Shri Kedarnath temple

Shri Kedarnath is believed to have been named in honour of King Kedar, who ruled in the Satya Yuga. The land is around the temple is named Vrindavan in honour of King Kedar's daughter. The legend says this is the temple where the Pandavas finally found Lord Shiva in order to seek forgiveness for the sin of killing their cousins. The temple is over 1000 years old.

The lingam at Shri Kedarnath , unlike the usual form , is pyramidal and is regarded as one of the 12 Jyotirlings. Kedarnath temple is highest among the 12 Jyotirlingas. The trek to Kedarnath can only be made by foot or you can take a helicopter service. In 2012, the temple saw over 5,48,166 pilgrims.

The temple opens on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya which usually falls in April end or first week of May and closes on Bhai Duj (in October or November after Diwali). The temple is closed for six months because of heavy snowfall. Once winters begin, the statue of Shiva is carried down from Kedarnath to Ukhimath, and later reinstated at Kedarnath, in the first week of May. The Monsoons are not a recommended time for visiting shri Kedarnath due to threat of landslides.

Shri Bhairon Temple which is close to Kedarnath, is a temple where the god Bhairon nath ji is ceremoniously worshipped at the opening and closing of Shri Kedarnath temple. It is believed that he protects the land around Kedarnath from evil during the time when temple is closed.

Jai Shri Kedarnath Mahadev!