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Description

Kedarnath Temple is one of the most revered and ancient Hindu temples located in the Garhwal Himalayan range in Uttarakhand, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, considered to be the holiest abodes of Lord Shiva.

Significance and Legends: Kedarnath Temple is one of the four major sites of the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage, along with Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri, and is an essential destination for Hindu devotees. It is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,583 meters (11,755 feet), making it one of the highest and most challenging pilgrimage sites to reach.

According to Hindu mythology, the temple is said to have been built by the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata. After the great Kurukshetra War, the Pandavas sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva for their sins committed during the war. However, Lord Shiva did not want to meet them, so he assumed the form of a bull and hid in the Garhwal region. The Pandavas eventually found him, and the temple was built at that location.

Architecture: The Kedarnath Temple displays simple yet awe-inspiring architecture, constructed mainly of large stone slabs and wooden beams. The temple's conical shape is topped with a golden dome (gumbad), and the exterior is adorned with intricate carvings of deities and mythological figures.

Inner Sanctum: The main sanctum houses the lingam, representing Lord Shiva. Unlike most other temples, the lingam in Kedarnath is in an irregular, naturally occurring rock formation inside the sanctum.

Opening and Closing Dates: Due to the extreme weather conditions in the region, Kedarnath Temple remains open only for six months in a year, from April to November. During the winter months, the temple is closed, and the deity is moved to Ukhimath, where it is worshipped during this period.

Pilgrimage and Trek: The journey to Kedarnath Temple is considered arduous but spiritually rewarding. Devotees have to undertake a trek of around 16 kilometers from Gaurikund to reach the temple. Horse and palanquin services are available for those who find the trek difficult.

Kedarnath Temple is not only a major religious site but also an epitome of natural beauty, surrounded by picturesque mountains and the Mandakini River. The devotion and reverence associated with this sacred place make it an essential pilgrimage destination for Lord Shiva's devotees from all over the world.