1. Spiritual Significance
Kedarnath is considered one of the Twelve Jyotirlingas—the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that visiting Kedarnath and offering prayers to Lord Shiva can help a devotee attain salvation (moksha). The temple is located at a height of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, making it one of the most challenging pilgrimages in India.
- Lord Shiva’s Abode: According to Hindu mythology, after the Pandavas fought in the Mahabharata, they sought Lord Shiva’s blessings for redemption. Lord Shiva, to avoid meeting them, transformed into a bull and submerged himself in the ground. The Kedarnath temple marks the place where the bull's body is believed to have emerged.
- Jyotirlinga: The Kedarnath temple houses the Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, which is a naturally occurring stone idol. Pilgrims visit the temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings from the deity.
2. History of Kedarnath Temple
The Kedarnath Temple has a long history, believed to have been originally constructed by the Pandavas after they were guided by Lord Krishna. The temple is believed to have been rebuilt by Adi Shankaracharya, a revered Hindu philosopher and saint, in the 8th century. Over the centuries, the temple has undergone various reconstructions and renovations due to natural calamities, but it still maintains its ancient religious significance.
- Architectural Style: The temple is constructed in a traditional Pahari (Himalayan) style of architecture, with a pyramidal roof and a spacious courtyard. It is made of large, heavy stone slabs, showcasing the skill of the artisans from ancient times.
3. The Kedarnath Trek
The journey to Kedarnath is not for the faint-hearted. The temple is located at a remote and elevated area, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, which makes the trek a challenging yet spiritually rewarding experience. The trek takes pilgrims through scenic landscapes, dense forests, and challenging terrains.
- Trekking Route: The most common route to Kedarnath is a 16-kilometer trek that starts from Gaurikund, which is the base for the Kedarnath trek. Pilgrims can either walk or use ponies or palanquins for the journey. The trek is steep, but the breathtaking views of the Himalayan range and the Ganges River valley make the challenge worthwhile.
- Helicopter Service: For those unable to trek, there are helicopter services that operate from Phata and Sersi to Kedarnath, making the pilgrimage more accessible.
4. Best Time to Visit
The Kedarnath temple remains open only for a limited time each year due to the harsh weather conditions in the region. The temple opens in the summer months (April-May) and closes before the onset of the winter season (October-November).
- Summer (April to June): This is considered the best time to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and the temple is accessible by trek. The days are clear, making the Himalayan views spectacular.
- Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to the region, making the trek difficult and dangerous due to landslides and floods. It is not recommended to visit during these months.
- Winter (October to March): The temple is closed during the winter months because of the heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. The region becomes inaccessible, and the temple doors are closed until the next summer season.
5. Kedarnath Temple Rituals
The temple follows various rituals and customs, many of which are deeply rooted in tradition. The main rituals performed at the temple are related to worshiping Lord Shiva and offering prayers for the welfare of devotees.
- Aarti: The temple is known for its early morning and evening aartis (ritual prayers with chants and offerings to Lord Shiva). The Shiva Aarti is a significant part of the temple’s rituals and is attended by thousands of pilgrims.
- Abhishek: Devotees often perform the ritual of Abhishek, where they offer sacred water or milk to the Shiva idol while chanting prayers.
