Overview
- Kedarnath Temple is one of the holy places recognized among the twelve Jyotirlingas and is located in the beautiful state of Uttarakhand in the Rudraprayag district. Kedarnath Temple is one of the most religiously significant temples of Lord Shiva. Located at a height of 3,584 meters above sea level in the mesmerizing land of Kedarnath on the banks of the river Mandakini, this historic temple invites travelers from different parts of the world who embark on a pilgrimage. Indeed, in this writing, you will learn everything you need to know about the history, religious importance, and adventurous sightseeing of Kedarnath, in addition to other important religious sites such as Gaurikund, Rudraprayag, and Haridwar.
- In terms of cultural and spiritual tourism, the Kedarnath Temple is rich in cultural heritage, depicted by its stone architecture. The original name was “Kedar Khand,” and the location hosts many myths and folklore stories. According to legends, this temple was constructed by the Pandavas, who fought and lost the great war of the Mahabharata at Kurukshetra. The present structure of the temple was built by Adi Shankaracharya in the eighth century AD when Hinduism revived and he established the four sacred shrines of Hindus, among them Kedarnath.
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- The temple of Pancharan is constructed in devotion to Lord Shiva as Kedar, referred to as the Lord of Kedar Khand. It is believed that to expiate the sin done during the battlefield of Kurukshetra, the Pandavas came to seek Lord Shiva’s darshan. Shiva, angry and unable to forgive them, disguised himself as a bull and resided deep in the Garhwal Himalayas. He wished to commit suicide but was found by the Pandavas, and out of shame, he burrowed into the earth and emerged only with his hump at Kedarnath. The other parts of his body emerged in four other places, called the Panch Kedar.
- Kedarnath is not only a temple but a manifest form of Shakti, or energy, a sacred site that offers ample knowledge about spirituality. Even tourists visiting the Kedarnath temple feel a sense of purity, perhaps due to the vibrations of good karma. The temple is also one of the 275 arrow-proof and gigantic temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in the world, further enhancing its importance.
- Kedarnath is a worthy destination to visit, but the experience of reaching there is quite fulfilling. The trek starts in Gaurikund, located at an altitude of about 6473 feet above sea level. This is not merely the starting point of the trek but is also one of the most important pilgrimage sites. According to one legend, this is where Lord Shiva declared his affection for the goddess Parvati. Another legend states that Parvati spent years in meditation to win Shiva’s love. Furthermore, this is where Lord Ganesha got his famous elephant head. Gaurikund has hot water facilities for baths, giving the first purging to trekkers before they step onto the pilgrim trek.
- It is about sixteen km from Gaurikund to reach Kedarnath, and the track is rocky and a combination of a moderate to steep climb, which makes it attractive to adventure lovers. This well-designed trail offers stunning views of the snow-clad mountains, green wooded areas, and gushing waterfalls. While on the trek, trekkers get to cross beautiful villages, adding to the cultural significance and hospitality of the inhabitants. There are numerous postcard places on the route with food stalls and resting points offering tea and other local delicacies. The boosting spirit from fellow trekkers, the fresh mountain air, and the anticipation of reaching the holy temple make the trek a fully rewarding and challenging experience.
Ad-on (Per person):
- Delhi Pickup and Drop by AC Semi Sleeper Volvo: 2000/- per person
- Advance Helicopter Bookings Cost: ₹15,000/- Two-way subject to availability.
- One way Horse/Poter: 1200 - 3000 per person
- Get the Best Deals on round-trip flight & train tickets to Delhi from your city.
Note: Pay 5000/- to block your seats and pay the rest 15 days before the event.
3 Nights 4 Days
04 Apr, 11 Apr, 18 Apr, and more
Inclusions/Exclusions
What is included in the tour
What is included in the tour
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Transportation: Surface transfer via Tempo Traveler / Cab
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Accommodations: Hotel Accommodations in Guptkashi and Kedarnath on a Double/ Triple/Quad/Penta/Hexa sharing basis as per the Itinerary.
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Meal Plans: 6 meals (Day 2 Dinner, Day 3 Breakfast + Dinner, Day 4 Breakfast + Dinner, Day 5 Breakfast)
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Activities: Kedarnath Trekking
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Sightseeing as per Itinerary.
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Toll taxes and parking charges.
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Driver Allowances.
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All necessary permits.
What is NOT included in the tour
What is NOT included in the tour
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5% GST
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Sonprayag to Gaurikund Sumo Fare (Rs 30-40)
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Yatra registration as per required. (https://registrationandtouristcare.uk.gov.in/)
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Any porter, pony, palki, or helicopter tickets.
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Any additional expenses such as of personal nature.
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Any Entry tickets at exploration sites.
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Any adventures activities
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Additional accommodation/food costs incurred due to any delayed travel.
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Any lunch and other meals not mentioned in Package Inclusions.
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Any kind of tips
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Any other services not specified above in Inclusions.
Highlights
What makes this tour special
- Ancient Temple: Kedarnath Temple is one of the oldest temples in India, believed to have been built by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era.
- Dedicated to Lord Shiva: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most important deities in Hinduism.
- High Altitude: The temple is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest temples in India.
- Magnificent Architecture: The temple’s architecture is a beautiful blend of ancient and modern styles, featuring intricate carvings and a unique design.
- Unique Rituals: The temple has several unique rituals, including the Abhishekam ceremony, in which the idol of Lord Shiva is bathed with water, milk, and other offerings.
- Char Dham Yatra: Kedarnath Temple is one of the four shrines that make up the Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage tour that is considered one of the most sacred in Hinduism.
- Importance in Hindu Mythology: According to Hindu mythology, Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered to be the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. It is also believed to be the place where Lord Shiva absolved Pandavas of the sin of killing their own brothers during the Mahabharata war.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 01: Haridwar / Rishikesh to Sonprayag
- 04:00 - 05:00 AM: Pickup from Haridwar (Deen Dayal Parking)
- 06:30 AM: Pickup from Rishikesh (Tapovan)
- Starting your onward journey to Sonprayag
- We make the journey via the Devprayag and Rudraprayag route, which offers us breathtaking glimpses of rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini.
- One interesting fact is that the river Mandakini originates from Kedarnath, which only adds to the spiritual energy and aura that makes this entire trip special.
- Visit Dhari Devi Temple and continue our journey to Sonprayag.
- Check in at the hotel and enjoy the evening.
- Overnight stay at Sonprayag.
- Meals: Dinner
Day 02: Kedarnath Trek : Sonprayag - Gaurikund - Kedarnath
- Trek 19 km || Alt 3384 m
- After an early morning 3 AM breakfast, check out from the hotel leaving extra luggage at the hotel for convenience.
- Later depart for Sonprayag and take a jeep to Gaurikund at your own cost. (it is charged around 30-40 Rs per person)
- Start your trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath (by Pony / Doli / Helicopter at your own cost).
- The moderate-level trek starts from Gaurikhand and continues to Kedarnath for about 21 km.
- The trek takes approximately 8-10 hours, offering breathtaking views throughout.
- Evening Aarti offered to Lord Shiva around 6:30 PM, satiating the environment with faith, dedication, and spirituality.
- Overnight stay at Kedarnath.
- Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 03: Kedarnath - Sonprayag - Sitapur
- Wake up early in the morning for the morning darshan at Kedarnath Ji.
- Afterward, take your time to explore the surroundings, including Bhimshila, the Adi Shankaracharya Statue, and the Bhairav temple.
- Later, have breakfast and check-out from the hotel.
- We'll commence the trek back to Gaurikund, a 6-7 hour journey.
- Reach Gaurikund and take a shared cab to Soanprayag.
- On board our Bus, Cab or Walk to the hotel at Sitapur.
- Stay at the Hotel in Sitapur.
Day 04: Sonprayag - Rishikesh/Haridwar
- Drive 210 km || 6-8 Hours
- Have your last breakfast and depart for Haridwar/Rishikesh.
- Afterward this soul-nourishing journey to Kedarnath we shall bid adieu to each other from Haridwar.
- We shall reach by 6-8 pm at Haridwar. This journey and this trek are going to change you and your inner self. This trek is going to fill us with immense peace, calm, and happiness as if lord Shiva has blessed us. All hail lord Shiva.
- Meals: Breakfast
Notes:
- Be prepared for potential delays due to roadblocks, crowds, permits, vehicle issues, or weather changes. For a more comfortable experience, consider alternative North India trips.
- This fast-paced, backpacking-style trip is ideal for adventurous travelers under 40, looking for an energetic and immersive experience.
Things to Carry
Mandatory DocumentsMedical CertificateGovt ID card with name and addressSelf-declared formBagsBackpack (40-60 liters)FootwearTrekking shoes: No sports shoes. The shoes need to have soles with good grip and ankle support.Socks (3 pairs): 2 pairs of cotton (for trekking) + 1 woolen pair (used only for sleeping)Sandals/Slippers for walking aroundClothesTrek pants (2) including the one you are wearing.Collared t-shirts (3 including the one you are wearing)Preferably light, full-sleeved t-shirts.Thick jacket: Carry 1 hollow full-sleeve windproof jacket/down jacket.Thermal inners: 1 pair of lightweight, upper and lower (optional)AccessoriesRaincoat/poncho: (Mandatory as it can rain anytime in the mountains)Woolen cap/ Balaclava: (Must protect ears)Hand gloves: (Ensure that the gloves are warm and waterproof.)Sunglasses: Any dark color but blue. Sunglasses prevent snow blindness. Sunglasses are mandatory for this trek.Other Toiletries(Sunscreen - SPF 40+, moisturizer, light towel, lip balm/chapstick, small soap, toilet paper, wet tissue)Headlamp/LED torch(Mandatory)Camera: Carry all accessories - spare batteries, charger, etc.Water bottles: 2 bottles, 1 Litre each.Trekking pole: Trekking pole is mandatory. You can also rent a wooden stick from Gaurikund.Plastic covers: While packing, use plastic bags to compartmentalize things and carry a few extra plastic bags for wet clothes.Personal Medical KitMandatory. All these things need to go into one backpack. So make sure they are all light and you carry as little as possible.
Cost
Standard Package: Sonprayag 3* Hotel Stay with Dinner & Breakfast & Attached Washroom, Kedarnath Rooms/Dormitory Stay with Common Washroom, no Dinner & Breakfast.
Quad Sharing: 11,000/-
Triple Sharing: 13,000/-
Dual Sharing: 15,400/-