A travel Guide to Kedarnath

Nestled amid the snow-capped, mighty Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Kedarnath, India is the holiest Hindu pilgrimage and a vital among the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. Taking its name from the protector Lord Shiva and the serene Mandakini river gurgling in front, Kedarnath attractions witness millions of devotees flocking the places every year. This paramount place for Lord Shiva’s worshippers is a significant part of the Panch Kedars (a group of 5 Shiva temples) and the sacred Char Dham Yatra.

The town is located among enchanting meadows and magnificent snow peaks at the height of 3584m. Kedarnath tours include breathtaking nature, exhilarating sceneries, and tranquil ambience, making this place a spiritual nirvana. The magnanimous Kedarnath hill standing behind the temple along with other mountain peaks perfectly sets in for this holy land. The conical-shaped Shivling, mesmerising Gaurikund, the serene shrine of Bhairavnath, the enchanting Vasuki Tal, and the Sonprayag are some notable parts of Kedarnath tourist attractions.

The dharamshalas and hotels in Kedarnath provide all the tourists with comfortable accommodation and warm hospitality. Kedarnath tourist places are usually open for 6 months a year and close for the rest due to the intense snowfall in winters. Prior booking of hotels is advisable.

This place is as adventurous as it is spiritual and tranquil. These are the things to do in Kedarnath.

Trekking to Kedarnath Peak

No other activity is as infatuating and enthralling as trekking to the peaks of the mighty Kedarnath hill. The spectacular sights of Vasuki Tal, the gorgeous Mandakini Valley, and the stunning Chaukambha peaks along the route to Kedarnath peak are so captivating that even one of the hardest trekking routes seems easy.

Relish the Sunset Point

The Chopta Valley in Kedarnath is home to marvellous sunsets and incredible nature. Also the beginning of the Chandrashila and Tungnath trekking routes, the Chopta Valley is an ideal night camping spot. Breathtaking views of the incredible valleys in the background make this place a worthy outdoor camping spot.

Visit the Anusuya Devi Temple

This temple, devoted to Goddess Anusuya, is located close to Rudranath and 30km away from the Chopta Valley. This shrine is filled with a mystical and tranquil aura. It is widely believed that a pilgrimage to this place solves all the concerns faced by the devotees.

Shop Souvenirs

Various kiosks in and around Kedarnath sell photographs of gods and other souvenirs. Real Rudraksha, a crucial part of Hindu rituals, Tulsi beads, crystals, saligrams, Shilajit, and other herbs are available for the devotees to purchase as a part of their Kedarnath trip.

Best time to visit Kedarnath

One needs to pay a little attention while deciding the best season to visit Kedarnath. Winters are freezing cold and inhospitable here. Also, the main temple of Kedarnath remains closed during this time for 6 months. So, it is best to avoid visiting the place in extreme climatic conditions. Monsoons in Kedarnath are unpredictable though it doesn’t receive much rainfall. But in case there are heavy rains, there will be road blocks due to landslides making the travel inconvenient.

With pleasant temperatures, a gentle cool breeze, and a warm ambience, the summer season, i.e., April to June, is the best time to visit Kedarnath. These dates are ideal for Char Dham and Panch Kedar trips too. So, book your tickets well in advance to avoid missing the tour.

How to Reach Kedarnath

Reaching Kedarnath actually means reaching Gaurikund, the nearest place and the beginning point of trekking to this place. Here is how to reach Kedarnath via Gaurikund through different modes of transport:

By Airways – There is no direct flight to Kedarnath as it doesn’t have an airport. The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun 250km away from Kedarnath is the nearest airline facility to this place. You will get flights to Dehradun regularly from all the major Indian cities.

By Railways – Rishikesh railway station, 210km away from Gaurikund, is the nearest railway station to Kedarnath. This station is well connected to most Indian cities with regularly running trains.

By Roadways – Kedarnath has excellent bus connectivity to Dehradun and New Delhi. However, it is easy to reach this place by road through Dehradun.