Kedarnath Temple

4.8

Location: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand 246445, India

Estimated Visiting Time: 2-3 hours

One of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Northern India is the Kedarnath Temple, which is situated 3584 meters above sea level on the Mandakini River’s bank. “Kedar Khand” is the historical name of this area. Kedarnath temple is a component of Char Dhams and Panch Kedar in Uttarakhand and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India.

Attraction

The holy Jyotirlinga, thought to represent the form of Lord Shiva, is the main draw of Kedarnath Temple. The stunning Himalayan peaks that surround this ancient temple add to its spiritual value and draw tourists from all over the world.

History

It is stated that the Pandavas turned to Lord Shiva to absolve themselves of the responsibility for the deaths of their kin. But Shiva disguised himself as a bull and roamed. Pandavas Pandavas the Garhwal Himalayas, unwilling to absolve them of their misdeeds. Shiva sank into the earth once the Pandavas discovered him. All Bhim could do was grab hold of his hump. Shiva’s other body parts appeared in various locations as a bull.
Someone discovered the bull’s hump in Kedarnath; it surfaced its navel in Madhya-Maheshwar; Tunganath showed up two of its forelegs; Rudranath revealed its face; and Kalpeshwar displayed its hair. These are called the Panch Kedar or the five holy sites. According to legend, Adi Shankaracharya founded the current temple at Kedarnath after the shrine’s splendor was restored in the eighth century A.D. The original Pandavas constructed the temple and are credited for its creation.

Inside/Outside Views

The main deity of the temple, Lord Shiva, is represented by the sacred lingam, which is kept inside the sanctum sanctorum. This lingam has a rich historical significance, dating back to [specific period or event]. Pious people wait in line to offer prayers and ask for blessings. The temple’s walls are full of colorful paintings and decorations, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

Outside the temple, the surrounding scenery is beautiful. There are higher peaks, wonderful greenery, and the Mandakini River flowing nearby. Pilgrims often gather in the temple complex, engaging in rituals such as [specific ritual] and participating in religious ceremonies like [specific ceremony], making it a hub of devotion and spirituality.

Opening Hours

Wednesday 4 AM–9 PM

Thursday 4 AM–9 PM

Friday 4 AM–9 PM

Saturday 4 AM–9 PM

Sunday 4 AM–9 PM

Monday 4 AM–9 PM

Tuesday 4 AM–9 PM

Entry & Others Fees

There is no entry fee.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 239 kilometers distant, is the closest airport to Kedarnath. You can take a bus or a taxi from the airport to Kedarnath.

By Train: Haridwar Railway Station, which is around 241 km distant, is the closest train station to Kedarnath. You can take a bus or a taxi from the railway station to Kedarnath.

By Road: Kedarnath has excellent access to several large towns, including Dehradun, Haridwar, Delhi, and Rishikesh. You can take a bus or taxi to Kedarnath from these cities. It takes approximately 8 to 9 hours to travel the 240 km by road between Haridwar and Kedarnath.