Destinations Kedarnath

Destinations Kedarnath, India

Kedarnath is a significant pilgrimage site in India, located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is renowned for the Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, Kedarnath stands at an elevation of 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level, offering breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks.

Kedarnath

Surrounding Cities

  1. Rishikesh: Known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," Rishikesh is approximately 225 kilometers from Kedarnath. It is a major hub for spiritual activities, yoga, and adventure sports.
  2. Haridwar: Located about 250 kilometers from Kedarnath, Haridwar is another important pilgrimage city where the Ganges River exits the Himalayan foothills.
  3. Dehradun: The capital city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun is around 270 kilometers from Kedarnath and is known for its educational institutions and natural beauty.
  4. Guptkashi: Situated around 45 kilometers from Kedarnath, Guptkashi is a significant stop for pilgrims due to its ancient Vishwanath Temple.
Kedarnath

Top Hotels

  1. Shivalik Valley Resort: Offers comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the mountains.
  2. Kedar River Retreat: Known for its serene location by the river, providing a peaceful stay.
  3. GMVN Tourist Rest House: A budget-friendly option managed by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam.
  4. Kedar Camp Resorts: Provides a unique camping experience with modern amenities.

Nearest College

The nearest significant educational institution is Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University in Srinagar, Uttarakhand, approximately 125 kilometers from Kedarnath. This university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses and is known for its research programs.

Shopping Areas

While Kedarnath itself is not known for extensive shopping facilities, nearby towns offer various options:

  1. Guptkashi Market: Offers local handicrafts, religious items, and souvenirs.
  2. Rudraprayag Market: Known for its variety of traditional and religious items, including books and idols.

Local Foods

  1. Aloo Ke Gutke: A traditional dish made from boiled and spiced potatoes.
  2. Kappa: A green curry made with spinach and fenugreek leaves.
  3. Chainsoo: A lentil dish made from black gram dal, roasted and ground into a fine paste.
  4. Jhangora Ki Kheer: A sweet dish made from barnyard millet and milk, flavored with cardamom.

Celebrations

  1. Kedarnath Yatra: The pilgrimage season from April to November when thousands of devotees visit the Kedarnath Temple.
  2. Maha Shivratri: A significant festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, celebrated with great fervor at the Kedarnath Temple.

Population and Ranking

As of the latest estimates, Kedarnath has a small resident population of around 600 people. In terms of its religious significance and popularity as a pilgrimage destination, Kedarnath holds a high rank, being one of the Chota Char Dham and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

Hindi Information and Symbols

  • केदारनाथ (Kedarnath)
  • ऋषिकेश (Rishikesh)
  • हरिद्वार (Haridwar)
  • देहरादून (Dehradun)
  • गुप्तकाशी (Guptkashi)
  • होटल (Hotels)
  • शिवालिक वैली रिसॉर्ट (Shivalik Valley Resort)
  • केदार रिवर रिट्रीट (Kedar River Retreat)
  • जीएमवीएन टूरिस्ट रेस्ट हाउस (GMVN Tourist Rest House)
  • केदार कैंप रिसॉर्ट्स (Kedar Camp Resorts)
  • हेमवती नंदन बहुगुणा गढ़वाल विश्वविद्यालय (Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University)
  • गुप्तकाशी बाजार (Guptkashi Market)
  • रुद्रप्रयाग बाजार (Rudraprayag Market)
  • आलू के गुटके (Aloo Ke Gutke)
  • कप्पा (Kappa)
  • चैंसू (Chainsoo)
  • झंगोरा की खीर (Jhangora Ki Kheer)
  • केदारनाथ यात्रा (Kedarnath Yatra)
  • महाशिवरात्रि (Maha Shivratri)