Shri Kedarnath: A Sacred Abode of Lord Shiva
Nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is travel agents in haridwar one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is part of the Char Dham pilgrimage and is one of the Panch Kedar temples. The temple is set against the stunning backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayan range, standing at an altitude of 3,581 meters.
The Legend of Kedarnath
According to legend, after the Kurukshetra war, the Pandavas sought redemption from Lord Shiva for killing their kin. Lord Shiva, avoiding them, took refuge in Kedarnath in the form tour operators in uttarakhand of a buffalo. Upon being pursued, he dived into the ground, leaving his hump on the surface, which is worshipped in the Kedarnath Temple. The other parts of Shiva appeared at four locations: Tungnath (arms), Rudranath (face), Madmaheshwar (belly), and Kalpeshwar (locks of hair). These five sites together are known as the Panch Kedar.
Architecture and Significance
The Kedarnath Temple, built in tour operators uttarakhand the 8th century A.D. by Adi Shankaracharya, is a marvel of ancient architecture. Constructed with massive stone slabs on a large rectangular platform, it features:
- Garbha Griha: The sanctum for worship.
- Mandap: A hall for pilgrims and visitors.
- Conical Rock Formation: Worshipped as the Sadashiva form of Lord Shiva.
The temple walls are adorned with figures tour operators in haridwar of deities and mythological scenes. A large statue of Nandi, the bull, stands guard at the temple entrance.
Historical Context
The temple’s history traces back to the Mahabharata era. After the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva’s blessings to atone for their sins. Shiva, in the form travel agency in haridwar of a buffalo, evaded them and dived into the ground at Kedarnath. The temple’s construction is attributed to Adi Shankaracharya, who is believed to have revived and established the temple as a prominent place of worship.
Seasonal Closure and Rituals
Kedarnath experiences heavy snowfall during winter, making it inaccessible. The temple closes in November and reopens in April-May. During the closure, a symbolic statue of Lord Shiva is moved to Ukhimath, where it is worshipped until the temple reopens. Key dates for the temple’s closing and opening are determined and announced by the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC).
Visiting Kedarnath
- Access: A 16 km trek from Gaurikund, the nearest accessible point by road.
- Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October.
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun.
- Nearest Railway Stations: Rishikesh and Haridwar.
- Local Transport: Ponies and palanquins are available for those unable to trek.
Festivals and Poojas
Various poojas and festivals are celebrated with great fervor in Kedarnath. The opening and closing ceremonies, marked by elaborate rituals, attract thousands of devotees. The temple remains open from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with specific timings for different rituals.
Scenic Beauty and Surroundings
Kedarnath is surrounded by breathtaking peaks, including Kedarnath, Kedar Dome, and other snow-clad mountains. The serene environment, combined with the spiritual ambiance, makes it a unique destination for both pilgrims and nature lovers.
FAQs on Kedarnath
1. What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?
- The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to October when the weather is favorable and the temple is open for pilgrims.
2. How to reach Kedarnath?
- Kedarnath is accessible via a 16 km trek from Gaurikund. Buses and taxis are available from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun to Gaurikund. Helicopter services are also available.
3. What are the accommodation options in Kedarnath?
- Basic accommodations, including guest houses and tents, are available in Kedarnath and nearby areas like Gaurikund.
4. What should pilgrims carry when visiting Kedarnath?
- Warm clothing, comfortable trekking shoes, raincoats, personal medicines, and necessary identification documents.
5. What are the nearby attractions?
- Besides the Kedarnath Temple, visitors can explore Vasuki Tal, Bhairav Temple, and the scenic beauty of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Kedarnath stands as a testament to spiritual devotion, architectural brilliance, and natural beauty, drawing countless pilgrims and tourists each year to its sacred grounds.