Kedarnath is a highly revered Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India.
It is one of the Char Dham destinations, which are considered the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Hinduism.
Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, self-manifested lingams of Lord Shiva.
The main attraction in Kedarnath is the Kedarnath Temple, an ancient and prominent temple that stands at an altitude of around 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) amidst the breathtaking Himalayan mountains.
The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas, the legendary figures from the Hindu epic Mahabharata.
Pilgrims undertake a challenging trek of approximately 16 kilometres (10 miles) from Gaurikund to reach the temple.
The journey is considered a test of one’s devotion and endurance. The temple remains open from late April to early November due to harsh weather conditions during the winter months.
Kedarnath holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, who believe that a visit to Kedarnath and offering prayers at the temple can wash away sins and grant liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
The natural beauty, tranquillity, and the divine aura of Kedarnath make it an awe-inspiring and spiritually uplifting destination for devotees and nature lovers alike.