The Kedarnath shrine, one of the 12 jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, is a scenic spot situated, against the backdrop of the majestic Kedarnath range. At an altitude of 3,581 mt it is a 14 km trek from Gaurikund.

Kedar is another name of Lord Shiva, the protector and the destroyer. Shiva is considered the embodiment of all passions – love, hatred, fear death and mysticism which are expressed through his various forms.

There are more than 200 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in Chamoli district itself, the most important one is Kedarnath. According to legend, the Pandavas after having won over the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra war, felt guilty of having killed their own brothers and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for redemption. He eluded them repeatedly and while fleeing took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull.

On being followed he dived into the ground, leaving his hump on the surface. The remaining portions of Lord Shiva appeared at four other places and are worshipped there as his manifestations.

The arms appeared at Tungnath, the face at Rudranath, the belly at Madmaheshwar and his locks (hair) and the four above mentioned shrines are treated as Panch Kedar.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Area : 3 sq. km

Climate
Summer: Cool during the day and cold at night.
Winter: Snow-bound. Touching sub-zero.

Best Season : May to October

Clothing
Summer: Light Woollens.  
Winter: Very Heavy Woollens.

Language: Hindi, Garhwali & English.