Kedarnath Temple
Also known as Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
The northernmost and highest of the twelve Jyotirlingas, at 3,583 metres in the Garhwal Himalayas. Part of both the Char Dham and Chota Char Dham circuits.
Photos of Kedarnath Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Shiva
- Established
- 8th century CE (rebuilt)
- Architecture
- Garhwal
- Address
- Kedarnath, Rudraprayag 246445
- Timings
- 04:00–15:00, 17:00–21:00 (May–Nov)
History of Kedarnath Temple
Traditionally attributed to Adi Shankara. The temple famously survived the 2013 Kedarnath floods when a boulder diverted the debris flow.
Festivals Celebrated at Kedarnath Temple
- Maha Shivaratri
- Badri Kedar Utsav
How to Reach Kedarnath Temple
16 km trek from Gaurikund; palanquins, ponies, and helicopter services are also available in season.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kedarnath Temple
Where is Kedarnath Temple located?
- Kedarnath Temple is located at Kedarnath, Rudraprayag 246445, in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Kedarnath Temple?
- The presiding deity at Kedarnath Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Kedarnath Temple?
- Kedarnath Temple is generally open 04:00–15:00, 17:00–21:00 (May–Nov). Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Kedarnath Temple built?
- Kedarnath Temple was established 8th century CE (rebuilt). Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Kedarnath Temple?
- Kedarnath Temple is built in the Garhwal style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Kedarnath Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Kedarnath Temple include Maha Shivaratri, Badri Kedar Utsav. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Uttarakhand and beyond.
How can I reach Kedarnath Temple?
- 16 km trek from Gaurikund; palanquins, ponies, and helicopter services are also available in season.
Why is Kedarnath Temple significant?
- The northernmost and highest of the twelve Jyotirlingas, at 3,583 metres in the Garhwal Himalayas. Part of both the Char Dham and Chota Char Dham circuits.
Is there an entry fee at Kedarnath Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Kedarnath Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Kedarnath Temple?
- Kedarnath Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Uttarakhand temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.