Helpful Guidelines for Char Dham Yatra

A journey of four holy rivers of India, namely Ganga, Yamuna, Mandakini, and Alaknanda, is an experience you don’t want to miss. It is a trip, taking you to the four prominent holy destinations and is an unforgettable experience for all the devotees. Chota Char Dham is a spiritual tour of four pilgrimage sites in India, namely Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, all present in Uttarakhand. Hindus believe that everybody must visit these places during their lifetime.

Best Time to Visit

Although, the four places remain open from Akshaya Tritiya to Bhai Dooj. The best time to visit them is between May and June as the weather is pleasant and the climatic conditions work in our favor. It takes approximately 11-12 days to complete the Yatra. You will meet people from around the world, some worshipping, while others just exploring these mesmerizing sites.

Opening Dates

• Yamunotri: 10th May 2024
• Gangotri: 10th May 2024
• Kedarnath: 15th May 2024
• Badrinath: 16th May 2024

Closing Dates

• Yamunotri: 31th October 2024
• Gangotri: 2nd November 2024
• Kedarnath: 2nd November 2024
• Badrinath: 9 November 2024

Places to Visit Along the Way

Tapovan: It is a seasonal home to several sadhus living in caves, huts, etc. In the past few years, it has transformed into a popular trekking destination and people from far-off places come to see the expansive grasslands of Tapovan, which are decorated with different flowering plants.

Gaumukh: This glacier acts as the source of water for the River Ganga, and this is why it is really special to the Hindus. It is at a walking distance of 18 kilometers from the Gangotri Glacier. The place where this glacier ends resembles a cow’s mouth, and so the name Gaumukh.

Chopta: This valley is quite famous among tourists. It’s located away from all the hustle-bustle. You can come to relax here, or you can also take part in adventure sports.

Hemkund Sahib: This Gurudwara, situated near a lake, is dedicated to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Govind Singh Ji. Find your inner peace by meditating at the Gurudwara and you can admire its beauty at the same time.

Auli: A cold haven, visited by many all year round. It’s a skiing hub and is surrounded by all sorts of vegetation. The snowy mountain peaks and the thick forests, give it a warm and cozy feel.

Vasuki Tal: It’s a lake that lies nears Kedarnath. The most beautiful landscape that you will ever come across. The lake freezes in winter and there is no sign of any vegetation around it.

The Journey

This is the basic outline of how your Yatra would be.

Yamunotri Dham

It will probably begin from Barkot. You will drive up to the Yamunotri Dham which will be followed by a 7 km trek. Or you could also visit Uttarkashi, which is just about 100 km from the Gangotri Dham.

Yamuna, the second most sacred river in India, originates from Yamunotri. The Yamunotri temple is believed to be constructed by the king of Tehri, Naresh Sudarshan Shah in 1839. It is one of the pilgrimage sites you will see on this tour. The temple itself is a work of art, and the devotees make it more serene and beautiful. The Yamuna River looks breathtaking while flowing down from one side of the temple.

Gangotri Dham

Located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, this is one of the four sites which make up the Chota Char Dham. The shrine is very special to the Hindus because of its incomparable beauty. Another key factor is that legends believe that this place is the origin of the river Ganga after it descended from heaven. The present shrine was built by Gorkha Commander, Amar Singh Thapa in the early 18th century. The river has always been considered the purest. People visit this place to attain Moksha.

Kedarnath Dham

From here, you can drive to Kedarnath, which is about 180 km from Uttarkashi, which will be followed by a 21 km trek uphill.

In this ancient temple, we find inscriptions written in Pali. The present temple was built by Adi Shankaracharya Ji. On the inner walls of the temple, there are sculptures of various deities and scenes from mythology. On the outside of the temple, there is a large statue of the Nandi Bull. The temple is set amidst the mountains of the Garhwal Himalayas. The Kedarnath shrine is surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful snow-covered mountains. You will definitely feel at peace after visiting this place.

Badrinath Dham

Then on to Rudraprayag which is just 160 km away from Badrinath Dham, the final Dham in your Yatra.

Situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, this religious site is set in the backdrop of the Neelkanth mountain peak, which leaves one breathless. Believed to be the home of Lord Shiva, this place holds a lot of myths and legends. People from around the world visit this place, to listen to the tales of the gurus and the sadhus. This place is especially busy during the festival of Mahashivratr.

Alternative Options

You may want to complete your Yatra within a few days. To do this, opt for the Chardham Helicopter Tour. Beginning from Yamunotri, the journey continues on to Gangotri, Kedarnath, and concludes at Badrinath. It will take around 4-5 days, but you will be able to enjoy the trip at your own pace.

Some Last-Minute Tips

• Wear comfortable and warm clothing at all times.
• Do not attempt to do the journey, if not feeling well.
• Carry all kinds of medicines with you.
• Stay close to your, family/friends.
• Carry some kind of identity card, in case of an emergency.
• Hire a guide/use maps, if you are not sure of the routes.
• Carry a cheap/local cellphone for safety purposes.

Have a safe journey!

Kedarnath Badrinath Yatra Package

We are back with our another spiritual tour package i.e. Kedarnath Badrinath Yatra Package. This 4 nights / 5 days long meticulously designed package is tailored beautifully and is inclusive of deluxe accommodations, transports, and sightseeing destination visit. Browse our most customized tour package and visit the two holiest places in Uttarakhand which are the most important parts of the Char Dham circuit. Besides attaining spiritual experience you can also get mesmerized with the surreal beauties adorning this beautiful state.

Duration of the trip: 4 Nights / 5 Days

Destinations to be covered under the package: Haridwar – Guptkashi – Kedarnath – Badrinath – Joshimath – Rudraprayag – Haridwar

Trip Highlights

• Participate in the early morning puja ceremony called Abhishekam and in the prayers at the shrine.
• Explore the nearby astonishing places in and around Badrinath like Mana Village which is renowned among tourists as the last village in India and also visits the Mata Murti Temple.
• Visiting Badrinath shrine which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
• Explore Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula which are the major attractions of Rishikesh.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Haridwar – Guptkashi

Welcome to the gateway of Devbhoomi! Our tour representative will join you at Haridwar and then will take you towards Guptkashi via Rudraprayag and Devprayag. While moving towards Guptkashi enjoy the beautiful view of gorgeously flowing River Ganga and River Alaknanda. In Guptkashi you can visit Ardh Narishwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Upon arrival at Guptkashi, check-into one of our listed hotels. Post-check-in freshens up and relax in the cozy hotel environment and stay overnight.

Fact about Guptkashi – The literal meaning of this place is “hidden Benarasi” and the place holds a great religious significance in Hinduism. According to Hindu mythology, Pandavas in the urge of seeking freedom from their sins of doing fratricide performed a deep penance in order to please Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva didn’t want to forgive them so easily and so transformed himself into a bull and then hid at Guptkashi. It is believed that during the winter months when the Kedarnath shrine is closed then priests of the shrine shift to Guptkashi and reside there.

Day 2: Guptkashi – Kedarnath – Guptkashi

By Helicopter – Early in the morning our driver will take you to the pre-booked helipad. After visiting the sacred Kedarnath shrine, our tour representative will pick you and drop you to the hotel for rest.

By Trek: However, it is quite challenging to return back to the hotel on the same day by trek but if you avail the facility of pony rides or helicopter services to reach the shrine then it is easily possible to explore the place. Be informed that there is parking issue at Sonprayag and even vehicles are not allowed to move further so we request you to stay calm and co-operate with the driver.

Facts of Kedarnath: One of the most important and divine jyotirlingas among 12 jyotirlingas in India, Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This huge ancient shrine is nestled beautifully at an elevation of 3584 meters above sea level. Interesting Hindu mythology states that Pandavas after defeating Kaurava in the Kurukshetra war were burdened with the guilt of fratricide and performed a deep penance to Lord Shiva. But Lord Shiva didn’t want to free them so easily and he took the form of a bull. When one of the Pandava brothers recognized him and chased him when he dived into the ground and his body parts were shattered. His hump was found in Kedarnath and so since then, Shiva is being worshipped at Kedarnath in the form of a bull hump.

Day 3: Guptkashi – Badrinath

Post enjoying the relishing Garhwali cuisine in breakfast, drive towards Badrinath. On reaching Badrinath check-into the pre-booked hotel. Loosen up yourself and get ready to drive towards the holy shrine of Lord Vishnu. There is a ritual to take a dip into the hot thermal spring of Tapt Kund so after taking holy bath pay homage to Lord Badri and if time permits you then participate in the grand evening Aarti ceremony at the temple. You can also visit Brahmakapal to perform the Shraddha rituals of your ancestors. You can also visit the other sightseeing destinations encircling Badrinath like Mana Village, Vyas Cave, Charanpaduka, Bhimkund, Mata Murti, and other places. Return to the accommodation after the day exploration and then go for a relaxing overnight stay.

Badrinath, one of the most important dhams in Char Dham pilgrimage circuit is nestled at an astounding elevation of approx. 3100 meters above the sea level and is adorned with two majestic mountain peaks named as Nar and Narayan. The place is studded beautifully with forests of berries and is so named as Badrivan.

Tapt Kund – A natural hot water spring which is located on the holy Alaknanda River where taking bath before entering the Badrinath Shrine is an important custom.

Mana Village – Reckoned as the last village in India and is located on the border of India and Tibet and is a habitat to the tribes belonging to Indo-Mongolian tribes.

Vasudhara Falls – The name clearly depicts the significance of this place. This magnificent waterfall is quite appealing and alluring to the tourists that it has now become a must visit place in all the itineraries designed for Badrinath visit. One needs to cover a distance of almost 5 km from Badrinath to reach this place and 2 kilometers of the distance is covered by the motorable roads.

Day 4: Badrinath – Joshimath – Rudraprayag

After savoring the morning meal drive towards Rudraprayag via Joshimath. On the way to Rudraprayag make a visit at Narsingh Temple located in Joshimath.

Post breakfast, drive towards Rudraprayag via Joshimath and on the way to Rudraprayag you can visit the popular Narsingh Temple located in Joshimath and after paying a visit to the temple return to Rudraprayag by following the same route. On reaching Rudraprayag, check-into the hotel, freshen up yourself and then go for a relaxing overnight stay.

Significance of Joshimath – The place holds a great religious significance in Hinduism as it is located on the confluence of two holy rivers Dhauliganga and Mandakini. It is also one of the most important and highly frequented maths established by the great Hindu philosopher Adi Shankaracharya and the place is also reckoned as winter abode of Badrinath. During the winter season when the Badrinath Temple is closed then the idol of Lord Badri is brought here.

Day 5: Rudraprayag – Haridwar

After enjoying the lavish breakfast, our representative will assist you in reaching Haridwar via Rishikesh. Also called as “place of sages” is a highly revered spiritual city located on the holy banks of River Ganga and is adorned beautifully with the Shivalik Ranges located in the Garhwal Himalayas. His tough penance pleased god and he appeared in front of as “Rishikesh” and this is how the place got its name.

Upon your arrival at Rishikesh, check-into the hotel and get ready for the spiritual tour in Rishikesh. Visit the majestic temples and other sightseeing destinations including Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, the two huge iron suspension bridges. After Rishikesh excursion, you will be dropped at Haridwar from where you can get the transport to get back home.

Significance of Rishikesh – This holy city in Uttarakhand has been dedicated to Lord Vishnu and holds a great religious significance in Hinduism. Also called as “Yoga capital of India”, Rishikesh boasts a number of ashrams where one can participate in the meditation and yoga classes. Enjoy white-water rafting activity, go for a rejuvenating hang-out, and base of all trekking trails.

Significance of Badri Kedar Yatra

The Char Dham Yatra of Uttarakhand which is also known as the Chota Char Dham Yatra in India, this Hindu pilgrimage circuit is considered to be extremely importance. As per Hindu mythology, the prominent saint and philosopher Adi Shankaracharya established these holy destinations and shrines of Badrinath Kedarnath Yatra, with an aim of evoking a spiritual feeling within the soul of devout Hindus. It is believed that if an individual goes on this pilgrimage to these holy centres then they will attain moksha (freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth). Every year, annually these vital Dhams caters to almost 2 lakh devotees and tourists from all over the subcontinent and across the globe. Not only are these abode of the lord extremely sacred but the surrounding captivating beauty makes the journey worthwhile.

Importance of Badrinath Dham Yatra

Located on the right bank of holy River Alaknanda and perched at a height of 3,133 metres, Badrinath Dham is one of the oldest Hindu sites of worship. The towering peaks of the majestic Nar Narayan snowcapped mountain forms the backdrop of this vital temple. This is the largest Dham among other five Badris and just like every Dham it is also dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The name ‘Badri’ is inspired from the availability of the wild berries available here and was reestablished during 9th century.

Myths Related to Badrinath Dham

There are numerous myths related to the establishment of Badri Dham, some say that since Lord Vishnu was meditating in the Badri forest his consort gave him the name of Badri Vishal which later became the name of the temple, another reason is that since the gods knew that the earth won’t be able to withstand the force of the holy River Ganga so they split the river into 12 different tributaries one of them being River Alaknanda which passes by Badrinath Dham. All these reasons along with numerous others make Badrinath Dham Yatra extremely pious.

Importance of Kedarnath Dham Yatra

Kedarnath Temple

Situated at a high altitude of 3,584 metres above sea level, and being home to home of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, Kedarnath is said to be the seat of Lord Shiva. People believe that people visiting this Dham will be cleansed of their sins leaving their souls purified; this fact attracts lakhs of pilgrims and Shaivites to this holy destination. Kedarnath houses several Kunds (pools or tanks) which are religiously significant and bears significant natural healing properties which is said to rid the pilgrim from their body pains and aches. Adi Shankaracharya is to be credited with the re-establishment of this holy centre. It is also believed that if a devotee visits the Kedarnath Dham after Badrinath Dham then he is guaranteed to achieve some peace of mind.

Myths Related to Kedarnath Dham

As per ancient Hindu Vedic and other scriptures, Lord Shiva had agreed to dwell in this place at the hearty request of Nar Narayana. It is also said that the Pandava brothers, after the Kurukshetra war, where they had to kill their cousins, came to ask for forgiveness from Lord Shiva so they constructed this temple here in order to pray for penance. The earliest reference for Kedarnath has been seen in Skanda Purana dating back to 7th and 8th century.

When to Go For the Do Dham Yatra

The best time to visit these Do Dham Yatra sites are between the months of June and September since the temple doors are opened and accessible only during the summer months. One can be a part of the opening or closing ceremony of the main Dwar during the ‘on’ season which is considered to be an extremely auspicious time for all the devotees.

How to Do Helicopter Ticket Booking For Kedarnath Dham

Kedarnath, one of the most eminent and revered shrines of Lord Shiva, the supreme deity of Hindus is visited by millions of devotees every year. This ancient Shiva Temple is nestled beautifully at a height of almost 3584 meters above the sea level and one needs to cover the challenging and pretty difficult trekking trail from Gaurikund to reach here.

But now those days had gone a long back when the pilgrimage was difficult to explore by senior citizens or people who were physically unfit as the journey is quite challenging and arduous. The initiation of Chardham Helicopter tour has made it more convenient and easier for such people to complete their dream of visiting the shrines of this holy circuit.

Kedarnath is one of the most important pilgrimages of this spiritual Yatra and hence there are many leading travel companies offering Kedarnath helicopter service from different destinations like Phata, Sitapur, Sersi, and Guptkashi.

Kedarnath Dham Helicopter Ticket Booking

Kedarnath Helipad

One of the most sought destinations of Shiva followers Kedarnath witnesses a huge influx of devotees coming from different corners of the world every year. Being one of the most prominent Jyotirlingas of the country, Kedarnath is reckoned for its impeccable spiritual aura and admiring architecture.

Kedarnath Temple is established at a good distance from Gaurikund or Sonprayag and can reach the shrine either by covering the trekking trail or by opting for Kedarnath Helicopter Booking.

Companies Offering Services Are

• Pawan Hans: One of the most trusted and reputed Heli service providers Pawan Hans provides daily helicopter services Phata to Kedarnath.
• Prabhatam Aviation: Another trustworthy tour operator in the state providing its services from many years and has been successful in achieving its aim.
• Aryan Aviation: One of the most leading aviation companies that is providing its impeccable chopper services from last many years. The choppers provided by them are generally 5-seater.
• Himalayan Heli: One of the most experienced companies that has been awarded for its awesome service in 2015.
• UT Air India: A famous private limited company registered under the Indian Companies Act 1956 is enlisted among top Heli service provider for Char Dham Yatra.

Helipads En-Route Kedarnath for Helicopter Services

Sersi Helipad

• Distance from Kedarnath: 23 km
• Time taken to reach Kedarnath Temple: 11 minutes
• Ticket Price: INR 2470 Per Person
• Altitude: 6500 feet
• Accommodation: There are many hotels established at Sersi and its nearby places like Sonprayag, Guptkashi, Phata, etc.

Phata Helipad

• Distance from Kedarnath: 31 km
• Time taken to reach Kedarnath Temple: 9 minutes
• Ticket Price: INR 2399 per person
• Altitude: 4921 feet
• Accommodation: Number of hotels are established at Phata and even in the nearby places.

Guptkashi Helipad

• Distance from Kedarnath: 46 km
• Time taken to reach Kedarnath Temple: 15 minutes
• Ticket Price: INR 4275 per head
• Altitude: near around 4800 feet
• Accommodation: It is one of the major stopovers of Kedarnath, hence many hotels are established there.

Sitapur Helipad

• Distance from Kedarnath: 22 km
• Time taken to reach Kedarnath Temple: 5 to 7 minutes
• Ticket Price: INR 4000 and more per person
• Location: It is located 7 km away from Gaurikund
• Accommodation: You can easily find accommodation as per your budget and desire at Sitapur itself and also the nearby places like Phata, Sonprayag, and Guptkashi.

Augustmuni Helipad

• Distance from Kedarnath: 70 km
• Time taken to reach Kedarnath Temple: 15 to 20 minutes
• Ticket Price: INR 4500 per head
• Altitude: 3280 feet
• Accommodation: No need to worry about the accommodation as good number of hotels are established there.

Dehradun to Kedarnath Helicopter Service

• Distance from Kedarnath: 266 km
• Time taken to reach Kedarnath temple: 45 minutes in general
• Ticket Price: INR
• Altitude: 2175 feet
• Accommodation: There are many hotels and resorts established in Dehradun so you don’t need to worry about your stay.

Why Should You Visit Kedarnath By Helicopter?

There are several perks and benefits that you get to avail with helicopter service and a few of them are enlisted below:

• Reduces the time span of journey: It is very obvious that if you go through the trekking trails then it is going to take a lot of time and you can save your time by opting for chopper service.
• Makes your journey easier and more convenient: It doesn’t only help in reducing the time of reaching the shrine but also reduces the stress level of the pilgrims and make it easier and convenient for them to cover this arduous journey.
• VVIP Pass: Some of the companies also provide you the facility of getting VVIP Pass with your Kedarnath helicopter tour packages, hence it’s a great deal.
• Worth the money: Many people believe that it is economical as compared to road journey and this is very true that the cost of Kedarnath helicopter ticket is little high but the convenience you get is worth the money. Also, covering the surface travel is not at all easy and you will be spending money on your food and drink en-route so there is not a huge difference in the price.
• Mesmerizing views of Snow peaked mountains: Witnessing the glory and charm of snow clad mountains from a height is really an eye treating and soul soothing experience. So, why to wait more? Let’s complete your booking procedure and set yourself to experience the alluring and admiring beauty of the scenic vistas.

How much time does it take to reach the shrine by helicopter?

It almost takes 45 minutes to cover the distance between Sahastradhara Helipad in Dehradun and Kedarnath Dham. 1 Hr and 30 minutes is more than enough to do the philosophy of Lord Shiva and seek his blessings for lifelong prosperity and wealth.

Frequently Asked Questions regarding Helicopter service for Kedarnath Yatra

Below enlisted are few of the most common questions that run in the minds of every travelers planning for Kedarnath Yatra.

Q. Can we go to Kedarnath by helicopter?

Ans- Yes, thousands of devotees seek avail the facility of chopper service for Kedarnath.

Q. How far is Kedarnath Temple from the helipad?

Ans- Scroll up the page and you will get the answer as we have enlisted the details of each helipad.

Q. How can I book Pawan Hans for Kedarnath?

Ans- Go to their official website and contact them for your query and they will guide you for further process required.

Q. What is the cost of Kedarnath?

Ans- The cost varies according to the helipad and if you want to know about this in detail then scroll up the page.

Q. What is the limitation of baggage weight?

Ans- A baggage of only 5 kg weight is allowed to be carried by each passenger and you are not allowed to carry suitcase.

Q. What is the criteria of ticket concession for kids?

Ans- Children below 2 years of age can travel free in the chopper but there will be no extra seat allotted to them. Kindly check the terms and conditions of the company you are engaging for your trip as it might vary.

Q. What is the distance between the Kedarnath Temple and the helipad?

Ans- Only 500 meter and this distance is easily covered by the devotees on barefoot.

Q. Is there any chance of flight cancellation?

Ans- Yes, there are chances that your flight might get postponed or cancelled due to the weather conditions, hence you are requested to be ready to face such situations.

Q. Can we buy one way ticket to Kedarnath?

Ans- Absolutely

Q. What time will I spend at the temple if I have booked round way ticket?

Ans- You don’t need to worry about this as there is a gap of almost 2 hours between your flights, so enjoy your helicopter ride and Darshan at Kedarnath.

Month Wise Guide of Weather Conditions in Kedarnath

About Kedarnath Dham:

Established by the great saint, sage, seer and philosopher Adi Shankaracharya during the 8^th century and sitting against the majestic snow-capped backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath Dham is located in the district of Rudraprayag at an elevation of 3,583 metres above sea level. Literally translating into ‘the lord of the field’, the temple of Kedarnath is known for being one of the oldest and the most significant Jyotirlinga dedicated to Lord Shiva. Here Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Lord Kedar with the presiding deity being in the form of a triangular, shiny black rock.

If you are planning on taking this holy pilgrimage then here is detailed information about its weather conditions month wise:

• January – With the average temperature here touching -3.7 degree Celsius the overall temperature for the month of January remains freezing cold. The entire region gets covered in a thick covering of snowmaking accessibility impossible.
• February – The temperature during this month does not show any substantial changes where it remains at an average of -2.3 degree Celsius. Accessibility to the temple is shut down during these months and snow is also present in this area.
• March – This month experiences some significant rise in the temperature where it goes up till 1.2 degree Celsius and the snow starts to melt. The temple area is then cleared out of snow to make it ready for the on season.
• April – The temple usually opens up during the last week of April and the temperature during this month goes up till 5.6 degree Celsius while the temperatures drop substantially during night. This is one of the most preferred times to visit Kedarnath Dham.
• May – During this month the temperature rises up till 9.3 degree Celsius and there is an influx of pilgrims and tourists here. This is also considered to be one of the best times to visit Kedarnath.
• June – This is officially the summer month at Kedarnath where the temperature goes up till 11.9 degree Celsius. This is the time when Kedarnath Dham witnesses the most amounts of pilgrims and visitors.
• July – With the temperature hitting up till 12.3 degree Celsius this month marks the onset of the monsoon season. This is considered to be a dangerous time to visit Kedarnath Dham since the entire region remains prone to heavy and torrential rainfall along with unexpected landslides.
• August – This is the second monsoon month that is experienced in Kedarnath Dham when the temperature goes up till 12 degree Celsius. The temperature takes a dramatic turn in this month when it changes eventually from rainy to winter months. This month is also not advised for going on the Yatra to Kedarnath.
• September – The temperature here experiences a significant drop with average being around 9.8 degree Celsius. However if you want to have an experience of the freezing cold Himalayan winter then this is a good time to visit Kedarnath. Make sure you are bundled up on your winter clothing and accessories.
• October – The temperature falls to an average of about 5.3 degree Celsius and the overall weather condition here experiences a dramatic change. People visiting during this time are advised to visit with heavy woolen and winter clothing items. This month also witnesses some amount of snowfall.
• November – With the temperature dropping as low as 1.6 degree Celsius and the entire region getting buried under heavy snowfall, this is the month when the temple Kapat generally closes for Darshan and the Char Dham Yatra is shut down for the season. The temple Kapat closes off during the auspicious eve of Bhai Dooj.
• December – The temperature during this month continues to fall with the average temperature going as low as -1.4 degree Celsius. All access to the temple are shut down due to the presence of a thick and heavy layer of snow.

During the winter months and after the shutting down of the temple Kapat after incredible celebrations, the idol of the presiding deity is then shifted to its winter abode in Ukhimath. This is done so in order to allow the devotees and pilgrims to continue their journey for the Char Dham Yatra and offer their prayers and rituals to the lord there.

Best Time to Visit

As mentioned above, the summer months of May to July are considered to be the most comfortable time to go on this holy pilgrimage Yatra. It is advised for you to avoid making the Yatra during the monsoon months of July to September since this may prove to be fatal for you and your loved ones. In case you want to encounter lesser crowd then visiting this temple during the month of September to October is advised for you.

Modern Yoga and Meditation Cave in Kedarnath

A modern cave in Kedarnath has been prepared by wood stone construction company with the support of Jindal group. It possesses all the facilities and equipment required for the functioning of a state of the art yoga centre which gives the visitor a much needed peace of mind and some spiritual enlightenment. Facilities like electricity, water and a DSPT phone has been made available inside the cave. This initiative was started by Prime Minister Narendra Modi who, on his visit to Kedarnath Dham, had instructed the government of Uttarakhand to construct a cave with a focus primarily on yoga and meditation. After strict instructions from the Prime Minister, CM of Uttarakhand – Trivendra Singh Rawat, CM of Uttar Pradesh – Yogi Adityanath along with the chief secretary Utpal Kumar paid regular visits to Kedarnath Dham to keep a keen eye on the construction of this cave yoga centre.

Facilities Available Inside the Cave:

This unique cave yoga and meditation centre is located at a distance of one and a half km from the main Kedarnath Dham on the side of Chorabari Lake. The respected DM of Rudraprayag, Mangesh Ghildiyal, also kept a keen eye on the construction and development of this unique place. The overall area of the cave is 5 metre long and 3 metres broad which also has a toilet along with a 2.5 metre long bathroom. This cave also has electricity services along with a DSPT phone due to security concerns. There is a small courtyard present right outside the cave along with a Havan Kund right next to it which is used for performing puja rituals. The most impressive feature is the presence of beds inside the cave which makes the stay here all the more comfortable. Contribution has also been made by the Jindal group to wood stone construction company as a generous gesture in order to make this dream into a reality. This construction company had kick-started the work on this magnificent cave on 20^th April 2018 and has now been completed.

Trek Details Gaurikund to Kedarnath

Kedarnath Dham is one of the Chardham in the Chota Chardham circuit and is dedicated to Lord Shiva commonly known as Kedareshwara in that place. This is the highest of all Lord Shiva Jyotirlingams that the country has. Kedarnath Dham is perched at an elevation of 3584 meters above the sea level and comes within Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district. Amid the snowy peaks of the majestic Garhwal Himalayas stands the much revered Kedarnath temple.

The journey to Kedarnath religious shrine combines the spiritual joy of a religious destination and the aura of a mesmerizing tourist destination. The path to Kedarnath passes through alpine forests, rhododendron thickets and emerald vales.

To reach Kedarnath shrine, you have to trek a distance of 14kms from Gaurikund base camp perched at an elevation of 2900m above the sea level. First stopover for Kedarnath Yatra is Sonprayag. It can be reached by Vehicle. From Sonprayag you can reach Gaurikund by means of hired taxis which however move one way only from Sonprayag to Gaurikund to avoid unwanted traffic snarls.

From Gaurikund you’ll have to start your trek towards the Kedarnath shrine. The path is rugged, mountainous Himalayan path running meandering amid the snow clad peaks. Trekking on that path requires lots of strength of mind and body. The weather of the Himalayas is unpredictable. You cannot just travel anytime of the day you want as the weather changes most drastically and abruptly all along the day. Keeping a Kedarnath weather guide map with you while you trek may come handy in times of emergency.

As the trek route commences you’ll have concrete road before you to walk on. After you have traveled 7kms of the route, you’ll reach a place; your most significant halt on the trek route. After Rambara, trek route becomes quite steeper and one has to make an ascent of nearly 1500m until there is only 1km left between the trekker and the shrine. On this last 1km the steepness yields place to a flattened path before you. From Rambara onwards the ambient air becomes thin and contains low level of oxygen. Trekkers may face difficulty in breathing from this point onwards. As per norms, the trek to Kedarnath from Gaurikund has to start before 1.30pm and no pilgrims will be allowed to leave for trek beyond 1.30pm. Kedarnath pilgrims also need to possess a fitness certificate and registration certificate prior to embarking on the trek.

Facilities Available on the Trek Route

Some of the facilities you can expect on the Kedarnath Dham trek route are:

• On the route until Rambara, small shops selling biscuits, tea, chocolate, noodles etc occur at an interval of every 200 meters
• At Rambara, you’ll get a GMVN Guest house along with few other guest houses too
• Those who find difficult trekking can avail other conveyance modes such as ponis or palkis. After having walked for about ½ km on the route post Gaurikund, you’ll find government booking counters to books these conveyance facilities

Kedarnath History – Kedarnath Dham Ledgend Stories

Along the banks of River Mandakini and perched atop the Garhwal Himalayas at an elevation of 3584m above the sea level stands the Kedarnath Dham. It is an abode of Kedarnath ji, a manifestation of lord Shiva and is one of the Chardham in the Chota Chardham pilgrimage circuit. Baba Kedar shrine is one of the 12 Shiva Jyotirlingams that dot the country. It is the highest of all lord Shiva Jyotirlingams present in our country. Magnificent snow cloaked Himalayan mountain ranges surround the Kedarnath Dham. The shrine of Kedarnath remains from the month of April until November.

After November the shrine shuts down due to heavy snowfall. Kedarnath Dham Yatra is organized every year during the travel season; i.e. when the temple remains open. When and how the Kedarnath Dham came into being is shrouded in the mysteries of time. There are many fascinating legends and mythological tales associated with the origin of Kedarnath Dham. In other words, the history of Kedarnath is buried in myths. Let’s learn about the myths and legends associated with Kedarshwar Dham.

One legend says that when Nar and Narayana; the two lord Vishnu incarnations carried out rigorous penance in the presence of an earthen Shiva lingam in Bharat Khand’s Badrikashram, Lord Shiva was moved by their devotion. He appeared before them to bless them and give them a boon. When the lord told them that they may ask for a boon, they implored him to settle down at that very spot in the form of a Cosmic Column or ‘Jyotirlingam’ so that the generations thereafter could pray to the lord, get blessed by him and get respite from their sufferings. Lord Shiva agreed to their wish and settled down at Kedarnath forever. And that’s how Kedarnath Dham came into being.

Another legend says that Pandavas, post the great battle of Mahabharata, were struck by immense guilt feeling for having committed the sin of killing their own kinsmen. They wanted to pray to lord Shiva and get their sin absolved. They went looking for him to Kashi but Lord Shiva, annoyed with them due to their sinful act, did not want to free them from their sin so easily. So, he escaped and hid himself at Guptakashi; i.e. ‘Hidden Kashi’. The Pandava brothers went looking for him to Guptkashi. In order to evade them, Lord Shiva took the guise of a bull and attempted to escape by diving into the undergrounds. But Bhima; one of the Pandava brothers seized ‘him’; i.e. the bull by the tail. As a result, the body of the bull disintegrated and scattered into different directions. The hump of the bull fell on the area where the temple of Kedarnath stands at present. This explains why the Shiva lingam enshrined in the temple of Kedarnath is shaped like the bull’s hump. Later on, a temple was built over the hump-shaped Shiva lingam and that is how the Kedarnath temple came into being. The other body parts of the bull fell in the other parts of Garhwal Himalayas and on each of those parts, a shrine dedicated to lord Shiva was built. All those shrines along with the shrine of Kedarnath is collectively referred to as Panch Kedars. Panch Kedar Yatra is another important pilgrimage journey for all devout Shiva devotees.

Kedarnath Dham Location – How To Reach Kedarnath By Road, Train, Flights

Kedarnath is the third leg of the Chardham Yatra in Uttarakhand and inarguably the toughest. Intrepid pilgrims trek over 13 to 16 kms to reach the holy shrine of Kedarnath, one of the 12 Jyotirlingams in India. Located in the Rudraprayag district,. Kedarnath is at a height of 3584 metres. The temple is by the side of the Mandakini River and can be reached by a trek from Gaurikund or by riding ponies. The temple usually opens in the first week of May and closes just after Diwali. Heavy snowfalls and landslides make it absolutely inaccessible in winter.

Kedarnath Temple during winter

Reaching Kedarnath by Road

However inhospitable the terrain and tough the trek, devout pilgrims undertake this Yatra to Kedarnath as part of their spiritual duty. One can fly into Jolly Grant airport at Dehradun and travel the distance of 238 km to Kedarnath by road. One can arrive at Haridwar railway junction, proceed to Rishikesh and then onwards by road to Kedarnath, about 216 km away by NH 58. Some people even get into guided char Dham Yatra starting at Delhi. In any case the most commonly used route is from Rishikesh to Devprayag to Srinagar to Rudraprayag, Tilwara, Agastamuni, Guptkashi, Phata, Sonprayag and Gaurikund by road. From here on walks 7 km to Rambara and 4 km to Linchauli before the final 3 km leg to Kedarnath.

By Train: The closest railway station is located in Rishikesh which caters to a number trains from various different, major as well as minor cities and towns of India. From here Kedarnath Dham is situated at a distance of 216 kms. You will be able to hire a taxi or a cab heading for Kedarnath Dham.

By Air: The closest airport heading for Kedarnath Dham is situated in Dehradun which is the Jolly Grant airport and is located at a distance of 238 kms from the main Dham shrine. This airport caters to flights from various towns like Lucknow, Mumbai, Delhi and even Thiruvananthapuram.

Helicopter Yatra to Kedarnath

Trekking 16 kilometers from Gaurikund to Kedarnath could take up the whole day and it is not for everyone. The Kedarnath Yatra by road is time-consuming and involves some physical discomfort too. If you value your time and wish to avoid discomfort then the easiest and fastest way to fulfil your spiritual obligation is to opt for a yatra by helicopter. There are several helicopter services to Kedarnath that take you to Kedarnath and back to your destination in just one day. You can board a Bell helicopter at Guptkashi, Agastmuni, Phata, Sersi or at Sonprayag and fly into Kedarnath, have Darshan and then return the same day. There are helipads at each of these places.

Helicopter Yatra to Kedarnath

It is also possible to undertake a pilgrimage to Badrinath. Some helicopter services include Badrinath-Kedarnath in a do Dham Yatra. Such facilities are available at Sahastradhara helipad at Dehradun. You get into the helicopter at around 12.45 PM, fly to Kedarnath, have quick Darshan and then fly onwards to Badrinath, have Darshan and return by 4.45 to Dehradun and by night you may be back in Delhi.

Some things to keep in mind when boarding a helicopter for Kedarnath Yatra

• You will need to undergo a medical checkup
• If your weight is in excess you could be charged extra
• You can take the morning ride or the afternoon ride. Usually overnight stay at Kedarnath is not permitted so you will have to find a hotel at the nearest location. This means you can purchase a one way ticket.
• If you fly in the morning then you are allowed 1.5 hours for Darshan. You may need to pay extra for priority Darshan ticket to allow you to get into the temple and return quickly to the helicopter. The helicopter returns you to the origin point the same day.
• It is advisable to arrive at the helipad at least an hour prior to helicopter departure. Carry only small handbag.

It may be expensive but a helicopter Yatra is fast, easy and convenient.

Location

Sitting atop the Garhwal Himalayan ranges close to the holy Mandakini River this is one of the most crucial pillars of the char dham yatra. This temple opens up during the auspicious eve of Akshaya tritiya and shuts down during the holy day of Kartik Purnima. It is perched at an elevation of 11,755 feet above sea level and is not completely accessible by road. It can only be reached by completing an uphill trek of 18 kms that commences from Gaurikund. There are regular ponies and manchan services available which is guaranteed to make your journey more convenient.

Places to Visit around Kedarnath Dham

• Shankaracharya Samadhi: As the name suggests this place is dedicated to the famous sage, seer and philosopher Adi Shankaracharya who is said to have propounded the Adwaita philosophy along with establishing the all India char dham yatra during the 8th century.
• Chandrashila: The beautiful and panoramic Chandrashila peak is situated amidst the tall and lush green deodar and rhododendron forests. The trekking journey will take you across some of the most picturesque and awe-inspiring sights and avenues. This trekking expedition is an easy option for beginner treks looking to have a taste of the Himalayan adventure.
• Sonprayag: Located at a height of 1829 metres above sea level this place is the iconic site where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are said to have married each other. This place is an ideal location for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You will be greeted by impressive views of the snow-clad mountain tops and a bountiful natural beauty.
• Vasuki Tal: Sitting at an altitude of 14,200 feet above sea level this glimmering, blue, high glacial lake is believed to be the place where Lord Vishnu is said to have taken his bath. The entire lake is encircled with blooming Brahma Kamal and a range of other Himalayan flowers which are a treat to the eyes.

Best Time to Visit Kedarnath Dham

Being located at a high elevation Kedarnath is only accessible and can be comfortably reached during the summer months of April to June when the snow has melted. It is inaccessible during the monsoon months of July to September due to the unexpected and usually harsh weather changes like torrential rains and landslides which may put your and your loved one’s life at risk.

The Kedarnath Temple is the Home of Lord Shiva

The Kedarnath Temple, surrounded by the snowy ranges in the holy Garhwal Himalayas, is one of most sacred Hindu shrines committed to Lord Shiva, the Perpetuator of Truth. It is of utmost importance due to its presence as one of the sites in the Chota Char Dham (Four Sites) pilgrimage circuit. Located in the Uttarkashi district in the Uttarakhand state of India near the Mandakini River, this temple is enshrined with one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the Lingas of Light, known to be the phallic form of Lord Shiva.

Built in the 8th century by Jagat Guru, Shri Adi Shankaracharya, the Kedarnath temple is only open for worship from April to November due to harsh weather in the remaining time of winter in the year. After closure, the head priest (Rawal) who moves towards Ukhimath at 60 km to worship Kedareshwara, Lord of the Kedar Khand (current region).

Legend

Many legends are associated with the temple. According to the narrative Puranas, the older temple here was there since the era of Mahabharata during which the Pandavas must have delighted Shiva through their penance in Kedarnath.

According to other legends, the two manifestations of Lord Vishnu (the Perpetuator of Life) known as Nara and Narayana underwent ardent penance in front of an emerged lingam from Earth in Badrinath. Pleased with this, Lord Shiva asked them for a boon because of which he was asked to permanently reside as a Jyotirlinga to destroy people’s tensions.

It is also said that Lord Shiva’ divine consort – Mata Parvati, worshipped Lord Shiva.

The Temple

To reach the Kedarnath Temple, you need to trek 18 km uphill from Gaurikund. The temple is an imposing stone edifice wherein at its entrance, you can see the statues of five Pandavas, Lord Krishna (incarnation of Lord Vishnu), Nandi (holy vehicle of Lord Shiva), and Virbhadra – the guard of Lord Shiva in the first hall. The hall’s walls exhibit pictures of many deities and Hindu mythology scenes. The inner sanctum is where the lingam resides for public worship. What will stun you here is the sculpted head of a man in the triangular fascia, which is also seen in another nearby temple where the Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati.

Behind the temple, do visit the Samadhi mandir (resting place) of Shree Adi Shankaracharya.

Other Attractions

Chorabari

Located at 2 km and also known as the Gandhi Sarovar, this is a sacred lake from where it is said that the elder Pandava brother, Yudhishthira, departed for heaven. The hovering ice on the waters offers a shimmering look.

Vasuki Tal

Located at 6 km, this is a lake from where you can have picturesque views of the Chaukhamba peaks.

Gaurikund

Located at 14 km and apart from being the starting point to reach the temple, this place is famous for a shrine of Goddess Gauri (Mata Parvati) and thermal medicinal springs.

Triyuginarayan

Located at 25 km from the temple and 5 km from Sonprayag, trek until here to be on the place marking the holy marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Further, do not miss to see the magically burning eternal flame right since marriage in the temple’s fascia.

Guptkashi

Located at 49 km, this is the home of popular shrines of Ardhnarishwar and Vishwanath.

Getting There:

By Air – The closest airport to Kedarnath Dham is located on the Rishikesh – Dehradun road which is Jolly Grant airport. After you debark from the airport you will be able to hire a taxi or get yourself a cab heading towards either Rishikesh / Haridwar or up till Gaurikund, whichever suits you best.

By Rail – The nearest railhead to reaching Kedarnath Dham is situated in Haridwar and Dehradun. These railway lines cater to trains from various different big and small towns and you can choose from the one that suits your needs the best.

By Road – The last road for Kedarnath is Gaurikund which caters to a number of private cars, buses, cabs and state transport. These transportation services cater from various closely situated cities like Rishikesh, Dehradun, Pauri, Dehradun, Uttarkashi etc.

Weather Conditions at Kedarnath:

Summer Season – This is considered to be the best time to visit Kedarnath Dham. With the temperatures touching 17 to 19 degrees Celsius and the overall atmosphere being extremely pleasant the summer months of May, June and early July are a much preferred time to visit this holy Dham.

Monsoon Season – The months of July to August is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening time to visit Kedarnath or any other Dham Yatra. The entire region remains prone to extremely unpredictable weather changes resulting in sudden torrential downpour of rains and unpredictable landslides.

Winter Season – The winter months commence from November and lasts till April during which the temple Kapat shuts down for Darshan and the entire region gets blanketed in a thick covering of snow. Helicopter services are also shut down due to inaccessibility.

Opening and Closing Dates:

The temple Kapat is opened for Darshan according to the change in season during the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya. The entire Dhams and the regions surrounding them spring to life. After a fun-filled and a complete spiritual time spent here the temple Kapat shuts down during the holy time of Bhai Dooj, which takes place a few days after Diwali.

Accommodation Facilities:

There are a number of budget-friendly accommodation facilities available which cater to the needs of all the travelers to Kedarnath Dham. If you wish to have a more comfortable stay then you have the option of booking a hotel or a lodge close to the Kedar valley for eg. at Guptkashi. There are also comfortable stay options at camping and tents located at close vicinity to the main temple. There are also government guesthouses available at the cheapest rates by the GMVN which consist of individual rooms as well as dorm room facilities. Accommodation in Kedarnath is not a matter of concern since there a number of options available however, make sure that all your bookings are done way beforehand in order to avoid any sort of a problem related to hotels and stay that may arise during the journey.