Kedarnath is one of the most sacred places in India, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Kedarnath Temple is part of the Char Dham Yatra. Thousands of devotees visit every year to seek blessings and experience the divine environment of this holy place. If you are planning a Kedarnath trip, this guide will help you with everything.
Kedarnath Temple and Importance
Kedarnath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to mythology, the Pandavas of the Mahabharata built this temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva after the Kurukshetra war. The temple was constructed by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. Devotees believe that visiting Kedarnath is a door of clean sins and gives divine energy. The temple is open for six months, from April/May to November, and after that, the idol is shifted to Ukhimath for winter worship. The Kedarnath temple offers an amazing view of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. It is a perfect place to visit for an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to October. During these months the weather is pleasant and the temple is open for devotees. Monsoon (July to August) brings heavy rainfall and landslides, making it not accessible and it is not recommended to visit. In winter (November to April), during this time the Kedarnath temple is closed due to heavy snowfall.
Accommodation
Many of the accommodations are available near the Kedarnath temple like, guest houses, hotels, and dharamshalas. But if you are visiting the temple, you must book your accommodation in advance. It is better on your journey to avoid the last-minute hustle. Also, you have the option to book a Kedarnath Yatra package for an easy and comfortable trek. The packages must ensure the hotels near the temples and services are well organized. Compare the multiple companies and agencies to get the best package.
How to Plan Kedarnath Yatra
Planning a trip to Kedarnath requires some planning. Here’s how you can plan:
- Choose the Right Time: Visit during open months (May-June, September-October) for a comfortable trip.
- Book a Package: If you want an easy transposition and comfortable trip, you can book a Kedarnath trip package for an easy and safe journey. The packages include good facilities to make your journey memorable.
- Book Accommodation in Advance: As the pilgrim flow is high, it’s better to book your stay in advance.
- Pack Smart: Carry warm clothes, trekking shoes, rain gear, and basic medicines.
- Physical Fitness: Prepare yourself for the trek by walking daily or doing light exercises.
- Check Transport: Whether by road, trek, or helicopter, plan your transport accordingly.
Trek to Kedarnath
Gaurikund to Kedarnath is a 16 km trek, it is moderate for all travelers. The trek provides a beautiful view of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. Also, you can witness the amazing rivers and dense forests. The trek offers a short trek, but it gives a memorable trip to everyone.
Also, they have the option to hire a pony or palki to avoid trekking.Many of the porters provide these options from the middle of the trek. It is best for old people who do not trek. From the start of the trek, drink water carefully to avoid dehydration. Also, if you visit the trek for the first time, you must hire a guide for an easy trip. If you are booking your Kedarnath tour package, you must ensure the package includes an expert guide for a safe journey.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, 239 km from Kedarnath. From there you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gaurikund, the base point of the trek.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, 221 km away. From there you can take a bus or taxi to Gaurikund.
- By Road: You can drive or take a bus to Gaurikund from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. From Gaurikund, you need to trek 16 km to reach Kedarnath. The major cities are well connected to Gurikund.
- By Helicopter: If you want a quicker and easier option, helicopter services are available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi.
Other Places to Visit near Kedarnath
- Vasuki Tal: it is a beautiful lake near the Kedarnath temple. The lake gives a charming view surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
- Gandhi Sarovar: A beautiful lake also known as the Chorabari lake. It is located around 3 km from the Kedarnath temple. It is a perfect place to visit.
- Triyuginarayan Temple: It is the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married. In the temple, the eternal flame is popular because it has been burning since the marriage time.
- Ukhimath Temple: The Ukhimath temple offers a peaceful experience when the Kedarnath temple closes. The Kedarnath temple sites are shifted to Ukhimath due to heavy snowfall. It is a perfect place to visit.
Tips for an Easy Trip
- Register for Yatra: Must do your registration before visiting the Yatra. The e-pass is mandatory to visit the Kedarnath temple.
- Weather: Check the weather conditions before visiting here. It is better for a safe journey.
- Cash: Carrying enough cash due to the ATM is limited in the hilly area.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Light: Stay hydrated on the trek, and drink the water to avoid altitude sickness.
- Respect the Environment: Don’t litter and keep the place clean.
Concussion
A trip to Kedarnath is spiritual, adventurous, and scenic. Whether you are traveling for spiritual blessings or want a nature experience, this trip will provide everything. The temple offers peaceful vibes from the top and gives beautiful views for photography. Before starting the journey, I must prepare for this trip.
