The Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines, is nestled in the serene Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple is part of the revered Char Dham Yatra. It stands at an elevation of 3,583 meters, offering pilgrims a spiritually enriching experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its unique architecture and deep historical significance, the temple attracts thousands of devotees each year, especially during its open season from April to November.
Temple About
Sri Kedarnath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Garhwal Himalayan range near the Mandakini River in Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva and the most important among the Panch Kedar temples.
Temple Description
Kedarnath Temple is built of massive stone slabs over a large rectangular platform and is said to be more than 1000 years old. The temple stands at an elevation of 3,583 meters (11,755 ft) above sea level and is surrounded by majestic snow-covered peaks. Due to extreme weather conditions, the temple is open only from late April to early November.
Temple Speciality
The Kedarnath Temple is renowned for its unique architecture, constructed using massive stone slabs interlocked without mortar. It houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is a significant pilgrimage site, symbolizing the divine abode of Shiva. The temple remains open only for six months (April to November) due to extreme weather conditions.
Temple Address
Kedarnath Temple, Kedarnath, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, India.
Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude)
30.7352° N, 79.0669° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 4:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Evening: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Temple Sevas
Rudrabhishek
Mahabhishek
Laghu Rudra Abhishek
Special Poojas during festive times
Traveling Facilities
Helicopter Services: From Phata, Guptkashi, and Dehradun.
Pony and Palki: Available from Gaurikund to the temple.
Trekking: 16 km trek from Gaurikund.
Food Facilities
Limited options are available near the temple. Pilgrims can find basic vegetarian food in nearby dhabas and stalls.
Stay Facilities
Basic accommodation options such as guest houses, dharmashalas, and camps are available near the temple. Booking in advance is recommended during the pilgrimage season.
Nearby Railway Station
Rishikesh Railway Station (approx. 221 km)
Nearby Airport
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 238 km)
Nearby Bus Station
Sonprayag (approx. 20 km)
Bus Routes to Temple
Buses and shared taxis are available from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun to Sonprayag. From Sonprayag, shared jeeps or trekking can be taken to reach Gaurikund.
Train Routes to Temple
Direct trains to Rishikesh from major cities. From Rishikesh, buses and taxis can be taken to reach Gaurikund.
Air Ways to Temple
Helicopter services are available from Dehradun to Kedarnath.
Nearby Cities to Temple
Rudraprayag
Rishikesh
Haridwar
Dehradun
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places
Badrinath Temple
Yamunotri Temple
Gangotri Temple
Triyuginarayan Temple
Vasuki Tal
Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sarovar)
Shopping Famous For
Local handicrafts
Religious souvenirs
Woolen clothes
Herbs and medicinal plants Sri Kedarnath Temple is not just a destination it’s a divine experience that blends natural beauty, spiritual fulfillment, and ancient heritage. Its location amidst the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas adds to its mystique and sanctity. For devotees of Lord Shiva and lovers of spiritual adventure, a visit to Kedarnath is truly a journey of a lifetime.
