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Health & Fitness

Kedarnath temple- A Spiritual journey to dwelling of Lord Shiva

Kedarnath is the significant place of reverence among the four pilgrim sites of Chardham Yatra. Located on the top of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Kedarnath is the significant place of reverence among the four pilgrim sites of Chardham Yatra. Located on the top of the Garhwal Himalayan range at a height of 3580 meters above sea level, the temple is believed to have been originated by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century AD. Moreover, it is considered to be one of the 12 sacred shrines (Jyotirlinga) of Lord Shiva. Catching the attention of thousands of devotees every year, one needs great nerve and strength to make it to this place of worship.

Implication and fable of Kedarnath temple

Swathed by verdant greenery and mountain peaks in tranquil scenery, the devotees visit this place not only for cleansing away their sins, but to soothe mind and soul. The gracefully carved structure design with mammoth imagery lures the devotees in the first sight. According to the mythology, the Pandavas after having a big accomplishment in the war of Kurukshetra felt guilty of slaughtering their own family members and hence they set out to seek exoneration from Lord Shiva. However, Shiva was disinclined to bestow glimpse to the Pandavas and hid himself in Guptakashi, where he was identified by Pandavas brothers. The story travels that Lord Shiva changed into a buffalo so that they could not recognize him. When Shiva again identified by them, he evaporated into the ground leaving behind a hump, which is revered by the devotees in the temple.

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Tourist places of interest around Kedarnath Temple are:

Shankaracharya Samadhi

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Adi Shankaracharya, a renowned Hindu philosopher, was born in 8th Century in Kerala. It believed by many that he had started traveling at the age of eight to understand the meaning of real life. Moreover, he achieved nirvana at this holy place in the age of 32 years old. Therefore, one must not miss out visiting this sacred place on the tour, sited at the back of the Kedarnath temple.

Chorabari Tal

Located two miles from Kedarnath, Chorabari Tal is also dubbed as Gandhi Sarovar as a few of Mahatma Gandhi cinders were dipped in the lake. This place renders one breathtaking views of the emerald green exquisiteness and snow covered mountains.

Vasuki Tal

Encircled by Chaukhamba and snow capped peaks, Vasuki Tal is positioned at an elevation of 4135 meters at a distance of 5 miles from Kedarnath. One would require climbing high to arrive at this destination. The best time to pay a visit to Vasuki Tal is between May and September.

Gauri Kund

Gaurikund is associated with deity Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva. It is believed that Gauri devoted herself to penance to win respect in Shiva’s eyes. And lastly, he appreciated the dedication of Parvati.

How to make it to Kedarnath?

One has to take 6 miles trek from Gaurikund to reach Kedarnath. Along the way, one gets an opportunity to scout beautiful views of the Mandakini River and the lofty mountains that make his/her travel worthwhile and engrossing. While going up, devotees can also take a pony to relax their soul.

Best time to visit

End of April to first week of November is considered as the perfect time to mark the presence in Kedarnath.

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