Kedarnath
"The third shrine of the Char Dham, the divine abode of the Lord of Kailash"
History & Stories
- According to legend, the Pandavas came here to seek refuge with Lord Shiva after the war.
- Lord Shiva forgave them, and the Kedarnath Jyotirlinga appeared.
- The present temple was rebuilt by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
- The temple remained unharmed even after the 2013 disaster, which devotees see as a sign of its even greater divinity.
How to Reach
Stay
- GMVN Tourist Rest Houses (Gaurikund & Kedarnath)
- Dharamshalas and budget lodges
- Advance booking is essential during the season
Safety Tips
- Weather can change quickly; check the daily weather bulletin.
- Those with high blood pressure, heart, or breathing issues should seek medical advice.
- Avoid traveling during the monsoon - there is a risk of landslides and flooding.
- Take special care of the elderly and children during crowded periods.
Map
FAQs
When does the Kedarnath temple open and close?▼
The temple doors generally open in April/May on Akshaya Tritiya or as per Vedic astrological calculation, and close around Kartik Purnima (October/November). During winter, worship takes place at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.
Can senior citizens take the helicopter?▼
Yes, helicopter service is available but depends on weather and seat availability. It is convenient for senior citizens and travelers with disabilities. Valid ID, advance booking, and health information are required.
Where is worship conducted in winter?▼
In winter, Lord Kedarnath is worshipped at the Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath. Devotees can go there for regular darshan and worship during this period.
How difficult is the Kedarnath trek?▼
The trek is about 16 km long. It is considered moderate to difficult because the route is at high altitude with cold weather. Travel with fitness and preparation. A pony or palanquin can be a better option for the elderly and children.
Should I travel during the monsoon?▼
July-August carries a high risk of heavy rain and landslides. Travel can be risky during this period. May-June and September-October are more suitable for a safer journey.
Is mobile network available during the Kedarnath yatra?▼
Most networks work up to Gaurikund. Coverage is limited along the trek route and in the temple area and depends on weather. BSNL and Jio networks are considered relatively better.
Are food and water available along the trek route?▼
Yes, there are several dhabas and tea stalls along the trek route offering light food, water, and tea. Still, it's wise to carry drinking water and some snacks of your own.
Is photography allowed inside the temple?▼
Photography and videography are prohibited inside the temple sanctum. Photos may be taken in the outer courtyard as per the temple administration's permission.
Is medical assistance available during the trek?▼
Yes, Gaurikund and Sonprayag have primary health centers. Medical arrangements for emergency assistance are also present along the trek route, including oxygen cylinders and stretcher facilities.
Is registration mandatory for the yatra?▼
Yes, the Uttarakhand government has made yatra registration mandatory. You can register via the online portal or a local registration center. This enables tracking and assistance in case of an emergency.
