Hello trekking lovers, I’m Manish, a student from Bulandshahr.
I am excited to tell you about the amazing trip my friends took to Kedarnath. Come along as we trek through beautiful landscapes, feel the spiritual vibes, and discover the magic of Kedarnath. Kedarnath Dham is one of the Char Dhams, along with Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Badrinath. Situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, the Kedarnath temple is nestled in the Kedar valley beneath the Chorabari glacier, the origin of the Mandakini River.
Accommodation in Kedarnath:
Upon reaching Kedarnath, we discovered a sense of calm that can only be found in the lap of the Himalayas. Shared tents were available for accommodation, starting at Rs. 500 per head. The simplicity of this place allowed us to connect more intimately with the natural surroundings.
Route to Kedarnath from Bulandshahr
The journey started with an exciting bus ride to Delhi, followed by a train journey to Rishikesh. From there, a local bus took us to the peaceful village of Sonprayag at an affordable cost of Rs. 400.
We decided to stay in Sitapur, which is merely 1 km from Sonprayag, and we settled in at an affordable accommodation for Rs. 500. The air buzzed with excitement as we geared up for the upcoming trek to Kedarnath.
About Kedarnath Temple:
Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a prominent Paadal Petra Sthalam and one of the Panch Kedars. Constructed without mortar, the temple is made from grey stones interlocked with iron clamps.The iconic Kedarnath Temple, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, stood as a testament to dedication and strength. The divine atmosphere inside the temple left an indelible mark on our souls.
Trekking to Kedarnath:
The journey to Kedarnath was both a trekking adventure and a path of self-discovery. The free trek offered breathtaking landscapes, dense forests, and the soothing sounds of the Mandakini River. A tip for fellow travellers is to refill your bottles with glacier water for pure, refreshing hydration.
Places to visit in Kedarnath:
- Bhairav Nath Temple
- Gauri Kund
- Vasuki Tal Mountain Lake
- Shankaracharya Samadhi
- Chorabar Tal
- Sonprayag
- Vishwanath Temple
Hidden Gem in Kedarnath
The place was filled with nature’s harmony—the soft murmur of the Mandakini River, the fresh mountain air, and breathtaking views as far as the eye could reach. The Mandakini River, a tributary of the Alaknanda in Uttarakhand, merges with the Songanga at Sonprayag, passing Madhyamaheshwar temple, and ultimately joins the Alaknanda, which flows into the Ganges.
Best food to try in Kedarnath:
The local food is simple but hearty, including Rajma Chawal, Khichdi, and Maggi. These basic meals kept us fueled and warm in the chilly mountain air.
Best time to visit Kedarnath
Visit Kedarnath from April to June for the best weather, with temperatures around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. This is when the Char Dham Yatra starts, attracting pilgrims from all over the country.
Necessary things to carry:
- Pack essentials like a water bottle, snacks, a first-aid kit, and any personal medications.
- Wear reliable trekking shoes. The uneven path requires sturdy footwear for adequate support.
- Cary woollen and warm clothes.
Tips for travellers:
- Get ready for the Kedarnath trek by exercising regularly and going for brisk walks. The journey covers diverse terrains, so building your stamina will make the trek more enjoyable.
- Layer up for the changing weather. Dressing in layers keeps you warm and allows for easy adjustments to temperature changes.
- Avoid littering, preserve the environment, and honour the sanctity of the place.
Coming down from Kedarnath brought a deep sense of peace to our hearts. It wasn’t just a trek but a spiritual journey, giving us memories that go beyond mere adventure.
Happy Exploring!!!
