Kedarnath

Kedarnath is a Hindu pilgrimage town located in the Rudraprayag district of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated on the Garhwal Himalayan range, at a height of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level. The town is renowned for the Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The temple is a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus, drawing millions of devotees each year, particularly during the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage.

The pilgrimage to Kedarnath is considered arduous due to its high altitude and the challenging terrain. Devotees typically travel from Rishikesh or Haridwar to Gaurikund, the last motorable road, and then undertake a trek of approximately 16 kilometers to reach the temple. Ponies, palanquins, and helicopter services are also available to assist pilgrims. The Kedarnath Temple itself is an ancient structure built of stone, with intricate carvings and a sanctum sanctorum housing a divine lingam.

The region experiences extreme weather conditions, and the temple remains open only for six months, typically from late April or early May to October or November, due to heavy snowfall during winter. The Kedarnath area is part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered musk deer. The devastating floods of 2013 caused significant damage to the town and the temple, but extensive reconstruction and restoration efforts have since been undertaken.