Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Temple, History, Significance, Darshan Timings, How to Reach

Kedarnath Temple is believed to have been originally established by the Pandavas during the Dwapara Yuga, over 5,000 years ago, as a form of penance after the Kurukshetra war. According to the Skanda Purana, the Pandavas built this shrine to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva for the sins of war. While no exact date can be pinpointed due to the temple’s ancient origins, this association makes it one of the oldest surviving centers of Shiva worship.

The Dwapara Yuga is believed to have ended around 3102 BCE, suggesting that the original shrine may date back to a period before that. The current stone structure was later reconstructed in the 8th century CE by Adi Shankaracharya, who played a major role in reviving Hindu pilgrimages across India. He is also believed to have attained samadhi near the Kedarnath temple complex.

The temple was built using massive stone slabs placed together without the use of mortar, which showcases the advanced architectural understanding of ancient times. Despite being located in one of the most challenging terrains in the Indian Himalayas, the temple has withstood earthquakes, avalanches, and extreme weather. Its ability to endure even the catastrophic 2013 floods has only strengthened the spiritual reverence devotees have for this sacred site., over 5,000 years ago, as a form of penance after the Kurukshetra war. According to the Skanda Purana, the Pandavas built this shrine to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva for the sins of war. While no exact date can be pinpointed due to the temple’s ancient origins, this association makes it one of the oldest surviving centers of Shiva worship.

Kedarnath Temple is believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas during the Dwapara Yuga, an era believed to have ended around 3102 BCE. As per Hindu mythology, the Pandavas constructed this shrine to seek Lord Shiva’s forgiveness for their role in the Kurukshetra war. While exact archaeological dating is unavailable, ancient scriptures and oral traditions place its origins over 5,000 years ago. The temple seen today was later renovated and restored in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya, who is also said to have attained samadhi near the shrine. Despite extreme weather conditions and natural calamities, the temple stands resilient and continues to be a symbol of unwavering faith. thousands of years ago using enormous stone slabs. The temple structure seen today was renovated and restored in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya, who is also said to have attained samadhi near the shrine. Despite extreme weather conditions and natural calamities, the temple stands resilient and continues to be a symbol of unwavering faith.

Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is one of the most sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Garhwal Himalayan range of Uttarakhand. It is part of both the 12 Jyotirlingas and the revered Char Dham Yatra. At a height of 3,583 meters, the temple offers not just spiritual peace but also breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks. Thousands of devotees visit every year to seek divine blessings.

Spiritual Significance of Kedarnath Temple

As per ancient legends, the Pandavas came here to seek Lord Shiva’s forgiveness after the Kurukshetra war. Shiva took the form of a bull and disappeared into the earth, leaving his hump at Kedarnath. The temple marks this divine spot, making it a powerful place for spiritual growth and liberation from sins.

Kedarnath Temple Opening and Closing Dates 2025

Kedarnath Temple is open for darshan from 2 May 2025, as announced by the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee. The opening ceremony takes place early morning at 7:00 AM on Akshaya Tritiya and will continue approximately till November 2025. During the winter, the idol is shifted to Ukhimath, where devotees can continue to offer prayers.

Update: The temple is currently open for 2025 Yatra. Advance booking is recommended due to high demand during the initial weeks.

A Glimpse Into the 2013 Kedarnath Floods

In 2013, Kedarnath faced one of the most devastating natural disasters in Indian history. Flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall and glacier bursts swept through the region, destroying much of the infrastructure around the temple. Remarkably, Kedarnath Temple withstood the fury while massive boulders protected its rear wall. The temple’s survival became a symbol of divine will and has since drawn even greater faith from devotees across the world.

Kedarnath Darshan Booking

Devotees must register before their journey. Here’s how:

• Online Yatra Registration is mandatory: https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
• On-site Darshan is available, but expect long queues during peak season.
• Aarti Timings: Morning – 4:00 AM to 7:00 AM; Evening – 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM

VIP Darshan at Kedarnath

As of now, there is no official VIP Darshan available to the public. In special cases, some arrangements may be made by temple authorities.

Kedarnath Temple Timings

The temple follows a fixed schedule each day for darshan and rituals:

How to Reach Kedarnath

By Road & Trek

• Reach Gaurikund by road from Haridwar, Rishikesh or Dehradun
• Trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is ~16–18 km (moderate to difficult)
• Palki (palanquin), Kandi (carrier seat), and Khachar (mule/pony) options are available at Gaurikund for those unable to complete the trek on foot
• Approximate Pricing:
  • Palki: ₹4,500–₹7,500 (one-way)
  • Kandi: ₹3,000–₹5,000 (one-way)
  • Khachar (Pony): ₹2,000–₹4,000 (one-way) Prices may vary based on physical condition, time of day, and crowd.

Advance booking is available at designated counters

• Palki, pony, and doli services are available at Gaurikund

By Helicopter

• Helicopter services are available from:
  • Phata (Most popular)
  • Sersi, Sitapur, Guptkashi
• Official Booking Link: https://heliservices.uk.gov.in
• Advance booking strongly recommended due to high demand

Distances

Rituals and Pujas at Kedarnath

• Rudrabhishek (daily)
• Maha Abhishek (early morning special puja)
• Laghu Rudra, Shiv Namavali Paath
• Pujas are performed by Rawals (priests from Kerala)

Facilities at Kedarnath Temple

Hotels Near Kedarnath Temple

Nearby Places to Visit in Kedarnath

Festivals Celebrated at Kedarnath

• Maha Shivratri: Grand night-long celebration
• Kedarnath Opening Day: Akshaya Tritiya with procession
• Shravan Month Rituals: Daily special pujas

Kedarnath Weather

Kedarnath Jyotirlinga FAQs

Q1. Where is Kedarnath Temple located?
Ans. In Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, in the Himalayas at 3,583 meters altitude.

Q2. How to reach Kedarnath Temple?
Ans. Via trek from Gaurikund or helicopter from Phata/Sersi. Registration is mandatory.

Q3. Who built Kedarnath Temple?
Ans. Believed to be built by the Pandavas, later revived by Adi Shankaracharya.

Q4. How much time does Kedarnath darshan take?
Ans. 1–2 hours on regular days, longer during peak yatra season.

Q5. Is there any age restriction for Kedarnath yatra?
Ans. Not officially, but elderly, cardiac and asthma patients are advised caution due to high altitude.