Kedarnath Temple
केदारनाथ मंदिर
Fifth Jyotirlinga, part of Char Dham, highest among Jyotirlingas at 3,583m
Temple Timings
4:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Best Time
May to June and September to October
Location
Uttarakhand
Dress Code
Traditional
📖 About Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath Temple, perched at 3,583 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas, is the highest among the 12 Jyotirlingas. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks including Kedarnath peak, this ancient temple is part of the sacred Char Dham pilgrimage. The temple remains open only 6 months a year due to extreme weather.
🏢 History & Legend
According to legend, the Pandavas built this temple to seek Lord Shivas forgiveness after the Kurukshetra war. Adi Shankaracharya is credited with restoring and popularizing the temple in the 8th century. The temple miraculously survived the devastating 2013 floods.
Temple Architecture
Built of large grey stone slabs in North Indian Himalayan style. The temple has a conical lingam housed in a mandapa with a large assembly hall. The walls display carvings of various deities. Behind the temple is the samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya.
How to Reach Kedarnath Temple
By Air
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (250 km from Gaurikund). Helicopter services available from Phata/Guptkashi.
By Train
Rishikesh and Haridwar are nearest railheads. From there, road to Gaurikund.
By Road
Drive to Gaurikund (via Rishikesh/Haridwar). From Gaurikund: 16 km trek, pony, doli (palanquin), or helicopter.
Popular Pujas
Major Festivals
Nearby Places to Visit
Tips for Visitors
Register on official Char Dham website mandatory
Book helicopter tickets well in advance
Acclimatize in Guptkashi before ascending
Carry warm clothes, rain gear, and medicines
Start trek early morning to avoid afternoon weather changes
Medical fitness certificate required for trek
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:When does Kedarnath Temple open and close?
A:Kedarnath Temple opens in late April/early May (on Akshaya Tritiya) and closes in November (around Bhai Dooj after Diwali). Exact dates are announced by the temple committee.
Q:How to reach Kedarnath Temple?
A:From Gaurikund, you can trek 16 km (6-8 hours), take a pony/doli, or book a helicopter from Phata/Guptkashi/Sirsi (5-7 minutes flight).
Q:Is Kedarnath trek difficult?
A:The trek is moderate to difficult due to altitude (3,583m). Good physical fitness is required. Acclimatization is recommended. Alternative options include pony, doli (palanquin), and helicopter.
Plan Your Kedarnath Temple Pilgrimage
Book pandit services, plan temple visits, and shop for puja items - all in one place