The Kedarnath Mandir is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the picturesque town of Kedarnath. The temple is believed to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and houses a unique idol of the Lord in the form of a pyramidal lingam. Visitors can witness the enchanting morning aarti at the temple that takes place at 4:00 AM every day. It is recommended to reach the temple early in the morning to avoid rush hour.
Vasuki Tal is a glacial lake situated at an altitude of 4,150 meters in the breathtaking Kedarnath Valley. It is surrounded by stunning views of snow-capped peaks and lush green forests. Visitors can indulge in trekking to reach the lake, which takes around 5-6 hours. The trail to Vasuki Tal is quite challenging, but the experience is worth it. The best time to visit this place is between June and September.
Bhairon Mandir is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Bhairav, a form of Lord Shiva. The temple is located on a hilltop, providing spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. Visitors can reach the temple by trekking or on ponies. The trek takes around 3-4 hours, and it is recommended to start early in the morning to avoid the afternoon rush. The temple is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Gaurikund is a scenic hamlet located at an altitude of 1,982 meters, situated on the banks of the Mandakini River. The place is famous for its natural hot water springs that have medicinal properties and are believed to cure several ailments. Visitors can take a dip in the hot water springs to rejuvenate their bodies & souls. The place also has a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is advisable to carry a change of clothes and towels while visiting this place.
If you have more time, you can visit the nearby town of Guptkashi and the famous Kalimath Temple. It would be best if you carried warm clothes as the temperature in Kedarnath drops significantly in the evening. It is advisable to carry a first aid kit and water while trekking. Please note that the trek to Vasuki Tal is quite challenging and is not recommended for individuals with heart or respiratory problems.