Kedarnath

According to Hindu mythology, Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The origin of the Kedarnath temple is attributed to the Pandavas, the heroic figures from the epic Mahabharata. Legend has it that after the great war of Mahabharata, the Pandavas sought the blessings of Lord Shiva to atone for their sins. However, Lord Shiva eluded them and took the form of a bull, hiding in Kedarnath. When discovered, Lord Shiva's body parts manifested at various locations, and the hump of the bull is believed to have appeared at Kedarnath, where the temple now stands.Kedarnath is situated at an elevation of about 3,583 meters above sea level, amidst breathtaking mountainous terrain. The region experiences a cold and snowy climate during winter, making it inaccessible for pilgrims. However, during the summer months, from May to October, the temple is open to devotees, offering a window of opportunity for pilgrimage.The main attraction of Kedarnath is the ancient Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is built of large stone slabs in the traditional Himalayan style of architecture. It is believed to have been constructed by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century and has since been a center of devotion and spiritual fervor.Pilgrims undertake a challenging trek of approximately 16 kilometers from Gaurikund to reach Kedarnath. The journey is not only a physical test but also a test of one's devotion and determination. Despite the arduous trek and harsh climate, devotees flock to Kedarnath to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and experience a profound sense of spirituality.