Where2Go by MakeMyTrip • 22 Jun 2025
Legends say the Pandavas built the temple to seek Lord Shiva’s forgiveness after the Kurukshetra war, making it a famous sacred stop for devotees.
The centuries-old temple of Kedarnath was revived by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, and his samadhi is believed to be located just behind the shrine.
Among one of the holiest Shiva shrines, Kedarnath Temple also holds the honour of being one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas spread across India.
Despite the devastating floods in 2013, the Kedarnath Temple stood strong, protected by a giant rock that diverted the debris and saved the sanctum.
Due to extreme weather conditions, the temple usually opens only from April to November, after which the idol is shifted to Ukhimath for winter worship.
Kedarnath Temple is also one of the four pillars of the famous Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, attracting lakhs of pilgrims on this spiritual mountain journey.
The unique conical stone idol of Lord Shiva here is different from typical lingams and is believed to have appeared naturally, adding to its mystique.
Thank You for Reading!