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GANGOTRI DHAM
WANT TO KNOW ABOUT
Kedarnath Dham

The sacred shrine of Kedarnath, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 3,583 meters. Situated on the banks of the Mandakini River and surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, Kedarnath is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The temple, located closer to the town, serves as a spiritual haven, drawing countless devotees who seek blessings and solace.
 

The Kedarnath Temple was originally established by the great sage Adi Shankaracharya in the 9th century, although the existing structure has undergone renovations over the years. The temple is built of large, heavy stones and showcases intricate carvings, symbolizing the divine presence of Lord Shiva, who is revered as the destroyer of evil and the transformer.

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According to legend, the temple is located at the site where Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a bull to evade the Pandavas, who sought his blessings. The unique architecture and the breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped peaks enhance the spiritual experience for pilgrims.

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Nearby, visitors can explore the natural hot springs at Tapt Kund, where devotees bathe before entering the temple to purify themselves. The sacred site is also home to various other shrines, including those dedicated to Gaurikund and Bhairav Nath.

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The Kedarnath Temple opens annually on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya, typically in late April or early May, and closes the day after Diwali, around mid-November. After the temple closes, the idol of Lord Kedarnath is moved to Ukhimath, where it remains for worship during the winter months. The temple staff return to their villages, allowing the serene valley to embrace the tranquility of winter until it reopens in summer, welcoming thousands of devoted pilgrims once again.

Kedarnath Temple Opening & Closing Dates 2024:

The sacred Kedarnath Temple welcomes pilgrims with the arrival of summer, typically in late April or early May. For 2024, the temple doors will open on May 9, a date chosen during the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya.

As winter sets in, the temple closes after Diwali, around mid-November, with the idol of Lord Kedarnath being moved to the nearby village of Ukhimath. There, devotees can continue to offer their prayers for the next six months until the temple reopens the following year.

Yamunotri Dham Uttarakhand
Best Time to Visit Kedarnath Dham

Perched high in the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath Dham is accessible to pilgrims for about six months each year. The temple typically opens in late April or early May, coinciding with the melting of snow, and welcomes devotees during the warmer months. Following Diwali, the temple closes, and the idol of Lord Kedarnath is moved to Ukhimath for winter worship. The best time to visit is between April and November, with late April to mid-June and October to mid-November being the most favorable periods for a peaceful pilgrimage.

Summer

Beginning in April, Kedarnath enjoys pleasant summer weather, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C, making it ideal for trekking and temple visits. This season lasts until mid-June, offering warm days that are perfect for pilgrims seeking spiritual solace.

Activities Around Kedarnath

​Trek to Gaurikund and unwind in the hot springs nearby. Prepare rice and potatoes in Tapt Kund before visiting the temple. Enjoy the serene ambiance of Kedarnath along the Mandakini River, hike to scenic spots like Vasukital, and explore the mystical Bhairav Kund, a revered glacial lake with spiritual significance.

Monsoon

From late June to September, the region experiences heavy monsoon rains, which can sometimes persist for days. Temperatures drop slightly, peaking at around 23°C. Although the pilgrimage continues during this time, visitors should be prepared for wet conditions by checking weather forecasts and bringing necessary rain gear.

Winter

By mid-November, Kedarnath is enveloped in snow, with temperatures dipping below freezing. The temple closes, and the idol is relocated to Ukhimath, where devotees can continue to offer prayers throughout the winter months.

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