Kedarnath

Kedarnath is set against the background of the majestic Himalayas in the Garhwal Region of Uttaranchal. Perched at an altitude of 3,584 m at the source of the Mandakini River, it is one of the holiest Hindu pilgrim sites in Rudraprayag District. It is 86 km from Rudraprayag and 14 km from Gaurikund.

Kedarnath derived its name from ' Kedar', another name for Lord Shiva. The place got its prominence for treasuring one of the twelve Jyotirlingas representing this lord. The 8th century Kedarnath Temple, believed to have been built by Adi Shankaracharya, is the prime attraction.

Kedarnath Sanctuary, Shankaracharya Samadhi, Gandhi Sarovar and Vasuki Tal are other points of tourist importance in and around Kedarnath. The best time to visit Kedarnath is between May and October.

The motorable road to Kedarnath ends at Gaurikund. From there, Kedarnath can be reached on foot or on ponies. Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun and Rishikesh Railway Station at Rishikesh (234 km) are the nearest access points.