The ek dham yatra refers to the pilgrimage to a single sacred shrine in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, with Kedarnath being one of the most significant destinations. As part of the larger char dham yatra, Kedarnath holds a special place in the hearts of millions of devotees who seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, making this journey a deeply spiritual and transformative experience.


Significance of Kedarnath
Kedarnath, situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet), is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered to be the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to have been constructed by the Pandavas, the protagonists of the Mahabharata, who sought Lord Shiva’s blessings for forgiveness after the Kurukshetra war. The temple’s serene setting amidst towering peaks adds to its spiritual aura, drawing devotees from across the country.Getting to Kedarnath
Base Locations: The journey to Kedarnath typically begins in Haridwar or Rishikesh, both of which are well-connected by road and rail.
Travel Route:
Haridwar/Rishikesh to Gaurikund: From Haridwar or Rishikesh, travelers must drive to Gaurikund, the last motorable point before Kedarnath. This journey covers approximately 240 kilometers and takes about 8-10 hours by road.
The Trek to Kedarnath
Once at Gaurikund, the trek to Kedarnath is approximately 16 kilometers and usually takes about 6 to 8 hours. The route is well-defined and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape.