Kedarnath is a sacred town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the Char Dham, a set of four holy shrines in Hinduism. Kedarnath is known for its ancient Kedarnath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level, amidst the majestic Himalayas, making it one of the most spiritually enriching and serene destinations in India.
History of Kedarnat
According to Hindu mythology, the Kedarnath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, which are considered to be the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. It is believed that the Pandavas built the temple to atone for their sins of killing their own brothers in the Kurukshetra war. The temple was later revived by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.
In the 19th century, the temple was destroyed by a massive landslide and was later rebuilt by the Garhwal Kings. In 2013, Kedarnath was hit by a devastating flood that destroyed much of the town and caused extensive damage to the temple. However, the temple was rebuilt in 2015 and is now open to devotees once again.
How to Reach Kedarnath
To reach Kedarnath, the nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 239 km from Kedarnath. The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, which is around 216 km from Kedarnath. From these places, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kedarnath. The final destination is accessible only by foot or by using ponies/dolis/palkis.
Timing to Visit Kedarnath
Kedarnath remains open from the end of April to November each year. The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the months of May and June when the weather is pleasant and the trek is easier.
Weather in Kedarnath
The weather in Kedarnath is generally cold throughout the year. During the winter season, the temperature can fall below freezing point. The monsoon season starts from June and lasts until September, making the trek more difficult due to heavy rainfall.
Health Precautions
Kedarnath is located at a high altitude, which can cause altitude sickness. It is advisable to take precautionary measures such as carrying necessary medication, staying hydrated, and taking enough breaks while trekking. It is also recommended to consult a doctor before embarking on the Kedarnath Yatra.
Booking for Kedarnath Yatra
Pilgrims planning to undertake the Kedarnath Yatra need to obtain a mandatory permit from the Uttarakhand Government. The permit is available online and can be booked in advance. It is advisable to book the permit and accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Conclusion
Kedarnath Yatra is an unforgettable spiritual journey for devotees of Lord Shiva. The journey requires physical fitness and mental strength due to the arduous trek, but the breathtaking scenery and the spiritual atmosphere make it a unique and rewarding experience. Taking necessary precautions and booking in advance can ensure a smooth and hassle-free pilgrimage to Kedarnath.