Overview of Shri Kedarnath Temple
Shri Kedarnath Temple is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Rudraprayag chardham yatra district of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the five temples that make up the Panch Kedar, a significant pilgrimage circuit in Hinduism. According to legend, the temple was built by the Pandavas after their victory over the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra war, as they sought redemption for killing their kin. The temple is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters and can be reached by a 14 km trek from Gaurikund.
### Architectural Significance
The Kedarnath Temple is known for its ancient and impressive architecture. Built of massive stone slabs, the temple's construction evokes awe for the sheer effort involved in moving and chardham tour packages arranging the large stones in earlier times. The temple features a Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum) and a Mandap (assembly hall) for pilgrims. Inside the Garbha Griha, there is a conical rock formation, representing the hump of a bull, which is worshipped as Lord Shiva in his Sadashiva form. Outside the temple, a large statue of Nandi, the sacred bull, stands as a guardian.
### History and Legends
The origins of the Kedarnath Temple are rooted in the Mahabharata. The Pandavas, after winning the Kurukshetra war, sought blessings from Lord Shiva to atone for their sins. However, Lord Shiva eluded them by taking the form of a bull and diving into the ground at Kedarnath, leaving behind his hump. This hump is now the central focus of worship chardham yatra from haridwar in the temple. The other parts of Shiva appeared at four other locations, forming the Panch Kedar: Tungnath (arms), Rudranath (face), Madhyamaheshwar (belly), and Kalpeshwar (hair).
### Seasonal Closure and Reopening
Due to heavy snowfall in winter, the Kedarnath Temple closes from November to April. During this time, the symbolic statue of Lord Shiva is moved to Ukhimath, where it is worshipped until May. In the first week of May, on an auspicious date, the symbolic statue is carried back to Kedarnath and reinstated, marking the reopening of the temple. The pilgrimage season lasts until the first day of Kartik (October-November), when the temple closes again.
### Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Kedarnath Temple is from May to October when the weather is favorable, and the temple is accessible. The reopening of the temple in May is a significant event, attracting thousands of pilgrims from all over India. The trek to Kedarnath is challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
### Conclusion
Shri Kedarnath Temple is a significant religious site with deep connections to Hindu mythology and tradition. Its architectural grandeur and historical significance make it a prominent pilgrimage destination for devotees seeking spiritual fulfillment and blessings from Lord Shiva. Despite its challenging location and seasonal closures, the temple continues to attract pilgrims from all over India, offering a unique blend of spirituality and natural beauty.