Kedarnath Weather Update by Manchala Mushafir

Kedarnath is a small hamlet located at an altitude of 3,583 meters above sea level, known for the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as the Kedarnath temple. The actual origin of this temple is yet unknown, but as per the holy scriptures, it is said that this temple was built by Pandavas after the war of Kurukshetra when they visited here in search of lord Shiva. This temple is also a part of the Panch Kedar temple, and the hump of lord shiva in the form of Nandi is being worshipped here. Other temples of Panch Kedar are Rudranath, Mahdyamaheshwar, Kalpeshwar and Tungnath temple. This beautiful temple is situated on the bank of the Mandakini River, surrounded by snow-capped mountains on three sides and a deep valley in front of the temple. All these snow-capped mountains appear as the crown of the temple. This temple can only be accessed by trekking of about 16 km from Gaurikund, which is the last motorable road in this region. Due to high altitude and tough terrain, the weather around this region is very uncertain. Due to this temple remains open just for six months in a year, and is closed during the winter season, and the deity is being shifted to the Omkareshwar temple in Ukhimath, which is also the famous winter seat of Panch Kedar temples, Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar temple. Despite numerous challenges and an arduous journey, thousands of devotees take the Kedarnath trip every year to seek the blessings of the deity and admire the beauty of the location.