Tucked at an altitude of 3,856m in the lap of the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site where Shiva devotees often visit. It offers many natural wonders, like magnificent kunds and amazing temples. Every temple in Kedarnath holds an outstanding legend associated with Shiva worship. Here are some of the religious places in Kedarnath to refresh your soul: 

Worship is a way of seeing the world in the light of God." — Abraham Joshua Heschel

1. Kedarnath Temple

It is considered to be the holiest shrine in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva, roughly 1200 years old. The jyotirlingas inside the temple are a symbol of peace and divinity. The Badri-Kedar festival is one of the most revered festivals celebrated in the temple every year in the month of June. 

According to Legend: Pandavas came here to atone for their misdeeds following the Kurukshetra War.

Special Tip: The temple is closed between 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. It is closed for 6 months because of the harsh climates in winter every year

Timings: 4:00 am to 9:00 pm

Aarti Timings: 4:00 am (morning), 7:00 pm (evening) 

Duration: 1 - 2 hours

Best time to visit: October to March

Location: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand

Distance from Kedarnath: 0.7 km

2. Rudranath Temple

It is one of the toughest religious places in Kedarnath to reach. It is third among the Panch Kedar, which is surrounded by many kunds like Manas Kund, Chandra Kund, and Tara Kund, which are the major highlights of the Rudranath Temple. 

According to Legend: The Pandavas from the Mahabharata are credited with constructing the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The head of Lord Shiva is said to have dropped here.

Special Tip: You must take a challenging trek to visit Rudranath Temple. Starting point of the trek commenced from Sagar Village, Helang, or Urgam Village. 

Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm

Aarti Timings: 8:00 am (morning), 7:00 pm (evening) 

Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Best time to visit: May to October

Location: Rudranath, Uttarakhand

Distance from Kedarnath: 33 km

3. Bhairav Nath Temple

The temple offers mesmerizing views of the Kedar Valley and Kedarnath temple. The temple's main god, often called Kshetrapal or the area's protector, mounts a dog and wields a Trishul as a weapon. Because of its legend associated with God Bhairav, it is the most religious temple in Kedarnath. 

According to Legend: Before opening the door of Kedarnath temple, it's important to worship God Bhairav, as it is the main Gana of Lord Shiva. 

Special Tip: It is difficult to travel during the winter and rainy seasons. Try to avoid visiting this time. 

Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm

Aarti Timings: 4:00 am (morning), 7:00 pm (evening

Duration: 30 mins

Best time to visit: September to November

Location: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand

Distance from Kedarnath: 0.8 km

4. Tungnath Temple

It is believed to be 1000 years old and was discovered by Shankaracharya. Amazingly, it is the highest Shiva temple in the world. The temple, built in the Nagara style of architecture, can accommodate only ten people inside. 

According to Legend: Lord Shiva's arms fell here when he disguised himself as a bull to try to escape the Pandavas.

Special Tip: It is the best place for trekking. 

Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm

Aarti Timings: 6:00 am (morning), 6:30 pm (evening) 

Duration: 3-4 hours (including the trek) 

Best time to visit: September to October

Location: Rudraprayag, Kedarnath

Distance from Kedarnath: 88 km

5. Shankaracharya Samadhi

The grave of Shankaracharya is the most popular religious place in Kedarnath. Adi Shankaracharya was a renowned philosopher who propagated Advaita Philosophy and attained Nirvana at the age of 23. The samadhi is an idyllic location for devotees 

According to Legend: The hot spring near the temple is claimed to have been created by the saint himself to help his followers handle the strain of the severe weather.

Special Tip: You can also visit the nearby Vasuki Tal to witness scenic surroundings. 

Timings: Open 24 hours

Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Best time to visit: September to November

Location: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand

Distance from Kedarnath: 0.1 km

6. Madhya Maheshwara Temple

This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a part of the famous Panch Kedar, among other religious places in Kedarnath. The North Indian style of architecture completes the temple boasting spiritual vibes to the devotee. 

According to Legend: It is believed that this is where Lord Shiva's belly button dropped, and Bhima, the second Pandava brother, constructed this temple to honor Lord Shiva.

Special Tip: One has to trek 16 km to reach the temple. There are limited accommodations near the temple, so small village lodges and homes offer a comfortable staycation. You can also carry your own tent. 

Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm

Aarti Timings: 6:00 am (morning), 6:30 pm (evening) 

Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Best time to visit: May to November

Location: Madmaheshwar, Kedarnath

Distance from Kedarnath: 89 km

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Kedarnath?

April to November is the ideal time to visit Kedarnath, as most of the temples are closed for six months during the winter season. 

Can I go to Kedarnath without signing up?

Anybody wishing to visit the Uttarakhand pilgrimage sites of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, or Hemkund Sahib must first complete the Char Dham registration form.

How much is the minimum budget for Kedarnath?

The minimum budget to visit Kedarnath is about INR 7000/- to 9000/-.

How many days would it take to reach Kedarnath?

The trek to Kedarnath is the longest. A total of 10–12 days are needed to see all the temples.

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