Kedarnath, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, is located in the state of Uttarakhand, nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas. It is considered one of the four sacred shrines in Hinduism, collectively known as Chardham, and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kedarnath is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level and can be accessed through a challenging trek or helicopter ride.
The history of Kedarnath dates back to the ancient times, and it is believed that the temple was built by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era. According to Hindu mythology, the temple was re-discovered by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE. The temple’s architecture is an exquisite blend of Kedarnath and Dravidian styles and is believed to have been constructed during the 8th century.
Kedarnath is not just a religious destination, but it is also a paradise for nature lovers. The trek to Kedarnath passes through beautiful valleys, dense forests, and glistening streams. The route is challenging, but the scenic beauty of the place is worth the effort. The trek starts from Gaurikund, which is the last motorable point, and the trek takes around 14-16 hours to complete.
The temple of Kedarnath is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a sight to behold. The temple’s walls are adorned with intricate carvings, and the entrance is decorated with a majestic statue of Lord Shiva’s bull, Nandi. The main shrine houses the Jyotirlinga, which is believed to be a self-manifested idol of Lord Shiva.
The temple of Kedarnath is open for darshan from April to November. During the winter months, the temple is closed due to heavy snowfall, and the idols are shifted to Ukhimath for six months. The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and September to November.
In 2013, Kedarnath witnessed a devastating natural calamity when a massive flood caused by heavy rainfall swept away many parts of the region, causing widespread damage and loss of life. The temple was also partially damaged during the disaster. However, the temple was rebuilt with the help of the government and the public, and it now stands as a symbol of resilience and hope.
In conclusion, Kedarnath is a spiritual and natural wonder that has been attracting devotees and tourists for centuries. It is a place of great significance for the Hindu religion and is known for its scenic beauty, challenging trek, and ancient temple. A visit to Kedarnath is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your mind and soul.
0 Comments