Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Temple, Significance, Darshan Timings, How to Reach
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayan range of Uttarakhand. It is not only one of the 12 Jyotirlingas but also one of the four Char Dhams of Hinduism. Situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters, Kedarnath is a place of immense spiritual power and natural beauty, drawing lakhs of pilgrims annually.
Spiritual Significance of Kedarnath Temple
It is believed that after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for penance. Shiva, avoiding them, took the form of a bull and hid in the Garhwal region. Upon being found, he dived into the earth leaving his hump on the surface at Kedarnath. This sacred site marks his manifestation and is deeply connected with salvation (moksha) and cosmic energy.
Kedarnath Temple Opening & Closing Dates 2025
- Opening Date: 2 May 2025
- Closing Date: October-November 2025
- Note: The temple remains closed during harsh winters due to heavy snowfall. During this time, the idol is shifted to Ukhimath.
Kedarnath Darshan Booking
- Mandatory Yatra Registration: All pilgrims must register on the official Uttarakhand Char Dham portal: https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in
- Offline Darshan: Available on-site. 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
Currently, no official VIP darshan facility is publicly listed. Some special access is arranged via temple board or administration during emergencies or special cases.
Kedarnath Temple Timings
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 4:00 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 4:00 AM – 7:00 AM |
| Afternoon Break | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM |
| Temple Closes | 8:00 PM |
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
| Route | Distance |
| Rishikesh to Kedarnath | 210 km (Road + Trek) |
| Haridwar to Kedarnath | 225 km (Road + Trek) |
| Dehradun to Kedarnath | 250 km (Road + Trek) |
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
| Facility | Availability |
| Cloakroom | Yes |
| Medical Aid | Yes (First-aid and Base Hospital) |
| Drinking Water | Yes |
| Accommodation | GMVN Lodges, Tents, Dharmshalas |
| Electricity | Available |
| Food Services | Limited (satvik meals) |
Hotels Near Kedarnath Temple
| Hotel | Location | Price Range |
| GMVN Cottages | Near Temple | ₹1,500–₹3,000 |
| Punjab Sindh Awas | 500 m from temple | ₹1,200–₹2,500 |
| Bikaner House | Sitapur | ₹1,000–₹2,000 |
| Kedar Camp Resorts | Guptkashi | ₹2,500–₹4,000 |
Nearby Places to Visit in Kedarnath
| Place | Description |
| Bhairavnath Temple | Guardian deity of Kedarnath, 1 km uphill |
| Vasuki Tal | Sacred lake, 8 km trek from Kedarnath |
| Shankaracharya Samadhi | Final resting place of Adi Shankaracharya |
| Gauri Kund | Mythological bathing site before trek begins |
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
| Season | Temperature | Travel Advisory |
| Summer (May–June) | 5°C–18°C | Best season to visit |
| Monsoon (July–Aug) | 10°C–15°C | Landslide-prone, avoid travel |
| Autumn (Sept–Oct) | 3°C–15°C | Pleasant and scenic |
| Winter (Nov–April) | -5°C to -15°C | Temple closed due to snow |
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.