WHAT TO KNOW
The Kedarnath Temple, situated in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district, is one of the holiest Hindu shrines and a vital part of the Char Dham Yatra. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas (sacred shrines of Shiva) in India. Alongside Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Badrinath, Kedarnath forms the Char Dham, a pilgrimage circuit that draws millions of devotees annually, making it a cornerstone of religious tourism in Northern India.
Kedarnath is nestled at an altitude of approximately 3,583 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas, near the Mandakini River. Surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks, this ancient temple is believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas and later restored by sage Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. The temple is accessible only on foot or by helicopter and remains open for worship from April to November.
During winter, the deity is moved to Ukhimath, as heavy snowfall makes the temple inaccessible.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Kedarnath is between May and June or September and October. During these months, the weather is relatively mild, making the trek and temple visit comfortable. Avoid the monsoon season (July-August) due to heavy rainfall, which can cause landslides and disrupt travel.
WHERE TO STAY
Accommodation options near Kedarnath Temple include:
- GMVN Guesthouses: Budget-friendly and conveniently located lodges operated by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board.
- Private Camps and Tents: Available in Gaurikund and Sonprayag, offering basic amenities.
- Hotels in Guptkashi and Phata: Ideal for travelers looking for comfortable stays before starting their trek.
It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid last-minute hassles.
HOW TO REGISTER
Devotees must complete online registration for the Kedarnath Yatra through the official Uttarakhand tourism portal.