Top 10 Places To Visit In Kedarnath Temple During Trip

Kedarnath is also called ‘Kedarkhand’. People believe it is closely connected to Lord Shiva, who is known as the ‘Lord of Kedarkhand’. This place is filled with spiritual importance and natural beauty that attracts many visitors. Along with the main temple, there are many places to visit in Kedarnath Dham. Once you visit, these destinations will give you a new and exciting experience.

Whether it’s the holy places, the lakes near Kedarnath, or the peaceful surroundings, everything will make your journey joyful. The fresh mountain air, the sound of prayers and the stunning views will create the best memories. Let’s explore!\

1- Gaurikund

Gaurikund is a famous starting point of the Kedarnath Yatra and it is the last place you can reach by road before the trek starts. It is located near Mandakini River. The Gaurikund Temple and its lake are the most popular spots here, located around 2,000 meters above sea level. According to mythology, this is where Goddess Parvati meditated and practiced yoga to win Lord Shiva’s heart.

Time Required for Exploration- 1 to 2 Hours
How to Reach- Easy to reach by road, shared cabs or personal vehicles.

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2- Shankaracharya Samadhi

Behind the Kedarnath Temple is the sacred resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, the saint who established the four holy Dhams of India. At the age of 32, he chose to leave his body and achieve moksha at Kedarnath. This is why this place is called Shankaracharya Samadhi. Many people visit this place to show respect to this great spiritual leader.

Time Required for Exploration- 30 minutes
How to Reach- A short walk from Kedarnath Temple (No vehicles allowed).

3- Sonprayag

Sonprayag is an important religious spot, located 1,829 meters above sea level. The word ‘Prayag’ means the meeting of rivers, and Sonprayag is where the Vasuki and Mandakini rivers join. Bathing at the Prayags is believed to be holy in Hinduism and helps achieve ‘Moksha’. Visitors can enjoy amazing views of snowy mountains and green valleys.

Time Required for Exploration- 30 minutes to 1 hour
How to Reach- It is reachable from Gaurikund by taxis or private vehicles.

4- Bhairavnath Temple

Bhairavnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav and is located on a hill with beautiful views of the Himalayas. He is a powerful form of Lord Shiva. Bhairava is known as the protector of the Kedarnath Temple and its valley during the winter when the temple is closed. Pilgrims who visit the Kedarnath temple also visit Bhairavnath temple as part of the ritual. It is a peaceful spot where people pray for safety and good health.

Time Required for Exploration- 30 minutes
How to Reach- 800 meters from the Kedarnath temple (a short walk).

5- Triyuginarayan Temple

Triyuginarayan is an important Hindu temple located in the Rudraprayag District of Uttarakhand. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The name comes from three words- Tri means three, Yuga means time period, and ‘Narayana’, another name of Lord Vishnu.

This means devotees have been offering wood to the holy fire here for three Yugas. It is also believed that Lord Mahadeva and Goddess Parvati were married here, and Lord Vishnu saw the ceremony. This temple is famous all over the country because of its rich mythological history and every devotee should visit the Triyuginarayan Temple.

Time Required for Exploration- 30 minutes to 1 hour
How to Reach- It is reachable by road, with a small trek.

6- Guptkashi

Guptkashi is a beautiful town surrounded by green hills with views of the Chaukhamba peaks. It is known for its old temples like Vishwanath Temple and Ardhnarishwar Temple. Visitors also explore holy Manikarnika Kund. This area is popular for its spiritual vibe, peaceful surroundings and cultural history. Whether you are visiting for a spiritual journey or just traveling Guptkashi is a perfect destination.

Time Required for Exploration – 1 to 2 hours
How to Reach- It is accessible by road from Rudraprayag. Travel by taxi or shared cab.

7- Rudra Meditation Cave

Rudra Cave is an underground cave. It became popular when Prime Minister Modi meditated here before the 2019 elections. The cave is managed by GMVN and has accommodation for a single person. This cave is suitable for people who want to meditate for inner peace.

Time Required for Exploration- 1 hour
How to Reach- 1 km away from Kedarnath Temple by walk.

8- Vasuki Tal

Vasuki Tal is a beautiful glacial lake, known for its crystal clear water. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu took a bath in this lake on Raksha Bandhan. Since then, it is called Vasuki Tal. Nature lovers will enjoy seeing unique wildlife and colorful alpine flowers in this area.

Time Required for Exploration- 3 to 4 hours
How to Reach- Vasuki Tal is 8 km from the main temple.

9- Phata

Phata is a small village in the Rudraprayag district. It is famous for its helipad that pilgrims use to reach Kedarnath Dham. Phata is close to many popular places in Uttarakhand and many pilgrims stay here overnight. This place is also known for its friendly atmosphere and relaxed vibe, which is a perfect spot for travelers.

Time Required for Exploration- 1 to 2 hours
How to Reach- Phata is conveniently accessible by road.

10- Chorabari Lake

Chorabari Lake, also known as Gandhi Tal is a beautiful lake in the Himalayas. It is located 3900 meters above sea level. According to historical records, Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were also placed in this lake in 1948. It is also believed that Lord Shiva taught yoga to the Saptarishis here that makes the place both holy and historic. The lake’s beauty and history make it a great place for every tourist.

Time Required for Exploration- 1 to 2 hours
How to Reach- Can be reached from Gaurikund (a short trek)

FAQ

Q-1: What are the most visited places right at the Kedarnath Complex?

Some of the major places to visit right at the Kedarnath Complex are-

Kedarnath Temple- It is located at an elevation of 3580 mts amidst the mighty Garhwal Himalayas. The temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is for this temple; devotees prepare in advance for a challenging journey of high-altitude Himalayan terrains.
Bhairavnath Temple- Also known as Bhairo Baba Mandir, Bhairavnath Temple is located at the south of Kedarnath Temple. Before visiting Kedarnath Temple, devotees visit Bhairavnath Temple as Baba Bhairon, the presiding deity of the temple is considered as the protector of Kedarnath temple and the whole Kedarnath Valley.
Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi- Devotees also visit the Samadhi of a saint known as Adi-Shankaracharya who attained Moksha in Kedarnath at the age of 32.

Q-2: What are the major natural spots located near Kedarnath Temple?

Ans: Some of the major natural spots located near the temple are-

Gandhi Sarovar- Gandhi Sarovar is located 4 km away from Kedarnath Temple. It’s a beautiful natural wonder surrounded by mighty Himalayan peaks.
Vasuki Tal- Vasuki Tal is a soul pleasing glacial lake located at an elevation of 14, 200 ft. around the lake, you will see the rare Brahma Kamal flower and the majestic Chaukhamba Peaks.
Shri Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary-The temple of Kedarnath is within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. The area is teeming with endangered wildlife species like Kedarnath Musk and rare floral species. You will witness Snow Leopards, jackals, Himalayan black bear, red fox etc.1

Q-3: If I have more time, what other spiritual places can I witness near Kedarnath Temple?

Ans: If you have more time then you can see some of these spiritual sites near Kedarnath Temple-

Triyuginarayan Temple-Triyuginarayan Temple is located at an elevation of 1980 meters. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It’s the sacred place where the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati took place in front of Lord Vishnu. The Brahma Shila in front of the temple marks the exact place of the wedding.
Gaurikund Temple- It’s a divine temple dedicated to goddess Parvati also known as Gauri. This is the place where goddess Parvati performed intense penance (like a yogi) to win Lord Shiva’s Love.
Kalimath – Located on the serene banks of Saraswati River in Rudranath district, Kalimath is dedicated to goddess Kali. It is one of the 108 Shakti Peethas of India.

Q-4: Is there any recommended order to visit any place around Kedarnath Temple?

Ans: Yes, here is the list of places in recommended order-

Start with Gaurikund and take divine blessings at Kedarnath Temple. Then you can visit Shankaracharya Samadhi, Rudra Cave, Gandhi Sarovar, Vasuki Tal, Triyuginarayan Temple, Guptkashi and Ukhimath on your return journey.

Q-5: What is the Kedar Gatha Museum?

Ans: Kedar Gatha Museum is an upcoming cultural, spiritual and historical museum in Kedarnath which is currently under construction near the banks of Mandakini River. This museum will showcase the rich history of Kedar valley along with some rare artefacts and literature associated with Kedarnath.

Check out:

Places To Visit In Kedarnath