Kedarnath Dham Yatra – An Essential Guide
Kedarnath Dham Yatra is a pilgrimage to the sacred temple of Kedarnath in Uttarakhand, India. The yatra is a significant religious journey for Hindus, who believe that visiting the temple can bring them closer to Lord Shiva and grant them blessings and forgiveness.
The yatra starts from Haridwar, a holy city located in the foothills of the Himalayas, and proceeds to Kedarnath, which is situated at an altitude of 3586 meters. The journey involves a trek of approximately 14 kilometers from Gaurikund to the temple. The trek is considered challenging due to the steep terrain and high altitude, and pilgrims are advised to undertake the journey only after seeking medical advice.
During the yatra, pilgrims follow a strict routine of fasting and meditation, and they take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges river before beginning the trek. The yatra is conducted between the months of May to November, and the temple remains open for visitors during this time.
Apart from the religious significance, the yatra also offers a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Himalayas. The trek passes through scenic valleys, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains, providing a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
The Kedarnath Dham Yatra is an important event in the Hindu calendar and is believed to be a life-changing experience for many. It is an opportunity to connect with one’s spiritual side and seek blessings from Lord Shiva, one of the most revered deities in Hindu mythology. The yatra is a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of India and the importance of spirituality in our lives.
About Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath Temple is one of the most sacred temples in India, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3586 meters and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it a picturesque location.
The temple’s history dates back to the ancient Hindu mythology, where it is believed that the Pandavas, the heroes of the epic Mahabharata, visited this place to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva for their sins committed during the war. It is also said that Adi Shankaracharya, the famous 8th-century philosopher and theologian, established the temple.
The temple is open for visitors from May to November, and it receives a large number of devotees during this time. The temple is built in a traditional North Indian style, with a stone base and wooden walls and has a conical-shaped top covered with gold. The interior of the temple has a sanctum sanctorum, where the Shiva Lingam, a representation of Lord Shiva, is housed.
The temple is accessible through a trek from Gaurikund, which is about 14 kilometers away. The trek is considered a challenging one, but the picturesque landscape and the spiritual significance of the temple make it a popular destination for tourists and trekkers.
The Kedarnath Temple is not only a significant religious site but also a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of India. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to explore the spiritual side of India and connect with its ancient mythology.
History About Kedarnath
The history of Kedarnath is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and is closely associated with Lord Shiva, one of the most revered deities in the Hindu religion. According to legend, the temple of Kedarnath was built by the Pandavas, the heroes of the epic Mahabharata, to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
It is said that after the battle of Kurukshetra, the Pandavas were filled with remorse for the bloodshed they had caused and wanted to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva for their sins. Lord Shiva, however, did not want to meet them and fled to Kedarnath, disguised as a bull. The Pandavas, who were determined to meet the Lord, chased him to Kedarnath and eventually recognized him. Lord Shiva, impressed with their devotion, granted them forgiveness and blessings.
Another popular legend associated with Kedarnath is that of Adi Shankaracharya, the famous 8th-century philosopher and theologian. It is said that Adi Shankaracharya, during his travels to different parts of India, visited Kedarnath and established the temple as one of the four major pilgrimage sites for Hindus, known as the Char Dham.
Over the years, Kedarnath has been subjected to numerous natural calamities, including floods and earthquakes. In 2013, the temple and the surrounding areas were devastated by floods, leading to significant loss of life and damage to property. However, the temple has since been rebuilt, and efforts have been made to improve the infrastructure and safety measures in the area.
Today, Kedarnath remains one of the most significant religious sites in India and continues to attract thousands of devotees every year. The temple’s rich history, associated with Hindu mythology and spiritual significance, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the religious and cultural heritage of India.
Kedarnath Opening & Closing Dates
Kedarnath Temple’s opening date is determined by the auspicious days of ‘Akshay Tritya‘ and ‘Maha Shiva Ratri’ as calculated by Omkareshwar priests.
This year, the Kedarnath temple has been closed for the winter and will reopen on April 25, 2023 at 06:20 AM with special Pooja at the temple.
Also, the opening date of Kedarnath Dham has been set for Mahashivratri. The closing date for Kedarnath has been determined, and the temple will be closed after Pooja archana in the morning on Bhai Dooj (the day after Diwali in November). The inauguration of Kedarnath Kapaat is a happy occasion for the many pilgrims who come to Kedarath from all across the country and the world. Pilgrims may only see the temple once priests had opened Puja at Kedartath Temple. Similarly to the opening ceremony, the closing ceremony is spectacular. Garhwal Bands transport Baba Kedar Doli to Kedarnath’s Winter Abode, Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.
Tourist Places Near Kedarnath
Kedarnath, a town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and is home to many places of historical and religious significance. Here are some of the top tourist places near Kedarnath that you can explore during your visit:
- Badrinath: Located about 230 kilometers from Kedarnath, Badrinath is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites and is known for its ancient temples and hot springs.
- Yamunotri: Situated about 240 kilometers from Kedarnath, Yamunotri is another important pilgrimage site and is known for its hot springs and scenic trekking trails.
- Gangotri: Located about 300 kilometers from Kedarnath, Gangotri is the source of the Ganges river and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
- Chopta: Situated about 20 kilometers from Kedarnath, Chopta is a picturesque hill station known for its scenic trekking trails and stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Deoria Tal: Located about 60 kilometers from Kedarnath, Deoria Tal is a tranquil lake surrounded by lush forests and is a popular camping and trekking destination.
- Gaurikund: Situated about 16 kilometers from Kedarnath, Gaurikund is a small village and a popular starting point for the trek to Kedarnath.
- Rudraprayag: Located about 80 kilometers from Kedarnath, Rudraprayag is a picturesque town situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers.
These are just a few of the many tourist places near Kedarnath that you can explore during your visit. Each place offers a unique experience and is sure to leave you mesmerized with its natural beauty and cultural significance.
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