Kedarnath: Sacred Abode of Lord Shiva in the Himalayas
Introduction:
Kedarnath, one of the most revered shrines in India, is nestled amidst the majestic Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and a key part of the Char Dham Yatra. Set at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 ft) near the Chorabari Glacier (the origin of the Mandakini River), Kedarnath is not just a spiritual destination, but also a place of awe-inspiring natural beauty and devotion.
Origin and Mythological Significance:
The origins of Kedarnath are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legends from the Mahabharata, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva for killing their kin. Lord Shiva, unwilling to forgive easily, disguised himself as a bull (Nandi) and hid in the Himalayas. When the Pandavas found him, he dived into the earth, and different parts of his body appeared at various locations, forming the Panch Kedar. Kedarnath is where his hump appeared.
The current temple is believed to have been built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, next to a much older temple constructed by the Pandavas. The Kedarnath Temple is constructed from large, heavy, and evenly cut grey slabs of stones. Despite standing for over a thousand years in harsh weather, the structure remains resilient, which is considered miraculous.
How to Reach Kedarnath:
While reaching Kedarnath involves effort and endurance, it is also a journey of spiritual transformation.
By Air:
- The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, about 239 km from Gaurikund (base camp for the trek).
- Helicopter services are available from Phata, Guptkashi, Sersi, and Sitapur to Kedarnath.
By Train:
- The nearest railway station is Rishikesh or Haridwar, from where one can take road transport to reach Gaurikund.
By Road:
- Buses and taxis are available from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, and Delhi to Gaurikund.
- From Gaurikund, the 16 km trek to Kedarnath Temple begins. Ponies, palkis, and helicopter options are available for those who cannot trek.
Trekking Route:
- Gaurikund → Jungle Chatti → Bheembali → Lincholi → Kedarnath
- The trek is scenic but physically demanding. Pilgrims are advised to undergo a health check-up before attempting the trek.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath:
- Open Season: The temple opens in April/May (Akshaya Tritiya) and closes around October/November (Bhai Dooj) before heavy snowfall begins.
- Ideal Months: May to June and September to October
- Avoid: Monsoon season (July-August) due to risk of landslides and slippery paths.
Weather and Clothing Tips:
- Temperatures range from -2°C to 18°C.
- Carry warm woolen clothes, rain gear, and trekking shoes.
- Nights are very cold, even during summer.
Tourist Attractions Near Kedarnath:
- Bhairavnath Temple – Situated 500 meters uphill from Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Bhairav, the guardian deity of Kedarnath.
- Vasuki Tal – A beautiful high-altitude lake, 8 km trek from Kedarnath.
- Gandhi Sarovar (Chorabari Tal) – A glacial lake near the Chorabari Glacier, around 3 km from Kedarnath.
- Shankaracharya Samadhi – Final resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, located behind the main temple.
Important Travel Tips:
- Register for the Yatra: All pilgrims must register online/offline via the official Uttarakhand Char Dham portal.
- Medical Check-up: Mandatory due to high altitude and physical exertion.
- Accommodation: Available at GMVN guesthouses, tents, and private lodges in Kedarnath, Lincholi, and Gaurikund.
- Helpline Numbers: Keep local emergency and medical helpline numbers handy.
Why Visit Kedarnath?
Kedarnath is not just a destination; it’s a spiritual experience. Whether it’s the mystical temple, the sacred chants, the snow-clad peaks, or the challenge of the journey — every step towards Kedarnath feels like walking closer to divinity. For those seeking spiritual peace, natural beauty, and a sense of inner awakening, Kedarnath is truly a pilgrimage of a lifetime.
