Kedarnath Temple

Kedarnath Temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Hinduism and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated at an altitude of 3,583 metres in the Garhwal Himalayas, the temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old in its current form, though the site itself is considered far more ancient. It forms part of the Char Dham Yatra along with Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. The temple is constructed from large grey stone slabs and sits against the backdrop of the Kedarnath peak and surrounding glaciers. It opens every year in May and closes around mid-November before the onset of winter. During winter, the presiding deity is moved to Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath. Millions of pilgrims trek the 16 km route from Gaurikund each season.