Kedarnath Dham Yatra:

Finally my dream comes true, as I always wanted to Visit Kedarnath. Kedarnath is one of  The Char dham yatra. Recently I got the ultimate opportunity to experience the calm surrounding of Kedarnath. I packed my bags for my wholesome journey to the Hinduism pilgrimage. I was so excited to get my first experience in the Kedarnath temple. As Kedarnath temple is situated in the majestic Garhwal Himalayas.  Now my journey had been started, let's get to know about my unforgettable experience.

The Route To Kedarnath:

My journey started from Delhi. I choose the roadway path to travel my whole Journey. 

I get to Haridwar by car, an gateway to Garhwal Region. 

From there I travelled to the Gaurikund, an base camp for trekking to Kedarnath. Then I again started my road journey. During the migratory journey to rishikesh, devprayag and Rudraprayag, they offered my the meticulous and mesmerizing views of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. The view I got was so unveiled and beautiful. Till here my journey went super awesome and real.

Trekking to the Kedarnath:

After visiting Gaurikund, I took part in the trek to the Kedarnath and it was about 16 kilometres. I took the very challenging part of my whole journey, but in the end it was worth it ofcourse. During the Trek, I got the views of the surrounding landscapes along with snow-capped peaks, lush valleys and the local beautiful waterfalls. Along these, I also encountered some more religious pilgrims and temples which were about new to 50-60 years old. These happenings around me during the Trek, gave me the strength to move towards my dream religious place.

Can we reach Kedarnath with out trekking?

Yes, you can reach kedarnath without trekking, 'By helicopter'. You can book online tickets to kedarnath , it takes 5 to 8 minutes from Phata.

You can also reach by hours ride and palki from sonmarg which is 14 kms from Gaurikund.

Dream Comes True: Taking Blessings in Kedarnath 

When I reached the dream destination of my life, I got my eyes on some ancient stone temples lying upon the towering peaks of the amidst Himalayas and the views were awe-inspiring for me. It is believed that This temple was earlier built by Pandavas and later it was restored by Adi Shankaracharya, makes an sense of dignity. Now it was the main time to get my blessings in Kedarnath!, I offered my soulful prayers inside the temple. During this stage I felt immensely blessed as i were truly remembered by grace.

Some Main side Attractions nearby the Kedarnath:

During my visit to Kedarnath, I also explored and experienced some side attractions nearby the Kedarnath, which added more spirituality and dignity to my journey:

1. Bhairav Temple:

First attraction was the Bhairav Temple, I get there by just a short trek away from the temple. At Bhairav Temple, I got the breathtaking views of the Kedarnath temple and the surrounding of snow covered peaks. The atmosphere was truly stunning and filled with dignity.

2. Gaurikund:

After visiting Bhairav Temple, I get my way to the Gaurikund, it is an small town, and it is believed that The Goddess Parvati meditated here to win Lord Shiva's Affection. I took an peaceful dip in the warm hot water springs. It is an medicinal water, and I truly got refreshed at the starting by getting an dip into it.

5. Sonprayag:

Sonprayag is located between the way to Gaurikund. I stopped there and it is an beautiful confluence of the river Basuki and Mandakini. I got impressed by the Crystal clear water and the vibrant peacefull ambiance made the place perfect where I took some rest. 

Cuisine and Culture: A Taste of Simplicity

During my stay, I enjoyed the simple yet hearty meals available at the local dhabas and ashrams. 

1. Aloo Ke Gutke

 At first I tried a dish called Aloo ke Gutke. It contained Spices, stir fried potatoes and much more. The taste was simple yet elegant. It was served with puris and rice, and was the best combination for an full tummy meal that I had taken after the trek. The earthy flavour of potatoes was the best meal in Kedarnath with the chilling views of the surroundings.

2. Chainsoo

Next I tried Chainsoo, it is an traditional Garhwali dish made from (urad dal). The roasted flavour of dal was enough to make me felt mouthwatering. The dal was roasted and later ground into the powder and then it was majorly cooked with some rich spices to get the old tradition vibes. It was served with rice and was so mouth full. The dish was an comfort food for me and the best also.

3. Jhangora Ki Kheer

Next I tried an sweet dessert called Jhangora ki kheer, it is made from an barnyard millet called Jhangora. I personally liked the creamy, sweet texture it has. The wholesome flavour like cardamom with nuts made my whole day. This delightful dessert was so awesome to try once.

4. Kumaoni Raita

Another main dish I enjoyed was the Kumaoni Raita, it is an refreshing side dish made of yogurt and cucumber. I loved how it was giving the chilling and a side snacks vibe. The crunch of cucumber and the chillness of yogurt got me!!. As an side dish it was an great accompaniment to the Spicer dishes.

6. Pahadi Thali

At last I tried the major Pahadi Thali, which contained the mix of local dishes included dal, rice and Madua roti, aloo ke gutke and much more side snacks to not just make it look vibrant but also taste traditional. The thali was full of proteins and local flavours, the taste was damn good for me. Each dal and each snacks was bringing its own taste.

Tasting the local food of kedarnath was an great experience of my trip. The simplicity and the elegant taste the dishes hold were on the top. My main part was to get the taste of new dishes with the youthful views of the destinations.

Best time to visit Kedarnath:

According to the experience, the best time to visit Kedarnath is from :-

May to June and also September to October. 

This is because as in these months, the sky is fully cleared with an pleasant weather with some moderate temprature that can help you to explore your destination moreover. It is also an ideal weather to do trekkings and to visit the pilgrimages.

The months you should probably avoid are July and August as during thess months Kedarnath remains closed due to heavy rainfall and landslides. You must've also avoid the winter months November to April as during this it can have extreme snowfall throughout the months:

Some important tips :

If you're planning to visit Kedarnath , you should must be registration before starting the journey.it is compalsary to all.

Take consultation to your doctor, because there is low oxygen level.

Is possible to stay overnight at Kedarnath?

Yes, you can stay at Kedarnath . It's offering Dharamshala, guesthouses and had to paid for this. about ₹1000 to 2000 per person.

In TheEnd: I Got true Meaning Of Spirituality:

Now my dream Journey got to an end and I'm not in any regret as i enjoyed and lived the every single moment I spend in the Kedarnath. The trek from Gaurikund taught me that the difficult path and the challenges you face are always worth it in the end. During this journey, I got the true meaning of spirituality and the richness that the old ethnic traditions holds. It will be the most memorable moment in my life forever.

The Kedarnath yatra will always hold an good state of mind in my heart as it gives me the true spirituality and the authenticity that we must need in our lives. The blend of the temple with its old mythology was so majestic and insane. I hope I'll get any other chance to visit this memorable pilgrim again.