Discover Kedarnath Temple – A Sacred Jewel in Rudraprayag
Introduction to Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath Temple, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, is one of the most revered shrines for Hindu devotees. Nestled in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3,583 meters, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and forms part of the sacred Char Dham Yatra and the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit.
Spiritual Significance
The Kedarnath Temple is believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas and later revived by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. The temple’s Shivlinga is unique, with its conical shape representing Lord Shiva’s hump. Pilgrims from across India and around the world visit Kedarnath to seek blessings and experience the divine energy of this holy place.
Breathtaking Location
Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and the Mandakini River flowing nearby, Kedarnath offers a stunning natural backdrop. The peaceful environment and scenic beauty make it not just a pilgrimage site but also a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers.
How to Reach Kedarnath
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, around 239 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is at Rishikesh.
- By Road: Gaurikund is the last motorable point, and from there, a 16 km trek leads to the temple. Ponies, palanquins, and helicopter services are also available.
Best Time to Visit
The temple is open to visitors from May to November, as heavy snowfall blocks the region in winter. The best time to visit is between May to June and September to October, when the weather is pleasant and the trekking paths are accessible.
Attractions Near Kedarnath
- Bhairavnath Temple: Dedicated to Bhairav Baba, protector of Kedarnath.
- Gaurikund: Starting point of the trek and a holy site itself.
- Vasuki Tal: A scenic high-altitude lake near Kedarnath.
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