Kedarnath
Discover Kedarnath
Kedarnath is one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in India and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of approximately 3,583 meters, Kedarnath Temple is surrounded by snow-covered Himalayan peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, and scenic valleys. It is one of the most important destinations of the Char Dham Yatra and attracts millions of pilgrims, spiritual seekers, trekkers, and nature lovers every year.
Kedarnath Temple is believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas and later revived by Adi Shankaracharya. The temple holds immense spiritual significance in Hinduism and is visited by devotees seeking blessings, peace, and spiritual fulfillment. The temple remains open from May to October while during winter the deity is worshipped at Ukhimath due to heavy snowfall in the Kedarnath region.
The journey to Kedarnath is considered both spiritual and adventurous. Pilgrims travel to Gaurikund and undertake a trek of approximately 16 to 18 kilometers through breathtaking mountain landscapes, waterfalls, forests, and river valleys. Helicopter services, pony rides, palkis, and porter facilities are also available for senior citizens and travelers seeking a comfortable pilgrimage experience.
Apart from the temple, visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Bhairavnath Temple, Vasuki Tal, Gandhi Sarovar, Sonprayag, Triyuginarayan Temple, and Guptkashi. Kedarnath is also famous for meditation, photography, trekking, and peaceful Himalayan surroundings.
The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to October when weather conditions remain favorable for pilgrimage travel. Travelers should carry warm clothing, trekking shoes, rain protection, and essential medicines during the yatra season.
Kedarnath offers a divine combination of spirituality, devotion, natural beauty, and Himalayan adventure, making it one of the most unforgettable pilgrimage experiences in Uttarakhand.
May to June and September to October
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a major pilgrimage site of Char Dham Yatra.
Top Places to Explore Nearby
Bhairav Nath Temple
1 km from templeA temple dedicated to Lord Bhairav, the guardian deity of the valley, located a short climb above Kedarnath Temple.
Vasuki Tal
8 km from templeA high-altitude glacial lake offering stunning views of Chaukhamba peaks, accessible via a challenging trek.
Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar)
3 km from templeA pristine lake formed by the Chorabari glacier, famous for its crystal-clear waters and mountain reflections.
Best Things to Do
Related Sanctuaries
Traveler Insights
Carry heavy woolen clothes
Book helicopter and hotels in advance
Start trek early in the morning
Keep medicines and rain protection
Stay hydrated during high-altitude trekking
Curate Your Journey
Personalized travel experiences crafted with luxury comfort, spiritual essence, and Himalayan elegance.
Kedarnath Travel Guide & Tourism Information
About Kedarnath
Kedarnath is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in India, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 3,583 meters. Home to the ancient Kedarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, this sacred town is surrounded by majestic snow-clad peaks and the roaring Mandakini River. It forms an integral part of the Panch Kedar temples and the sacred Chardham Yatra route.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the temple gates are open. The monsoon season (July to August) brings heavy rainfall and risk of landslides, while winters (November to April) are extremely harsh with heavy snowfall, forcing the temple to close.
How To Reach Kedarnath
To reach Kedarnath, travel to Haridwar or Rishikesh by train/air. From there, take a road journey to Sonprayag/Gaurikund (approx. 210 km). Gaurikund is the last motorable point. From Gaurikund, a steep 16 km trek leads to Kedarnath Temple. Ponies, palanquins, and helicopter shuttle services from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sersi are also available.
Nearby Attractions & Places
Key attractions near Kedarnath include the Bhairav Nath Temple (1 km trek above the main temple), Vasuki Tal (a high-altitude glacial lake 8 km away), Chorabari Tal (also known as Gandhi Sarovar, 3 km trek), and Sonprayag at the confluence of Mandakini and Songanga rivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is registration mandatory for Kedarnath?
Yes, biometric registration is mandatory for all pilgrims and can be completed online on the official Uttarakhand Tourism website.
How long is the trek to Kedarnath?
The trek is 16 km long starting from Gaurikund and takes about 6 to 8 hours depending on physical fitness.
Can we stay overnight at Kedarnath?
Yes, government-run GMVN guest houses, tents, and local dharamshalas offer overnight accommodation near the temple.