Skip to main content

Kedarnath Jyotirlinga

Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in Hinduism. Situated in the state of Uttarakhand, India, Kedarnath Jyotirlinga holds significant religious importance and attracts millions of pilgrims each year. Here are some details about Kedarnath Jyotirlinga:



  1. Legend: According to Hindu mythology, the Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva granted darshan (divine vision) to the Pandavas, the protagonists of the ancient Indian epic, Mahabharata. After the great Kurukshetra War, the Pandavas sought Lord Shiva's forgiveness for the sins they committed during the battle. Lord Shiva, however, evaded them and took the form of a bull, hiding among the cattle. The Pandavas, recognizing him, pursued him, and finally, at Kedarnath, they were blessed with his divine presence.


  2. Location: Kedarnath is situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, at an elevation of approximately 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level. It is nestled amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayan range, near the source of the Mandakini River.


  3. Temple: The Kedarnath Temple is the main religious site and the focal point of the pilgrimage. It is a stone-built temple with a distinct architectural style. The temple houses the lingam, which represents Lord Shiva. Due to its high altitude, the temple remains open only during the six months of the summer season (April to November). During the winter months, when the region is covered in heavy snow, the temple remains closed, and the deity is transferred to Ukhimath for worship.


  4. Accessibility: Kedarnath is not easily accessible by road. Pilgrims have to reach the town of Gaurikund and then undertake a challenging trek of around 16 kilometers (10 miles) on foot or use ponies or palanquins to reach the temple. The trek route passes through picturesque landscapes and is considered an arduous but spiritually rewarding journey.


  5. Importance: Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is considered one of the holiest and most important pilgrimage sites for devotees of Lord Shiva. The temple's remote location and the challenging trek create a unique spiritual experience, fostering a sense of devotion and determination among the pilgrims.


  6. Other Attractions: Apart from the Kedarnath Temple, the region offers other spiritual and natural attractions, including the Shankaracharya Samadhi (resting place) and the Bhairavnath Temple. The surrounding mountains and landscapes are awe-inspiring, making the journey an enriching experience for travelers.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Tourist Places Delhi

Delhi, the capital city of India, is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history and a blend of modernity and tradition. There are numerous tourist attractions in Delhi that cater to various interests. Here are some popular tourist places to visit in Delhi: Red Fort (Lal Qila): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is an iconic monument built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It's famous for its red sandstone walls and impressive architecture. Click on link for Google Map location- Red Fort NewDelhi - Google Maps Qutub Minar: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world. It dates back to the 12th century and is surrounded by several other historical structures. Click on link for Google Map location- Qutub Minar - Google Maps India Gate: A war memorial located in the heart of Delhi, India Gate is dedicated to soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I. It's a popular spot for picnics and evening strolls. Click on ...

Twelve Jyotirlingas and their special significance

India is known for its religious and cultural diversity, and one significant aspect of its religious heritage is the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Jyotirlingas are believed to be self-manifested forms of Lord Shiva and hold immense significance among Hindu devotees. Pilgrims often undertake journeys to visit these sacred sites to seek blessings and spiritual enlightenment. Here is a list of the twelve Jyotirlingas and their special significance: Somnath Jyotirlinga - Located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Saurashtra, Gujarat, Somnath is one of the most ancient and revered shrines of Lord Shiva. The temple is situated near the Arabian Sea and has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history. Click on link for Google Map location- Shree Somnath Jyotirling Temple - Google Maps Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga - Situated on the Srisailam hill in Andhra Pradesh, Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is associated with the legend of Lord Shiva saving a ...