Kedarnath, nestled in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand, is a renowned pilgrimage destination for Hindus. Apart from the famed Kedarnath Temple, the region is dotted with numerous significant sites that draw pilgrims and tourists alike. Here’s an extensive guide to the must-visit places in and around Kedarnath.
Location: Kedarnath (16 km uphill trek from Gaurikund)
The Kedarnath Temple stands at an altitude of 3,580 meters and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is also a part of the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage. The temple, believed to be over a thousand years old, was reconstructed by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. The Mandakini River flows nearby, adding to the serene ambiance. The temple’s architecture, made from grey stone slabs, and its spiritual significance make it a must-visit.
Highlights
Location: 4 km trek from Kedarnath
Also known as Chorabari Tal, Gandhi Sarovar is a small glacial lake located at an altitude of 3,900 meters. The lake offers crystal-clear water and is nestled at the foot of Kedarnath and Kirthi Stambh peaks. The trek to Gandhi Sarovar is scenic and involves passing through picturesque waterfalls and lush forests.
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Location: 8 km trek from Kedarnath
Vasuki Tal is a high-altitude glacial lake situated at 4,150 meters. The lake is surrounded by blooming Brahma Kamal and other Himalayan flowers, enhancing its natural beauty. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu bathed in this lake during Raksha Bandhan.
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Location: Behind Kedarnath Temple (16 km trek from Gaurikund)
Adi Shankaracharya, the great Hindu philosopher, attained moksha at Kedarnath. His samadhi is located just behind the Kedarnath Temple. This site is of great spiritual significance and is visited by devotees who come to pay their respects.
Highlights
Location: 800 meters uphill trek from Kedarnath Temple
The Bhairavnath Temple, dedicated to Bhairav (a fierce manifestation of Shiva), is located on a hill to the south of the Kedarnath Temple. Bhairav is believed to be the protector of the Kedarnath Valley.
Highlights
Location: 1.5 km from Kedarnath Temple
Rudra Cave is an underground meditation cave constructed by the Nehru Mountaineering Institute. It offers basic amenities for a peaceful spiritual retreat. The cave provides a unique experience for meditation and solitude with stunning views of Kedarnath and Bhairavnath temples.
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Location: 0.2 km from Gaurikund Bus Stand
Gaurikund serves as the base camp for the Kedarnath trek. It is named after Goddess Parvati (Gauri) and has a temple dedicated to her. According to mythology, Parvati performed penance here to win over Shiva.
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Location: 31 km from Kedarnath
Phata is a small village en route to Kedarnath and is known for its helipad. Pilgrims who cannot undertake the strenuous trek often use helicopter services from Phata to reach Kedarnath.
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Location: 20.4 km from Kedarnath
Sonprayag is a significant religious site where the rivers Basuki and Mandakini converge. It is believed that a dip in these waters can lead to Moksha (liberation).
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Location: Near Sonprayag
Triyuginarayan Temple is where, according to legend, the marriage of Shiva and Parvati took place. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is said to have witnessed the wedding.
Highlights
Location: 700 meters from Kedarnath Temple
The Kedarnath Helipad is used by pilgrims who opt for helicopter services to visit the Kedarnath Temple. It provides a quick and convenient way to reach the temple.
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Location: 48 km from Kedarnath
Kalimath is a revered Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Kali. Unlike other temples, the idol of the goddess is not worshipped directly; instead, the ground is worshipped. It is believed to be the site where Kali killed the demon Raktavija.
Highlights
Kedarnath is accessible by various modes of transport, combining road travel and trekking. Here’s a brief guide on how to reach Kedarnath:
By Air
By Rail
By Road
By Trekking
By Helicopter
The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to October, except during the monsoon months of July and August when landslides and heavy rains can be a concern. The temple remains closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.
Various types of accommodation are available in Kedarnath, ranging from budget lodges to guesthouses. Due to the influx of pilgrims, it is advisable to book your stay in advance. GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) also provides accommodation options.
Kedarnath is not just a pilgrimage site but a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, an adventure enthusiast, or a nature lover, Kedarnath and its surrounding regions offer something for everyone. Ensure you plan your trip well, keeping in mind the best times to visit and the available facilities, to make your journey memorable and fulfilling.
Written By
Kedarnath Dham is notable for the famous Kedarnath temple which is one among the 12 revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva that our country has. The temple features a pyramidal Jyotirlingam of Lord Kedar, which is a representation of Lord Shiva as cosmic light. The Jyotirlingam here is a self-manifested lingam of Lord Shiva and is the highest of all Jyotirlingams that our country has. The temple of Ke...
Kedarnath is not a place that needs any kind of introduction whatsoever. Not only is this place one of the holiest sites in all of Hinduism, but its innate beauty also makes this holy shrine one of the more popular tourist attractions in Northern India. We don’t ...
Kedarnath is the permanent abode of lord shiva nestled high up on the hills of Kedar dome in the Garhwal Himalayan region of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. Seated on an elevation of 3,553 metres above sea level and by the bank of the holy river of Mandakini this temple’s...
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