About Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Temple
Kedarnath Temple is one of India’s most revered Shiva temples and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is also one of the four sacred Char Dham sites of Uttarakhand.
Surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks, the temple is known for its ancient stone architecture and challenging yet deeply spiritual pilgrimage journey.
Quick Facts
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Kedarnath Temple |
| Location | Kedarnath, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, India |
| Deity | Lord Shiva |
| Famous For | Kedarnath Jyotirlinga and Char Dham Yatra |
| Jyotirlinga | One of the 12 Jyotirlingas |
| Altitude | Approximately 3,583 metres |
| Nearest Railway Station | Rishikesh Railway Station |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun |
| Ideal Duration | 2–3 Days |
Highlights
- One of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva
- One of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand
- Ancient stone temple surrounded by Himalayan peaks
- Sacred Kedarnath shrine and traditional Shiva worship
- Scenic pilgrimage route through the Garhwal Himalayas
- Bhairavnath Temple overlooking the Kedarnath valley
Darshan, Timings & Rituals
Darshan at Kedarnath Temple is available during the annual pilgrimage season. The temple remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall, with the opening and closing dates following traditional religious practices.
Darshan: Darshan is generally available during morning and evening hours, with a break in the afternoon according to the temple’s daily schedule.
Special Rituals: Daily poojas and aartis are performed at the temple. Morning and evening worship are important parts of the Kedarnath pilgrimage.
Best Time to Visit
May to June and September to October generally offer suitable conditions for the Kedarnath Yatra. The temple remains closed during winter.
How to Reach
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest major airport. From Dehradun, travellers can continue by road towards Sonprayag.
By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest major railway station. From Rishikesh, pilgrims can travel by road towards Sonprayag.
By Road: Pilgrims generally travel by road to Sonprayag, continue to Gaurikund and then undertake the trek to Kedarnath.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Reach Sonprayag, continue towards Gaurikund and begin the pilgrimage to Kedarnath. Stay overnight in Kedarnath.
Day 2: Complete Kedarnath Darshan and visit nearby sacred places. Begin the return journey towards Gaurikund or stay overnight depending on your travel plan.
Day 3: Complete the return journey from the Kedarnath region and continue towards your next destination.
Explore Nearby
Bhairavnath Temple: A revered hilltop temple overlooking Kedarnath and traditionally associated with the protection of the shrine.
Gaurikund: The traditional starting point for the Kedarnath trek and an important pilgrimage site associated with Goddess Gauri.
Vasuki Tal: A high-altitude lake surrounded by Himalayan landscapes and a popular trekking destination near Kedarnath.
Triyuginarayan Temple: An ancient temple near Sonprayag traditionally associated with the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Where to Stay
Find comfortable stays around Sonprayag, Gaurikund and Kedarnath, with options suitable for pilgrims travelling to the shrine.
Explore Trusted Stays in Kedarnath →
Festivals
Mahashivratri and the opening ceremony of Kedarnath Temple are important occasions for devotees. The temple opening at the beginning of the pilgrimage season marks the start of the annual Kedarnath Yatra.
Travel Tips
- Check the latest Yatra opening dates and registration requirements before travelling.
- Complete the required Kedarnath Yatra registration before starting your journey.
- Carry warm clothing and rain protection even during the summer season.
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes suitable for steep and uneven terrain.
- Allow extra time for weather-related delays and changing road conditions.
- Carry essential medicines and stay hydrated during the trek.
- Book accommodation and travel services in advance during peak pilgrimage periods.
FAQs
Where is Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Temple located?
Kedarnath Temple is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of approximately 3,583 metres in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Is Kedarnath one of the 12 Jyotirlingas?
Yes. Kedarnath is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.
What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?
May to June and September to October are generally preferred for the pilgrimage. The temple remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall.
How do you reach Kedarnath Temple?
Pilgrims generally travel by road to Sonprayag, continue to Gaurikund and then undertake the trek to Kedarnath.
How long is the Kedarnath trek?
The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is approximately 16–18 km, depending on the current route and access arrangements.
How many days are enough for Kedarnath?
A minimum of 2–3 days is generally recommended, allowing time for the road journey, trek, Darshan and return.
