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Overview
Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Kedarnath Temple is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated at an elevation of 3,583 meters, it’s one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and part of the Char Dham Yatra. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the temple offers a breathtaking backdrop to its spiritual ambiance. Pilgrims embark on a challenging journey to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, enshrined in the form of a lingam. Kedarnath’s remote location and the spiritual aura of the Himalayas make it a revered destination for devotees and trekkers alike.
Historical background and Architectural splendor
Kedarnath Temple’s origins intertwine with Hindu mythology, believed to be built over the hump of Lord Shiva after the battle of Kurukshetra. Adi Shankaracharya renovated the temple in the 8th century. Its architecture, reflecting the traditional Himalayan style, features sturdy stone construction, intricate carvings, and a conical-shaped shikhara amidst the snow-capped peaks.
F.A.Q
What is the Kedarnath Temple?
<p>The Kedarnath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Himalayan range near the Mandakini River in Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered the holiest abodes of Lord Shiva.</p>
Where is the Kedarnath Temple situated?
<p>The Kedarnath Temple is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, amidst the stunning backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand.</p>
What is the significance of the Kedarnath Temple?
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<p>The Kedarnath Temple holds immense religious significance for Hindus. It is believed to be one of the Panch Kedar temples, where devotees worship Lord Shiva in his form as the “Lord of the Kedar Khand.” It is also a part of the Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage circuit considered sacred by Hindus.</p>
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When was the Kedarnath Temple built?
<p>The exact date of the temple’s construction is not known, but it is believed to have been built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE. The temple has undergone renovations and reconstructions over the centuries.</p>
What is the legend associated with the origin of the Kedarnath Temple?
<p>According to Hindu mythology, the Kedarnath Temple is associated with the Pandavas, the central characters of the epic Mahabharata. It is believed that after the Kurukshetra War, the Pandavas sought the blessings of Lord Shiva to atone for their sins. Lord Shiva eluded them and took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull.</p>
Is the Kedarnath Temple open throughout the year?
<p>No, due to heavy snowfall in the region during winter, the Kedarnath Temple remains closed to devotees from November to April each year. It reopens in April or May, depending on weather conditions.</p>