A Day in Kedarnath: Exploring the Spiritual Abode of Lord Shiva

1. 7:00 AM: Kedarnath Temple
   Located on the Garhwal Himalayan range, Kedarnath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is believed to be built by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era and is accessible only by trekking through the magnificent valleys and forests. The temple is surrounded by snowy peaks and is known for its spiritual aura. The darshan time starts from 7 AM.
   Distance from Base Camp: Trek of 16 km
2. 12:00 PM: Gaurikund
   Bathed in the pristine waters of the Mandakini, Gaurikund has an ancient legend attached to it. It is said that Goddess Parvati meditated in this place to win the heart of Lord Shiva. The Gauri Temple adjacent to the kund is a magnificent display of North Indian architecture and is said to be the abode of Goddess Gauri. The trek to Kedarnath starts from this point.
   Distance from Kedarnath Temple: 16 km
3. 5:00 PM: Sonprayag
   Sonprayag is a picturesque location that is formed at the confluence of the Mandakini and the Basuki Rivers. The scenic beauty of the location is a treat to the eyes, and it is a famous spot for photography. The place is noted for ancient ruins and is a vital landmark on the way to Badrinath.
   Distance from Gaurikund: 20 km

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kedarnath Temple (1 hour, free)
• Gaurikund (3 hours, free)
• Sonprayag (3 hours, free)
Total Estimated Costs: INR 0

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit the Vasuki Tal, a pristine lake located amidst the Himalayan ranges. It is a perfect spot for camping and trekking. For those who have less time, you can plan a visit to the Triyuginarayan Temple, located near Gaurikund. It is said to be the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati tied the knot.