Top places to visit in Kedarnath Dham, the holy Hindu Pilgrim

Kedarnath is one of the many holy Hindu towns of India. It is situated in the lap of the Himalayas at an altitude of 3584 meters above sea level. Kedarnath, the divine destination is located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand in North India. It is also one of the major points in Chota Char Dham Yatra, which is a famous pilgrim consisting Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Many devotees visit Kedarnath every year. The temple generally remains open from the month of May to November. Direct transportation to Kedarnath is not available. The only way to reach there is by trekking or by horse riding from Gaurikund. The place Gaurikund is easily accessible and from there one can start his 16 kilometers trek to Kedarnath. The place Kedarnath is named after the king Kedar, who lived in Satya Yug, the ancient Hindu era. As it is a religious destination, most of the landmark have mythological value, still, the place attracts both devotees as well as the tourist for its mesmerizing beauty. Here is the list of top places to visit in Kedarnath, which will be handy, while preparing your itinerary to Kedarnath Dham.

Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath

Kedarnath Temple is one of the holiest and ancient Hindu temples located in India. It is devoted to Lord Shiva and find its origin in Mahabharata. The temple is set amidst mesmerizing valley and has a great mythological significance. It is believed that Pandavas built this temple in order to wash off their sins in the great battle of Mahabharata.

Gandhi Sarovar

gandhi sarovar

Gandhi Sarovar, also known as Chorabari Tal is located 4 kilometers from the Kedarnath temple. It is a serene lake having clear water. This place is paradise for photographers and nature lovers. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva gave the knowledge of Yoga to Saptrishi.

Vasuki Tal

Vasuki Tal is a serene lake and it is believed to be the spot where Lord Vishnu took bath. The terrain around Vasuki Tal provides a great opportunity to people who loves trekking. Vasuki Tal trek is one of the least known, yet adventurous trekking spot.

Chandrapuri

Chandrapuri is town located near Kedarnath Dham. It is the major halt for pilgrim and trekkers. The town is situated on the bank of river Mandakini amidst Rudraprayag and Kedarnath. There are attractions like Chandreshawar temple and Bhairavnath temple in Chandrapuri town. There are many refreshment centers available here. You can have breakfast, lunch or dinner over here.

Shankaracharya Samadhi

Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi is located just behind Kedarnath temple. Shankaracharya was a leading Hindu philosopher, who at the age of thirty-two decided to attain “Moksha” here. Since then Shankaracharya Samadhi is established over here.

Kedarnath was hit by massive flood in 2013, taking hundreds of life. Nehru institute of mountaineering is working to re-establish the glory of Kedarnath. You should visit this place once in your lifetime to know more about Hindu religion and to explore the beauty of the Himalayas. Every pain taken to reach Kedarnath is worthwhile. Share your experiences in comments, if you have been to any landmarks in the list of places to visit in Kedarnath.