Kedarnath Temple, Kedarnath, Uttarakhand India

Kedarnath, situated at an elevation of 3584 m above sea level, is the third of the sacred Char Dhams. One of the twelve ‘jyotirlringas’, it is also the most important shrine in the Himalayas and one of the holiest ones for Hindus. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple which is believed to be over 1000 years old is closed from early November to early April and is filled with pilgrims during the summer months. Built of gray slabs of stone, the temple has a large ‘mandapa’ with a stone idol of Nandi. During winter, the seat of Lord Kedarnath is shifted to Ukhimath, near Guptkashi.
 
There is a GMVN Tourist Bungalow near the town centre which has rooms as well as a dorm and a Bharat Shevasram which provides accommodation. Food is easily available in the many restaurants but is quite expensive since all supplies are brought from the valley. There is also a canteen which is run by the temple committee and usually serves curry and alu paratha.
 
Apart from the Kedarnath Temple, other attractions of the region include the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, Vasuki Tal, Deoria Tal etc. The wildlife sanctuary, established in 1972, is home to species like snow leopard, snow cock, musk deer and others. Vasuki Tal, surrounded by the Himalayas is situated at an altitude of 4135 m above sea level and is considered to be one of the most beautiful spots in Uttarakhand. 

Kedarnath can be reached by a very strenuous 14 km trek along a paved path, on horses or palanquins and by helicopter from Gaurikund. Elderly travellers usually opt for the ponies or ‘dolis’ which are carried by four people. Direct buses are also available to Gaurikund from Rishikesh and Guptkashi.