Kedarnath Temple-Kedarnath

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Kedarnath Temple is one of the most revered Jyotirlingas in India and a core pillar of the Chota Char Dham Yatra. Situated at a breathtaking altitude of 11,755 feet in Himalayas, this ancient temple calls not just the devout but also lovers of nature and adventure. Reaching Kedarnath is a journey of both body and soul. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kedarnath is believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas and later revived by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.

It is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga's of Lord Shiva situated in India. The most well-liked trek and it is one of the toughest 16-kilometer journey from Gaurikund to Kedarnath temple, which is part of the Kedarnath Sanctuary.

🙏 Travel Tips

✔️ Book helicopter tickets and hotels in advance (especially in May & June)
✔️ Start trek early in the morning to avoid harsh weather
✔️ Wear layered clothes and trekking shoes
✔️ Carry an oxygen cylinder if elderly are traveling
✔️ Mobile connectivity is limited beyond Sonprayag

A trip to Kedarnath is more than a yatra it’s a life-changing experience. The mighty Himalayas, the ringing of distant temple bells, the sound of the Mandakini river, and the sight of Lord Shiva’s shrine standing tall amidst it all it humbles you.

“Kedarnath nahi bulata, bulata hai Shiv swayam.

Know Before You Go

🚆 By Train:
• Nearest station: Rishikesh or Haridwar
• From there, travel by road to Gaurikund (base point for trek)

✈️ By Air:
• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~240 km)
• Helicopter service available from Phata, Guptkashi, Sersi, and Sitapur

🚗 By Road:
• Major Route: Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Guptkashi → Gaurikund
• From Gaurikund: 16 km trek to Kedarnath Temple

GMVN Kedarnath Camp – Tent-style government accommodation, simple and clean.
₹800–₹1,200 per person

Punjab Sindh Awas – Private dharamshala-style stays close to the temple.
₹1,500–₹3,000

Kedar River Retreat (before trek):
Riverside luxury hotel, great for families
₹3,500–₹5,000

Hotel Himalayan Comforts (Guptkashi) – Comfortable rooms, mountain views
₹3,000–₹4,500

The temple is open only during summer, typically from Akshaya Tritiya (May) to Bhai Dooj (Oct/Nov). It remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall. The temple shuts down after Diwali

Daily Darshan Timings
• Morning: 4:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Evening: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

🔔 Aarti Schedule
• Morning Aarti (Mahabhishek): 4:00 AM – 6:30 AM
• Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

GMVN Bhojanalayas – Govt-run hygienic food centers

Mandakini Bhojanalay (near temple) – Thalis, khichdi, and puri-bhaji

Local trek stalls – Maggi, chai, dry fruits, and parathas

Chotiwala Bhojanalay (Sitapur/Guptkashi) – Full thali meals pre/post trek

🌿 Opening Ceremony (Akshaya Tritiya)
The temple opens every year on Akshaya Tritiya (April–May), considered one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar.

🕉️ Shravan Month (July–August)
The holy month of Shravan is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Bhairavnath Temple – 1 km uphill trek from Kedarnath; open year-round

Vasuki Tal – 8 km from Kedarnath; alpine lake trek for the adventurous

Gaurikund – Base of the Kedarnath trek; visit the Gauri Mata Temple and hot water springs

Guptkashi & Sonprayag – Scenic stopovers with mythological connections

Yes, VIP darshan and special puja bookings are available at Kedarnath Temple

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