Kedarnath Temple – The Holiest Shrine of Lord Shiva
Kedarnath Temple is one of the most revered Hindu shrines, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is part of both the
Char Dham Yatra and the
12 Jyotirlingas of India. Situated at an altitude of
3,583 meters (11,755 ft) in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, the temple stands against the backdrop of majestic snow-covered Himalayan peaks near the Mandakini River. Every year, lakhs of devotees visit this sacred place to experience divine peace and seek blessings.
Mythological Significance of Kedarnath Temple
According to Hindu mythology, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas came here to absolve their sins. Lord Shiva, disguised as a bull, tried to avoid them and dived into the earth. His
hump appeared in Kedarnath, while other parts appeared at the remaining
Panch Kedar temples. Thus, Kedarnath became one of the holiest Jyotirlingas, representing the cosmic energy of Lord Shiva.
Architecture of Kedarnath Temple
- Built in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya.
- Constructed with massive stone slabs to withstand extreme weather.
- The sanctum houses a unique triangular Shiva Lingam.
- Carvings on the temple walls depict mythological stories.
- Surrounded by Himalayan peaks like Kedarnath, Kedar Dome, and Bharatekuntha.
Kedarnath Temple Opening and Closing Dates 2025
- Opening Date: On Akshaya Tritiya every year. (Fri, 2 May, 2025 this year)
- Closing Date: On Bhai Dooj every year (Thu, 23 Oct, 2025 this year).
- During winter, due to heavy snowfall, the idol of Lord Shiva is moved to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath for worship.
How to Reach Kedarnath Temple
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (239 km). Helicopter services operate from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sitapur.
- By Rail: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh (216 km).
- By Road: Connected to Haridwar, Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and Gaurikund.
- By Trek: From Gaurikund, it’s a 16 km trek passing through Jungle Chatti, Bheembali, and Linchauli to reach the temple.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath Temple
- May–June: Pleasant days, popular for trekking.
- Sept–Oct: Post-monsoon clarity, fewer crowds.
- July–Aug: Monsoon—possible heavy rain and landslides (travel with caution).
- Nov–Apr: Temple closed due to snowfall; worship at Ukhimath.
Helicopter Services
Seasonal helicopter services connect Phata, Guptkashi and Sitapur to Kedarnath (subject to weather and approvals). Advance booking is recommended, especially in peak weeks.
Where to Stay
- GMVN Guest Houses near the temple and in Sonprayag/Guptkashi.
- Budget lodgesdharamshalas and camps at Gaurikund and Sonprayag.
- Limited rooms close to the shrine—book early in the season.
Nearby Places & Treks
- Bhairavnath Temple – Guardian deity of Kedarnath.
- Vasuki Tal – High-altitude glacial lake (approx. 7 km trek from Kedarnath).
- Gandhi Sarovar (Chorabari Tal) – Scenic small lake near the temple.
- Guptkashi – Vishwanath & Ardhnareshwar Temples.
Travel Tips
- Acclimatize properly; hydrate and pace your ascent.
- Carry warm layers, rain protection, gloves, cap and sturdy shoes.
- Keep essential medicines and a small first-aid kit.
- ATMs and mobile networks can be inconsistent—carry some cash.
- Respect local customs; avoid single-use plastics on the trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Kedarnath Temple?
Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. Legend says Shiva appeared as a bull; his hump is worshipped here.
When does the temple open & close?
Typically opens around Akshaya Tritiya (May) and closes around Bhai Dooj (Oct/Nov). Exact dates vary yearly; check official notices.
How difficult is the trek?
The 16 km trail is moderately strenuous at high altitude. Services like pony, palki and porters are available en route.
Are helicopter services available?
Yes, seasonal services operate from Phata, Guptkashi and Sitapur, subject to weather and permits. Book in advance.
Where does the winter worship take place?
At Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath, where the deity is moved after Kedarnath closes for winter.
Plan Your Visit
Before you go, verify
season dates, registrations, and weather with official sources. If you want, we can tailor an itinerary with transport, permits, and accommodations.