A complete guide to the Kedarnath Yatra

Introduction

Kedarnath Temple is a holy pilgrimage site located in Dev Bhoomi, Uttarakhand. It is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites, with some mesmerizing views all around the temple. Located at an altitude of 3583 meters above sea level in the lap of the Himalayas on the bank of the Mandakini River, All these make a perfect holiday destination and perfect for anyone looking for spirituality and adventure in the same place. If you are also planning to visit this sacred land, then this article is going to explain everything and be one of your best friends during your trip. Go through this article to equip yourself with complete details about the Kedarnath temple.
Kedarnath Yatra by Helicopter
There are mainly two options for the helicopter ride on the Kedarnath Yatra. One option is to take the complete package from Dehradun airport for ek Dham yatra , do dham yatra , or char dham yatra. In this package, everything will be completed by helicopter with a round trip to Haridwar. For this service, you need to pay INR 90000 for ek dham yatra, INR 1,20,000 for do Dham, and INR 1,70,000 per person for char dham yatra. You can book your Kedarnath helicopter ride from a private company, for which the package can be booked directly from their website. Another option is to reach Guptkashi, Phata, or Sersi by road and then take a helicopter ride from there. For this, you need to take a road journey of 220 km from Haridwar to reach here. From Guptkashi, a round trip to Kedarnath will cost you INR 7,000 per person, and from Sersi or Phata, it will cost you INR 6,000 per person. One side helicopter ride is 15 minutes, and a ticket for this can be booked online from the IRCTC website directly. No other website or company has been authorized to book tickets on its behalf.

Kedarnath Yatra by Road

Another way to reach Kedarnath is by road, which is the only way to reach here for everyone looking for a budget trip. The nearest railway station to Kedarnath temple is Rishikesh railway station, or you can also book your ticket for Haridwar or Dehradun. The nearest airport to Kedarnath Temple is Jolly Grant Airport, which is also known as Dehradun Airport. All these places are around 220 km away from Sonprayag. So basically, the road journey to Kedarnath Temple is 220 km from Rishikesh. The views after Rishikesh will turn magically beautiful. Lush green mountains, deep valleys, crystal-clear water in the river, and a soothing breeze will make your day. The road to Sonprayag will pass through Devrayag to Srinagar to Dhari Devi Rudraprayag Agastyamuni to Guptkashi to Sonprayag to Gaurikund, from where the actual trek for the Kedarnath yatra will start. Outside vehicles will not be allowed to ply ahead of Sonprayag. Ahead of Sonprayag, you need to take a government-operated bus per person, which will cost you INR 50. There are many options available for staying at Guptkashi, Sonprayag, Sitapur, and Gaurikund. For a luxury stay, you can stay at a resort or hotel in Guptkashi, but if you are looking for a budget stay, you can stay in Gaurikund or Sonprayag. You can go to Kedarnath on your own or you can book a Kedarnath tour package with Manchala Mushafir for your comfortable journey. The Kedarnath Yatra package cost here is 9500 per person from Haridwar to Haridwar.

Trekking route to Kedarnath Yatra

The trekking route for the Kedarnath yatra will start from Gaurikund, and the trekking route is 16 km.
Trekking routes are as follows:
From Sonprayag, take a jeep to reach Gaurikund. It is around 6 km and will take 30 minutes to reach Gaurikund.
Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti via Rambara Bridge (4 km)
Jungle Chatti to Bheembali (3 km)
Bheembali to Linchauli (4 km)
Linchauli to Kedarnath Base Camp (4 km)
Kedarnath base camp to Kedarnath Temple (1 km)
The trekking route to Kedarnath is picturesque. It's a 16-kilometer trek and is on very tough terrain. It's advisable to consult your doctor before planning for the Kedarnath yatra, as it is located at a very high altitude with challenging terrain that can cause serious trouble for you during the trek. Start your trek early in the morning so that it can reach the temple before getting dark. Trekking trails are very tough, and it is advisable not to exert more pressure on your body. If you feel uncomfortable, then please take mules or Pitthu. Bad health could turn out to be very severe. Carry a water bottle and keep seeping water at regular intervals. It will keep you hydrated and provide energy to trek.

Facilities on the trekking route to Kedarnath Temple

The Kedarnath Yatra is well-structured and is organized by Uttarakhand and the Kedarnath-Badrinath association. In addition to this, there are many other central and state machinery available there to help you during the Kedarnath yatra. Some of the main facilities available on the route are as follows:
Medical camps are available every two or three kilometers throughout the trekking trails, with experienced doctors and other supporting staff to help you in case of emergency. You can avail of these facilities free of charge, and you can also get medicines from these camps.
Free and paid washrooms are available throughout the trails. These are managed by the municipal corporation, Rudraprayag, and some private organizations. The toilets there are clean and hygienic.
Camps and dormitories are available throughout the trails, and you can book them on-site as well. These will be helpful if you feel exhausted and not able to trek anymore, or if you started late from Gaurikund and planned to take a halt on the way.
Food stalls and other small shops selling some of the essentials are available throughout the trails.
Kandi, Palquin, and Mules services are available from Gaurikund, but you can also book them on the way. But do remember that the government booking office is available in Gaurikund and some places along the way. You can deal with the mule's owner on your own, but you need to be the best bargainer, or else you may end up paying something extra.
Clean drinking water is available throughout the trek. You can refill your water bottle with natural water, or you can take advantage of the water kiosks available at regular intervals.

 Kedarnath is one of the most popular shrines in northern India. Every year, thousands of Lord Shiva devotees visit this temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. Kedarnath temple is situated at a height of 3583 meters above sea level in the lap of the Himalayas, in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. This temple is an integral part of the famous 12 Jyotirlingas in India, the Chota Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand, and the Panch Kedar Circuit. You can book your Kedarnath tour package with Manchala Mushafir for your hassle-free journey to the land of salvation. Kedarnath yatra package costs you 9500 per person from Haridwar to Haridwar including transportation, meals, guide, registration, resort stay, river rafting, and many more.

Silent Features of Kedarnath Temple:

It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most famous pilgrimage spots for Hindus in India and abroad.

The Kedarnath temple is believed to have been built around 1200 years ago, in the 8th century, by Adi Shankaracharya.

As per the holy scriptures, it is said that the first time it was built was by Pandavas when they came here in search of Lord Shiva, and it was reconstructed by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century.

Evenly-shaped gray slab stones are used in the construction of the Kedarnath temple.

No mortar was used in the construction of the Kedarnath temple. The rocks of this temple are arranged using interlocking technology.

As Kedarnath temple was built 1200 years ago and is located in a very inaccessible region of the Himalayas, it can be predicted easily that no motors or any modern technology machines are used in its construction.

This is the only Shiva temple in the world where a Shivlinga is found in a prism shape. Otherwise, generally, shillings are found in a cylindrical shape.

Kedarnath temple remains open only for six months in a year. It remains covered by snow for the next six months and is hence inaccessible for general devotees.

As per the archeologists and historians, it is believed to have been covered in snow for 400 years during the mini-ice age period.

The head priest of this temple is not from North India. They belong to the Veershiva Community of Karnataka and are known as Rawals at Kedarnath.

Generally, you have seen head priests performing the poojas at the temple, but at Kedarnath, Rawals don't perform the poojas. But poojas are being performed under his guidance.

What is Jyotirlinga?

As per the holy scriptures, it is believed that once there was a collision between Lord Brahma and Vishnu over their superiority and strength. So they approached Lord Shiva to solve the confusion. To solve this, Lord Shiva pierced the earth into 12 columns of light and asked them to find the ending point of the column. After searching for the ending point, Lord Brahma lied and said that he found it, but Lord Vishnu admitted his defeat. But Lord Shiva cut Lord Brahma's father's head as there was no ending point in the column and cursed him that he would not be worshipped anymore. These columns of lights are known as jyotirlingas. It is believed that anyone with a certain level of attainment can see light coming out of the earth at these jyotirlingas. All 12 Jyotirlingas are located in India. They are

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Dwarka, Gujarat

Somnath Jyotirlinga, Gir, Gujarat

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, Srisilam, Andra Pradesh

Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlingas, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

Omkareshwar Jyotirlingas, Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh

Baidyanat Jyotirlingas, Deoghar, Jharkhand

Bhimashankar Jyotirlingas, Pune, Maharashtra

Girineshwar Jyotirlingas, Aurangabad, Maharashtra

Triyambakeshwar Jyotirlingas, Nasik

Ramanathaswamy Jyotirlinga, Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu

Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Kedarnath Jyotirlinga, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand

What is the Chota Cham Dham Yatra?

Chota Char Dham Yatra is a trip or pilgrimage covering four temples in one go. Temples in this circuit are Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. The yatra of Char Dham is done in the same order and is believed to be done by Pandavas for the first time before going to heaven. Those who complete the Char Dham Yatra can get rid of their sin and attain salvation.

What are Panch Kedar?

Panch Kedar is a group of five temples that are believed to have been formed when the body parts of Lord Shiva in the form of a bull get divided into five parts and appear at five different places. It is believed that Pandavas had constructed temples at all these places and requested that Lord Shiva stay here in the form of Lingas to help the people of Kalyuga get rid of their sins and attain salvation. Temples in this circuit are Kedarnath, Rudranath, Tungnath, Madhyamaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar.

How to reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Dehradun:

The only way to reach Kedarnath is by road. No other means are available. The nearest airport to Kedarnath Temple is Jolly Grant Airport, and the nearest railway station is Rishikesh Railway Station. Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun are twin cities located very close to each other. Haridwar is the central point of the Kedarnath yatra. From Haridwar, you have four main options that you can select. The first one is to travel by vehicle. This is going to be very economical and comfortable, but the problem with this is that Kedarnath temple is located in the lap of the Himalayas, and you need to drive for 250 km to reach Sonprayag, the base camp of Kedarnath temple. If you have no experience driving in hilly areas, then it's not recommended. The next option is to book your vehicle from Haridwar, and he will stay with you till the completion of the trip. This mode of transport is very convenient but the most costly one. The next option is to take a shared cab from Haridwar railway station or bus stand. This option is both economical and comfortable. The last option is to take public transport or a government bus from the Haridwar bus stand. This mode of transport is not at all comfortable, as you need to travel in a hilly area, and they are not punctual. But this option is best suited for all those who are planning an economical trip to Kedarnath temple.

Accommodation:-

Sonprayag and Gaurikund are known as the base camps of the Kedarnath Yatra. These are located around 250 km from Rishikesh, so no one can complete the journey in one day. So on the first day, you have to stay at Sonprayag or other cities around Sonprayag like Gaurikund, Guptkashi, and Rampur. You will find hotels, camps, and dormitories in all these cities.

One stay is required at Kedarnath, where you will have huge options of camps, dormitories, and hotels around or away from Kedarnath temple.

Amazing facts about Kedarnath Temple

 Kedarnath temple is one of the most beautiful pilgrimage sites in India. The original origin of this temple is yet unknown but it is believed to be built at least 1200 years ago. It is part of the 12 Jyotirlingas and Panch Kedar Temple circuit and is located at an altitude of 3583 meters above sea level in the lap of the Himalayas, surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks on the bank of the Mandakini River2013. In addition to the pilgrimage site, these factors make it an amazing holiday destination. Every year millions of pilgrims complete kedarnath yatra to seek the blessings of lord shiva and get rid of their sins. Some of the pilgrims visit on their own while most of them prefer to take the Kedarnath tour package. In general, the Kedarnath yatra package cost you around INR 8000 to 12000 per person from Haridwar and the Kedarnath yatra cost from Delhi is between INR 10000 to 15000. Kedarnath yatra price will greatly vary depending upon the services, places to be covered, company, etc. Due to its remarkable beauty, it is considered to be another heaven on earth. There is a famous saying about Kedarnath temple that there is only one difference between Kedarnath and heaven: in heaven gods stay and in Kedarnath, Mahadev (केदारनाथ और स्वर्ग में केवल एक ही अंतर है कि स्वर्ग में देव रहते हैं और केदारनाथ में महादेव रहते हैं). In addition to these factors, Kedarnath temple is also famous for some of the amazing factors we are going to point out here which will give you a goosebump. Read this article to know more about it.

1) 2013 Flood:- You must have heard about the 2013 flood at Kedarnath. It was one of the deadliest floods in the Kedarnath region in which lakhs of devotees and locals lost their lives and many others were badly injured. When all the buildings built by using modern technologies were getting devastated like a house of cards, this 1200-year-old temple stood bold and survived the flood with no damage at all. Miraculously one rock of the same size as the Kedarnath temple came rolling from the mountain and stood about 10-15 feet before the temple to divert the water flow in two streams saving Kedarnath temple. This is a very recent example when the almighty showed its presence in this area and boosted the loyalty of devotees of lord shiva toward Kedarnath temple.

2) 400 under the Glacier:- You must be aware of glaciers. It's a huge block of ice constantly moving and has so much power that it could even grind the mountains coming in its way. But you must wonder by knowing that geologists have confirmed that Kedarnath temple remained under the glacier during the mini ice age which was around 400 years long. Scratches due to the movement of glaciers can be seen on the wall of Kedarnath temple. It's no surprise that if a temple can survive the glacier, then the 2013 flood is nothing in front of that.

3) You must be thinking that there is nothing to be surprised by, it must be an architectural marvel and must be built strongly. It's an architectural marvel but do you know that no mortar or any joining element is used in its construction? Only interlocking technology is being used to connect one rock to another. It's really hard to imagine how someone 1200 years ago could think anything like this. Whoever had designed this temple must be an architect genius.

4)  Another interesting fact about Kedarnath temple is that the rocks found in the mountains surrounding Kedarnath temple are very loose but the rocks used in this temple is hard and solid. So it could easily be concluded that rocks used in this temple are brought somewhere far away because it is not even available anywhere in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. So the question is how is this possible to carry these big rocks from a far distance without the use of modern technology? This is something which is a matter of doubt for many archeologists.

5) Have you ever heard about the Retas Kund? If not, then do visit this kund whenever you visit Kedarnath temple and try to solve its functioning with your analytical and scientific theories. This kund has a specialty that whenever you chant "OOM" or "Har har Mahadev" a series of bubbles will come out on the surface of the water but this will not happen when you tell anything other than this. This amazing pond is located at a distance of 400 meters from the temple so don't forget to try this and take some water from this kund to your home. It is considered to be very auspicious.

6) There are many mythological stories around Kedarnath temple and about Shiva's presence but if you don't want to believe in any of these mythological stories then I will suggest something that will make you believe in lord shiva's presence in this region. If you have time please attend the closing ceremony at the temple. Before closing the doors of temple premised of temple are being cleaned properly and a lamp (Dia) is being lighted in front of lord Kedar and then the doors of the temple are being closed. Then attend the opening ceremony of Kedarnath temple. You will find the temple in the same state as it was on the day of closing with lamps lighting the premises. It's a matter of wonder how a can temple remain clean for six months when no one is allowed to enter this area for six months and how a small lamp can light the temple for six months without refilling the fuel.

Conclusion:-

Kedarnath is one of the most auspicious places and the presence of lord shiva was felt in this area multiple times. Many other mythological stories about Kedarnath make it interesting but the matter of fact is that the divine power of Kedarnath temple is not something that can be heard and expressed in words. It's a feeling which can be felt by your presence so plan your trip to Kedarnath temple and experience the divine power on your own and seek the blessings of lord shiva.

Top 5 Shiva Temple in World

 India is a land of gods and old traditions. Out of these, Lord Shiva is the most celebrated god in India. In addition to India, some of the most beautiful Shiva temples are also located in foreign countries. The glory of Lord Shiva is widely known, and every year thousands of devotees visit the Shiva temple to seek the blessing of Shiva for a prosperous life. He holds great importance in Hindu tradition. Mahashivratri is the biggest celebration in which Hindus celebrate the mairrage anniversary of Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati. Here is a list of some of the most famous Shiva temples spread throughout the world.

Pasupati Nath Temple, Nepal:-

Located in Kathmandu district, Nepal, on the bank of the Baghmati River, Pashupati Nath Temple is dedicated to Pashupati Nath, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The marvelous temple of Pashupatinath is built on 246 hectares, and the temple consists of 518 mini temples and the main pagoda house. The original date of its construction is unknown, but it is believed to have been constructed in 1692 CE. This temple is only open to Hindus; non-Hindus are not allowed to enter. To maintain the serenity of this temple, leather items like purses, belts, leather shoes, etc. are strictly prohibited in the temple compound. Every year, thousands of devotees visit this temple, and a ritual of special attention is Pashupati Baghmati aarti.

Amarnath Temple:-

Another marvel of nature located in India is Amarnath Temple, where shivling forms every year on its own. The shivlinga located here is known as Swayambhu Lingam, i.e., the lingam is naturally formed inside a 40-meter-tall cave. This shivlinga is believed to have been formed due to the water droplets falling from the roof of the cave. This holy shrine of Lord Shiva is located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. As per the holy scriptures and folklore, it is believed that after leaving everyone at different places and performing tandava, Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati entered into this cave. Lord Shiva became the lingam of ice, and Maa Parvati turned into the yoni of rock. The duration of the yatra is totally dependent on the duration of the lingam. It keeps on varying from 20 to 60 days in a year. Beside being a holy shrine, the view all around the Amarnath temple is extraordinary. For the Amarnath Yatra, you need to get yourself registered, and slots are provided as per the quota of states. Before visiting Amarnath Temple, you are supposed to go through multiple medical tests to ensure that you can survive the adverse climate and difficulties that arise from the high altitude. You can reach here on your own, but it's really tough to get everything arranged for you, so the best option is to book your Amarnath Yatra tour package with some reputation, and they will take care of all your travel needs.

Kedarnath Temple:-

The oldest and most important temple of Lord Shiva located in India is Kedarnath Temple. This temple is most important as it is a part of 12 jyotirlingas, panch kedar, chota char dham, do dham yatra, etc. Kedarnath temple is located at an altitude of 3583 meters above sea level in the middle of snow-capped mountains and the river Mandakini flows along the temple. Just by visiting this temple, you can attain salvation. Thousands of pilgrims visit this temple every year to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. Some of the pilgrims visit this temple on their own, while others take kedarnath yatra packages from any reputed company. In general, the price of a Kedarnath tour package ranges from 8000 to 10,000 per person, depending on the quality of services the company is providing. Kedarnath yatra holds great importance in Hindu tradition and is believed to have been done by Pandavas for the first time. The hump of a bull is being worshipped here. This is the only place in the world where shivlinga is in triangular form. In addition to being a pilgrimage spot, Kedarnath Temple is also known for its natural beauty. Thousands of youngsters visit Kedarnath Temple to admire the beauty of this temple. Kedarnath temple remains open only for six months a year due to heavy snowfall in this area. The most idle time to visit the Kedarnath temple is from May to June.

Munneshwaram Temple, Sri Lanka: -

Another prominent Hindu pilgrimage site of Lord Shiva is Munneshwaram Temple. As per the local Sri Lankan language, the word "man" means a long time ago, and "eshwaram" means god. As per the legend, it is believed to be associated with the Hindu epic Ramayana. It is believed that this temple is located at the same place where Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva after killing Ravana and atoning himself for the sin of Brahmahatya. This temple is one of the panch ishwaram and is a collection of five temples, including one Buddhist temple. The other three temples present in the temple compound are dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Kali, and Ayyanayake. So this temple is equally popular among Buddhist devotees. The temple has a wide history of construction and reconstruction. During the Portuguese invasion, this temple is believed to have been completely destroyed, but locals here saved many idols, which were re-established in the temple after its reconstruction by the locals. Manneshwaram and Navratri are two prominent festivals being celebrated in this temple. Thousands of pilgrims visit this temple during this time.

Prambanan Temple, Indonesia:-

The last temple in our series is Prambanan Temple, located in Indonesia. Located in southern Java, Indonesia, this temple is dedicated to Trimurti, Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. This temple is announced as a world heritage site as it is the largest Hindu temple located in Indonesia and the second largest temple in Southern Asia. This temple is believed to have been standing here since the 9th century, and its beautiful architecture attracts thousands of pilgrims throughout the year. You can book your package for Prambnan Temple from any of the reputed companies that can take care of all your travel needs, including meals, guides, stays, etc.

Places to Visit near Kedarnath Temple

 Kedarnath Temple is one of the most prominent and well-known pilgrimage spots. Being a part of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Panch Kedar, and Chota Char Dham, this temple holds great importance for devotees of Lord Shiva. Every year, millions of tourists come to the Kedarnath Yatra to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. It's a strong belief that taking blessings at Kedarnath temple can free you from the cycle of birth and death. You can visit this temple on your own, or you can book a Kedarnath tour package from any reputed company to complete your yatra. In addition to Kedarnath Temple, there are thousands of other places that you can also visit or get included in your itinerary. Here we are going to list some of the most important places where you can visit, along with Kedarnath Temple. Some of them are very famous, but all of the places listed below are very beautiful and worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

Dhari Devi Temple: 

A well-known temple en route to Kedarnath is Dhari Devi Temple. She is also considered the protector god of the Char Dham yatra in Uttarakhand. She is considered the living deity of Uttarakhand, as you can see the change in her face with time. In the morning, you will see a childish face; in the afternoon, she will turn into a young lady; and in the evening, you will get to see an old lady. It is also believed that the 2013 flood in the Kedarnath area occurred because the government had planned to replace Dhari Devi's statue in her original location. Dhari Devi temple is located in the middle of the Mandakini River, and it is believed that Dhari Devi controls the level of water in the river Mandakini, and its water never touches Dhari Devi temple. Locals here in Uttarakhand have deep trust in Dhari Devi and worship her with great belief. It's a must to visit the temple en route to Kedarnath.

Triyuginarayan Temple:- 

Do you know that Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati got married in a place located in Uttarakhand, and the temple in which they got married is still standing and reciting the story of the first love marriage on this earth? Yes, you heard right. That temple is well known as Triyuginarayan Temple and is just 19 km from Sonprayag, the base camp of the Kedarnath Yatra. It got its name from Triyuginarayan, as it has been standing at that location for the last three yugas. As per the holy scriptures, it is believed that Maa Parvati did penance for thousands of years to get married to Lord Shiva. Shiva was pleased with her penance and accepted Maa Parvati as his wife at Triyuginarayan temple in the presence of Lord Bhama, Vishnu, and other deities. This temple is also known as Akhand Dhuni Temple due to the perpetual fire in the compound of the temple, which is believed to have been burning since the marriage. Nowadays, Triyuginaryan Temple is developing as a favorite place for destination weddings, and it's believed that those who get married at Triyuginarayan Temple have a prosperous married life.

Tungnath Temple:-

 Another well-known Shiva temple and one among the panch kedars, Shree Tungnath Temple is also known as the highest Shiva temple on this earth. It is believed that when Lord Shiva disappeared from Kedarnath, he reappeared at five different places. Tungnath is one of those places, and the hands of Lord Shiva appeared at this place and were worshipped as Shivalinga. In addition to being a pilgrimage spot, Tungnath is also known for many other reasons, like birdwatching, trekking, and casual holidays. Chopta, which is also known as the mini-Switzerland of India, is just 5 km from Tungnath Temple. Travelers also visit this place for the Chopta Tungnath Chandrashila trek. Tungnath is about 50 km away from Kedarnath Temple, so if you are coming to Kedarnath Temple, then it's a must-visit place. If you are taking the Kedarnath yatra package with any reputed company, then you can ask them to add Chopta Tungnath to your itinerary with no or minimal addition to your Kedarnath yatra cost.

Omkareshwar Temple: -

Another well-known temple in this region is Omkareshwar Temple, located in Ukimath. This temple is also known as the winter seat of Lord Shiva, as Lord Kedar Palquin stayed here for six months after the closure of Kedarnath temple during the winter season due to heavy snowfall. So if you missed taking a blessing from Lord Shiva at Kedarnath during the months of May to October, then you can also visit Omkareshwar temple during the winter season to see him. Not only in the winter season but also during the summer, pilgrims visit this place during their Kedarnath yatra to admire the beauty of the temple and seek the blessing of Lord Kedar.

Kalimath Temple:- 

You must have heard of the 52 Shaktipeeths located in different parts of India. But do you know that one such Shaktipeeth is located near Kedarnath temple? Yes, this is known as Kalimath Temple. As per the holy scriptures and folklore, it is believed that this is the place where Maa Kali killed the Demon Rakt Beej and went inside the earth after Lord Shiva lay down and Maa Kali stepped on her. As per the locals, you can still see the blood on the rock on which it is believed that Maa Kali killed the demon. This temple stays overcrowded during Navratra, and the locals worship her with great love and respect. This temple is located just 16 km from Guptkashi Market, which is en route to Kedarnath Temple.

Conclusion:-

Uttarakhand is known as Dev Bhoomi, as there are millions of temples in this state. But if you are going to Kedarnath this season, don't forget to cover some or all of these spots. It will give you a sense of fulfillment or a complete trip. 

केदारनाथ यात्रा 2024 की योजना

 उत्तराखंड के रुद्रप्रयाग जिले में चारों तरफ से बर्फ की पहाड़ों के बीच में स्थित अलौकिक केदारनाथ मंदिर, उत्तराखंड के चारधाम, पंच केदार और 12 पवित्र ज्योतिर्लिंगों का हिस्सा है। भगवान शिव को समर्पित यह मंदिर समुद्र तट से 11800 फीट की ऊंचाई पर है, बर्फ से ढकी पहाड़ियों और खूबसूरत मंदाकिनी नदी की कल्कलाती हुई आवाज यहां की खूबसूरती को और बढ़ा देती है। चलिए 2024 की योजना बनाते हैं।

केदारनाथ की कुछ जरूरी तथ्य (Important facts)

1) केदारनाथ यात्रा 2024 में खुलने की तिथि(opening date) - 13 मई 2024

2) जाने का श्रेष्ठ समय (best Time) - मई जून सितंबर और अक्टूबर ( may, June, September and october)

३)केदारनाथ यात्रा की दूरी(Distance) -16 किलोमीटर

४)नजदीकी लोह पथ गामिनी विराम बिंदु (Nearest railway station)- ऋषिकेश

 ५)नजदीकी हवाई अड्डा(nearest airport) -जॉली ग्रांट हवाई अड्डा देहरादून

६)केदारनाथ यात्रा 2024 पंजीकृत - ऑफिशल वेबसाइट(https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/signin.php)

 

केदारनाथ जी की यात्रा का योजना आप कहीं से भी बना रहे हो सबसे पहले आप या तो दिल्ली पहुंचिए या फिर ऋषिकेश। अगर आप दिल्ली आते हैं तो दिल्ली से बहुत सारे विकल्प है जिससे ऋषिकेश पहुंच जा सकता है।

 1) आप गवर्नमेंट द्वारा चलाई जाने वाले वाहन का प्रयोग कर सकते हैं

2) दूसरा प्राइवेट बहुत सारी वाहन चलती है जिसे आप ऑनलाइन बुकिंग कर सकते है।

3) आप रेल यात्रा का भी उपयोग कर सकते हैं।

4) अगर समय की पाबंधी है तो दिल्ली से देहरादून के लिए आप हवाई जहाज ले सकते हैं या फिर आप जहां से भी आ रहे हैं वहां से देहरादून के लिए हवाई जहाज ले सकते हैं। देहरादून हवाई अड्डे से ऋषिकेश सिर्फ 30 मिनट का रास्ता है।

आपको अपनी सुविधा के अनुसार इन 4 में से जो भी आपके लिए अनुकूल है उसका प्रयोग करके हरिद्वार या फिर ऋषिकेश पहुंचे।

कोशिश करें कि ऋषिकेश और हरिद्वार आप सुबह ही पहुंचे, क्योंकि वहां से सभी वाहन सुबह 8:00 बजे से पहले ही अपने स्थान के लिए प्रस्थान कर जाते हैं

ऋषिकेश/हरिद्वार से केदारनाथ-

अब ऋषिकेश से यह हरिद्वार से केदारनाथ जाने के लिए हमारे पास क्या-क्या विकल्प उपलब्ध है।

१) विकल्प आप वहां से सरकार द्वारा चलाई जाने वाली वाहन ले सकते हैं जो की सुबह 3:00 से 7:00 के बीच में निकलती है

२) हरिद्वार और ऋषिकेश में बहुत सारे पर्यटन और यात्रा वाले होते हैं जहां से आप अपने लिए निजी वाहन ले सकते है।

३) आप ऋषिकेश से या हरिद्वार से अपना पूरा केदारनाथ यात्रा पैकेज (Kedarnath yatra package) बुक करवा के जा सकते हैं जिसमें आपके वाहन, आपके रुकने की व्यवस्था, आपके खाने की व्यवस्था सब आपके पैकेज में होती है।

अगर आप सरकारी बस या फिर अपना निजी वाहन बुक करके आते हैं तो लगभग 8 से 9 घंटे में आप सोनप्रयाग पहुंच जाएंगे अब यहां पर आपको रात में विश्राम के लिए उपयुक्त व्यवस्था करनी 

1) अगर आपका बजट कम है तो आप डॉरमेट्री या कैंप के लिए जा सकते हैं जिसका प्राइस आपको 800 से 1200 प्रति व्यक्ति के हिसाब से होगा।

२) आप वहां पर रूम भी ले सकते हैं शेयरिंग पर वहां रूम भी मिलते हैं उसका प्राइस लगभग आपको 1200 से 1800 प्रति व्यक्ति होगा।

३) अगर आप थोड़े अच्छे स्थान के लिए सोच रहे हैं तो आप वहां पर रिजॉर्ट्स ले सकते हैं जिसका प्राइज आपको 1500 से 2500 प्रति व्यक्ति पड़ेगा।

ऊपर बताए गए सभी विकल्पों में आपका दो समय का खाना साथ में दिया जाएगा।

 

केदारनाथ यात्रा कैसे जाए

अब केदारनाथ तक पहुंचाने का हमारे पास चार से पांच विकल्प है।

1) 16 किलोमीटर की पैदल यात्रा जो की बहुत ही खूबसूरत पहाड़ झरनों हरियाली से गुजरते हुए बाबा केदारनाथ तक पहुंचती है।

२) अगर आप चलने में असमर्थ है यह कितना नहीं चल सकते हैं तो आप हेलीकॉप्टर बुक कर सकते हैं जो की हेली यात्रा आईआरसीटीसी से बुक होती है। हेली यात्रा तीन जगह से उपलब्ध है गुप्तकाशी फटा और सिरसी से। फटा और सीसी से हेलीकॉप्टर का प्राइस लगभग लगभग बराबर है और गुप्तकाशी से₹2000 एक्स्ट्रा है। आप अपनी सुविधा के अनुसार अपनी टिकट बुक कर सकते हैं।

३) तीसरा विकल्प हमारे पास घोड़े या खच्चर का है जो आपको गौरीकुंड से मिलेगा घोड़े या खच्चर से यात्रा करने में आपको लगभग 3:30 से 4:30 घंटे लगेंगे। इसका टिकट आपको गौरीपुर में काउंटर से मिल जाएगा जिसका प्राइज वहां लिस्ट पर लिखा होता है क्योंकि हर साल प्राइस चेंज होता है और आप इनके ऑफिशल वेबसाइट पर चेक कर सकते हैं।

4) आप वहां से पिट्ठू या पालकी भी ले सकते जो कि आपको गौरीकुंड से मिल जाएगा पानी और पालकी का प्राइस घोड़े के प्राइस से आप 50 तो 60% ज्यादा पड़ेगा। अगर आप घोड़े से यात्रा करने में असमर्थ है तो पालकी या पिट्ठू का चुनाव कर सकते हैं।

 

यात्रा के लिए महत्वपूर्ण बख्शीस( important tips)

यात्रा करते समय कुछ चीजों का आप ध्यान रखें जिससे आपकी यात्रा आसान और सुखद होगी

1)अपना पानी का बोतल अपने साथ लेकर के जाएं और वहां पर कोई भी पानी की बोतल नहीं खरीदे आपको बहुत सारे झरने मिलेंगे जिसका पानी आप छान करके पी सकते हैं 

2) आप यात्रा करते समय अपना सामान जितना हलका होगा उतने जल्दी आप चल पाएंगे, आपको एक दिन की जो भी आवश्यक सामग्री है आप वही लेकर के जाए क्योंकि आप जितना ज्यादा सामान लेंगे आपको यात्रा करने में उतना ज्यादा समय लगेगा और आपको उतनी ही ज्यादा थकान होगी

3)यात्रा करते समय बहुत भोजन न करें हल्के फुल्के तुरंत एनर्जी देने वाले खान-पान का उपयोग करें जैसे की चॉकलेट, ड्राई फ्रूट्स, एनर्जी बार, बिस्किट्स, नींबू पानी इत्यादि, यह सारी चीजों का  उपयोग करेंगे तो आपकी यात्रा में थोड़ी सी आसानी होगी।

४)धीरे-धीरे चले बहुत तेज चल के आधा घंटा विश्राम करने का कोई मतलब नहीं है उसे आपकी बॉडी और ज्यादा थकेगी तो शुरू से ही यात्रा आप आराम आराम से करें कोशिश करें धीरे चले और ज्यादा ब्रेक ना ले, अगर ले भी तो ज्यादा देर आराम ना करें इससे आपकी बॉडी थकेगी नहीं और यात्रा सुखद होगी।

केदारनाथ में कहां रूके

16 किलोमीटर की यह यात्रा करने में आपको लगभग 10 से 12 घंटे का समय लगेगा। तो मेरा यह सुझाव है कि आप अपनी यात्रा सुबह 4:00 से 5:00 तक शुरू कर दे ताकि आप केदारनाथ जी की आरती से पहले केदारनाथ पहुंच जाए ,और वहां के भव्य आरती का आनंद ले। केदारनाथ में रुकने की व्यवस्था तो बहुत सारी है लेकिन वहां पर बहुत अच्छी रूम बहुत ही काम उपलब्ध है,

1) आपका बजट कम हो तो आप कैंप में रख सकते हैं जिसका प्राइज आपको ८०० से 1००० प्रति व्यक्ति के हिसाब से लगेगा यह ऊपर नीचे भी हो सकता है वहां के भीड़ के हिसाब से।

2) धर्मशाला यहां पर भी आपको ६००-७०० हजार रुपए के आसपास का खर्चा आ ही जाएगा लेकिन धर्मशाला में जगह बहुत कम मिलती है

3) GNVN के कैंपस और रूम जो की ऑलमोस्ट 6-8 महीने पहले ही बुक रहते हैं अगरआपको योजना 6-8 महीने या 1 साल पहले बन रहा है, तो आप GNVN की ऑफिशल वेबसाइट से अपने कॉटेज, रूम या कैंप बुक कर सकते हैं

4)उसके बाद वहां कुछ होटल भी अवेलेबल है जिसका प्राइज आपको 2000 से 2500 के बीच में पड़ेगा।

5) डॉरमेट्री भी उपलब्ध है जिसमें 12 से 15 लोग एक साथ एक कमरे में रहते हैं उसका प्राइस आपको १००० से 1500 के बीच में पड़ेगा। यह बताए गए प्राइस सिर्फ रुकने के लिए ही मान्य है इसमें आपका खाना उपलब्ध नहीं है।

 केदारनाथ के पास घूमने का स्थान।

१) देवप्रायग यह वह स्थान है जहां से गंगा बनती है अलकनंदा और भागीरथी का अनोखा संगम यहां पर साफ-साफ देखा जा सकता है!

२) धारी देवी टेंपल (Dhari Devi Temple)यहां के मानता है की मां धारी देवी यहां के धारा को व्यवस्थित करती है 2013 में केदारनाथ में आई आपदा का एक यह भी कारण माना जाता है कि धारी देवी को वहां से हटा दिया गया था।

३) गुप्तकाशी (Guptkashi) में प्रभु शिव पांडव से बचने के लिए छुपे थे इसलिए इसे गुप्त काशी का नाम दिया गया यहां पर कुछ मंदिर है जो कि आप जा सकते हैं। 

४) गौरीकुंड (Gaurikund) से केदारनाथ का ट्रैक स्टार्ट होता है वहीं पर एक छोटा सा कुंड है जिसमें हमेशा गर्म पानी रहता है चाहे वहां पर टेंपरेचर कितना भी नीचे हो लेकिन वहां अंदर पानी एकदम गरम रहता है, लोगों का यह भी मानना है कि यही वह स्थान है जहां पर मां पार्वती ने भगवान शिव के पाने  के लिए तपस्या की थी।

५) बाबा भैरव केदारनाथ टेंपल (Bhairav Nath Temple) से 1 किलोमीटर ऊपर बाबा भैरवनाथ विराजमान है माना जाता है कि यह उसे स्थान की सुरक्षा करते हैं l

 ६) शंकराचार्य केदारनाथ मंदिर से पीछे 500 मीटर की दूरी पर एक शंकराचार्य की भव्य मूर्ति बनाई गई है जहां बैठकर आप मेडिटेशन कर सकते हैं।