Top 7 Places To Visit in Kedarnath
Nestled among the tall, snowy Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India, Kedarnath holds a special place in the hearts of Hindu pilgrims. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and sits peacefully beside the Mandakini River. Every year, millions of devotees visit Kedarnath to pay their respects. This town is an important stop on the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage and is part of the Panch Kedars, a group of five Shiva temples.
At an altitude of 3584 meters, Kedarnath offers stunning views of meadows and snow-capped peaks. It is a place of natural beauty and tranquility, attracting visitors seeking spiritual fulfillment. The majestic Kedarnath hill, towering behind the temple, adds to the sacred atmosphere. Other nearby peaks contribute to the serene surroundings.
Kedarnath boasts several attractions worth exploring. The conical-shaped Shivling believed to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva, is a central focus. Gaurikund, a charming spot with historical significance, and Bhairavnath Shrine, dedicated to another aspect of Lord Shiva, are also popular. Vasuki Tal, a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, and Sonprayag, where two holy rivers meet, are additional highlights of the area.
If you are planning a trip to Kedarnath, here are the top 7 places to visit in Kedarnath:
1. Kedarnath Temple
This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is the main attraction of Kedarnath. Perched at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level, the temple is not only a significant pilgrimage site but also an architectural marvel. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush greenery, the temple exudes an aura of divinity and tranquility.
2. Places To Visit in Kedarnath – Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar)
Located just 3 kilometers away from Kedarnath, Chorabari Tal is a pristine glacial lake fed by the melting snow of the Chorabari Glacier. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a mesmerizing sight. Visitors often trek to this serene spot to experience nature in its purest form.
3. Vasuki Tal
Another enchanting lake in the vicinity of Kedarnath is Vasuki Tal. Situated at an altitude of 4,135 meters, this high-altitude lake is surrounded by towering peaks, offering a picturesque setting for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The trek to Vasuki Tal is challenging but rewarding, with panoramic views of the Himalayan landscape.
4. Places To Visit in Kedarnath – Gaurikund
Known as the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath Temple, Gaurikund is a small village with immense religious significance. According to mythology, it is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati performed penance to win Lord Shiva’s affection. Apart from its religious importance, Gaurikund is also famous for its hot springs, which are believed to have therapeutic properties.
5. Triyuginarayan Temple
Situated approximately 25 kilometers from Kedarnath, Triyuginarayan Temple is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married. The temple, constructed in traditional Himalayan style architecture, is surrounded by lush green meadows and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
6. Sonprayag
Nestled amidst scenic beauty, Sonprayag is a confluence of two holy rivers, Mandakini and Basuki. The name “Sonprayag” translates to “golden confluence,” and the sight of the two rivers merging against the backdrop of majestic mountains is truly mesmerizing. It’s an ideal spot for picnics and leisurely walks along the riverbanks.
7. Bhairavnath Temple
Situated near the Kedarnath Temple, Bhairavnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Perched atop a hill, the temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks. Legend has it that Lord Bhairav guards the Kedarnath region during the harsh winter months when the temple remains closed. Visiting this temple provides not only spiritual solace but also an opportunity to admire the majestic Himalayan landscape.
How to Reach Kedarnath
Getting to Kedarnath starts with reaching Gaurikund, the closest spot and the starting point for trekking to Kedarnath. Here is how you can reach Kedarnath via Gaurikund using different transportation options:
- By Air: Kedarnath does not have an airport, so there are no direct flights. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 250km away from Kedarnath. Regular flights to Dehradun are available from major cities across India.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh, which is around 210km away from Gaurikund. Rishikesh railway station is well-connected to major cities in India with frequent train services.
- By Road: Kedarnath has good bus connectivity with Dehradun and New Delhi. However, the most convenient way to reach Kedarnath by road is through Dehradun.
Shri Kedarnath ji is a treasure trove of natural beauty and spirituality. Whether you are seeking solace in the lap of the Himalayas or embarking on a spiritual journey, these seven places are sure to leave you enchanted and rejuvenated. So pack your bags, and get ready to explore the mystical charm of Kedarnath.