Introduction 

Kedarnath Temple is located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. A name that awakens spirituality in the heart of every devotee. Located in the heights of the Himalayas, this temple is not only a holy abode for devotees, but it is also an immortal symbol of Indian religious heritage. Kedarnath Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is also a part of the Panch Kedar and Chota Char Dham Yatra. The temple is located at an altitude of 3,584 meters in the lap of the Himalayas, and is located on the banks of the Mandakini River. If you are also dreaming of visiting Kedarnath, then in this article you will find all the necessary information related to this place - history, story, travel tips, and also the best Kedarnath tour package options.  

The history of Kedarnath temple is thousands of years old. It is said that this temple was first built by the Pandavas to get rid of their sins after the Mahabharata. The Pandavas passed through the dense forests and mountains of the Himalayas to find Lord Shiva, but Shiva was angry with them. He took the form of a bull and became silent. But Bhima recognized him and when Shiva lay face down on the ground, Bhima grabbed his back part (hump). The same part is worshipped today as Kedarnath Shivalinga. The current structure of the temple was renovated by Adi Shankaracharya in the eighth century. 

Kedarnath temple is situated at an altitude of 11,755 feet, which makes it an extremely high altitude pilgrimage site. This temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is also an important part of the Do Dham Yatra. There is no road connectivity near the temple, so devotees have to climb 18 - 22 km from Gaurikund. But this climb makes this journey so precious that when devotees see Lord Shiva despite fatigue, they have tears in their eyes and peace in their hearts. 

While the early Shivlingas of India are round or oval in shape, the one in Kedarnath is triangular in shape, which makes it even more unique. Devotees believe that this is directly linked to the story of the appearance of Lord Shiva.  

In 2013, Kedarnath went through a terrible flood due to which the entire city was almost destroyed. But even between the destruction, the Kedarnath temple remained completely safe. The priests and local people believe that this is only the effect of the grace and devotion of Lord Shiva. 

Kedarnath is not just a temple, it is a place where the soul finds peace. Devotees believe that by going here and worshipping, they get freedom from their sins and the path to salvation opens. That is why people get ready for the Kedarnath Yatra no matter how difficult it is.   

The temple doors open around April/May every year and remain open till the end of October. You should plan between May to June or mid-September as July-August is prone to rains and landslides.

By Road: From Haridwar or Rishikesh you can go to Sonprayag. From there to Gaurikund and then trek.

By Train: There are trains available from Delhi to Rishikesh or Haridwar, you can take any train as per your convenience. To reach Rishikesh you can take Mussoorie Express, Yoga Express, or Siddhabali Janwari Shatabdi Express. To reach Haridwar, you can take Hemkunt Express, Shatabdi Express, or Mussoorie.

By Helicopter: Helicopter services are available for quick darshan at Phata, Guptkashi or Sersi.

These days there are many Kedarnath tour package options available from companies like Manchala Musafir, which make your trip easy and comfortable. The basic package includes bus/tempo from Haridwar/Rishikesh, budget hotel stay and basic food and darshan arrangements, which is ideal for solo travellers and budget groups. Then comes the deluxe package: private vehicle stay at premium Musafir resort and guide assistance and smooth darshan and flexible schedule. If you want to take helicopter packages, 1 - 2 day trip, VIP darshan and perfect packages for senior citizens or busy people, you can choose Kedarnath tour package according to your budget, health and convenience. It does not create stress in your planning and you can enjoy the devotion and travel to the fullest.  

A little physical fitness is very important before going on a trek. One should start light walking and basic exercises a few weeks before the trip so that the body can easily withstand the fatigue during the trek. It is also important to carry some essential items during the trek, such as trekking shoes, raincoat, warm clothes, torch, power bank, painkillers and glucose. All these things will give you both comfort and safety. Online registration and medical checkup are mandatory for the trip - without these you will not be allowed entry. So all this should be completed before time. Also, carry some cash as UPI does not work everywhere due to network problems in the mountains. Group travel is the safest and most recommended for first-time trekkers, as the group provides guidance and help.   

While walking on the trails of Kedarnath, you get a different feeling of devotion at every turn. The sound of temple bells amidst the mountains, the devotion of Shiva's devotees and the raw beauty of nature, all these together make Kedarnath a divine experience. Even today people say that Kedarnath calls only when Shiva himself calls. So if the thought of going to Kedarnath is coming in your mind, then understand that the call has come. 

Kedarnath temple is such a Dham where it is difficult to reach, but after that difficult journey one gets a supernatural peace. If you are also planning to go on a divine journey, then you can make your journey pleasant and memorable by choosing a good Kedarnath tour package. Make this year 2025 dedicated to Shiva devotion, and decide on the journey to Kedarnath Dham where every step takes you closer to God.