The Kedarnath Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in India, drawing thousands of devotees and adventure seekers each year. Located in the Garhwal Himalayas at an elevation of 3,583 meters, the Kedarnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is part of the revered Char Dham Yatra. The yatra begins from Gaurikund, followed by a 16-kilometer trek through scenic landscapes, lush valleys, and the flowing Mandakini River. Accessible between May and November, the yatra offers both spiritual fulfillment and a thrilling trekking experience. For those unable to trek, helicopter services provide an alternative way to reach the temple. Proper registration and preparation are essential for a smooth and safe journey. The Kedarnath Yatra is not just a religious journey but also a testament to the natural beauty and spiritual energy of the Himalayas.
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Kedarnath Temple
The Kedarnath Temple, perched at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet), stands as one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India, this ancient temple is part of the Char Dham Yatra and holds immense religious significance for Hindus. The temple is surrounded by the stunning Kedarnath Range, offering a spiritual retreat amidst the majestic mountains.
The word “Kedar” refers to Lord Shiva in Vedas & Puranas. Kedarnath, as per the holy belief and sacredness, is known to be the land of Lord Shiva,where Lord still resides in the form of Linga . The otherworldly Kedarnath Dham is about 500 meters above Badrinath and is believed to be the five uprisal spots of the Lord. It is also the highest-located jyotirling.
The temple is an old stone edifice located on the shoresof Mandakini River. It is believed to have been built by the Pandavas and revived by Adi Sankara in 8 th century CE.
Spiritual Significance: Believed to have been built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, Kedarnath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, symbolizing the cosmic light of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims believe that visiting this sacred abode washes away sins and leads to salvation. The temple is open only for a brief period each year due to extreme weather conditions.
Architecture: The temple’s architecture showcases ancient Himalayan style, with a conical shikara and intricately carved statues. The sanctum sanctorum houses a pyramidal-shaped lingam, representing Lord Shiva, along with idols of other deities. The temple’s rustic charm and spiritual ambience create an awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Gaurikund: Gaurikund is the commencement point of the trek of 16 km to the sacred shrine of Kedarnath. It is situated at an elevation of 1,982 metres above sea level. The place is named after Goddess Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva and a temple Gauri is also situated here.
Rudraprayag: The famed town of Rudraprayag is named after the Rudra avatar of Lord Shiva. The pristine town of Rudraprayag is nestled on the holy confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
Devprayag: Devprayag is the last Prayag or the holy confluence of the Alaknanda River, from here that the confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi River is known as Ganga.
Rishikesh: The place which gives you both spiritual and adventurous atmosphere.
Best Time to Undertake the Kedarnath Yatra: The Kedarnath Yatra is generally undertaken during the Char Dham Yatra season, which typically spans from May to October. During this time, the weather is more favorable, and the trekking route is accessible. Pilgrims are advised to avoid the winter months when the region is covered in snow, making the journey arduous.
केदारनाथ यात्रा : केदारनाथ यात्रा एक पवित्र तीर्थयात्रा है जो भक्तों को हिमालय के गढ़वाल क्षेत्र में पवित्र शहर केदारनाथ तक ले जाती है। 3,583 मीटर (11,755 फीट) की ऊंचाई पर स्थित, केदारनाथ अपने प्राचीन और पूजनीय केदारनाथ मंदिर के लिए प्रसिद्ध है, जो भगवान शिव को समर्पित है।
आध्यात्मिक महत्व: इस तीर्थयात्रा का अत्यधिक आध्यात्मिक महत्व है, क्योंकि माना जाता है कि केदारनाथ वह भूमि है जहां भगवान शिव लिंग के रूप में निवास करते हैं। तीर्थयात्री आशीर्वाद, शुद्धि और आध्यात्मिक ज्ञान की तलाश में यह यात्रा करते हैं। केदारनाथ बारह ज्योतिर्लिंगों में से एक है, जो भगवान शिव के ब्रह्मांडीय प्रकाश का प्रतीक है।
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Kedarnath Yatra : Group Tour Package
- Group Tour Package: ₹ 12,500 per person
- Customized Package: ₹ 18,000 per person
- Chardham Yatra Package: ₹ 25,999 per person
Kedarnath Yatre : Route Map
The Kedarnath Yatra Route Map shows the exciting path to the famous Kedarnath Temple, located high up in the Himalayas. Starting from Gaurikund, the trek covers around 16 kilometers, taking you through dense forests, steep climbs, and scenic valleys. Along the Gaurikund to Kedarnath route, you’ll come across resting points like Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, and Linchauli, each offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Mandakini River flows along much of the route, adding to the beauty of the trek. After a steady climb, the route finally reaches the Kedarnath Temple, situated at 3,583 meters, offering both a spiritual and adventurous experience.
Kedarnath Temple Google Map
Other related Trek
Kedarnath Yatra : Registration Process
Mandatory Registration: Before booking any services, you must register on the official Uttarakhand government portal for Chardham Yatra at registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in. This registration is essential for monitoring pilgrim inflow and ensuring safety during the yatra
How to Reach Kedarnath
By Air
For those seeking a faster route, helicopter services operate from Phata and Guptkashi, whisking pilgrims directly to Kedarnath. This option not only saves time but also offers breathtaking aerial views of the surrounding landscapes.
Pawan Hans offers helicopter services during peak season, whisking you away from Dehradun, Gaurikund, or other designated locations.
By Road
The traditional route involves a scenic road journey. Start your road trip from Haridwar or Rishikesh, making your way to Sonprayag. From Sonprayag, the path splits into two – a trekking trail and a motorable road. Pilgrims can choose to trek or hire a local transport service to reach Gaurikund. From Gaurikund, the sacred trek to Kedarnath commences.
Trekking: The most popular way to reach Kedarnath is by trekking from Gaurikund. The trek is around 16 km long and takes around 6-8 hours, depending on your fitness level and pace. You can hire a pony or palanquin if you are not used to trekking
Overview -Kedarnath Yatra
- Best Time to Visit: May to June, September to October
- Weather Conditions: Cool summers, chilly winters; be prepared for snow in winter months
- Special Considerations: Altitude sickness precautions, layered clothing
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
- Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station
- Major Entry Points: Sonprayag, Gaurikund
Highlights - Kedarnath Yatra
- Kedarnath Temple: A sacred abode dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Breathtaking Landscapes: Majestic mountains, serene meadows, and glistening rivers.
- Panch Kedar Yatra: Pilgrimage to five significant Shiva temples in the region.
- Vasuki Tal: Crystal-clear high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
