Kedarnath is located at a remote site in the Uttarakhand state, and unlike many other temples, it is not directly accessible by road. The temple can be reached by a 17-kilometer uphill trek from Gaurikund, the nearest road-head. This uphill journey offers a spiritual experience, as pilgrims walk through picturesque landscapes and dense forests, braving challenging conditions to reach the temple. For those who are unable to walk the entire distance, ponies, mules, and machan services are available.
The temple remains open to the public only between April and November. During the winter months, the temple is closed due to the harsh weather conditions. The deity is moved to Ukhimath, where it is worshipped for six months. The shrine is closed on Kartik Purnima, the autumn full moon, and reopens during Akshaya Tritiya in April. Despite the temple’s inaccessibility in winter, the pilgrimage remains an essential part of many devotees’ lives.
History of the Kedarnath Temple
According to Hindu mythology, the temple is associated with the great epic Mahabharata and the Pandavas, the five brothers who fought in the Kurukshetra war. The Pandavas, having emerged victorious in the war, sought to atone for the sins committed during the battle. They sought the blessings of Lord Shiva and journeyed to Kedarnath to seek redemption. However, Shiva, desiring to avoid them, assumed the form of a bull (Nandi) and tried to flee. Bhima, the second Pandava, recognized the bull and caught it by the tail. Shiva then disappeared into the earth, leaving behind parts of his body in different locations.
Significance of Kedarnath
Kedarnath is considered one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, making it an important pilgrimage site for Shaivites. The temple is revered for its spiritual energy, believed to cleanse the devotees of their sins and provide divine blessings.
Best time to visit Kedarnath
The best time to visit Kedarnath is between May and October when the temple is open to pilgrims. The monsoon season July to August can bring heavy rains and landslides, so it is advisable to avoid visiting during this period.Kedarnath’s weather can be extreme, with freezing temperatures during winter and a short pilgrimage season during the summer months. The best time to visit is between late April and early June and from September to early November when the weather is relatively mild and the trekking routes are accessible.
Trekking Routes to Kedarnath
The trekking routes to Kedarnath offer an opportunity to connect with nature and experience the Himalayan wilderness. The most common route is from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, passing through picturesque hamlets like Rambara and Linchauli. The journey is not only physically demanding but also spiritually uplifting, as pilgrims traverse through the pristine landscapes of the Garhwal region.
Facilities for Pilgrims
The government and local authorities have taken significant steps to improve facilities for pilgrims. Rest houses, medical aid, and food stalls are available along the trekking route. Helicopter services have also made the pilgrimage accessible to the elderly and those with physical limitations.
Scenic Views and Landscapes
Kedarnath is not only a place of religious importance but also a haven for nature enthusiasts. The temple is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, including the imposing Kedarnath Range. The Mandakini River flows nearby, and the air is crisp and pure. The serene environment provides a perfect backdrop for meditation and reflection.
Local Attractions near Kedarnath
Bhairav Temple: Located on a hilltop near Kedarnath, this temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, the protector of Kedarnath.
Gauri Kund: The starting point for the trek to Kedarnath, Gauri Kund features hot springs and scenic views.
Vasuki Tal: A pristine glacial lake situated about 8 kilometers from Kedarnath, perfect for nature lovers and trekkers.
Shankaracharya Samadhi: Behind Kedarnath Temple lies the samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya, who is believed to have attained liberation here after reviving the temple. This site holds immense historical and spiritual value.
2013 Flash Floods and Resilience
In June 2013, the Kedarnath region was severely affected by flash floods caused by heavy rains. The town of Kedarnath, along with its surroundings, suffered significant damage, and the Mandakini River overflowed, submerging parts of the temple complex. However, miraculously, the temple itself stood resilient. A large rock formation near the temple acted as a natural barrier, preventing the floodwaters from damaging the structure. The temple did sustain minor cracks in one of its walls, but the primary deity remained unharmed. The aftermath of the floods led to large-scale rebuilding efforts and restoration of the temple and its surroundings.
Weather Conditions
The weather at Kedarnath Temple is unpredictable, with sudden drops in temperature and frequent rain or snow. Visitors must carry adequate warm clothing and waterproof gear.
Facilities for Pilgrims
The government and local authorities have taken significant steps to improve facilities for pilgrims. Rest houses, medical aid, and food stalls are available along the trekking route. Helicopter services have also made the pilgrimage accessible to the elderly and those with physical limitations.
Fact about Kedarnath
- mysterious fact about the Kedarnath temple is that the size of Shivling is shortening. Some say the Shivling is decaying. People interpret that the shivling of the Kedarnath complex was comparatively quite large in earlier times. Even some interpret that the day complete shivling will sink into the earth, the Kaliyuga will end.
- Usually, you may have witnessed the oval or circular-shaped shivlings in India. Still, you’ll be surprised that the Shape of Kedarnath Shivling is Triangular. It is the unique shape of the shivling the devotees have ever seen—this triangular shape of the Shivling links to the story of origin.
- Bhairo Nath serves Lord Shiva and protects the temple and Kedar Valley when the temple is closed. The devotees who visit the Kedarnath temple worship the Bhairo Nath also.
- One of the mysterious facts about the Kedarnath Dham is that it relates to spirituality. That is, Pandavas built this temple just before leaving the earth. Simply put, Pandavas achieved Moksha (salvation) after meeting Lord Shiva at this particular place. Afterward, Hindu devotees have faith that one can accomplish Moksha if one visits the Kedarnath Dham once and prays to the Mahadeva.
- One of the leading priests of the temple, Kedarnath, belongs to the Veerasaiva Society of Karnataka. Even some of the mantras were chanted in the language Kannada while performing worship of Lord Shiva in the Kedarnath. The mantras are recited in the Sanskrit language after that practice has ended
The Kedarnath Temple is more than just a religious site; it is a testament to India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. The temple’s association with the Mahabharata, its connection to Adi Shankara, and its status as a Jyotirlinga and a part of the Panch Kedar pilgrimage make it one of the most revered temples in Hinduism. Despite facing natural calamities, the Kedarnath Temple stands as a symbol of resilience, faith, and divine grace, drawing pilgrims who seek not only the blessings of Lord Shiva but also a deeper understanding of their own spiritual journey.
