The holy city of Kedarnath is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand in India. The place is situated 3584 meters above sea level, at the head of the Mandakini river. This is at an astounding height. The temple in Kedarnath is part of the 4 dhams. The four dhams means the four temples of the pilgrimage circle of the Garhwal region.
They involve the four holy sites Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath- those that are fondled in the care of the mighty Himalayas. Here dham refers to the religious destinations. The whole of Uttarakhand is home to numerous temples and welcomes pilgrims all throughout the year.
About the Destination
Kedarnath is one of the most revered temple destinations in India, that is wrapped around by the Garhwal Himalayas. The temple is built near the Chorabari glacier. Behind the temple, one can see the scenic Kedarnath peak, Kedar Dome and other Himalayan peaks. Kedarnath is also part of the Pach Kedar pilgrimage circuit.
Lord Shiva as a bull had taken refuge in Kedarnath. When he plunged into the ground the hump remained in Kedarnath. While the rest of the parts appeared in other different parts, which became worship centers.
They would be Tungnath where the arms appeared, the face appeared at Rudranath, the belly at Madmaheshwar, and finally, hair locks at Kalpeshwar.
The time to visit
The best time to visit Kedarnath would be the summer months, that is April to June, when the weather is warm and soothing. These months are preferable to move around the city, which would be very necessary. The monsoon in Kedarnath is unreliable.
And the winters are extremely cold with snowfall. And the temple also closes between these times. The site is always having a great inflow of pilgrims.
The Historical Importance
It is important for the followers and devotees of Lord Shiva who reside there as Lord Kedar. It is considered to be the epitome of spirituality and peace being the permanent abode of the Gods. And the place opens its doors to pilgrims during the summer months.
The positivity of the place can soothe and relax your soul. The place is considered to be an asset to the country with its rich history and mythology. The landscape that covers the temple and the city is enough to put your mind at rest.
Summer Season (April- June)
The best season to visit Kedarnath is between these two months, April and June. The temperature is between 15- 30 degree celsius and it is moderate. With such a climate the place is fine to reside or visit when the rest of the country is really hot.
The sun would be warm and the air would be tinted with a gentle cool breeze. Thus with ideal weather around you, this is the best time to visit Kedarnath Temple.
Panch Kedar and Chota Char Dham, making a full swing holy pilgrimage. Even with it being summer it’s still advisable to carry woolen clothes and accessories. In April the temperature can be between -3 to 8-degree celsius, in May from 0 to 5-degree celsius, and finally in its 4 to 12-degree celsius.
Monsoon Season (July- September)
Kedarnath is unpredictable during the monsoon. The area doesn’t get much rain overall, but when it does, it can be very heavy, which might cause landslides and perhaps obstruct roads. This would lead to delay in the journey as there can be blockage of routes. The temperature would dwindle between 12 and 15 degree Celsius.
Even though the rains were less, the sky would remain cloudy most of the time. It is recommended to stay away from this season and schedule your spiritual vacation for the summer unless you want to be daring.
In case you visit the place it is better to carry umbrellas and raincoats. By the last month, September, the weather will get better.
Winter Season (October- March)
If you travel to the Himalayas in the winter, be prepared for bitterly cold weather. The region experiences subzero temperatures that make it freezing. Your stamina will be put to the test and you’ll run out of breath in Kedarnath during the winter. Although the scenery is lovely, you occasionally have to endure temperatures below freezing.
Although there are some sunny days, Kedarnath’s winters are generally frigid. The temple remains shut during these times. The temperature ranges between 0 and 20 degree celsius. Snow-clad mountains and flora are very attractive giving a magnificent experience.
For the six months in winter, the idol in Kedarnath is shifted to Omkareshwar temple as a winter abode.
Thus with a good, planned itinerary and the selection of the right time a trip to Kedarnath can be made memorable.
