Kedarnath Dham

The architecture of the Kedarnath Temple is simple yet awe-inspiring, with its stone walls and intricate carvings showcasing the craftsmanship of ancient times. The main sanctum sanctorum houses the lingam, symbolising the cosmic power of Lord Shiva.

The Kedarnath Temple holds a significant place in the story of the Mahabharata. It is believed that after the great battle of Kurukshetra, the Pandavas sought the blessings of Lord Shiva to absolve themselves of the sins they had committed during the war. However, Lord Shiva did not want to forgive them and took the form of a bull to evade them. As the Pandavas chased Lord Shiva, he dived into the ground, leaving behind his hump at Kedarnath. The hump is believed to be the form of the lingam that is worshipped at the Kedarnath Temple. It is said that the Pandavas built the temple at this spot to seek forgiveness and blessings from Lord Shiva.

The mythology surrounding the Kedarnath Temple adds to its spiritual significance and draws thousands of devotees who come to pay their respects and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The temple’s connection to the epic tale of the Mahabharata and the divine presence of Lord Shiva makes it a place of immense reverence and importance in Hindu mythology and religious beliefs.

Exploring beyond Kedarnath

Situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers, Rudraprayag is a picturesque town known for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. You can explore the temples and enjoy the serene surroundings of this charming town. Take a trip to Chopta, the Mini Switzerland of India. It is a small hill station that is a popular trekking destination and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Chaukhamba range. From Chopta, trek to Tungnath, where the highest Shiva temple in the world is located. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trek to Tungnath is easy and a must-do for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Don't miss the serene Deoria Tal Lake, surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped peaks. The lake offers stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains and is perfect for camping and birdwatching.

These are just a few of the many places near Kedarnath that offer a mix of natural beauty, spirituality, and adventure, making the region a perfect destination for those seeking a holistic travel experience.

Celebrate Mahadev!

One of the most significant festivals celebrated at Kedarnath is the Maha Shivaratri, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This festival falls in the Hindu month of Phalgun (February-March) and is celebrated with great zeal at the Kedarnath Temple. Devotees from all over the country gather at the temple to offer prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva on this auspicious day.

Another vital festival at Kedarnath is the Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage to the four holy shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. The yatra typically occurs during summer and attracts thousands of devotees who embark on this sacred journey to seek spiritual enlightenment and blessings.

Apart from these major festivals, various other religious and cultural events occur at Kedarnath throughout the year, including Akshaya Tritiya, Navratri, and Diwali. These festivals allow devotees to participate in rituals, ceremonies, and celebrations that deepen their connection with the divine and strengthen their faith.

Overall, the festivals at Kedarnath are a vibrant celebration of spirituality, devotion, and tradition, bringing together people from different backgrounds to honour the sacredness of the region and seek the blessings of the divine.

It is advisable to check the exact dates of the festival and make your travel arrangements accordingly to ensure a memorable and enriching experience.

Mementos and souvenirs

Shop for Rudraksha beads, which are considered sacred in Hinduism and believed to have spiritual and healing properties. Shops near the temple also have various religious items, such as idols of Hindu deities, incense sticks, puja thalis, and other religious artefacts. To keep yourself warm, you can purchase itemised woollen clothing such as shawls, sweaters, caps, and gloves to keep yourself warm during your visit. You can support local artisans and vendors by buying handmade products like wooden carvings, stone sculptures, and traditional Garhwali artwork.

Answer Shiva’s call!

The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the summer months, from May to June and then again from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the snow has melted, making it easier for pilgrims to trek to the temple and explore the surrounding areas.

Visiting Kedarnath during the summer months allows you to witness the lush greenery, blooming flowers, and clear skies, creating a picturesque setting for your pilgrimage. The temperatures during this time are moderate, ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it comfortable for trekking and outdoor activities.

It is advisable to avoid visiting Kedarnath during the monsoon season (July and August) as the region experiences heavy rainfall, which can lead to landslides and road blockages, making it unsafe for travel. The winter months (November to April) are also not recommended for visiting Kedarnath due to heavy snowfall and extremely cold temperatures, which can make the journey challenging and risky.

Overall, the best time to visit Kedarnath is during the summer and early autumn months when the weather is favourable, and the natural beauty of the region is at its peak, providing a memorable and spiritually enriching experience for visitors.