Location: Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand, India

What is Kedarnath?

Kedarnath is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is part of the revered Char Dham Yatra and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. Nestled in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath is known for its spiritual significance and breathtaking natural beauty.

The Kedarnath Temple is believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas and later restored by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. Pilgrims from across the country visit this sacred shrine to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. The temple is located near the Mandakini River and remains covered in snow during winter, leading to its closure for six months every year.

History of Kedarnath

The temple of Kedarnath is believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas and later revived by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. The present structure, made of large grey stone slabs, stands as a testament to ancient architectural marvels and resilience against natural calamities.

The devastating 2013 floods caused significant destruction in the region, but the temple miraculously survived, reinforcing the belief in divine protection. Today, thousands of devotees visit Kedarnath every year to seek blessings and experience spiritual peace.

Kedarnath Travel Information

The Char Dham Yatra follows the route of Yamunotri → Gangotri → Kedarnath → Badrinath.

• The trek to Kedarnath starts from Gaurikund, covering a distance of approximately 16 km.
• Ponies, palkis, and helicopter services are available for those unable to trek.
• Due to high altitudes and unpredictable weather, warm clothing and proper trekking gear are necessary.
• Avoid consuming unknown herbs, water, or food from natural sources without proper purification.
• The best time to visit is from May to June and September to October.

How to Reach Kedarnath?

By Air:

• The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 238 km from Gaurikund.
• Helicopter services operate from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sitapur to Kedarnath.

By Train:

• The closest railway station is Rishikesh, approximately 216 km away.
• From Rishikesh, taxis and buses are available to Gaurikund.

By Road:

• Gaurikund is the last motorable point.
• Regular buses and taxis are available from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun to Sonprayag, from where shared jeeps operate to Gaurikund.
• A 16 km trek from Gaurikund leads to the Kedarnath temple.

When did flood come in kedarnath?

The temple is open from Akshaya Tritiya (May) to Kartik Purnima (November) and remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall. The ideal months to visit are May-June and September-October when the weather is suitable for travel.

Kedarnath Temple Timings

• Opening Time: 4:00 AM
• Closing Time: 9:00 PM
• Afternoon Break: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM