Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
Nestled in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is one of the most revered and significant shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is not only one of the twelve Jyotirlingas but also a vital part of the Chota Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage circuit in Northern India. The Kedarnath Jyotirlinga temple stands as a testimony to the enduring faith of millions of devotees who brave the rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
History of Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
Architecture of Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Temple
The architecture of Kedarnath Temple is a marvel in itself, especially considering its location in one of the most challenging terrains. The temple is constructed from large, heavy, and evenly cut gray slabs of stones. Despite being located in an area prone to natural calamities like avalanches and floods, the temple has stood the test of time, a testament to the ingenuity and engineering skills of the ancient builders.
The temple is built in the traditional North Indian style of architecture, known as ‘Nagara’ style. The structure comprises a Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), where the Jyotirlinga is enshrined, and a Mandapa (hall) for the assembly of pilgrims. The Garbhagriha is a small, dark, and highly sacred area where only priests are allowed, while the Mandapa is more expansive and open to devotees.
The conical stone Lingam in the temple is believed to be self-manifested, making it a Swayambhu (self-manifested) Jyotirlinga. The temple also features a beautiful conical dome, which is crowned by a golden Kalasha. The walls and pillars of the temple are adorned with intricate carvings depicting various deities, scenes from Hindu mythology, and symbols of Hindu iconography.
Today's Importance of Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga holds immense spiritual significance and is a vital part of Hindu religious traditions. The temple is not only a symbol of devotion to Lord Shiva but also represents the spiritual journey that every devotee undertakes. Visiting Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is believed to cleanse one’s soul of all sins and bring them closer to attaining Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
The temple attracts lakhs of devotees every year, particularly during the Char Dham Yatra season. The journey to Kedarnath is considered one of the most arduous pilgrimages due to the high altitude, rough terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions. Despite these challenges, devotees from all over India and the world visit Kedarnath Jyotirlinga to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
The temple has also gained significance in modern times due to the catastrophic flash floods that struck Kedarnath in 2013. The disaster caused widespread destruction, but miraculously, the temple structure remained intact, further solidifying the belief in its divine protection. Today, the temple stands not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of resilience and faith
How to Visit Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
Getting There
Kedarnath is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level. Reaching Kedarnath requires a combination of travel modes, including road, air, and trekking.
- By Air: The nearest airport to Kedarnath is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 238 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Gaurikund, the base camp for the Kedarnath trek.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, about 216 kilometers from Kedarnath. Rishikesh is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun. From Rishikesh, you can travel by road to Gaurikund.
- By Road: Gaurikund is the last motorable point before Kedarnath and is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand. Regular buses and taxis are available from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun to Gaurikund.
- Trekking: From Gaurikund, a 16-kilometer trek through the picturesque mountains leads to Kedarnath. The trek can be challenging, but the route is well-maintained, and there are several rest stops, food stalls, and shelters along the way. For those unable to trek, ponies and palanquins (palkis) are available for hire.
Accommodation
Kedarnath has several accommodation options ranging from budget hotels, dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses), and guesthouses. GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) operates several government-run guesthouses and tents in Kedarnath, offering basic facilities. Due to the limited number of accommodations, it is advisable to book your stay in advance, especially during the peak pilgrimage season.
Cost for Visiting Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
The cost of visiting Kedarnath Jyotirlinga can vary depending on the mode of travel, accommodation, and personal preferences. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Travel: The cost of a round-trip flight from Delhi to Dehradun can range from INR 3,000 to INR 7,000. If you are traveling by train, a one-way ticket from Delhi to Rishikesh in a sleeper class can cost around INR 300 to INR 1,200, depending on the class of travel.
- Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Kedarnath can range from INR 500 per night for a basic room to INR 2,500 per night for a more comfortable stay. In Gaurikund, accommodation is slightly cheaper, with rooms available for INR 300 to INR 1,500 per night.
- Trekking and Additional Services: The trek to Kedarnath is free, but if you hire a pony or palki, it can cost between INR 3,000 and INR 7,000, depending on the service and distance. Helicopter services are also available from Phata, Guptkashi, and Sirsi to Kedarnath, with prices ranging from INR 7,000 to INR 9,000 for a round trip.
- Food: The cost of food during the trip is quite reasonable, with meals ranging from INR 100 to INR 300, depending on where you eat.
Overall, a budget trip to Kedarnath can cost around INR 8,000 to INR 15,000 per person, while a more comfortable trip can range from INR 20,000 to INR 30,000 per person.
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath
The Kedarnath Temple is open to devotees only during specific months of the year due to the extreme weather conditions in the region. The temple usually opens in April or May (Akshaya Tritiya) and closes in October or November (on the day of Kartik Purnima) every year.
- Summer (May to June): This is the best time to visit Kedarnath, as the weather is relatively mild, and the temple is accessible. The temperature ranges between 5°C to 20°C, making it comfortable for trekking and sightseeing.
- Monsoon (July to September): Monsoon brings heavy rainfall to the region, making the trek challenging and risky due to landslides and slippery paths. It is generally advised to avoid visiting Kedarnath during this time.
- Autumn (September to November): This is another good time to visit Kedarnath, as the weather is clear, and the natural beauty of the area is at its peak. The temperature begins to drop, so warm clothing is recommended.
Winter (December to April): The temple is closed during this time due to heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures. However, the idol of Lord Shiva is moved to Ukhimath, where devotees can offer their prayers.
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is not just a temple; it is a journey of faith, resilience, and devotion. The temple’s ancient history, awe-inspiring architecture, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit for every devotee of Lord Shiva. Despite the challenges posed by its remote location and extreme weather, the pilgrimage to Kedarnath is an experience that leaves a lasting impact on the soul.
Whether you seek spiritual solace, adventure, or a connection with nature, Kedarnath offers all of this and more. Plan your trip well, respect the local traditions