Sameer
Anvi Staff answered 3 months ago
The Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most revered and popular pilgrimage sites in India. For first-time visitors, understanding the darshan timings and other relevant details can greatly enhance their experience.
Darshan Timings
The Kedarnath Temple is open for devotees from late April or early May (Akshaya Tritiya) until Kartik Purnima (the full moon day of the Kartik month, usually in November). The temple remains closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.
General Darshan Timings
Morning Darshan: 4:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Evening Darshan: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Detailed Schedule
Opening Ceremony: 4:00 AM
Mangal Aarti: 4:00 AM to 6:00 AM
General Darshan: 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Afternoon Break: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
The temple is closed during this period for cleaning and rituals.
Evening Darshan: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Shayana Aarti: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Temple Closes: 9:00 PM
Special Poojas and Aartis
Mangal Aarti: Early morning (requires special booking).
Rudrabhishek: A special pooja performed to seek blessings from Lord Shiva (advance booking required).
Shayana Aarti: Evening aarti before the temple closes for the day.
Important Tips for First-Time Visitors
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is between May and June or September and October, avoiding the monsoon season (July to August) due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides.
Clothing: Carry warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.
Altitude Sickness: The temple is situated at a high altitude (approximately 3,583 meters or 11,755 feet). Be prepared for altitude sickness and acclimatize properly.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential as the trek to the temple can be strenuous.
Trekking: The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is around 16 kilometers. Ponies and palanquins are available for those who cannot trek.
Medical Facilities: Basic medical facilities are available, but it’s advisable to carry necessary medications.
Accommodations: Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season. Options range from basic lodges to more comfortable hotels.
Food: Simple vegetarian food is available. Carry some snacks and water for the trek.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 239 kilometers away.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, approximately 221 kilometers from Kedarnath.
By Road: Kedarnath is well-connected by road to major cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. From these cities, you can take a taxi or bus to Gaurikund, the base for the trek to Kedarnath.
Other Essentials
Registration: Pilgrims are required to register before starting the trek, which can be done online or at various points en route.
Permits: Ensure you have all necessary permits for the trek.
By keeping these details in mind, first-time visitors can have a smooth and fulfilling pilgrimage to Kedarnath Temple.