Kedarnath is a holy Hindu pilgrimage site located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. It is one of the four holiest Hindu sites in India, and is considered to be the most sacred among them. Kedarnath is located in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas and is situated at an altitude of 3,584 metres (11,755 ft) above sea level.
Kedarnath is one of the 12 jyotirlingas, the twelve sacred Shiva temples where the god Shiva is worshipped. The temple is believed to be thousands of years old and is situated at the head of the Mandakini river at the base of the majestic Kedarnath mountain range. The temple complex is also home to a small shrine dedicated to the goddess Parvati, the consort of Shiva.
Kedarnath is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus, who come from all over the world to seek the blessings of the Lord Shiva. The temple is opened for six months in a year, between the months of April and October. During the rest of the year, the temple remains closed due to the extreme weather conditions in the region.
Kedarnath is also known for its natural beauty and is situated amidst picturesque landscapes of snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, and rivers. The views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valley are mesmerizing and one can spend hours just taking in the beauty of the place.
Kedarnath is a revered holy site and a visit to it is sure to leave you feeling spiritually enriched and spiritually uplifted.
Ideal For:
Kedarnath is an ideal destination for those seeking a spiritual connection and a peaceful getaway. The holy town of Kedarnath, located in the majestic Himalayas, is home to one of the most important Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus, and is known for its serene atmosphere, breathtaking views, and spiritual vibes.
Kedarnath is a great destination for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find solace in the natural beauty of the Himalayas. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as trekking and camping, and the serene environment is ideal for meditation and prayer. The town is also home to several ancient temples, making it a great destination for spiritual enlightenment.
Kedarnath is also ideal for adventure seekers. The area is home to some of the most challenging treks in the country, such as the Kedarnath Trek, and is a great spot for mountain biking, paragliding, and rock climbing. The town is also the starting point of the Chota Char Dham Yatra, a four-day pilgrimage to the four major Hindu shrines in the area.
Overall, Kedarnath is an ideal destination for those seeking spiritual solace, adventure, and breathtaking views.
How to reach
Reaching Kedarnath is quite easy as it has good transport and road connectivity. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun which is around 223 km away. You can take a cab or bus to reach Kedarnath.
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh which is around 212 km away. You can take a bus or cab from Rishikesh to Kedarnath.
If you are travelling by road, you have to take the National Highway 58 from Haridwar. You can take a bus or cab from Haridwar to reach Kedarnath. The journey from Haridwar to Kedarnath takes around 8-10 hours.
The last 14 km from Sonprayag to Kedarnath can only be done on foot. There are pony, horse and palanquin services available for those who cannot walk.
Once you reach Kedarnath, you can stay at any of the many hotels, guesthouses and ashrams located nearby.
Climate and best time to visit:
The climate in Kedarnath is cold and temperate, with temperatures ranging from 8°C in winter to 25°C in summer. In the winter months, the temperature can drop as low as -10°C. The summer months are the best time to visit Kedarnath, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. These months are also the most popular time for pilgrims to visit the temple.
The rainy season in Kedarnath is from July to August, and the area receives heavy rainfall. This is not the best time to visit the temple, as the area can become waterlogged and prone to landslides.
The months of April and May are the ideal time to visit Kedarnath. The days are bright and sunny and the temperature is pleasant. During this period, the snow melts and the meadows and waterfalls look absolutely stunning. This is the perfect time for trekking and sightseeing, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
The months of September and October are also good for visiting Kedarnath. The temperature is pleasant and the skies are generally clear. This is the ideal time for pilgrims to visit the temple and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
No matter the time of year you visit Kedarnath, the beauty of the place will take your breath away. The majestic views of the snow-clad Himalayas and the peaceful atmosphere make it a unique experience that you will never forget.
Ideal Duration:
The ideal duration to stay in Kedarnath is between two to three days. This is sufficient time to explore the town and its various attractions.
Places to Stay:
