Kedarnath Complete Travel Guide
Kedarnath is a holy town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. It is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters and is known for its ancient Kedarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Here is a complete travel guide to help you plan your visit:
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to November. The temple remains open from the end of April to the beginning of November.
How to reach:
The nearest airport to Kedarnath is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 239 km away. The nearest railway station is in Rishikesh, which is about 221 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Sonprayag. From Sonprayag, you can take a trek or a helicopter ride to Kedarnath.
Accommodation:
There are several accommodation options available in Kedarnath, including hotels, lodges, and campsites. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.
Trekking options:
The most popular way to reach Kedarnath is through a trek. The trek starts from Gaurikund and is about 16 km long. It takes about 7-8 hours to complete the trek. Ponies and palanquins are also available for hire.
Kedarnath Temple:
The Kedarnath Temple is the main attraction in Kedarnath. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India. The temple was built in the 8th century and was renovated several times. The temple is open from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Other places to visit:
Apart from the temple, visitors can also visit the Bhairavnath Temple, which is about 1.5 km from the Kedarnath Temple. The Vasuki Tal Lake, Gandhi Sarovar, and Shankaracharya Samadhi are also worth visiting.
Tips:
- Carry warm clothes during the winter season as it can get very cold in Kedarnath.
- Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes.
- Carry a first aid kit and any medications you may need.
- Do not litter and keep the town clean.
- Listen to your guide’s instructions during the trek.
