the Himalayas next to Kedarnath, it presents a visual treat for trekkers brave enough to endure the steep slopes to reach this magical destination. The panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, clear and still blue water, and surrounding forest area makes it a fantastic adventure. It is frequented by pilgrims and tourists alike and is open 24 hours a day.

2) Trek to Kedarnath Peak.

For visitors infatuated with mountains, there is no activity more rewarding than a trek to Kedarnath Peak (3584 meters above sea level). Walking through Kedarnath involves a continuous ascent along the Vasukital and is marked as a worthy accomplishment. Trekkers can enjoy the gorgeous Chaukhamba Peaks and the Mandarina Valley. The Vasukital Lake captivates those who lay their eyes on it with the valley in the background.

3) Visit Sunset Point.

For unmatched sightings of the Chopta Valley, this is the place to be. It is an ideal spot for camping overnight. This spot also serves as the base location for treks to Tungnath and Chandrashila. Visitors can get incredible footage of the Valley stretched out in the background. This is truly a unique outdoor experience.

4) Visit Kedarnath Temple.

One of the most respected temples in the Hindu religion, this is a must-do activity when visiting Kedarnath. The temple is centuries old, built in memory of Lord Shiva and is open to the public from May to October. The large lamps, ancient bells and prayers chanted by the priests create a magical experience.

5) Trek to Chorabari Tal.

Gandhi Sarovar or Chorabari Tal, is just 3 km ahead of Kedarnath, well known for being the spot where MahatmaGandhi’s ashes were laid to rest. The stimulating climate, the mountain peaks nearby and the ancient shrine in the area, will make for a memorable trip for all visitors venturing here.

6) Pray at Anusuya Devi Temple.

The Anusuya Devi Temple is located close to Rudranath, devoted to Goddess Anusuya. It is thought this pilgrimage helps solve any problems that a devotee is facing. The hike to the temple is challenging and rewarding, 30 km away from Chopta, the temple is situated right in the lap of the Himalayan ranges. In December a large festival is organised to celebrate the occasion of Duttatreya Jayanti.

7) Visit Deoria Tal.

Deoria Tal, at an elevation of 2,438 metres, is a tranquil and peaceful lake well-known for its hypnotic images of the Chaukhamba Range in its ultra-clear water. The background of the Himalayas and dense forests make for a photographers delight and is perfect for novice trekkers.

8) Mayali Pass Trek.

The Mayali Pass is in the middle of Masar Lake and Vasuki Lake. Originating from a tiny village called Reeh, the trek continues for 12 km to Gangi (8500 feet). Gangi is the final township on the trail, which is a delight for trekkers and naturalists. Visitors must remember to be well-equipped with their hiking gear for this activity.

 

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best season to visit Kedarnath is summer when the temperature is moderate and stays between 15-30 degrees Celsius. The sun is warm and there is a gentle cool breeze that makes the day pleasant.

HOW TO REACH KEDARNATH.

Kedarnath is a sacred city hidden away in the Himalayas. Based in Uttarakhand, it is one of the celebrated Char Dhams. An ultra-scenic location, it offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas, dense forests and a general peaceful vibration to the visitors that throng here. It is extremely well connected by road, air and rail. Read below to find out more on the best ways to reach Kedarnath.

1) By Air.

• Jolly Grant Airport is closest to Kedarnath (239 km away). The airport is linked to Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, Bangalore and Thiruvananthapuram. It is well-connected to Gaurikund via buses and taxis. From Gaurikund, the only way to Kedarnath is via a 14 km trek. Jolly Grant is actually closer to Rishikesh (approximately 16 km) and the journey to Rishikesh takes about 30 minutes, after which visitors can take a taxi or bus to Joshimath. Alternatively, the helicopter service operating from various spots in Uttarakhand is the quickest and best way to reach Kedarnath.

2) By Train.

• The stations closest to Kedarnath are at Rishikesh (215 km), Haridwar (241 km), Dehradun (257 km) and Kotdwar (246 km). Rishikesh station has no fast trains and Kotdwar has very few trains going back and forth. Nevertheless, Haridwar Railway station, 25 km after Rishikesh, is well connected to other major cities in and around Uttarakhand. This is a relatively quick way to reach Kedarnath.

3) By Road.

• Located on NH 109, Gaurikund is the nearest reachable destination to Kedarnath via road. However it is very well connected to the major destinations in and around Uttarakhand too. Rishikesh is 189 km away and for visitors landing in Delhi, the quickest way to reach is via a 260 km bus ride to Dehradun or Haridwar in order to eventually reach Gaurikund. There are multiple bus and taxi options available to all visitors. The drive to Gaurikund is said to be extremely scenic and enjoyable.