Top 5 Pilgrimages in India

India is full of culture. It has been invaded by many foreign powers from time to time but we still carry our culture, and traditions with us. We are practicing our culture for an eternity. There are many places in India that astonish visitors with their culture and traditions we follow. India is a land of god and knowledge and we have been considered to be one of the most elite nations for millions of years. You must get spellbound with the positive vides of these cities. Here we are going to share some of the most famous and visited 5 pilgrimages in India. Read this article to know more everything about these places.

Kedarnath:- One of the 12 jyotirlingas in India. Panch Kedar and Chota Char Dham, Kedarnath yatra is considered as one of the most holiest yatra in Hindu culture. It's considered to be a way to attain salvation. Not only the old but the youth of our country are equally interested in visiting the Kedarnath temple. Located at an altitude of 11755 feet above sea level in Rudraprayag district Uttarakhand, Kedarnath temple is known for its beauty and amazing atmosphere all around the temple. As per holy scriptures and folklore, it's a strong belief that lord shiva stays at Kedarnath temple to bless all its devotees and help them attain salvation and prosperity in life. You can visit Kedarnath temple by booking a Kedarnath yatra package with any reputed company or you can plan your own journey. Generally, the Kedarnath yatra package costs around 8000 to 12000 per person from Haridwar. The package cost will vary a lot depending on the quality of service, itinerary, etc. If you are planning to visit Kedarnath yatra on your own, then keep note that you will get direct convenience from your city to Haridwar / Rishikesh / Dehradun which is around 280 Km away from Kedarnath temple. After that you can book your personal car or you can take a shared cab or bus.

Varanasi:- Another famous pilgrimage spot in India known for lord Shiva is Varanasi also known as Banaras. It found its mention in many ancient holy scriptures and is believed to be the favorite city of lord Shiva.  With ancient culture and vibrant tradition with chanting of mantras all around, this holy city has great importance in Hindu culture. Even an atheist will start believing in god after visiting Varanasi. There are many stories revolving around this city and you can relate most of them to the places in Varanasi. One of the oldest and most iconic cremation ghats in Varanasi is Manikarnika Ghat. It is believed that the Maa Shakti ornament fell down at this place when lord shiva was carrying her burnt body to Kailash. Manikarna is a Sanskrit word which means earring. Lots of other stories and folklore are associated with this traditional but very beautiful city of India. This city of light (Varanasi ) is situated on the bank of river Ganga in Uttar Pradesh and accessible by all means of transport. For visiting Varanasi you need not book any package as you can reach here very easily or if you are planning to visit multiple cities around then definitely you can book a package for visiting Varanasi. The package cost for Varanasi will range something between 8000 to 17000 per person depending upon the quality of services and location they are covering.

Vrindavan:-  Located in the Brajbhoomi region of Mathura District in Uttarpradesh is another top pilgrimage site of India. Know of Krishna Lila as it is believed that lord Krishna had spent most of his childhood in Vrindavan. More than 5500 old and new temples are dedicated to lord Krishna and his chief consort Radha Rani. Prem Mandir is one of the most recent and most beautiful temples in Vrindavan gaining huge popularity day by day. It's becoming the identity of Vrindavan. In addition to Vrindavan, you can also visit some other places related to Shree Krishna and feel the positivity in the air. Mathura, Barsana, Gokul, Govardhan Parvat, Anand Van, etc are some of the iconic places in and around Vrindavan where you can visit and relate the life story of lord Krishna. It's not just a pilgrimage place but it's an experience where you can feel love and positivity all around. To reach Vrindavan you have to reach first Mathura which can be reached by rail or road and can cover the rest of the distance by autos or buses. It's highly recommended not to book a package to visit Vrindavan. Just reach this place and spend some quality time meditating or visiting one and other places around. You will feel inner strength and different kinds of energy in your inner self.

Shirdi:- Another most iconic pilgrimage spot in India is Shirdi. Located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, this sacred place is visited by millions of devotees every year. It is a place of devotion and sacrifice for humanity. Sai of Shirdi was known for his selfless service to humanity. Shri Sai Baba Shanshthan Trust located in Shirdi is one of the reachest trusts in India. Some of the places that are related to lord Sai are Dwarkamai mandir, Chavadi, and Gurusthan. In Dwarkamai mandir you may get the akand Dhuni which has been burning since it was first lit up by Sai Baba. The ashes coming out of Dhuni are called Udi and are believed to have healing power. Most people prefer to book a package to visit Shirdi as no direct train or flight you will get to reach Shirdi. Package cost for Shirdi is between 8000 to 13000 depending upon the quality of services. Another prominent pilgrimage spot near Shirdi is Sani Shingna Pur.

Jagannath Puri:- An important pilgrimage site located in the Puri district of Odisha, Jagannath Puri temple is dedicated to lord Jagannath, the incarnation of lord Vishnu. This is among the most ancient temples in the world and is most famous for its beautiful architecture and advanced design. This temple is also known for miracles and folklore linked to this temple. One of them is that the flag of Jagannath Puri temple flows in an opposite direction to the direction of the wind. It's something that is defying the law of nature. The second one is that you will not find any shadow of this magnificent temple. What to say this, is it an architectural marvel or miracle of lord Jagannath? Whatever it may be visiting this temple is something like keeping oneself closer to god. Jagannath Puri is easily accessible by all modes of transport. Bhubaneshwar Airport is the nearest airport to Puri and is about 60 km away from the temple. You will get a direct train from all the major cities to Puri. You can also book the Jagannath Puri tour package which will cost you something around 12000 to 32000 depending on services. In most of the packages, companies cover Bhubaneshwar, Puri, Chilka, etc.

Vasuki Tal - Kedarnath

 Vasuki Tal is one of the most pristine lakes situated at a distance of 8 km from the most famous Kedarnath temple. Located at an altitude of 4150 meters above sea level, Vasuki Tal is an amazing destination and very beautiful location. It's heaven for all those trekkers who are looking for a trek above 4000 meters height. This beautiful lake is believed to be one of the most ancient lakes and bathing points of lord Vishnu. Yes, you heard right, as per Hindu mythology it is believed that lord Vishnu used to take a bath at this lake on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. This lake is also the home of lord shiva's favorite Brahmakamal which can be found in bulk in this area. In addition to Brahma kamal, this area is full of other rare medicinal herbs. From Vasuki Tal, the Chaukhambha peaks can be seen clearly and it's a perfect place to get a bird's eye view of Kedarnath valley and especially Kedarnath temple. This lake got its name from the snake of lord Shiva "Vasuki" because of its structure of snake. The river "Vasuki Ganga" originates from this lake. As per holy scriptures and Hindu mythology, it is believed that by the use of holy water of this sacred lake, all your karmic dosh can be neutralized. It's also believed that the Vasuki snake can be seen in this lake on Shravan Purnima.

The best time to go to Vasuki tal

The best time to go to Vasuki Tal is similar to that of Kedarnath Yatra. You can visit this place any time between the months of mid-May to October except July and August. This region faces heavy rainfall in the months of July and August. During this period you may face several problems like road slides, road blockage, heavy rainfall, shooting stones, slippery routes, etc. After the month of October, this is covered by snow and remains inaccessible for six months i.e. from November to April.

Things to Carry for Vasuki Tal Trek

Vasuki Tal is an exciting but difficult trek. You might face some serious problems if you miss some essential items while packing your bags. But the problem is that you have to carry your bag on your own. So you need to pack your bag smartly if you are planning to visit Vasuki Tal Lake after having a darshan at Kedarnath temple. Here is a short list of some of the essentials you may need while trekking for this lake.

- Headlamp

- Trekking Pole

- Trekking / Good Grip Sports Shoes

- Woolen Socks

- Rain Coat

- Gloves

- Thermal Wear

- Muffler / Scarf

- Good quality jacket

- Full shirt and trousers

- Backpack

- Water bottle

-Naphthalene ball

-Personal use medicines

- Personal use utensils

If you are taking a halt at Vasuki tal

- Sleeping mat

- Sleeping bag

- Dome tent

- Stove and Butane Gas Canister

How to reach Vasuki Tal

Vasuki Tal is very close to Kedarnath temple. So all the conveniences are available for Vasuki tal trekkers which are available for pilgrims visiting Kedarnath temple. You can reach Kedarnath by Helicopter, pitthu, mules, or Palki. But if you are a true trekker and want to enjoy this trek to the fullest then the following are the ways you can reach Vasuki tal.

By Air:- Jolly Grant Airport also known as Dehradun Airport is the nearest airport to Vasuki Tak trek which is about 280 Km away from this lake. Airlines like Air India, Indigo, Spice Jet, etc have regular flights to this airport from almost all the major or minor cities. The Nearest International airport to Vasuki Tal is IGI (Indra Gandhi International ) Airport located in New Delhi which is about 650 Km away from Vasuki Tal.

By Train:- Rishikesh is the nearest airport to Vasuki Tal Lake but very few trains are at this station. Some of the other stations near this location are Haridwar Railway Station and Dehradun Airport. These railway stations are about 250 to 280 km away from Vasuki Tal Lake. Trains from all the major cities can be found at this location. 

By Road:- Haridwar is well connected with all the major cities of India. Till this location you can get direct Bus / Train / Flight. After this location, only road is the only way to reach Vasuki Tal. From Haridwar, you have multiple options to reach Gaurikund which is the last motorable part of this region. The first option is that you can take a bus from Haridwar to reach Sonprayag, The Second option is to hire a personal cab that will stay with you till the end of your trip and the third option is to book a shared cab that will drop you till Sonprayag. All three means are easily available at Haridwar / Rishikesh / Dehradun. You can opt for any one means as per your convenience and budget.

Kedarnath Yatra package:- You can visit Kedarnath by booking your package with some reputed company. Kedarnath yatra costs you between 8000 to 10000 Indian rupees per person depending upon the quality of services and other factors.

How to Reach Kedarnath on Budget

 Kedarnath is one of the best-known pilgrimage spots in India. It is a part of the sacred Chota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. Others are Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Badrinath. Kedarnath is one of the most popular among all four dhams due to its beautiful location. Tucked in the middle of snow-capped mountains at an altitude of 11755 feet above sea level, this beautiful temple was constructed thousands of years ago by Adi Shankara Charya.

As per the holy scriptures and folklore, it is said that this char dham yatra was first done by Pandavas to atone for the sins of killing their relatives in the battle of Mahabharata. Kedarnath temple is also a part of 12 jyotirlingas in India, making it even more important and popular among tourists. It is equally popular among old people and youngsters due to the beautiful route and adventure involved.

If you are planning to visit Kedarnath this season, then here is a guide on how to complete your trip within your budget.

How do I reach Kedarnath?

The nearest airport to Kedarnath is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun Airport), which is about 250 km away from Kedarnath temple. The second option is by train, so the nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Haridwar Railway Station, which is 230 km away from the temple. The third option is by road, so you can get a direct bus from all the major cities around Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun.

If you are planning to complete your Kedarnath yatra within your budget, then the best option is to book your ticket by train, or if you are coming from Delhi or any nearby cities, you can also go on government buses. These buses are very economical and mostly on time. After reaching Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun, you have basically three options. First, hire a personal cab, which will stay with you throughout the trip; it’s convenient but very expensive. The second option is to take a shared cab, which will drop you off at Guptkashi or Sonprayag. It’s convenient and even economical. In most cases, you will get a cab, which will charge something between INR 800 and 1000 per person. The third option is to take a direct bus to Sonprayag, which is easily available at a nominal price of INR 400–500 per person. If you are on a budget trip and don’t want to pay extra, then going by bus is the best option.

Where should I stay at Sonprayag?

Sonprayag is a place to which any vehicle from outside can go. So it is the best place to stay before trekking to Kedarnath. There are many budget hotels and dormitories available at Sonprayag. You can get beds even at INR 500, and meals will cost you something between INR 200 and 250 per plate with decent North Indian dishes like chapati, rice, dal, green vegetables, curd, and pickles. The best part of Sonprayag is that it is itself a very beautiful place. You can also visit the famous Triyuginarayan temple in Sonprayag.

Trekking to Kedarnath

Trekking in Kedarnath starts in Gaurikund, which is about 5 kilometers away from Sonprayag. You have to take a taxi from Sonprayag to reach Gaurikund, which will cost you INR 50 per person. After reaching Gaurikund, you have multiple options, like mules, pitthu, or palki, to reach Kedarnath. But these modes of transport are very expensive, and they can cost you anything between INR 2,000 and INR 4,000 per person. If you don’t have a budget, the best option is to trek. As per government markings, it’s a trek of 16 km, but as per locals, it is a trek of 22 km, and it feels like more than 22 km. Whatever it would be, the fact is that the way to Kedarnath is extremely beautiful. Snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, and freshwater streams will make your day. It will take you around 7 to 8 hours to reach Kedarnath.

 

Where do I stay at Kedarnath?

 

There are lots of hotels, camps, and dormitories available at Kedarnath. You can book any one of them. Hotels at Kedarnath are very expensive, and it can cost you anything between INR 5000 and INR 20000 per person. The dormitory will cost you between INR 1200 and INR 2200 per bed. But if you have a smaller budget, the best option is dome tents, which you can book with prices ranging from INR 500 to INR 1500 per person.

 

Kedarnath is the toughest portion of this trip due to its adverse climate and tough location. During peak times, you may face problems finding accommodation, and during winter, it gets tough to stay in tents due to the very low temperature. So plan your trip accordingly. It’s a general budget, and it can vary depending on the time of your visit. A budget trip is only recommended if you are young and traveling with friends. If you are planning to visit Kedarnath with your family members, then the best option is to book your Kedarnath yatra package with a reputed company. In general, the Kedarnath yatra package costs around INR 8,000 to INR 11,000 per person, depending on the quality of service they provide.

Rishikesh Detailed Travel Guide, India

 About Rishikesh

Rishikesh, mostly famous as “Yog Nagri” or “Yoga capital of the world”, is a small town in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. It holds great importance in Indian culture and it is widely believed that in ancient times this place was a hub for sages and devotees from all over the world. They used to visit this place for penance or to attain a higher level of enlightenment. Rishikesh is also the starting point of the holy Chota Char Dham Yatra, Kedarnath Yatra, and Do Dham Yatra. It acts as a gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas and the holy river Ganga which flows on the left side of Rishikesh is believed to enter on plain area after flowing 249 km through narrow valleys in the Himalayas, making it an idle destination for River Rafting. So Rishikesh developed multidimensionally and is now famous for Yoga, adventure sports, spirituality, temples, etc.

Rishikesh Temples:-

Being a spiritual spot and a favorite destination for Dharm gurus from all over the world, thousands of temples developed in and around Rishikesh. It’s highly impossible to name all of them here, so I am listing some of the most beautiful and popular temples in and around Rishikesh.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Located at an altitude of 1330 meters above sea level, Neelkanth Mahadev temple is one of the most beautiful and renowned Shiva temples near Rishikesh. It is located about 26 km away from Rishikesh ISBT. It is located at the confluence of the Pankaja and Madhumati rivers. It is located in between three valleys i.e. Manikoot, Bhahmakoot, and Vishnukoot. As per the holy scriptures and folklore it is believed that this is the same place where lord Shiva had consumed poison came from the sea after Samundra Manthan and placed it in his throat turning it in blue colour. This religious place is very famous and holds great importance in Hindu culture.

Tera Manzil Temple or Triambakeshwar Temple

Located on the right bank of the river Ganga, Triambakeshwar temple or Tera Manjil temple is the most popular 13-storied temple housing numerous deities on each floor. The marvelous architecture and beautiful location make this temple worth visiting. It provides a beautiful view of Rishikesh city and floating rafts in the Ganga River from its 13th floor. It is connected with Rishikesh by Lakshman Jhula, which is another prominent cantilever bridge in Rishikesh. This temple attracts numerous devotees, especially during Shravan and Mahashivratri.

Satrughna Temple

Well known as Aadi Badrinarayan or Satrughana temple is located on the bank of river Ganga beside Ram Jhula in Rishikesh. This is one of the two temples dedicated to the youngest brother of lord Rama.

Lakshman Temple

Another famous temple dedicated to the brother of lord Rama i.e. Lakshman is located on the bank of river Ganga. It is famous for its beautiful sculpture and ancient design. As per the holy scriptures and legends it is believed that in the same place lord Laxman had meditated to get free from the sin of killing the Brahman King “Ravana”. Lord Rama and Laxmana had constructed a jute bridge for Laxman to cross the river. So cantilever bridge near this temple is known as Laxmin Jhula.

Hanuman Mandir

Hanuman Mandir was constructed in 1924, by swami ramdas. It is another iconic temple in Rishikesh that attracts thousands of devotees, especially on Tuesdays.

Adventure Sports at Rishikesh

Other than yoga, Rishikesh is also well known as a hub of Adventure activities. It's a paradise for River rafting and bungee jumping lovers. Other than these there are many other adventure activities also organized in Rishikesh like flying fox, reverse bungee, giant swing, Cliff jumping, Kayaking, etc. Don't worry here I am going to describe each adventure activity organized in Rishikesh.

River Rafting in Rishikesh:-

Rishikesh is a popular destination for whitewater rafting or river rafting in India. The water here provides an idle condition for river rafting. Riding the wild wave of river Ganga is the next level of adventure and enough to give you goosebumps. Body surfing and cliff jumping are some of the activities linked to river rafting and make this sport even more exciting. If you are traveling to Kedarnath, many tour operators provide river rafting included in the Kedarnath yatra package with no extra cost.

Location:- Brahmapuri, Shivpuri, Marine Drive and Kaudiyala are the starting point of Rishikesh Rafting

Rishikesh Rafting Price (PER PERSON COST):-

Brahmapuri to Clubhouse Rafting (9kms) - INR 500

Shivpuri to Rishikesh Rafting (16 km) - INR 700

Marine Drive to Rishikesh Rafting ( 26 km) - INR 1500

Kaudiyala to Rishikesh Rafting ( 35 km) - INR 2500

Duration:- Depending upon the length of Rafting, duration varies from 1.5 hours to 5 hours.

Bungee Jumping:- Bunjee jumping in Rishikesh is currently the highest Bunjee jumping in Rishikesh with a jumping span of 83 meters. The most renowned company for bungee jumping is Jumpin Height, in Mohan Chatti which is about 15 km away from Rishikesh. They use the most advanced technology to organize Bungee jumping with full safety for the customers. One new company is also there which organizes Bunjee Jumping a thrill factory.

Location:- Mohan Chatti

Rishikesh Bungee Jumping Price:- INR 3700 per person

Duration:- 30 Seconds

Scad Jump:- This is another level of adventure that will enhance the adrenaline rush in your body. Scad Jump in Rishikesh is the first in India brought from Germany to excite you. It will give you an experience of free fall from height with complete safety. A platform for the Scad jump at Rishikesh is 140 meters above sea level and installed at Thrill Factory Rishikesh.

Location:- Thrill Factory, Shivpuri

Rishikesh Scad Jumping Price:- INR 2500

Duration:- 30 Seconds

Giant Swing:- You must have enjoyed swings in your childhood. But have you ever thought about what it will feel like while swinging between two mountains? Yes in Rishikesh you can also experience the Gaint swing. This is again organised by Jumpin Heights It's similar to bungee jumping. Initially, you will jump from the same platform as Bungee jumping, and then the rope will slowly swing you like a pendulum.

Location:- Mohan Chatti, Rishikesh

Rishikesh Gaint Swing Price:- INR 3700 per person

Duration:- 2 Minutes

Reverse Bungee:- You must have tried Bungee jumping and you have tried it at multiple locations. But have you tried Reverse Bungee, if not then Rishikesh is the place to try it at least once in a lifetime. In this activity, you will be thrown up to a height of 196 feet from the ground. Proper safety is maintained in this activity.

Location:- Shivpuri, Rishikesh

Rishikesh Reverse Bungee Price:- INR 1500 Per person

Duration:- 10 to 15 minutes

How to Reach Rishikesh

By Air:- Jolly Grant Airport or Dehradun Airport is one of the nearest airports to Rishikesh. It is just 22 Km away from the main city. Flight companies like Air India, Spice Jet, Indigo, and Jet Airways have regular flights from New Delhi or other major cities. Another nearest airport to Rishikesh is IGI (Indra Gandhi International ) Airport, New Delhi.

By Train:- Rishikesh Railway Station is well known as Yog Nagri Rishikesh Railway station with station code YNRK, which is the closest railway station to Rishikesh. But very few trains go to Rishikesh. So if you are not finding any direct train to Rishikesh don’t worry, you can make your reservation till Haridwar which is just 33 km away from Rishikesh. You can reach Rishikesh by taking a cab or bus from Haridwar Railway station. It will take 30 to 45 minutes to reach Rishikesh.

By Road:- Rishikesh is well connected by road by NH 58, with major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai etc. It is approximately 5-7 hours running from New Delhi.

Kedarnath Yatra: Full guide

All about Kedarnath Yatra

For Hindus in India, the Kedarnath Yatra is one of the most respected and significant pilgrimages. Kedarnath Temple honors Lord Shiva. At a height of 3,584 meters, Kedarnath is situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand and is hidden in the Himalayas. Along with Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Badrinath, it comes under Char Dham yatra circuit. Kedarnath is also one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples in India. 

Why is it important?

Hindus value the Kedarnath Yatra for a number of reasons. First of all, it is a pilgrimage site to one of Hinduism's holiest places. One of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples, which are thought to be the greatest Shiva temples in India, is the Kedarnath Temple. Second, the Kedarnath Yatra is a difficult journey that puts pilgrims' devotion and faith to the test. The journey to Kedarnath is challenging and exhausting, and the weather can be cold. But finishing the Kedarnath Yatra has great benefits. It is a common belief among pilgrims that making a trip to the Kedarnath Temple and praying to Lord Shiva will grant them luck and prosperity.

Best time to visit Kedarnath

The best time to do the Kedarnath yatra is May to June and Sep to October, which is the summer months. During these months, the weather is praising for hiking and for all the travelers. And in the months of July and Aug, there is so much rainfall and Landslides occur, that it is not recommended to visit Kedarnath in months of July and Aug. We need to always remember that The Kedarnath temple is closed during the months of winter due to heavy snowfall.

How to go to Kedarnath Temple?

By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 250 kilometers away, is the closest airport to Kedarnath. People on Kedarnath yatra can take a bus or a taxi from Dehradun to Kedarnath. The travel time by bus is approximately 8–10 hours, and the travel time by taxi is approximately 6–7 hours

By Road: Buses run to Kedarnath from New Delhi and Dehradun. You can reach Dehradun by bus from two locations Kashmere Gate Bus Terminal and Anand Vihar Bus Terminal. Then you can take a bus from Dehradun to Kedarnath. You can also book a private cab or taxi.

By Train: There is no Railway station at Kedarnath. The nearest railway station to Kedarnath is Rishikesh railway station. The railway station is 210 km away from Gaurikund. After arriving in Rishikesh just take a bus to Gaurikund, Now you can start your trek from Gaurikund.

From Dehradun or Gaurikund, pilgrims can also take a Kedarnath Helicopter Service. It takes about 30 minutes to fly in the helicopter.

Once at Gaurikund, pilgrims have a choice between walking or taking a shared taxi to Kedarnath. 16 kilometers or so make up the Kedarnath trek, which takes 6 to 8 hours to complete.

But If you want a Hassle-free and Pre-planned journey then you can refer to any Kedarnath tour package which will include all services like Tourism of pilgrimage sites, Accommodation, Transportation, Food, etc. Generally, the range of this Kedarnath yatra tour package costs 8000-15000 depending upon the services provided. But there is my humble request to be cautious while choosing the Kedarnath tour package because so many frauds are also going on.

Planning your trip to Kedarnath Yatra

The Kedarnath Yatra is a difficult but worthwhile journey. Before starting the journey, it's essential to be well-prepared. 

Some of the travel planning suggestions are provided:

• Making Hotels and transportation arrangements

• Booking your hotel and bus tickets in advance is recommended, especially if you are traveling during a popular time of year. 

• Hotels and guesthouses are abundant in Gaurikund and Kedarnath. 

• A Kedarnath tour package that includes accommodation, transport, and other services is also a good option.

Here is a packing list for the Kedarnath Yatra:

• Warm clothes

• Comfortable shoes

• Umbrella and raincoat

• Sunscreen and insect repellent

• Water bottle and snacks

• First-aid kit

• Any necessary medications

Adapting to the high altitude can be done by following these advice:

• Drink a lot of water.

• Take frequent breaks

• Rest when your body needs it.

How do you go from Gaurikund to Kedarnath?

Trekking, Palkies, Pony

The journey starts from Gaurikund it is approximately 16 km long and it takes around 6-8 hours to complete the trek. The trek is really challenging but the rewards are worth it. Hence, You can also take Palkies or Ponies to complete the trek. The trek passes through green forests, Waterfalls, and Snow-capped mountains. 

Taking a Kedarnath helicopter service

You can take a Helicopter service from Phata, Sersi, Guptakashi, and Dehradun. Generally, a Helicopter will take you to the destination in approx 30 mins. 

Things to do in Kedarnath

Kedarnath Temple visit

The main attraction in Kedarnath is the Kedarnath Temple. It is one of India's twelve Jyotirlinga temples, one of the Char Dham, one of the Do Dham, and honors Lord Shiva. Visitors are welcome to the temple from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Exploring the other Sites and Temples near Kedarnath

Vasuki Tal Lake: The amazing lake known as Vasuki Tal is located at a height of 4,135 meters and is only 21 kilometers from Kedarnath Temple. It receives water from snow-covered mountains as well as glaciers like the Vasuki Glacier and Chor Bamak Glacier. The Kedarnath peaks are reflected on the lake's surface. The Vasuki Ganga River also starts from this lake. From here, you can see amazing views of Chaukhamba Peak. You can reach Vasuki Tal through Gaurikundand which is the closest road junction to Vasuki Tal. Rishikesh has the closest train station to Gaurikund. From here, you can take local buses or shared taxis to Guptkashi, the last town before Gaurikund.

Triyuginarayan Temple: Kedarnath Temple and Triyuginarayan Temple are distant by 1,322 km. The distance between temples can be driven in 1 day, 4 hours by road. The Triyuginarayan Temple is a Hindu temple that is situated in India's Uttarakhand state's Rudraprayag district's Triyuginarayan village. The god Vishnu is honored in this historic temple. Adi Shankaracharya is thought to have constructed the temple in the 12th century. Due to the ongoing flame that burns in front of it, it is also known as the Akhand Dhuni temple. The flame is thought to have been burning ever since Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were united in a holy marriage. Hindus frequently make the pilgrimage to the temple. It is also a well-liked vacation spot with breathtaking Himalayan views.

Tungnath Temple: Tungnath is the highest in the Panch Kedar which includes Kedarnath, Madhmaheshwar, Tungnath, Rudranath, and Kalpnath. The Tungnath temple is located at a height of 3680 m above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is believed that the temple was built by the Pandavas during their exile after the Kurukshetra Mahabharata war. You can reach Tungnth temple from Chopta, which is about 4 km away, and a path for hiking leads to Tungnath Temple. The closest large town is Ukhimath, which is about 13 km from Chopta, a small village. Major cities in Uttarakhand are well-connected to Ukhimath by road.

Interesting facts about Kedarnath Temple

 Kedarnath temple is one of the most famous pilgrimage spots in India. It is equally popular among people of all age groups. In addition to pilgrimage spot, Kedarnath temple is also gaining popularity as an adventure destination. Its beautiful location and breathtaking view make it a dream destination for many youngsters in India and abroad. Every year millions of pilgrims visit the Kedarnath temple to seek the blessing of lord shiva and it is a strong belief among devotees that lord shiva is still prevalent in this location and keeps proving his presence in this location from time to time. There are many incidents which had even amazed scientists in India and abroad but are unable to prove it by science. These incidents are nothing but a miracle and prove the presence of lord shiva again and again.

Here is a list of some of the interesting facts about Kedarnath Temple which will give you a goosebump.

Who built the Kedarnath temple?

The most interesting and controversial topic of Kedarnath is its origin. Who built the Kedarnath Temple? There are many interesting stories about the origin of this temple. Some of them are as follows.

1) As per the holy scriptures and many other ancient documents it is believed that Pandavas was the first who completed the char dham yatra of Uttarakhand before leaving for heaven. After the war of Mahabharata, lord Krishna asked them to meet lord Shiva and seek his blessing to get relief from their sin of killing their blood relatives in the war. But lord shiva was very angry with them and he decided not to meet them so he moved from Kashi to a place now in Uttarakhand which is most famous as Guptkashi. When Pandavas got to know about his location Pandavas reached Guptkashi also. Knowing that lord shiva again changed his location and went to a small village known as Kedar. But Pandavas were also determined so they again reached to Kedar village but lord shiva disguised them by attaining the form of a bull. But Bhima identified him and moved toward him but lord shiva started moving inside the earth. Bhima hold him by his hump and worshipped lord shiva. Lord Shiva was pleased by their gesture of respect and worship and decided to relieve them of their sin. So hump of lord shiva remain in Kedar village and lord shiva promised them to stay there till eternity to relieve people from sin and help them attain salvation. Five body parts of lord shiva in the form of a bull appeared at five different spots. Pandavas had built temples at all these five spots. The group of these five temples is collectively known as Panch Kedar.

2)  It is believed that the Kedarnath temple was reconstructed by Adi Shankaracharya during his visit to Kedarnath in 8 8th century. As per holy scriptures, it is also believed that he was the main person behind the construction of Badrinath temple. As per the historians, the Kedarnath temple was reconstructed by Raja Bhoj of Malwa, who had a deep belief in lord Shiva. Kedarnath was a favorite destination for pilgrims till the 12th century.

The Chief Priest Of Kedarnath is from Karnataka

Yes, you heard right. Chief priest of Kedarnath which is also known as Raval is not from Uttarakhand, not even from north India. It's a tradition that the Raval of Kedarnath Temple will only be from the Veerashiva Community of Karnataka. The second amazing fact is that the chief priest never performs pooja at Kedarnath temple. Poojas were performed by his assistants under his guidance.

Kedarnath temple architecture

More than the origin of Kedarnath temple, its architecture will aww you. Here are a few points that will make it clear

a) The stone used in Kedarnath temple is found nowhere around this temple. These stones are solid and have an amazing quality to maintain a moderate climate inside the temple even though the temperature outside is very adverse. It is unbelievable, how can these stones be brought to this location, and also in that period in which modern machines were not available.

b) Kedarnath temple was built by interlocking technology, which means no mortar or soil is used to join these stones. These stones are placed in such a manner that they interlock each other. It's really tough to believe that these highly complicated technologies were there and were used thousands of years ago. In fact, this technology is so perfect that helped the temple to sustain the worst-ever flood of 2013. 

Kedarnath Temple miracles

You must be aware of the 2013 flood that hit the Kedarnath area, it was the worst flood in Uttarakhand in which thousands of people lost their lives and properties of millions of dollar was washed away in just one day. In that flood, the Kedarnath temple appeared as a miracle as it was standing tall and wide, while other buildings around this temple built by modern technologies, were collapsing like a house of cards. One big rock exactly the size of Kedarnath temple came rolling and stopped a few meters before the temple. It is believed that Bhim had promised lord shiva that he would always protect this temple, so this temple is named after him as Bhim Shila. This is a recent incident and many people have witnessed this incident so most of us are aware of this but as per scientists this temple had braved an even worse hit without any effect on its structure.

Kedarnath Temple was under the snow for 400 years

As per some of the renowned geologists, it is believed that Kedarnath temple was under the snow for almost 400 years during the Little Ice Age, which was between 1300 to 1900 AD. It was under heavy glaciers, and glaciers are continuously moving and have the capacity to grind even large mountains on their way. But surprisingly Kedarnath temple came out of it unhurt. Scratches done due to the movement of glaciers can be felt on the walls of Kedarnath temple.

Miracles at Kedarnath Temple:-

It is widely believed that the Kedarnath temple is a place of miracles and the lord shive keeps giving proof of his presence in this location. The 2013 flood and survival of the Kedarnath temple are some of the biggest miracles that can't be justified in any form.  In addition to this, there are some more miracles that can be felt in this region. A few of them are as follows.

1) Kedarnath temple remains open just for 6 months a year due to heavy snowfall in this region. So Kedarnath yatra remains open mainly during the period of May to September for devotees. Every year temple is closed on Bhai Duj after Diwali. The chief priest lit a lamp of ghee in front of lord shiva after properly cleaning the temple and doors were closed and no one was allowed to enter the temple. This temple reopens after six months on Akshay Tritiya. But the temple remains exactly the same as it was during the closing of the temple. No dust no dirt, and a lamp lighting the room exactly as it was during the closing ceremony. How a small lamp can burn for six months. This is beyond science and as per holy scriptures and some Dharm gurus it is said that lord shiva is the guru of all gods. So after the closing of the temple gods visit Kedarnath to worship lord Shiva.

2) Here is one small pond near the Kedarnath temple. It is popular because if you chant "OM" near this temple, bubbles will come out of the pond. This is also amazing and beyond science's capacity to justify it with a proper theory.

Conclusion:-

Kedarnath temple is one place where lord shiva proved his presence again and again and is still a mystery place for scientists around the world. There are many more interesting facts and famous stories around the Kedarnath temple which you will get to know during your trip to Kedarnath temple. In addition to the pilgrimage and divine power of lord Shiva, this place is very beautiful and picturesque making it a perfect destination for travelers of all age groups. If you are planning to visit Kedarnath you can travel on your own or if you don't want to take pain for it then you can book your Kedarnath yatra package with any reputed company. In general Kedarnath yatra package costs around INR 8500 to 10,000 depending upon duration of tour, quality of services, facilities included in package etc. Please ensure checking the credibility of a company you are booking with. In Kedarnath many unauthentic and unprofessional groups are also active. I hope to meet you guys at Kedarnath with happy and charming mood. "Har Har Mahadev"

Chardham Yatra Registration Guide 2023- Procedure, Fees, etc.

 About Char Dham Yatra Registration:

The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most famous pilgrimage circuits in India. It is a very old saying that anyone who completes the Char Dham yatra will attain Moksha (salvation) and get space in heaven. The Char Dham Yatra, located in Uttarakhand, is also known as the Chota Char Dham Yatra, which consists of visits to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath temples. This yatra is commonly done in the same sequence, as it was done by pandavas for the first time before going to heaven. Millions of people visit Uttarakhand to go on the same sacred journey.

In the disaster of 2013, thousands of pilgrims went missing, and the Uttarakhand government faced strong criticism for not having data on pilgrims on tour during the flood. In 2013, the Uttarakhand government made Char Dham Yatra registration mandatory for every pilgrim going on Char Dham, Do Dham, or Kedarnath Yatra. It helps the government keep track of pilgrims on the Char Dham yatra and control crowding at one place. The Kedarnath Yatra registration fee is null, which means you can register yourself free of charge on the government portal.

Means for Char Dham Yatra Registration:

To make the Char Dham yatra registration procedure more convenient for visitors, the government has opened multiple channels. You can use anyone's channel for the Char Dham Yatra registration procedure. Here are all the means that you can use to register yourself for the Char Dham or Kedarnath Yatra.

Online registration:-

You can register yourself from the comfort of your home just by visiting the government website, i.e., https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/. You just need to keep your email ID and phone number with you to register yourself on this website.

Offline registration:-

If you are not well versed in technology or are facing problems while registering yourself online, don’t worry. The Uttarakhand government had also opened some offline counters to help you get Char Dham yatra registration easily.

Offline counters are located at

• Rishikesh ISBT
• Rishikesh RTO
• Rishikesh Gurudwara
• Haridwar at Rahi Hotel
• Barkot near Yamunotri temple
• Hina, near Gangotri Temple
• Sonprayag at Kedarnath
• Pandukeshwar at Badrinath

Registration on WhatsApp:

In 2023, the government will also make registration even easier. Now you can also do your char dham yatra and register yourself by using WhatsApp. Just send a “YATRA” message to 8394833833 and keep selecting the option you get, and boom. You are registered, and your Char Dham Yatra E pass pdf will be sent to you on the same WhatsApp number instantly.

Char Dham Yatra registration using mobile applications: -

Still confused!!! Don’t worry; you can also do your char dham yatra registration using a mobile application that is available for both Android and iOS. You can download applications using these links directly.

Play Store Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ethicsutdb.app App Store Link: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/tourist-care-Uttarakhand/id1574692609

Char Dham Yatra Online Registration:

You might be confused about how to register yourself for the Char Dham yatra online. Don’t worry. Here is a complete guide on how to register yourself for the Char Dham or Kedarnath yatra. Please follow the steps to complete your registration easily.

Step 1: Register Yourself

Before starting, you need to make an account on the government website, https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/. For this, you need one email ID and one phone number. Just click on the above link and click on the Register/Login button. One form will open up on the left side of the window. Fill out the form with some basic details like your name, mobile number, Char Dham Yatra Tour Company name, GST number if you have one, password, and confirmation password. Three radio buttons will appear below the name box with the option of Individual, Company, or Family. Select the option that best suits you, click on signup, and boom! You are registered.

Step 2: Creating Tours

After registering yourself, login to your account using the same link.

Here, your name, contact number, and type of account will appear on the left side of the window. Before starting your char dham yatra registration, you first have to create a tour for the duration you are planning to visit Kedarnath or Char Dham. For that, you need to click on Registration for Tour, the first option in the four boxes on the right. You can also click on the manage tour info present on the left side of the list item to create a tour.

This window will appear for you. Now the first option is Chardham/Religious which is pre-filled. Leave it as it is and select the duration of your visit, i.e., the starting and ending dates of your Char Dham yatra, Kedarnath yatra, or Do Dham yatra.

The next option is the number of tourists who are going for the Char Dham yatra. Enter the total number of members in your group. Next, you have to select the mode of transport, i.e., by road, by helicopter, or by walking. You have to select by helicopter only if you are doing your complete trip, i.e., Dehradun to Dehradun by helicopter. If you are traveling to Guptkashi, Phata, or Sersi by road and then taking a helicopter, then you have to select the by road option.

Then you have to select the destination and date of your visit to that location. After filling out the complete form, click save, and boom, you have created your tour. It is as simple as that. Now it’s time to enter the details of each individual and generate a registration certificate for all the members in your group.

Add Tourist:-

Now the window will open up where you have to fill in your details like name, email id, phone number, Aadhar card number (optional), country, address, mode of travel, emergency contact number, contact person during emergency, relation with that person, etc.

After filling out all the details, you have to upload one passport-size photo and an Aadhar card. Please note that the photo should be in JPEG format. You can also click on photos and directly upload them to this website. Then click on the “Save and add more” button and fill in the details of the second tourist, and so on. After you are done filling in the details of each individual, click on Finish.

Download Char Dham Yatra E pass:-

When you are done with your registration procedure, you will see this kind of window. You can download Char Dham Yatra by clicking on this download link. Download your char dham yatra e pass in pdf form and save it on your mobile. You can carry an e-copy of your Yatra pass, or you can print it and keep it. You are going to need it during your trip to generate a trip card for your vehicle, or you may need to show it to police officers at different checkpoints on the way to Kedarnath or Chardham.

View or modify the tour:

You made a mistake; don’t worry. You can edit your registration on the same website by clicking on the view/modify button after logging in and clicking on the pencil button beside the download char dham yatra e pass pdf option.

Helpline for Char Dham Yatra Registration:

If you are facing problems with yatra registration, you can contact the Uttarakhand government helpline number for yatra registration, i.e., 1364 or 0135 3520100.

 

FAQ’s

Is registration required for the Kedarnath yatra?

Yes, Kedarnath yatra registration is mandatory for every pilgrim visiting Kedarnath temple or going for the Char Dham yatra. It will help the government keep track of each pilgrim visiting Kedarnath.

How do I register for the Kedarnath Yatra 2023?

You can register yourself for your Kedarnath yatra in both offline and online modes. For online registration, you have to visit the government website for Yatra registration, i.e., https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/. Offline: You can register yourself at offline counters available at Haridwar, Rishikesh, Sonprayag, etc.

 

What are the Kedarnath Yatra registration fees for 2023?

Kedarnath Yatra registration is completely free. You can register yourself directly by visiting the government website for Yatra registration, i.e., https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/.

Why is Kedarnath registration required?

Kedarnath yatra registration is mandatory. This will help the government keep track of the number of people visiting each pilgrimage point and control crowds at different temples in the Chota Char Dham circuit.

What will be the cost of the Char Dham Yatra package?

Depending on the places included in your package and the quality of services provided by the company to you, the Char Dham Yatra package price will range from INR 22000 to INR 28000 per person for a 9- to 10-day trip.