Welcome to Kedarnath, a sacred destination nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand. Explore the enchanting beauty and spiritual significance of this divine place. Here are some must-visit places that promise a unique and fulfilling experience. Kedarnath is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. It is a pilgrimage destination and a place of great natural beauty. Apart from the main Kedarnath Temple, there are several other places to visit in Kedarnath. Lets explore…..
Kedarnath Temple
Kedernath Temple is one of the most sacred temples and the holiest Hindu pilgrimages in India. A part of Chhota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is the most revered among the 12 Jyotirlingas in India dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that a visit to this temple can free them from the cycle of life.
- Best Time: May to June and September to October (avoid monsoons).
- Entrance Fees: No entrance fees, but there is a registration process for pilgrims.
- Total Time: 2-3 hours for a temple visit; additional time for rituals.
- Duration: 1-2 days for a spiritually enriching experience.
- How to Reach:
- On Foot: Reachable by a trek of approximately 16 km from Gaurikund; sturdy trekking shoes recommended.
- By Car: Car hire available up to Gaurikund; trekking or pony options are preferred for the remaining distance.
Vasuki Tal
Vasuki Tal lake is situated at an altitude of 4135 meters,
Vasuki Tal provides a splendid panorama of the adjacent Chaukhamba peaks. This trek is a perfect ascent for enthusiasts, showcasing the Chaturangi and Vasuki glaciers along the way to the serene lake.
- Best Time: June to October; trekking not advisable during winters.
- Entrance Fees: No fees; permits required for trekking.
- Total Time: 2-3 days for a trekking expedition.
- Duration: 1-2 days for a serene visit.
- How to Reach:
- On Foot: Accessible by a trek of around 7-8 km from Kedarnath; sturdy trekking shoes recommended.
- By Car: No direct road access; trekking or hiking is the primary mode of reaching Vasuki Tal.
Sonprayag
Atop 1829 m. Sonprayag is a tiny hamlet on the confluence banks of rivers Mandakini and Basuki. Devotees take a dip in the holy waters with the faith to attain nirvana. Atop 1829 m. Sonprayag is a tiny hamlet on the confluence banks of rivers Mandakini and Basuki. Devotees take a dip in the holy waters with the faith to attain nirvana.
- Best Time: May to June and September to October.
- Entrance Fees: No entrance fees.
- Total Time: Half a day for a leisurely exploration.
- Duration: 1 day for a relaxed visit.
- How to Reach:
- On Foot: Can explore on foot; local walks to nearby areas.
- By Car: Local taxis available for sightseeing in the surrounding regions.
Triyuginarayan Temple
- Best Time: May to June and September to October.
- Entrance Fees: Nominal fees for maintenance.
- Total Time: 2-3 hours for a historical and spiritual experience.
- Duration: 1 day for a cultural excursion.
- How to Reach:
- On Foot: Accessible by a trek of around 5 km from Sonprayag.
- By Car: Limited road access; trekking is a preferred option for reaching the temple.
ShankaracharyaSamadhi
It is believed that Sri Sankaracharya who propounded the Adwaita Philosophy established this holy shrine and one of his four Mathas in the 8th century and attained Nirvana at age 32 here.
It is believed that Adiguru Shankracharya took samadhi at this place.
- Best Time: May to October.
- Entrance Fees: No entrance fees.
- Total Time: 1-2 hours for a peaceful visit.
- Duration: Half a day for exploration.
- How to Reach:
- On Foot: A short uphill walk to the site.
- By Car: Limited parking available near the site; can be reached easily by car.
Bhairav Temple
Bhairon Mandir is located 1 kms from the Kedarnath Temple. From the here one can see the entire Kedarnath valley and Kedarnath Shrine. It is believed that when Kedarnath dham is closed for winter due to heavy snowfall.
- Best Time: May to June and September to October.
- Entrance Fees: No entrance fees.
- Total Time: 1-2 hours for a spiritual experience.
- Duration: Half a day for religious exploration.
- How to Reach:
- On Foot: The temple is accessible by a short walk.
- By Car: Limited road access; walking is convenient for reaching the temple.
Rudra Cave
Rudra Cave is an underground stone meditation cave located 1 km from Kedarnath Temple in Uttarakhand. It became popular after Prime Minister Narendra Modi meditated here.
- Best Time: May to June and September to October.
- Entrance Fees: No entrance fees.
- Total Time: 2-3 hours for a serene retreat.
- Duration: 1 day for a meditative escape.
- How to Reach:
- On Foot: A short trek to the cave; advisable to wear comfortable shoes.
- By Car: Limited road access; trekking is the preferred mode of reaching Rudra Cave.
Gandhi Sarovar (Chorabari Tal)
Gandhi Sarovar, also known as Chorabari Tal, is a high-altitude lake situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. This glacial lake holds cultural and historical significance and is named after Mahatma Gandhi. It is located near Kedarnath, a prominent pilgrimage site for Hindus.
- Best Time: June to October.
- Entrance Fees: No entrance fees.
- Total Time: 1-2 days for a trekking expedition.
- Duration: 1 day for a scenic retreat.
- How to Reach:
- On Foot: Accessible by trekking; approximately 3 km from Kedarnath.
- By Car: Limited road access; trekking is recommended for a more immersive experience.
Gaurikund
It is located at an altitude of around 1,982 meters (6,503 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas. Pilgrims and tourists visiting Kedarnath, one of the Char Dham Yatra destinations, often start their journey from Gaurikund.
- Best Time: May to June and September to October.
- Entrance Fees: No entrance fees.
- Total Time: 1-2 days for a pilgrimage and trek.
- Duration: 2-3 days for a comprehensive visit.
- How to Reach:
- On Foot: Trekking is the primary mode of reaching Gaurikund from Sonprayag.
- By Car: Limited road access; trekking or local transport is preferred.
Vishwanath Temple
The Vishwanath Temple in Guptkashi is a sacred Hindu temple located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it holds significance as a part of the Char Dham Yatra.
- Best Time: May to June and September to October.
- Entrance Fees: No entrance fees.
- Total Time: 1-2 hours for a spiritual experience.
- Duration: Half a day for religious exploration.
- How to Reach:
- On Foot: Located in Kedarnath; walking is convenient within the town.
- By Car: Limited road access within Kedarnath; walking is the preferred mode for local exploration.