About Kedarnath Temple
Kedarnath Temple is one of the holiest Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated at an altitude of 3,583 metres (11,755 ft) in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is both a Jyotirlinga and part of the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. The temple sits against the stunning backdrop of snow-capped Kedarnath peak and is accessible only by a 16 km trek from Gaurikund (or by helicopter). The temple is open for darshan only six months a year, from May to November, after which the deity is moved to Ukhimath for winter worship.
Historical Significance
The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas and later restored by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE. The current stone structure dates to at least 1,000 years ago and withstood the devastating 2013 Kedarnath floods — a massive boulder stopped just behind the temple, shielding it from the deluge. Reconstruction of the surrounding areas took several years, and the temple reopened with improved infrastructure and pilgrimage routes.
Architecture
The temple is built with massive grey stone slabs without the use of mortar. The structure features a conical shikhara typical of North Indian temple architecture. The walls are thick to withstand heavy snowfall and extreme cold. The mandapa features ornate carvings of deities and mythological scenes. Behind the temple stands the reconstructed samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya.
Spiritual Significance
According to legend, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva's blessings after the Mahabharata war. Shiva eluded them by taking the form of a bull (Nandi). When Bhima tried to catch the bull, it dived into the ground, leaving behind its hump — which is worshipped as the Kedarnath Jyotirlinga. The triangular-shaped lingam inside the temple represents this divine hump. Kedarnath is also the samadhi sthal of Adi Shankaracharya.
How to Reach
Temple Offerings & Pujas
Rudrabhishek
₹1,700Sacred abhishek of the Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
Puja
₹250General puja by temple priests in the sanctum
Ghee for Jyotirlinga
₹100Offering ghee to pour on the sacred Shiva lingam
Seek Divine Blessings
Book an authentic online puja at Kedarnath Temple, performed by expert Acharyas.
Quick Facts
- Best Time to VisitMay to June and September to October
- Entry FeeFree
- Dress CodeWarm, layered clothing essential. Comfortable trekking shoes recommended.
Temple Timings
- Temple Opening4:00 AM (Opening Puja)
- Morning Darshan6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Evening Darshan5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- Evening Aarti7:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location
Kedarnath, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand 246445
