Lord Shiva Temples

Located atop the Himalayan Range, on the protracted land near the Mandakini River in Kedarnath, the holy Kedarnath temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity, Shiva and is one of the grand temples of India. Countless numbers of pilgrims want to access the temple but many are unable to access this holy premise due to the extreme weather condition. The temple remains open for the devotees during April- Kartuk Purnima (The autumn full moon). During winters the idol of the temple is brought all the way to Ukhimath. Devotees pay tribute to the deity here for six months.

The temple, however, is not directly accessed by road. Trekkers and pilgrims enjoy a 14 km uphill trek from Gaurikund to reach the desired destination. Built by Adi Sankaracharya, it is the holiest Hindu shrine of Shiva. The old temple actually was there since the period of Mahabharata. It is believed that the temple was constructed when Pandavas could successfully satisfy Shiva by doing penance in Kedarnath.

Location

Kedarnath is amongst the holiest pilgrimages for the devout Hindu. It is set amidst the stunning mountainscape of the Garhwal Himalayas at the head of the Mandakini River. Kedar is another name of lord Shiva, the protector and the destroyer. Shiva is considered the embodiment of all passions - love, hatred, fear, death and mysticism which are expressed through his various forms.

The shrine of Kedarnath is very scenically placed, and is surrounded by lofty, snow - covered mountains, and during summer grassy meadows covering the valleys. Immediately behind the temple, is the high Keadardome peak, which can be sighted from great distances. The sight of the temple and the peak with its perpetual snows is simply enthralling.

History

There are more than 200 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in Chamoli district itself, the most important one is Kedarnath. According to legend, the Pandavas after having won over the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra war, felt guilty of having killed their own Kith and Kin and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for redemption. He eluded them repeatedly and while fleeing took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull.

On being followed he dived into the ground, leaving his hump on the surface. The remaining portions of Lord Shiva appeared at four other places and are worshipped there as his manifestations.

The arms appeared at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, the belly at Madmaheshwar and his locks (hair) with head at Kalpeshwar. Kedarnath and the four above mentioned shrines are treated as Panch Kedar.

How to Reach

By Air Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, 260 kms.

By Train Nearest railhead is at Rishikesh, 243 kms.

By Road Well connected to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun and Delhi.

Near By Pleace Weather