Amazing Facts About Baba Kedarnath Temple

Amazing Facts About #Baba-Kedarnath-Temple

Welcome to the holy land of #Kedarnath. It also has great spiritual significance for its millions of followers. Located in the majestic Garhwal #Himalayas, #Kedarnath is one of the holiest places in India and a major pilgrimage site in #Uttarakhand. As part of the holy Chardham Yatra, Kedarnath attracts tourists from all over the world who come here in search of solace and enlightenment. In this post, we will give you 10 interesting facts about Kedarnath that will blow your mind! So sit back, relax, and get ready for an extraordinary journey through time and spirituality.

But after reading more interesting facts about #Kedarnath Temple, you will want to visit this temple during your #Chardham Yatra.

#1.The foundation of the Kedarnath Temple

There are many legends about the creation of Kedarnath Temple, one of the holiest temples in India. According to Hindu mythology, devotees believe that Lord Shiva himself chose this place to establish his abode and bless his devotees with his divine presence.

A legend says that after the #Mahabharata war, the Pandavas wanted to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva for the sins they had committed in that war. But they could not find him anywhere until finally Bhima disguised as a bull found him grazing in a nearby field. The Pandavas recognize Lord Shiva and try to capture him, but he disappears on the ground, leaving only a hump.

According to another legend, Kedarnath was first built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century AD. He immediately rebuilt many ancient temples in India and revived Hinduism. He is said to have rediscovered the Kedarnath temple and restored it to its former glory by burying it under snow.

Whichever legend you choose to believe Kedarnath occupies an important place in Indian spirituality and history!

#2. #Bhairo Nath is the patron deity of Kedarnath

Bhairo Nath is known as the patron deity of Kedarnath. According to legend, he was an Asura who attacked Lord Shiva in the form of a bull. But Bhaironath realized his mistake and apologized to Lord Shiva.

In return, Lord Shiva gave him the title ‘Kshetra Paraka’ which means protector of the holy land. Devotees therefore worship Bhaironath as the guardian of the Kedarnath temple. Every year in winter when the temple is closed due to heavy snowfall, the Bhaironath idol is brought to Uhimathi village and stays till May, and Kedarnath is opened for pilgrims.

Devotees believe that worshiping Vaironath before visiting Kedarnath will ensure their safety during their visit and stay at this holy place. The importance of Bhaironath is also reflected in some of the rituals performed at the Kedarnath temple, such as offering flowers and coconuts to one's idol in the temple premises. Bhairo Nath has been an integral part of the history of Kedarnath and continues to be of great importance to devotees even today.

#3. Kedarnath Temple is the highest Shiva temple in India

Kedarnath Temple is the highest Shiva temple in India at an altitude of 3583 meters above sea level. Located near the river Mandakini in the Garhwal Himalayas, the temple is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites for Hindus. 

The temple has a unique architecture that shows its importance and grandeur. Huge stone walls decorated with intricate carvings rise among the snowy peaks. The views from here are mesmerizing and breathtaking. People believe that Lord Shiva himself founded the Kedarnath Temple, making it an important place of worship for devotees all over the world. The sanctity of a temple depends on its location, as well as its history and cultural significance.

#4. Journey by helicopter

Visitors who come to Kedarnath not only seek blessings but also come to admire the beauty of nature and gain spiritual enlightenment. Many trekking enthusiasts like to visit this peaceful place because of its great geographical location.

The distinction of the Kedarnath Temple as the highest Shiva temple in India adds another layer of magic to this already extraordinary place of worship. It stands proudly among other major religious sites in the world and attracts visitors from all over the world eager to see the radiance of the divine.

#5. It is an important pilgrimage site in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, commonly referred to as Devabhum (Land of the Gods), is a state in northern India with some of the holiest Hindu temples and shrines. Kedarnath is one of the main pilgrimage centers among these holy places. Situated at an elevation of 3583 meters above sea level, the Kedarnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that visiting this shrine washes away all sins and leads to redemption or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Thousands of devotees visit Kedarnath every year during the Char Dham Yatra which also includes Gangotri, Jamunotri, and Badrinath. The walk starts in April-May and ends in November with a closing ceremony called '#Kapat Bandhan'.

A trip to Kedarnath involves trekking through beautiful mountainous landscapes topped with snow-capped peaks, crossing rivers such as the Mandakini, and exploring serene valleys dotted with wild vegetation. Despite the difficult terrain, pilgrims flock to this place every year to seek Divine blessings. Kedarnath remains a major pilgrimage destination in Uttarakhand, attracting visitors from around the world in search of spiritual enlightenment amidst stunning natural beauty.

#6. The high priest is from Karnataka, not North India

An interesting fact about the Kedarnath Temple is that its main pujari or priests are not from North India but actually from Karnataka. This fact shows how diverse and inclusive Hinduism is.

Presently, Sri Bagish Lingachar is the chief priest of the Kedarnath Temple. He has served as the chief priest of the temple since 2012 and is highly respected for his dedication and service.

While this may seem strange at first glance, it is important to note that Hinduism does not discriminate based on geography or caste. Anyone who shows devotion and knowledge in his spiritual practice can become a priest, regardless of origin. Despite being located in one of the most remote areas of India, the Kedarnath Temple continues to attract people from all over the world, with priests like Sri Bagish Linga Chari bringing their unique backgrounds and traditions.

#7. Buried under ice for four centuries

Situated in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand, the Kedarnath Temple has experienced several natural disasters during its long history. One such incident occurred some four centuries ago when the Kedarnath Temple was buried under ice for some 400 years.

It is said that devotees cannot visit the shrine during this period due to heavy snowfall. It wasn't until the early 20th century that a group of explorers rediscovered the temple, clearing away the snow and finding the temple intact. The discovery of the Kedarnath Temple, which had been covered in snow for years, sparked an uproar in people across India, especially among Hindus who regard it as a miracle.

Even though there are many obstacles such as extreme weather and landslides, people still visit this temple with great devotion. It is an inspiration to millions of pilgrims who undertake the arduous journey to seek Lord Shiva's blessings at the Kedarnath Temple.

#8. Unique lingam in Kedarnath temple

One of the most interesting features of Kedarnath Temple is its unique lingam. Devotees believe that Shiva himself is worshiped here. Unlike other lingams made of stone or metal, people believe that this is a natural stone-shaped lingam.

The Kedarnath Lingam Temple is an impressive temple with a height of about 3.6 meters and a circumference of 5.7 meters.

Legend has it that when the Pandavas apologized to Lord Shiva for their fight against the Kauravas, they found Lord Shiva disguised as a cow in Guptukashi. However, after identifying Bhima, who reared the bull before being attacked, Lord Shiva fled to an underground cave under Guptokashi, where he turned into a natural stone in the shape of a phallus or 'linga', now known as Kedarnath. It is worth noting that this unique lingam remained intact and undamaged despite being under snow for almost four centuries, from 850 to 1540.

Visitors from all over India come here every year to see this unique representation of Lord Shiva and to seek blessings. The serene surroundings along with the amazing legends make a visit to the Kedarnath Temple even more special.

#9. Idol in Kedarnath Temple

The Kedarnath temple is not only known for its unique lingam but also for the statues that adorn it. The main idol of Kedarnath is a conical stone representing Lord Shiva in the form of Sadashiva. The statue is about one meter tall and is considered one of the 12 jyotirlingas, making it an important pilgrimage site.

Apart from that, the temple complex also has other idols like Uma Devi, Ganesha, and Nandi. These images enhance the spiritual atmosphere of the place and make it even more sacred. The walls of the Kedarnath temple are decorated with various carvings depicting various mythological stories associated with Lord Shiva. These intricate carvings are a testament to skilled craftsmanship and have stood the test of time over the centuries.

Many devotees visit Kedarnath every year not only to pray but also to see these beautiful statues up close. Devotees believe that praying in front of these holy idols brings blessings and happiness into their lives. The Kedarnath Temple has beautiful idols that add to its grandeur and importance as a major pilgrimage site in India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Where is Kedarnath located?

A1: Kedarnath is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India.

Q2: What are the different modes of transportation to reach Kedarnath?

A2: The primary modes of transportation to reach Kedarnath are by road and helicopter. However, a trekking route is also available for those who prefer to walk.

Q3: How do I reach Kedarnath by road?

A3: To reach Kedarnath by road, one can travel to the nearest major town, Rishikesh, which is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand and other parts of India. From Rishikesh, one can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Gaurikund, which serves as the base point for the trek to Kedarnath.

Q4: Can I reach Kedarnath by helicopter?

A4: Yes, helicopter services are available to reach Kedarnath. The helipad is located in Phata, around 10 kilometers from Guptkashi. From Phata, a helicopter ride of approximately 10 minutes can take you directly to Kedarnath. It is important to note that helicopter services are subject to weather conditions and availability, and it is advisable to book in advance.

Q5: Is there a trekking route to reach Kedarnath?

A5: Yes, there is a trekking route from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. The trek is approximately 16 kilometers long and takes around 6-8 hours to complete, depending on one's pace. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscapes and passes through picturesque villages and lush greenery.

Q6: Are there any restrictions or permits required for the trek to Kedarnath?

A6: No special permits are required for the trek to Kedarnath. However, it is advisable to register at the Gaurikund checkpoint before starting the trek for safety purposes. During the pilgrimage season, there may be certain regulations and crowd management measures in place, and it is important to follow the instructions given by the authorities.

Q7: How difficult is the trek to Kedarnath?

A7: The trek to Kedarnath is considered moderately challenging. The path is well-defined and has a gradual ascent with some steep sections. It is important to be physically fit and acclimatized to the high altitude before undertaking the trek. Taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, and maintaining a steady pace can make the trek more comfortable.

Q8: Can I hire a mule or a pony for the trek to Kedarnath?

A8: Yes, mules and ponies are available for hire at Gaurikund for those who prefer not to trek on foot. The mules and ponies are managed by local operators, and the charges may vary. It is advisable to negotiate the price and clarify the terms of service before hiring.

Q9: What is the best time to visit Kedarnath?

A9: The best time to visit Kedarnath is during the summer months from May to June and the early autumn months of September to October. The weather is relatively pleasant during these times, with mild temperatures and clear skies. However, it is important to check the weather conditions and plan the visit accordingly, as the region experiences heavy snowfall during winter, making it inaccessible.

Please note that the information provided may be subject to change. It is advisable to check with the official authorities and local sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information before planning your journey to Kedarnath.