Overview
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Dham is one of the holiest and most remote shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, nestled in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand.
Perched at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath is revered as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, where Shiva is worshipped in his most radiant form. The temple’s location, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and near the Mandakini River, adds to its spiritual magnetism. According to legend, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva here to absolve their sins after the Kurukshetra war, and the deity eluded them, eventually manifesting as a bull. The hump of the bull is believed to have appeared at Kedarnath, forming the sanctum of the temple. The site is also part of the Chota Char Dham Yatra, making it a vital pilgrimage circuit for devotees. The energy of the place is said to amplify the utterance of “Shiva,” creating a profound spiritual resonance. Despite its challenging terrain and harsh climate, thousands undertake the journey each year, drawn by faith, legend, and the promise of divine grace.
Trip Highlights
- Start from Haridwar, the gateway to the Char Dham Yatra, known for its Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri.
- Scenic drive via Rudraprayag and Devprayag, witnessing the confluence of sacred rivers.
- Mandakini River views at Tilwara, flowing directly from Kedarnath
- Visit Ardh Narishwar Temple in Guptkashi, symbolizing the union of Shiva and Shakti
- Take a dip in the hot water spring and visit Gauri Temple, where Goddess Parvati meditated for Shiva
- Begin the 16 km trek to Kedarnath, through breathtaking Himalayan terrain
- Attend evening aarti and experience the divine energy of the shrine.
- Optional morning darshan at Kedarnath Temple.
- Stops at Sonprayag, Triyuginarayan Temple, or Chopta Valley for added spiritual and scenic experiences.
- Take a holi dip at Gaurikund hotel water spring.
- Enroute Devprayag (Confluence of where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi) and Rudraprayag Sangam visit.(confluence of Mandakini and Alaknanda river)
- Enroute Rishikesh visit to Lakshman and Ram Jhula.
