***Kedarnath Temple Guide***
Tucked in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath Temple stands as one of the most sacred shrines in Hinduism. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is the third stop of the Char Dham Yatra and holds immense spiritual, mythological, and architectural significance. Surrounded by majestic snow-clad peaks and the Mandakini River flowing alongside, Kedarnath offers a transcendental experience unlike any other.
Historical and Mythological Significance
Kedarnath’s origins trace back thousands of years. As per legend, the temple was built by the Pandavas after the Kurukshetra war to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva. The current stone edifice is believed to have been restored by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century AD. Mythologically, Lord Shiva took the form of a bull and disappeared into the ground here, leaving his hump behind—which is worshipped in the sanctum.
The temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is considered the highest among them in terms of elevation.
Architecture of Kedarnath Temple
Built with large, grey stone slabs, the temple reflects ancient North Indian architecture. It is constructed without any mortar and has survived centuries of snow, rain, and even natural disasters. The Garbhagriha (sanctum) houses the conical-shaped Shiva lingam representing the hump of the bull.
Despite being located in a high seismic zone, the temple remarkably withstood the devastating floods of 2013, believed by many to be an act of divine protection.
Pooja Timings at Kedarnath Temple
The temple opens annually around Akshaya Tritiya (April/May) and closes after Diwali (October/November) due to heavy snowfall. During the closure period, the idol is shifted to Ukhimath for worship.
Daily Pooja Schedule:
| Pooja Type | Timing |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 4:00 AM |
| Mahabhishek Puja | 4:30 AM – 7:00 AM |
| Shiv Abhishek & Rudrabhishek | 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM |
| Afternoon Bhog Aarti | 12:00 PM |
| Evening Aarti | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Temple Closing | 8:00 PM |
Special Note: You must pre-book for the early morning Mahabhishek Puja. Only a few devotees are allowed inside the sanctum during this ritual.
How to Reach Kedarnath
Reaching Kedarnath involves a mix of road and trekking. The final 16-18 km stretch from Gaurikund must be completed on foot or via ponies, palkis, or helicopter services.
- By Road: Rishikesh to Gaurikund is approximately. 210 km via Rudraprayag and Guptkashi.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (240 km from Gaurikund).
- By Helicopter: Services operate from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi to Kedarnath Helipad.
Best Time to Visit
- Ideal Months: May to June, and September to October
- Avoid: Monsoon months (July–August) due to landslides and heavy rains
Where to Stay in Kedarnath
- GMVN Rest Houses: Basic government-run accommodations
- Private Tents & Guest Houses: Available in Sonprayag, Gaurikund, and Kedarnath base camp
- Budget & Mid-Range Lodges: Limited but sufficient during peak yatra season
Early booking is recommended due to high footfall during the Char Dham season.
Things to Carry
- Woollen clothes, jackets, gloves, and thermal wear
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- Raincoat, torch, water bottles, and dry snacks
- First-aid kit and essential medicines
- ID proof and yatra registration document
Travel Tips for Pilgrims
- Get a Yatra Registration done online or at check-posts
- Start the trek early in the morning
- Stay hydrated and pace yourself
- Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness
- Avoid plastic and littering to preserve the ecosystem
Nearby Attractions
- Bhairavnath Temple: Just 500 meters uphill; believed to protect Kedarnath
- Vasuki Tal: A high-altitude lake located 8 km from Kedarnath
- Triyuginarayan Temple: Mythological site of Lord Shiva and Parvati’s marriage
Kedarnath Temple is more than just a pilgrimage site—it’s a journey of inner awakening, faith, and endurance. This sacred shrine not only connects you with Shiva’s cosmic energy but also offers the serenity of the majestic Himalayas. Whether you seek blessings, adventure, or spiritual peace, this Kedarnath Temple Guide equips you with everything you need for a soulful journey.