Travelling to Kedarnath’s Divine Heights: Salutations, fellow travellers! I’m Sumit, a photography aficionado who is very respectful of holy sites and driven by a love of adventure. I would like to welcome you to accompany me on this journey to Kedarnath, which began as a solitary adventure and developed into an amazing group experience.
Setting Out on the Divine Quest: I left Kanpur expecting to go alone, and that’s when the trip began. I had no idea that fate had brought me together with a group of like-minded people by weaving the strands of destiny. Together with four Prayagraj friends and a young man from Nepal, I had the most amazing trip to the holy Kedarnath Temple.
Walking the Spiritual Paths: We began our pilgrimage by taking the train from Kanpur to Haridwar, from where we were driven by a hired automobile to the transcendent altitudes of Kedarnath. This celestial expedition cost an average of 5000 rupees per person, which is a small price to pay for the spiritual treasures that lay ahead of us. The picturesque path, despite being extended by landslides, bestowed upon us magnificent vistas of the Himalayan landscape, intensifying our enthusiasm for the hallowed endpoint.
Gaurikund-The Gateway to Devotion: Our destination for the day was Gaurikund, the starting point of the Kedarnath Yatra. Our varied histories and origins came together as we were comfortable in our accommodations to form a common thread of trust in Lord Shiva. The air buzzed with devotion as pilgrims prepared for the spiritual odyssey to seek the blessings of Kedarnath, a celestial Jyotirlinga nestled in the Chota Char Dham Yatra.
Kedarnath’s culinary adventures: Maggi noodles became the city’s culinary hero during the pilgrimage. It was a straightforward yet delicious meal that we had with tea and chips. The cost increased with our altitude, but the simplicity of the food and the friendliness of the people contributed to this spiritual oasis’ allure.
Things to Bring on a Pilgrimage:It is essential to have hand gloves, woollen clothing, warm jackets, and sturdy sports shoes. Carry a power bank, identity cards, and cash as well. Because mountain weather is unpredictable, one must be ready for freezing temperatures and intermittent snowfall.
Altitude Awareness: Kedarnath requires adaptation due to its elevation of roughly 3,583 metres (11,755 ft). Keep an eye out for dropping oxygen levels, move slowly, drink plenty of water, and get help if you need it. These safety measures guarantee a happy and safe pilgrimage.
Where to Stay: There are several affordable guesthouses and hotels in Gaurikund that provide basic lodging for varying budgets. Locations like Bhagat Palace, GMVN Tourist Rest House, and Shivalik Valley View are among the options. It is advisable to make reservations in advance, particularly during periods of high pilgrimage.
Travel Expense Budget:
- Train fare from Haridwar to Kanpur: about 500 rupees
- Between Haridwar and Kedarnath by car: about 4500 rupees
- Accommodation at Gaurikund: Costs between Rs. 1000 and Rs. 2500 per night; Food: Allow roughly Rs. 500 per day.
- Other (tips, ponies, etc.): Set aside approximately 500 rupees.
A Journey Beyond the Physical: During our trip to Kedarnath, we forged emotional and spiritual ties with the holy place and each other, transcending the physical world. Kedarnath, a holy place that reverberated with the melodies of the Himalayas, made a lasting impression on our hearts and spirits. It is a monument to the strength of faith and the beauty of unforeseen friendships.
