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Read MoreKedarnath Dham
State
Uttarakhand
Season
May to October
Famous for
Pilgrimage
Yatra Starting Date
10 May 2024
About Kedarnath Dham
Kedarnath Dham, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, holds profound significance in Hindu mythology as one of the holiest pilgrimage sites dedicated to Lord Shiva. Here’s an overview of Kedarnath Dham:
Spiritual Significance: Kedarnath is revered as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, manifestations of Lord Shiva. The temple holds immense religious significance as it is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva resides in the form of a lingam, the divine symbol of his presence.
Kedarnath Temple: The Kedarnath Temple, located at an altitude of approximately 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, is the main attraction of Kedarnath Dham. Constructed in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya, the temple is made of large stone slabs and stands amidst the stunning Himalayan peaks.
Pilgrimage Journey: The journey to Kedarnath involves traversing through rugged mountain terrain and pristine alpine landscapes. Pilgrims often undertake a trek of approximately 16 kilometers from Gaurikund to reach the temple, immersing themselves in the natural beauty and spiritual ambiance of the surroundings.
Rituals and Offerings: Devotees visit the Kedarnath Temple to offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The rituals include Abhishek (ritual bathing), Rudrabhishek (worship of Lord Shiva), and Aarti (prayer ceremony), conducted with great fervor and devotion.
Natural Beauty: Apart from its religious significance, Kedarnath is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and pristine rivers, the region offers a tranquil ambiance conducive to spiritual introspection.
Bhairavnath Temple: Nearby the Kedarnath Temple is the Bhairavnath Temple, dedicated to Bhairava, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. Devotees often visit this temple as part of their pilgrimage to seek protection and blessings from Lord Bhairava.
Opening and Closing Dates: The Kedarnath Temple remains open to devotees from late April or early May to November. The temple closes during the winter months due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions.
Conservation Efforts: Efforts are underway to preserve the ecological balance of Kedarnath and its surrounding areas. Conservation initiatives aim to protect the fragile ecosystem of the region while promoting sustainable pilgrimage practices.
In essence, Kedarnath Dham offers not only a spiritual sanctuary but also an opportunity to connect with nature and experience the divine presence amidst the awe-inspiring Himalayan landscapes.
Kedarnath Dham Mandir Timings
- The daily ritual begins at 4:00 AM with Maha Abhishek.
- Various pooja ceremonies are conducted throughout the day.
- The temple is open for dharshanarthi from 6:00 AM and closes at 7:00 PM in the evening.
- The day concludes at 7:00 PM with Shayan aarti.
- There’s a break in the afternoon from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM when the temple is closed for dharshanarthi.
Kedarnath Dham Location
Perched at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) in the Rudraprayag district, Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, is situated amidst breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Devotees undertake a challenging trek of approximately 16 kilometers from Gaurikund to reach the temple or opt for helicopter services. The serene ambiance and spiritual aura of Kedarnath attract pilgrims from far and wide.
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Kedarnath Dham Temperature
Kedarnath, located at an altitude of around 3,583 meters, has cooler temperatures compared to Yamunotri and Gangotri due to its higher elevation. During the summer months, daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 20°C, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 0°C to 10°C. In the early and late yatra season, temperatures can be colder, with daytime temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C and nighttime temperatures often dipping below freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Kedarnath Temple remains closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions. It usually opens again in late April or early May.
Yes, helicopter services are available from Phata, Sersi, and other nearby helipads to Kedarnath. These services offer a convenient and time-saving option for pilgrims who are unable to undertake the trek.
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