Kedarnath Temple, Kedarnath

Kedarnath, Uttarakhand

Kedarnath Temple, located in Kedarnath, is a remarkable testament to the rich blend of cultural heritage and spiritual devotion. With a history that spans centuries, the temple has preserved its original charm while adapting to the evolving times. Its unique architecture reflects the craftsmanship of skilled artisans, while its rituals echo ancient traditions passed down through generations. Visitors are captivated by the intricate carvings, sacred idols, and the serene courtyards that invite both prayer and reflection. This temple has not only served as a centre of worship but also as a cultural hub where stories, art, and traditions thrive. For both devotees seeking divine blessings and heritage enthusiasts exploring India’s spiritual landscape, Kedarnath Temple in Kedarnath offers a truly enriching experience. Its legacy also resonates with the grandeur of Historic temples in Uttarakhand.

Kedarnath Temple History and Significance

Kedarnath Temple, located in the Garhwal Himalayan range near the Mandakini river, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva. The temple is open to the public from April to November due to extreme weather conditions. During winters, the deity is worshipped in Ukhimath.

The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas and is part of the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage. It is the highest among the 12 Jyotirlingas and is mentioned in the sacred Tamil Shaivite text, Tevaram.

Kedarnath was severely affected during the 2013 North India floods, but the temple structure remained largely intact. A large rock protected the temple from the flood, though the surrounding area was heavily damaged.

Kedarnath Temple Pooja Timing
Kedarnath Temple Interesting Facts
Kedarnath Temple Nearby Temples
Other Shiva Temples
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Kedarnath Temple Pooja Timing

Pooja Name	Timings
Mangal Aarti	4:00 AM - 5:00 AM
Rudrabhishek Pooja	6:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Evening Aarti	7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Special Poojas (Customizable)	Available on request with prior booking

Kedarnath Temple Location Details

How to Reach Kedarnath Temple

By Road:

Gaurikund is well-connected by road to major towns in Uttarakhand. State Transport Buses and private taxis operate regularly from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun.

By Train:

Nearest railway stations: Rishikesh (approx. 216 km), Haridwar (approx. 241 km), and Dehradun (approx. 257 km). From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Gaurikund.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Gaurikund via connecting cities like Rishikesh and Rudraprayag.

Kedarnath Temple Nearby Temples

Best time to visit (season/months):

May to June and September to October. Avoid the monsoon season (July-August) due to landslides and heavy rainfall. Winters: The temple may be closed during heavy snowfall as it becomes inaccessible.

Other Shiva Temples

Legends Beliefs

According to legend, the Pandavas sought Shiva's blessings to atone for their sins from the Kurukshetra war. Shiva, in the form of a bull, disappeared into the ground, reappearing in parts at five locations, known as Panch Kedar. The Pandavas built temples at these sites.Another tale credits Bhima for catching the bull and stopping it from disappearing. The bull was torn into five parts, appearing at different locations in the Kedar Khand of the Himalayas. The Pandavas meditated at Kedarnath for salvation.The Skanda Purana mentions Kedarnath as the place where Shiva released the holy water from his matted hair. Adi Shankara is believed to have revived the temple and attained Mahasamadhi here.
Deities and Sub Deities

The presiding deity of Kedarnath is Shiva, represented by a triangular lingam. The temple also houses images of Parvati and the five Pandava princes. Nearby temples form the Panch Kedar pilgrimage sites, dedicated to different forms of Shiva.The first hall inside the temple contains statues of the Pandavas, Krishna, Nandi, and Virabhadra. Statues of Draupadi and other deities are also present. An unusual feature is the head of a man carved in the lingam.
Offerings

Devotees offer ghee to the triangular Shiva lingam, a tradition linked to a legend involving Bhima and Shiva. The temple rituals are conducted by priests from the Veerashaiva community, with the head priest rotating annually among five main priests.
Architecture

The temple is built in North-Indian Himalayan architecture, with a stone edifice of unknown date. It features a small pillared hall with images of deities and a pedestal for the lingam. The temple's construction is credited for its survival during the 2013 floods.
Festivals

Maha Shivaratri is a major festival celebrated at Kedarnath Temple. The temple is part of the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage, attracting devotees from across India. During the winter, the deity is worshipped in Ukhimath.
Religious Practices

The head priest, or Raval, belongs to the Veerashaiva community from Karnataka. The Raval does not perform the pujas; instead, his assistants carry out the rituals. The Raval moves with the deity to Ukhimath during winter.Surrounding Kedarnath, symbols of the Pandavas are present. The tribals perform a dance called 'Pandav Lila'. The mountain top where the Pandavas went to Swarga is known as 'Swargarohini'.

FAQ's

Where is the Kedarnath Temple located?

The Kedarnath Temple is located in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Rudraprayag district.

Which God is Shiva?

Shiva is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Kedarnath Temple?

May to June and September to October. Avoid the monsoon season (July-August) due to landslides and heavy rainfall. Winters: The temple may be closed during heavy snowfall as it becomes inaccessible.

How to reach Kedarnath Temple from near City or Town?

Nearest railway stations: Rishikesh (approx. 216 km), Haridwar (approx. 241 km), and Dehradun (approx. 257 km). From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Gaurikund. Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Gaurikund via connecting cities like Rishikesh and Rudraprayag.