Kedarnath hamlet is in the breathtaking Garhwal Himalayas, one of India's most holy temple destinations. The village, built around the famed Kedarnath temple, is 3,580 meters above sea level. It is near the Chorabari glacier, the Mandakini River's source. Tourists can see a glimpse of Kedarnath, the Kedar Dome, and other mountains from the temple.  

The ancient temple is a shrine to Lord Shiva and is built of unusually huge but evenly cut gray stone slabs. A conical rock formation inside the temple serves as Lord Shiva in his "Sadashiva" form. The Lord Shiva temple at Kedarnath is part of the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit and one of Lord Shiva's 12 Jyotirlingas in India.

Kedarnath temple history

This location was formerly popular as "Kedar Khand.” According to legend, after defeating the Kauravas, the Pandavas felt terrible about killing so many people and came towards Lord Shiva for an apology. The Lord constantly eluded them and took sanctuary at Kedarnath in the guise of a bull. 

The Lord dove into the earth, leaving his hump visible on the surface of Kedarnath. Lord Shiva's leftover pieces appeared in four places and are worshiped as his manifestations. The Lord's arms appeared in Tungnath, his face in Rudranath, his belly in Madmaheshwar, and his locks (hair) in Kalpeshwar. 

What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?

April to June are ideal for visiting Kedarnath since the weather is pleasant and temperatures often range from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. These are the months when the Char Dham Yatra begins, and people from all across the country come to Kedarnath. Kedarnath temple is famous as one of the finest places to visit in Kedarnath. 

Why does Kedarnath Temple remain closed for six months?

Kedarnath Dham remains closed for six months during the winter season due to heavy snowfall. The snowfall completely covers the temple, and because of this, the temple remains shut. The temple shuts in Kartik month every year, notably on Bhai Dooj (usually in October or November), and reopens after Akshay Tritya (in April or May).

What is special about Kedarnath?

The Kedarnath Temple's distinctive lingam is one of its most intriguing features. Lord Shiva, devotees say, worships himself here. People think it is a natural rock formation in the shape of a lingam, unlike other lingams produced of stone or metal. The Kedarnath temple must be on your list during the KEDARNATH TOUR PACKAGE.