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Kedarnath Yatra

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Kedarnath Yatra

Kedarnath is the seat of Lord Shiva and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Situated at an altitude of 3,584 meters at the head of the Mandakini River, the Kedarnath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites.

History and Significance

Adi Guru Shankaracharya, the great saint and scholar, enshrined Lord Shiva in Kedarnath, where the unholy becomes holy and the holy becomes holier. 'Kedar' means powerful, a name that signifies Lord Shiva's role as both protector and destroyer.

Kedarnath Temple and Surroundings

Situated against the stunning backdrop of the Sri Kedarnath range, the temple requires a 20 km trek from Sonprayag.

Significant Places Around Kedarnath

  • Kunds (Sacred Pools): Shivkund, Retkund, Hanskund, Udakkund, and Rudhirkund are known for their spiritual significance.
  • Bhaironath Temple: This temple, dedicated to Bhairavnathji, is ceremoniously worshipped at the opening and closing of Kedarnath Temple. It is believed that Bhairavnathji protects the land during the temple’s closure in winter.
  • More than 200 Shiva Shrines: Chamoli district alone has over 200 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, with Kedarnath being the most significant.

Best Time to Visit

Kedarnath Temple is open from late April or early May until late October or early November, depending on the Hindu calendar and weather conditions. During winter, the shrine is submerged in snow and remains closed.

Winter Seat of Kedarnath

During the winter, the idol of Lord Shiva is moved to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, where it is worshipped until the reopening of Kedarnath.

How to Reach Kedarnath

Kedarnath is accessible by road, rail, and air, followed by trekking or helicopter services.

Nearest Airport

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport, around 250 km away. Taxis are available from the airport.

Nearest Train Station

Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest railhead, approximately 216 km away. Taxis and buses operate from Rishikesh.

Travel by Road

Kedarnath is accessible by road from major Uttarakhand cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. The last motorable point is Sonprayag, from where pilgrims must trek 20 km to the temple.

Helicopter Services

Helicopter services are available for pilgrims seeking a faster route to Kedarnath. Key helipads include:

  • Phata
  • Sitapur
  • Guptkashi

Pooja and Aarti Timings at Kedarnath Temple

  • Morning Aarti: Rudra Abhishek Puja (from 4 AM)
  • Evening Aarti: Around 6:30 PM

The temple and its surroundings offer an unparalleled spiritual experience, and it is believed that those who pass away here attain oneness with Lord Shiva.

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