Overview
Welcome to Kedarnath, a place of great spiritual importance nestled at the base of snow-laden peaks in Uttarakhand. This region is home to the iconic Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. As part of the Chhota Char Dham Yatra, Kedarnath holds a special place as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Accessible only from Gaurikund through a trek, the temple is open for six months from April to November, with the deity being worshipped in Ukhitmath during the winter months. The temple, believed to be re-constructed by Adi Shankaracharya, stands amidst the majestic Garhwal Himalayan Range, with the Mandakini River flowing nearby. Despite the 2013 flash floods that caused significant damage to the Kedarnath Valley, the temple itself remained largely unharmed, drawing countless devotees each year due to its religious significance.
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How to Reach Kedarnath
By Air
- Closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located 110 kilometers from Kedarnath.
- From the airport, travelers can take a taxi to Gaurikund, the last road head to Kedarnath.
By Train
- Nearest railway station is Rishikesh, located 216 km away.
- Rishikesh has frequent trains to and from major destinations in India.
By Road
- Travelers can take a bus from Haridwar to Sonprayag, with departures every hour between 5 AM to 12 PM.
- Shared jeeps are available from Sonprayag to Gaurikund, the last motorable road to Kedarnath.
Places to Visit in Kedarnath
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Things to do in Kedarnath
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Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
Kedarnath is a perfect summer destination, with the best time to visit being between April to July for the peak season and August to October for the moderate season. The off-season lasts from November to March. Visitors can expect pleasant weather and clear days, perfect for exploring the various temples and trekking around the mountains. Additionally, there are several festivals and events to loo... Read
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FAQs on Kedarnath
How is the weather of Kedarnath in peak season?
The weather of Kedarnath in peak season is characterized by pleasant weather and clear days, making it an ideal time to plan a trip for maximum enjoyment.
What are the best places to visit in Kedarnath?
The most beloved attractions in Kedarnath include the Kedarnath Temple, Vasuki Tal, and Sonprayag.
What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?
The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the peak season from April to July or the moderate season from August to October when the weather conditions are delightful.
Can I travel to Kedarnath now?
Yes, you can travel to Kedarnath. The best time to visit is from May to October. However, during peak winters, it may be closed due to heavy snowfall.
Why is Kedarnath famous?
Kedarnath is a famous pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the four sacred shrines in Hinduism, collectively known as the Char Dham Yatra.
Who should visit Kedarnath?
Kedarnath is great for people looking for a religious getaway to Dham Yatra and adventure seekers interested in trekking.
What are the places near Kedarnath?
The top places near Kedarnath include Auli, Valley of Flowers, Nainital, Nelong Valley, and Madhyamaheshwar.
What are the things to do in Kedarnath?
The top things to do in Kedarnath are visiting the Kedarnath Temple, Vasuki Tal, Shankaracharya Samadhi, Agastyamuni, Chandrashila, and Sonprayag.
What is the best way to reach Kedarnath?
Rishikesh is the nearest railway station to Kedarnath, and Jolly Grant is the nearest airport. Gaurikund, the starting point for the trek to Kedarnath, is well connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand and Delhi.
What is the local food in Kedarnath?
Options for eating out can be limited in Kedarnath. One might find a number of dhabas and eateries offering vegetarian food. It's advisable to carry packed food and drinks as well as note that alcoholic beverages are prohibited in Kedarnath.
What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?
The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the pleasant weather in May-June and September-October, while avoiding the sub-zero temperatures and heavy rainfall in winter and monsoon seasons.
What is not so good about Kedarnath?
Kedarnath remains cold throughout the year and is located at a high altitude, requiring a 16 km trek, which may be challenging for some visitors.
What is famous about Kedarnath?
Kedarnath is renowned for its unparalleled beauty, surrounded by snowy peaks, and is one of the holiest pilgrims in North India, forming part of the four Dhams.
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