If you’re looking for a spiritual journey that will take you to the heart of the Himalayas, then a Kedarnath pilgrimage tour might be just what you need. Located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in the world. Every year, thousands of pilgrims from all over India and beyond make their way to Kedarnath to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, one of the most important deities in Hinduism. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Kedarnath such a special place, and what you can expect from a Kedarnath pilgrimage tour.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Significance of Kedarnath
- The History of Kedarnath
- How to Reach Kedarnath
- The Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
- The Kedarnath Trek
- Accommodation in Kedarnath
- Food in Kedarnath
- Medical Facilities in Kedarnath
- What to Pack for Kedarnath
- Things to Do in Kedarnath
- The Kedarnath Temple
- Other Places to Visit in Kedarnath
- Safety Tips for Kedarnath
- Conclusion
The Significance of Kedarnath
Kedarnath is one of the four sacred shrines in the Hindu religion collectively known as Chota Char Dham. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva, one of the most important deities in Hinduism, appeared in the form of a jyotirlinga, or a pillar of light. According to legend, the Pandavas, the heroes of the Indian epic Mahabharata, built the original temple at Kedarnath to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva after the Kurukshetra War. Today, Kedarnath is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world and attracts millions of devotees every year.
The History of Kedarnath
The history of Kedarnath can be traced back to the 8th century CE, when the philosopher and theologian Adi Shankaracharya visited the site and established a monastery there. Over the centuries, Kedarnath grew in importance as a pilgrimage site, with various kings and emperors making donations and contributions to the temple. The current temple, which was built in the 18th century, is a magnificent structure made of stone and wood, and is considered one of the holiest shrines in Hinduism.
How to Reach Kedarnath
Kedarnath is located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, and can be reached by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 238 km away from Kedarnath. The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, which is about 216 km away from Kedarnath. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kedarnath. If you’re traveling by road, the nearest major town is Guptkashi, which is about 32 km away from Kedarnath.
The Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. During the monsoon season, which lasts from July to August, the region experiences heavy rainfall and landslides, making it difficult to trek to Kedarnath. The winter season, which lasts from December to February, brings heavy snowfall and the temple is closed during this time.
The Kedarnath Trek
The Kedarnath trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Himalayas. The trek starts from Gaurikund, which is the last motorable point on the way to Kedarnath, and covers a distance of about 16 km. The trek takes you through lush green forests, rocky terrain, and narrow paths that wind their way up the mountain. Along the way, you’ll come across several small temples and shrines, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The trek can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours, depending on your fitness level and the weather conditions.
Accommodation in Kedarnath
There are several accommodation options available in Kedarnath, ranging from budget lodges to luxury hotels. Most of the accommodation options are located near the temple, and offer basic amenities such as hot water, electricity, and food. During peak season, it’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, as the demand can be quite high.
Food in Kedarnath
Kedarnath offers a range of dining options for pilgrims, with most of the restaurants serving vegetarian food. Some of the popular dishes include dal makhani, chana masala, and aloo gobi. It’s important to note that non-vegetarian food is strictly prohibited in Kedarnath, as it is considered a sacred place.
Medical Facilities in Kedarnath
Kedarnath has a few basic medical facilities, including a hospital and a few clinics. However, it’s important to note that the facilities may be limited, and it’s advisable to carry any necessary medication with you. It’s also important to stay hydrated and carry enough water with you, as the altitude and physical exertion can lead to dehydration.
What to Pack for Kedarnath
When packing for Kedarnath, it’s important to keep in mind the weather conditions and the physical exertion involved in the trek. Some of the essentials include warm clothes, comfortable trekking shoes, a raincoat, a first aid kit, a water bottle, and a flashlight. It’s also important to carry any necessary medication with you.
Things to Do in Kedarnath
Apart from visiting the Kedarnath temple, there are several other things to do in Kedarnath. Some of the popular activities include visiting the Shankaracharya Samadhi, a monument dedicated to the philosopher and theologian Adi Shankaracharya; trekking to Vasuki Tal, a high altitude lake located about 8 km from Kedarnath; and exploring the nearby villages and markets.
The Kedarnath Temple
The Kedarnath temple is one of the holiest shrines in Hinduism, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level, and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and scenic vistas. The temple is open from May to November, and attracts millions of devotees every year.
Other Places to Visit in Kedarnath
Apart from the Kedarnath temple, there are several other places to visit in Kedarnath. Some of the popular tourist attractions include the Triyuginarayan temple, which is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married; and the Gaurikund hot springs, which are said to have medicinal properties.
Tips for a Successful Kedarnath Pilgrimage Tour
Here are some tips to help you plan a successful Kedarnath pilgrimage tour:
- Plan your trip well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
- Carry enough warm clothes, as the temperature can drop significantly at night.
- Carry enough water and stay hydrated, as the altitude and physical exertion can lead to dehydration.
- Avoid carrying non-vegetarian food, as it’s strictly prohibited in Kedarnath.
- Carry any necessary medication with you, as the medical facilities in Kedarnath may be limited.
- Respect the local customs and traditions, and maintain the cleanliness of the area.
Conclusion
Kedarnath pilgrimage tour is an experience that should not be missed by anyone interested in Hinduism, adventure, and nature. The trek to Kedarnath temple is challenging, but the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere make it all worth it. With proper planning and preparation, anyone can embark on this spiritual journey and return with a lifetime of memories.
FAQs
- Is it safe to travel to Kedarnath during the monsoon season?
Ans: It’s not recommended to travel to Kedarnath during the monsoon season, as the region experiences heavy rainfall and landslides.
- What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?
Ans: The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to November, when the weather is pleasant and the temple is open.
- How long does it take to trek to Kedarnath?
Ans: The trek to Kedarnath temple can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours, depending on your fitness level and the weather conditions.
- What is the altitude of Kedarnath temple?
Ans: The altitude of Kedarnath temple is 3,583 meters above sea level.
- Are there any accommodation options available in Kedarnath?
Ans: Yes, there are several accommodation options available in Kedarnath, ranging from budget lodges to luxury hotels.