Finding Inner Peace on the Path to Kedarnath

Kedarnath Trek is India's most sacred and spiritually fulfilling trek, attracting pilgrims and trekking enthusiasts alike in large numbers every year. The trek is located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, and it takes the tourist to the mythical Kedarnath temple that is one of Lord Shiva's twelve Jyotirlingas. Elevated majestically at 11,755 feet, the snow-capped summit-encircled temple, i.e., the very famous Kedarnath Dome, has otherworldly and divinity-prevalent environs. The hike to Kedarnath typically begins from Gaurikund, a village at around 6,500 feet in altitude. From there, it is a 16-kilometre hike on a well-trodden but rough path. The path is a mix of steep ascents, winding trails, and scenic valleys, and thus is moderately challenging. Along the way, trekkers have panoramic views of alpine forests, waterfalls cascading down, and the Mandakini River flowing alongside the path. The best time to undertake the Kedarnath Trek would be May and June or September and October, when the weather is relatively clear and the temple is open. Pilgrims then occupy the space, and local affection and hospitality add to the experience. The Kedarnath Trek is not just a physical experience but quite a spiritual one. Trekkers approve of the sense of tranquillity and spiritual aura in approaching the temple. Whether it's a devotee who wants to seek blessings or an adventure soul drawn towards the challenge and landscape beauty, the Kedarnath Trek is a lifetime experience. It's a nature experience, a spiritual experience, and a discovery experience, which makes you treasure moments for a lifetime.

History of Kedarnath

Kedarnath holds a significant position in Hindu religious and mythological history, and its history dates back thousands of years. It is one of the most prominent temples of Lord Shiva and part of the Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand. Kedarnath Temple, located at an elevation of 11,755 feet above the Garhwal Himalayas, is believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas of the mythical Mahabharata. Pandavas, following the war of Kurukshetra, are claimed to have made amends to Lord Shiva for war wrongdoing. Shiva, to be free from them, turned into a bull and fled to Garhwal. The Pandavas followed him, and Shiva disappeared in the earth at Kedarnath, leaving behind his hump. The rest of his limbs were noticed elsewhere in the state, and nowadays are worshiped as the five Panch Kedar temples Kedarnath (hump), Tungnath (arms), Rudranath (face), Madhyamaheshwar (navel), and Kalpeshwar (hair).

The present temple itself is said to have been repaired and reconstructed by Adi Shankaracharya during the 8th century CE, who also facilitated the Hindu unification of spiritual thought. The temple has survived despite being in a high seismology region and exposed to rough climatic conditions, and even survived the 2013 Uttarakhand floods with minimal damage. Built of gigantic stone blocks and in the ancient North Indian style, the temple continues to inspire awe at its survival and spiritual atmosphere. Kedarnath today is not only a pilgrim centre but a historical and architectural marvel that welcomes pilgrims, trekkers, and historians to its shores. Its history stands testimony to the unbreakable devotion and resilience of spiritual India.

Places to visit around Kedarnath

1. Gaurikund: Gaurikund marks the beginning point of the Kedarnath trek and is also a holy destination. It is an aftername given in memory of Goddess Parvati (also known as Gauri), who, according to legend, is said to have meditated there to win over the favours of Lord Shiva. The natural hot springs and Gauri Temple are enough reason for it to be a sacred stop before going on with the trek. It also provides accommodation and minimal amenities to the trekkers and pilgrims.

2. Bhairavnath Temple: Only 500 meters from the Kedarnath Temple is the Bhairavnath Temple that contains Lord Bhairav, who is tasked with guarding Kedarnath during adverse weather conditions when the temple should be closed for trade. Strategically located, the temple offers a broad as well as panoramic view of the valley at Kedarnath and is an attractive and holy place where one can stop over and take a short halt.

3. Vasuki Tal: Vasuki Tal is a lake situated at around 8 km from Kedarnath at an altitude of 14,200 ft. Vasuki Tal trek is not straightforward, but it has scenic beauty and has magnificent views of the Chaukhamba peaks. Lord Vishnu took a bath in the lake during Raksha Bandhan, and hence the lake gains religious significance.

4. Sonprayag: It is located where the Mandakini and Basuki rivers confluence, about 20 km from Kedarnath. The holy water here possesses the power to cleanse one of their sin if they take a bath. The site also provides a view of the white mountains and a scenic halt for pilgrims.

5. Triyuginarayan Temple: It is situated approximately 25 km from Kedarnath and is where Lord Shiva and Parvati are said to have exchanged vows of marriage. The fire temple facade is said to have seen this divine marriage. It's peaceful, not crowded, rich in mythology.

Best Time to Visit Kedarnath Trek

• Summer (May and June): Best for trekking and darshan, Summer is the best time to visit Kedarnath. Summer temperature is also pleasant here, with 10°C to 15°C day temperature at maximum. Easy melting of snow and snowless trekking trails also exist. Temple gates also open early in May, and pilgrims and trekkers have an opportunity thousands of times during the season. Blue skies, flower fields open wide, and bearable temperatures make it the best time for a scenic and comfortable journey. It's also the height of the season, though, so reserve beforehand.

• Post-Monsoon/Autumn (Sept to Oct): Ideal for minimal crowd and undisturbed view, Following monsoon, Sept to Oct is another perfect time frame to view Kedarnath. The weather is fresh and crisp with green new leaves, thanks to recent rainfall. Crowds are comparatively lighter during this season than peak summertime, thus it is peaceful and less crowded. Skies are blue for the most part, with good snow-covered Himalayan mountain views. Ideal time for nature photography and nature watching. Temple is usually closed by the end of October or the beginning of November with heavy snowfall.

• Avoid Monsoon (July-August): Not recommended, due to rains and landslides. The monsoon months are too much rainfall for the area, and the roads are slippery with daily landslides and roadblocks. The monsoon months, travelling and trekking, are dangerous and should be avoided. Treks are cancelled by all agencies due to safety considerations during the monsoon months.

How to Reach Kedarnath

• By Airport: The nearest airport to Kedarnath is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, 238 km from the trekking starting point, Gaurikund. A taxi or bus may be taken from the airport to reach Gaurikund. A helicopter service is also available from places like Phata, Sersi, and Guptkashi, which is quicker and more convenient, especially for senior citizens going on a pilgrimage.

• By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, located about 216 km from Gaurikund. Rishikesh is connected by regular trains from the capital city Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun. Bus and taxi services are available from Rishikesh to Gaurikund.

• By Road: Gaurikund is the nearest motorable road to the Kedarnath Trek. It is well connected by road to Haridwar (253 km), Rishikesh (216 km), Dehradun (250 km), and Delhi (458 km). State transport, private transport, and taxis operate regularly from these towns to Gaurikund. The drive is picturesque but on hill roads, hence advisable to go in daytime.

• By Trek: To reach the Kedarnath Temple from Gaurikund, you must trek 16 kilometres. The track is good, and rest stops, eating stalls, and first-aid facilities are also present on the route. Pony, palki (palanquin), and helicopter facilities are also available for those who are not able to trek on their own.

Why Book with escape2explore

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