Kedarnath
( Uttarakhand )
Introduction
Kedarnath, located in the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand, is one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations in India. The Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and a major part of the Chota Char Dham Yatra.
Situated at an altitude of 11,755 feet (3,583 meters), the temple stands against the backdrop of snow-covered mountains, glaciers, and the sacred Mandakini River. The trek to Kedarnath is filled with natural beauty, spiritual vibrations, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
With a divine atmosphere, adventurous routes, and serene landscapes, Kedarnath offers an unforgettable spiritual journey.
Quick Info Box
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand |
| Temple Timings | 4 AM – 12 PM & 3 PM – 9 PM |
| Darshan Type | General Darshan / VIP Darshan |
| Entry Fee | Free (Special Pooja paid separately) |
| Best Time to Visit | May–June & September–October (Temple closed in winter) |
| Ideal Duration | 3–5 days |
| Famous For | Kedarnath Temple, Himalayan trek, scenic valleys |
| Photography | Not allowed inside temple |
| Nearest Airport | Dehradun – Jolly Grant Airport (235 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Rishikesh Railway Station (215 km) |
| Language | Hindi, Garhwali, English |
| Currency | INR |
Temple Overview
Kedarnath is a high-altitude Himalayan pilgrimage town known for its spiritual significance and dramatic landscapes. The entire region offers panoramic views of mountains, alpine forests, flowing rivers, and ancient trails.
The 16 km trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is one of India’s most famous pilgrim routes, attracting both devotees and adventure lovers. Along the route, travelers find food stalls, rest points, medical camps, and mule/pony services.
Due to extreme winter weather, the Kedarnath Temple remains closed from November to April, during which the idol is shifted to Ukhimath.
Top 11 Attractions in Kedarnath
1. Kedarnath Temple (Main Temple)
Famous For Lord Shiva’s Jyotirlinga, spiritual importance
Timings 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Description
The heart of Kedarnath, this ancient stone temple stands strong amid the Himalayas. Built by the Pandavas and revived by Adi Shankaracharya, it houses the sacred conical lingam. The divine atmosphere with chants and bells creates a powerful spiritual experience.
Tips
• Attend the Evening Aarti
• Carry warm clothes (very cold even in summer)
2. Gaurikund
Famous For Hot water springs & starting point of the trek
Description
According to mythology, Parvati meditated here for Shiva. The natural hot springs and lively market area are popular among pilgrims.
Tips Good place for essentials, food, and last-minute purchases
3. Kedarnath Trek (Gaurikund to Kedarnath)
Famous For Scenic Himalayan trail
Length 16 km
Description
A beautiful uphill trek from Gaurikund with waterfalls, forests, and mountain views. Ponies, palkis, and helicopter options are also available.
Tips
• Start the trek early
• Carry water and light snacks
4. Bhairav Temple
Famous For Guardian deity of Kedarnath Temple
Distance 1 km uphill
Description
Dedicated to Bhairav Baba, believed to protect the Kedarnath valley. The viewpoint offers incredible panoramic scenery.
Tips Wear proper shoes as the path is short but steep
5. Vasuki Tal Trek
Famous For High-altitude glacial lake
Distance 8 km from Kedarnath
Description
A stunning high-altitude trek leading to an alpine lake surrounded by Himalayan peaks. Best for adventure seekers.
Tips Hire a guide; the trek is challenging
6. Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar)
Famous For Glacial lake & peaceful surroundings
Distance 3 km from Kedarnath
Description
A short trek leads to a quiet lake where Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed. Great for calm mornings.
Tips Visit early as weather changes quickly
7. Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi
Famous For Spiritual & historical significance
Description
The samadhi marks the final resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, who established Kedarnath Temple. A peaceful spot for meditation.
Tips Ideal for a quiet spiritual break
8. Rudra Meditation Cave
Famous For Silent meditation retreats
Description
Government-built cave near Kedarnath offering deep silence and mountain views. Perfect for spiritual seekers.
Tips Requires prior booking on GMVN website
9. Triyuginarayan Temple
Famous For Wedding site of Shiva and Parvati
Distance 25 km from Gaurikund
Description
A sacred temple known as the venue of Shiva-Parvati’s eternal marriage. The fire here is believed to have been burning since that event.
Tips Best combined with Sonprayag visit
10. Sonprayag
Famous For Confluence of Son Ganga & Mandakini rivers
Description
The last point accessible by vehicles before Gaurikund. Popular for its river views and spiritual atmosphere.
Tips Great place for food, stays, and trek preparation
11. Guptkashi
Famous For Vishwanath Temple & peaceful landscapes
Description
A calm spiritual town on the Kedarnath route. Known for temples, shops, and beautiful Himalayan views.
Tips Many pilgrims prefer to stay here overnight
Best Cafés & Local Eateries
1. GMVN Kedarnath Canteen
Location: Near Kedarnath Temple
Specialty: Hot meals, tea, simple vegetarian food
Tips: Best option for clean and reliable food
2. Purple Dhaba, Gaurikund
Location: Gaurikund Market
Specialty: Rajma rice, parathas, thalis
Tips: Good for pre-trek meals
3. Sonprayag Food Court
Location: Near parking area
Specialty: South Indian, North Indian meals
Tips: Affordable and hygienic
How to Reach
By Air:
Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) – 238 km
- Taxis and buses available to Sonprayag/Gaurikund
By Road:
Delhi to Haridwar to Rudraprayag to Sonprayag to Gaurikund
Regular buses and taxis available
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Rest
• Reach Sonprayag / Guptkashi
• Visit Guptkashi Vishwanath Temple
• Evening at Sonprayag riverside
Day 2: Kedarnath Darshan
• Early morning: Drive to Gaurikund
• Trek to Kedarnath
• Check in GMVN camps / rooms
• Evening Aarti at Kedarnath Temple
Day 3: Local Sightseeing & Return
• Visit Bhairav Temple
• Visit Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi
• Optional trek to Gandhi Sarovar
• Trek down to Gaurikund
• Return to Sonprayag / Guptkashi
Budget Breakdown (Approx.)
| Expense | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | ₹800–₹2,000 per night |
| Food | ₹300–₹700 per day |
| Transport | ₹500–₹2,000 depending on route |
| Helicopter (optional) | ₹6,500–₹8,500 (one way/return varies) |
| Pony/Palki | ₹2,000–₹7,000 |
| Miscellaneous | ₹300–₹800 |
Hidden Gems of Kedarnath
1. Rambara Village Ruins
Mid-trek point with scenic landscape
2. Kalimath Temple
Shaktipeeth with no idol worship
3. Deoria Tal Lake
Mirror-like reflection of mountains