Kedarnath Temple

• Temples
• devotional kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath Temple is not only a major pilgrimage site but also a symbol of faith, devotion, and resilience. Its divine presence, historical significance, and scenic location make it a must-visit destination for devotees and spiritual seekers.

Location:

• District: Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
• Elevation: 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level

Deity Worshipped:

• Presiding Deity: Lord Shiva
• Form: Jyotirlinga (one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas)
• Other Names: Kedareshwar, Mahadev

Historical and Mythological Significance:

1. Mythological Origin:
   • According to Hindu mythology, Kedarnath is associated with the Mahabharata. After the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva for killing their kin. Shiva, reluctant to forgive them, took the form of a bull and hid in the Guptkashi region.
   • Upon being discovered, Shiva dived into the ground, leaving his hump at Kedarnath, his arms at Tungnath, his face at Rudranath, his navel at Madhyamaheshwar, and his hair at Kalpeshwar—collectively forming the Panch Kedar pilgrimage.
   • The Kedarnath temple stands where Shiva’s hump appeared.
2. Historical Significance:
   • The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas and later renovated by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
   • Adi Shankaracharya attained Samadhi behind the temple, and his tomb is located there.

Architecture and Structure:

• Construction: Made of large, grey stone slabs, the temple has a simple yet majestic architecture.
• Temple Design:
  • Garbha Griha: The sanctum sanctorum where the Shiv Linga (conical rock formation) is worshipped.
  • Mandapa: The main hall, used for prayers and rituals.
• Dimensions:
  • Height: Approximately 85 feet
  • Width: 60 feet
• Temple Roof: Gabled with wooden and stone supports, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Sacred Idol: A Jyotirlinga, representing the divine energy of Lord Shiva.

Spiritual and Religious Importance:

• Kedarnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, symbolizing Shiva’s infinite presence.
• It is part of the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage in Uttarakhand, alongside Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
• Devotees believe that visiting Kedarnath and bathing in the Mandakini River washes away sins and grants moksha (liberation).

Temple Timings and Rituals:

• Opening Date: The temple opens in late April or early May (Akshaya Tritiya) every year.
• Closing Date: The temple closes on Bhai Dooj (October/November) due to heavy snowfall.
• Daily Timings:
  • Morning: 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Evening: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Aarti Timings:
  • Morning Aarti: 4:30 AM – 5:00 AM
  • Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
• Special Poojas:
  • Rudrabhishek Pooja
  • Maha Abhishek Pooja
  • Laghu Rudra Pooja
  • Shodashopachar Pooja

How to Reach Kedarnath:

1. By Air:
   • The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 239 km from Gaurikund (base point for Kedarnath trek).
   • Helicopter Services: Available from Guptkashi, Phata, and Sirsi.
2. By Train:
   • The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, around 216 km from Gaurikund.
   • Taxis and buses are available from Rishikesh to Gaurikund.
3. By Road:
   • Buses and taxis run from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun to Gaurikund.
   • From Gaurikund, you must trek 16 km to reach Kedarnath.
   • Pony, palanquins, and porters are available for assistance during the trek.

Weather and Best Time to Visit:

• Summer (May–June): Pleasant weather, ideal for trekking and pilgrimage.
• Monsoon (July–August): Heavy rainfall; prone to landslides.
• Autumn (September–October): Ideal time with clear weather and beautiful views.
• Winter (November–April): The temple is closed due to heavy snow, and the Shiva idol is moved to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.

Accommodation and Facilities:

• Hotels and Lodges: Available in Gaurikund, Sonprayag, and Guptkashi.
• Guest Houses: GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) guest houses offer accommodation.
• Tents and Cottages: Available for pilgrims.
• Food and Essentials: Small restaurants and stalls serve vegetarian food along the trek.

Interesting Facts:

• Kedarnath Floods (2013):
  • In June 2013, a massive flash flood devastated the region.
  • The temple miraculously survived despite being surrounded by debris and floodwater.
  • A large boulder (Bhim Shila) behind the temple prevented the debris from hitting the temple.
• Spiritual Atmosphere:
  • The serene location amidst the Himalayas adds to the spiritual ambiance.
  • The temple’s remote location and scenic beauty make it a revered pilgrimage site.