Kedarnath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is believed that visiting this temple will cleanse one's sins. The temple's architecture is exquisite, and the surroundings are serene. The temple is open from 5:00AM to 12:00PM and from 3:00PM to 9:00PM.
Gandhi Sarovar is a glacial lake situated at an altitude of 3,900 meters above sea level. It offers a breathtaking view of the snow-capped peaks and is named after Mahatma Gandhi, who visited this place in 1947. The lake is surrounded by lush green meadows and is a popular spot for trekking and camping. It is accessible only by foot and takes around an hour to reach from Kedarnath Temple.
Vasuki Tal is a high altitude lake situated at an altitude of 4,135 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayas. The trek to Vasuki Tal is challenging and takes around 4 hours to reach from Gandhi Sarovar. However, the stunning views make it worth the effort. It is advisable to carry food and water as there are no shops or restaurants on the way.
Shankaracharya Samadhi is the final resting place of Adi Shankaracharya, the great philosopher and theologian who lived in the 8th century. The samadhi is situated amidst a beautiful garden and is surrounded by mountains. It is a peaceful place and is ideal for meditation and relaxation. The samadhi is open from 6:00AM to 7:00PM.
If you have time, you can also visit the Bhairav Temple, which is located near Kedarnath Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, who is believed to be the protector of the Kedarnath Temple. The temple is open from 5:00AM to 12:00PM and from 3:00PM to 9:00PM.
Another side trip you can consider is the trek to Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is situated at an altitude of 1,160 meters to 7,000 meters above sea level and covers an area of 975 square kilometers. It is advisable to hire a guide if you plan to explore the sanctuary.
To maximize your fun, you can go for a helicopter ride over the Himalayas, which offers a bird's eye view of the stunning landscapes. You can also try local delicacies such as Kachmauli, Phaanu, and Kafuli, which are popular dishes in Kedarnath.