KEDARNATH
Perched at an altitude of 3,584 m at the source of the Mandakini River and at a distance of 14 km from Gaurikund is Kedarnath, one of the holiest pilgrim sites of the Hindus. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is considered the embodiment of all passions - love, hatred, fear, death & mysticism which is expressed through his various forms, Kedarnath is one of site of one of the twelve ‘Jyotirlingas’ of Lord Shiva. Many myths and legends are associated with Kedarnath. According to one legend Goddess Parvati worshipped Kedareswar to unite with Lord Shiva as Ardhnareshwar, while another associates the place with the Pandavas. Legend has it that the Pandavas after having won over the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra war, felt guilty of having killed their own brothers & sought the blessings of Lord Shiva for redemption. He eluded them repeatedly & while fleeing took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull. On being followed he dived into the ground, leaving behind his hump on the surface. This conical protrusion (the lingam) is worshipped as the idol in his Sadashiva form. In the struggle that ensued between the Lord and Bhima, one of the Pandavas, different parts of Lord Shiva's body appeared at various places in Kedarkhand. The arms showed at Tungnath, mouth at Rudranath, navel at Madmaheshwar and hair at Kalpeshwar. All these places together with Kedarnath are known as the Panch Kedar.
An important pilgrimage site, a visit to Kedarnath is said to absolve a person of his or her's sins. The Kedarnath temple flanked on all sides by snow capped mountains presents an enchanting sight. An aura of peace and purity prevails. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kedarnath temple, standing adjacent to the site of an earlier temple built by the Pandavas is considered to be more than 1000 years old. Said to have been built by Adi Shankaracharya in 8th century A.D, the temple is magnificent in its style and architecture. Built on a morainic ridge jutting out at right angles from the snowy range, the inner walls of the assembly hall are decorated with figures of various deities and scenes from mythology. Outside the temple door a large statue of the Nandi Bull stands as guard. Unlike the other temples, specific family of pujaris supervises rituals at Kedarnath, which focus around veneration of the stone lingam that rests in the inner sanctum of the temple.
At Kedarnath there are several Kunds (pools, tanks) that are known for their religious significance - Shivkund, Retkund, Hanskund, Udakkund, Rudhirkund are the most important. A little away from Kedarnath is a temple dedicated to Bhaironathji who is ceremoniously worshipped at the opening & closing of Kedarnath. The belief is that Bhairavnathji protects this land from evil during the time when temple of Kedarnath is closed (from November to April).
Besides its affiliation with Shiva, Kedarnath is also believed to be the site of Adi Shankaracharya's samadhi. It is said that after establishing four sacred Dhams in India, he went into his samadhi at an early age of 32 years.
Other attractions at Kedarnath:
• Chorabari (Gandhi Sarovar): Located 1 km away from Kedarnath, floating-ice on the crystal clear waters of the lake makes for a fascinating view.
• Gaurikund : It is the base for a trek to Kedarnath and serves as a roadhead. The village has a temple dedicated to Gauri and hot water springs.
• Trijuginarayan : According to legend, this was the place where the wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati was solemnized. In front of the Shiva Temple is an eternal flame, which is said to be a witness to the marriage. It can be reached by a 12 km drive from Sonprayag.
• Ukhimath: Winter home of the deity at Kedarnath temple and the seat of the Rawal of Kedarnath.
• Agastyamuni: The temple of sage Agastya is the main attraction here.
• Madhmaheshwar: Located at the base of Chaukhamba peak at an altitude of 3289 m is the temple of Madhmaheshwar. A classic example of North Indian style temple architecture, the temple of Madhmaheshwar is said to be built on the very area where the stomach of Shiva is believed to have emerged. With deep gorges & valleys, thick forests and snowcapped mountain peaks, the trek to Madhmaheshwar offers unparalleled scenic beauty. Gaundhar at the confluence of Madhmaheshwar Ganga and Markanga Ganga is one of the prettiest spots in the region and last settlement before one reaches Madhmaheshwar.
• Tungnath: Tungnath is the place where the arms of Lord Shiva is said to have came out as per the Kedarnath myth. Located at an altitude of 3,680 m, the Tungnath Temple is the highest Shiva shrine among the Panch Kedars. Legend associated the building of the temple to the Pandavas who built it to please Lord Shiva and for their own salvation. Ravana, the king of Lanka and an important character of the Ramayana, is said to have performed penance at this temple to propitiate Shiva. Just like Madhmaheshwar, the Tungnath temple is also a fine specimen of the old temple architecture. The temple houses a smaller temple dedicated to Parvati and has the ashtadhatu images of Kaal Bhairava and Veda Vyasa along with those of the Pandavas.
• Rudranath: The face of Lord Shiva is worshipped at Rudranath temple in a natural rock temple as Neelkantha Mahadeva. Situated amid thick forest at a height 2286 mt., the temple surrounded by Suryakund, Chandrakund, Tarakund etc., provides magnificent views of Hathi Parvat, Nandadevi, NandaGhunti, Trishuli and many other. Being an important pilgrimage site, many devotees come here to offer ritual obeisance for their ancestors, as it is believed that the souls of the dead cross the Vaitarani river (the water of salvation) when entering other worlds.
• Kalpeshwar: Located in beautiful Urgam Valley at an altitude of 2,134 m. above sea level is the Kalpeshwar temple. Housing the matted locks of Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Jatadhar, the temple is in the form of cave temple. Situated on the holy bank of river Alaknanda, Kalpeshwar, has been and still is a favorite location of meditating sages. Legend has it that the sage Arghya had performed austerities here and created the nymph, Urvashi and that Rishi Durvasa is also believed to have meditated here under the wish-fulfilling tree, Kalpavriksha.
Kedarnath is accessible after a steep 13 km trek over a paved path from Gaurikund. There are places en route like Janglechatti, Rambara and Garurchatti where you can rest a while or spend the night. Just one kilometer before Rambara is a high and beautiful cascading waterfall.
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BADRINATH
An important pilgrimage site for the Hindus, Badrinath is the abode of Lord Badri (Vishnu). One of the four dhams of the country, Badrinath situated at an elevation of 3133 mts above sea level, is guarded on either side by the two imposing mountain ranges known as Nar & Narayan with the towering Neelkanth peak providing a splendid backdrop. Also known as the Vishal Badri, the largest among the five Badris, it is revered by all as the apt tribute to Lord Vishnu.
Lying on the right bank of Alaknanda is the Badrinath temple said to be built about two centuries ago by Garhwal Kings. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is represented in a meditative posture and flanked by Nara-Narayan, the temple is a conical structure, 15 m. tall and has small cupola of a gilt bull and spire. Legend dates the temple prior to the Vedic age though it is believed to have been re-established by Adi Shankaracharya, an important Hindu saint in 8th century A.D. A flight of steps takes pilgrims to the main gate (Singhdwar) & then into the temple. The temple is divided into three parts - the 'Garbha Griha' or the sanctum sanctorum, the 'Darshan Mandap' where the rituals are conducted and the 'Sabha Mandap' where the devotees assemble.
The complex has 15 idols, which includes the images of Laxmi (Vishnu's consort), Garud (Vishnu's mount), Shiva, Parvati and Ganesha. Especially attractive is the one-metre high image of Badrinath. Finely sculpted in black stone, it represents Lord Vishnu seated in a meditative pose-padmasan. Behind the Badrinath temple is the Lakshmi Narasimha mandir, with shrines to Desikacharya and Ramanujachary. Badrinath's four subsidiary Badris include Bhavishya Badri, Yogdhyan Badri, Bridha Badri and Adi badri. The temple opens every year in the month of April-May & closes for winters in the third week of November. Special pujas are also performed on behalf of individuals. Every puja must be preceded by a holy dip in the Tapta Kund- a natural thermal spring whose water is believed to have medicinal properties.
Attractions at Badrinath
• Panch Dharas: (a) Prahalad Dhara (b) Kurma Dhara (c) Urvashi Dhara (d) Bhrigu Dhara (e) Indra Dhara
• Panch Shilas: (a) Narad Shila (b) varaha Shila (c) Garurh Shila (d) Markandeya Shila (e) Narshingh Shila.
• Narad Kund: A recess in the river, near Tapt Kund, forming a pool from where the Badrinath idol was recovered.
• Brahama Kapal : A flat platform on the bank of river Alaknanda. Hindus perform propitiating rites for their deceased ancestors. Legends have it that when Shiva chopped of the fifth head of Brahma, it got stuck to his trident. Lastly with the blessing of Lord Vishnu at Badrivan, the head of Brahma fell down from the trident at this place & hence the name Brahma-Kapal (head).
• Sheshnetra: 1.5kms. Away from adrinath is a boulder having an impression of the legendary serpent, better known as the Sheshnag's eye.
• Charanpaduka: Charanpaduka is a beautiful meadow where the footprint of Lord Vishnu is seen on a boulder.
• Neelkanth: A pyramidal shaped snowy peak (6,600mts.) towering above Badrinath presents a dramatic sight. It is popularly known as the ' Garhwal Queen'.
• Mata Murty Temple: Devoted to the mother of Sri Badrinathji. Other important temples include Sesh Netra Temple, Urvashi Temple and Charanpaduka.
• Bhim Pul: On the other side of Mana village, a massive rock forming a natural bridge lies over the roaring Saraswati River. It presents a spectacular view of water thundering down through the narrow passage under the rock and is believed to have been placed there by Bhim, the second eldest among the five Pandava brothers.
• Alka Puri: The source of Alaknanda River from the glacier snouts of Bhagirath-Kharak and Sato Panth glaciers. The spot is supposed to be the adobe of Kuber, Yakshas and Gandharvas.
• Sato Panth: 25 kms. From Badrinath and located at an elevation of 4,402 mts. is a three cornered lake of serene water with a circumference of about 1 km. The lake is named after the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh, who are believed to occupy one corner each of this lake. The trek is hazardous and full of dramatic views. An experienced guide is advisable. There is no place to rest except in the caves. Cooked food, stove etc. must be carried from Badrinath itself.
• Arwatal: For the more enterprising, a trek to Arwatal (3,980 mts.) via-Mana, Ghastoli and Arwatal is immensely rewarding. The trek passes through a hazardous icy and snowy terrain and a number of streams have to be crossed. Badrinath to Ghastoli is 17 kms. And Arwatal is approximately another 18 kms. Photography is prohibited in this area and a guide is essential.
• Vasundhara: Magnificent water fall, Vasundhara is 5 kms. From Badrinath out of which 2 kms. is motorable upto Mana.
• Vyas Gufa (cave): This is a rock-cave where Ved Vyas is believed to have composed the Mahabharata and the pauranic commentaries.
• Mana Village: The last Indian village before the Tibetan border, it is generally inhabited by an Indo-Mongolian tribe. On the closing day the residents of Mana offer a choli to the deity to cover the deity all the winter. It is taken off on the opening day & its fibres are distributed amongst the Yatris (pilgrims) as a maha prasadam. Joshimath is the winter deity of Badrinath.
The trek to Badrinath is perhaps one of the most arduous one due to the lofty hilly terrain, curves and cliffs nonetheless it is still one of the most beautiful place on the earth. While going to Badrinath, one can also visit the numerous pilgrimage sites that lie on the way - Deva Prayag, Rudraprayag, Karana Prayag, Nanda Prayag, Vishnuprayag as well as Pandukeswar where the Pandavas are believed to have been born, and the site where Bhima and Hanuman (sons of Vayu) met.
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GANGOTRI
A picturesque pilgrimage site, Gangotri is the place where the Ganga, the stream of life and one of the most sacred rivers of India, touched earth for the first time. According to mythology, Goddess Ganga - the daughter of heaven, manifested herself in the form of a river to absolve the sins of king Bhagirath's predecessors, following his severe penance of several centuries. To minimize the immense impact of her fall, Lord Shiva received her in his matted locks and the river came to be called as Bhagirathi at her legendary source. Situated at an elevation of 3200 m above sea level amidst captivating surroundings along the right bank of Bhagirathi is the The Shrine of Gangotri. Constructed in the early 18th century by a Gorkha Commander, Amar Singh Thapa, the Gangotri Temple opens during the last week of April or the first week of May, on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya. The temples opening is preceded by a special Puja of Ganga both inside the temple as well as on the river bank. The water from Gangotri is carried to Kedarnath to be offered to Lord Shiva. It is believed that this water has amrit (nectar) in it and it soothes the throat of Shiva who has gulped the poison. The temple's closes on the day of Diwali followed by a formal closing ceremony amidst a row of oil lamps. It is believed that the Goddess retreats to Mukhwa, her winter abode (12 km downstream).
Attractions at Gangotri:
• Submerged Shivling: Submerged in the river, this natural rock Shivling is the place where, according to mythology Lord Shiva sat when he received the Ganga in his matted lock. It is visible in winter months when water level decreases.
• Kedar Ganga Sangam: Around 100 Yards from the Ganga Temple flows the river Kedar Ganga. Starting from the Kedar Valle, this river meets the Bhagirathi on its left bank.
• Kedar Tal: This spectacular and enchanting lake is situated at a distance of about 18 Kms. from Gangotri, negotiable through a rough and tough mountain trail. The trek is very tiring. There is no facility of any kind on the way and one has to make all arrangements in advance. A local guide is a must. The lake is crystal clear with the mighty Thalaysagar (Sphatikl-ing) peak forming a splendid backdrop. The place is about 4000 mts. above sea level and is the base camp for trekking to the Thalaysagar, Jogin, Bhrigupanth and other peaks.
• Dayara Bugyal: Bugyal in the local language means "high altitude meadow”. Situated at an elevation of about 3048 mts., this vast meadow is second to none in natural beauty. During winter it provides excellent ski slopes over an area of 28 sq. Kms. The panoramic view of the Himalayas from here is breathtaking. There is a small lake in the area and to camp by this side is a memorable event. From this spot one can trek down to Dodi-Tal which is about 22 Kms. away, through dense forests.
• Sat-Tal: Sat-Tal, meaning seven lakes, is situated just above Dharali, 2 Kms. beyond Harsil. The trek of about 5 Kms. is rewarding as this group of lakes is situated amid beautiful natural surroundings. It also provides lovely camp sites.
• Gaumukh: The Gaumukh glacier is the source of Bhagirathi (Ganga) and is held in high esteem by the devotes who do not miss the opportunity to have a holy dip in the bone chilling icy water. It is 18 Kms. trek from Gangotri. The trek is easy and at times people come back to Gangotri the same day.
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YAMUNOTRI
The source of the revered river Yamuna, Yamunotri situated at an elevation of 3235 meters above sea level originates from the Champasar Glacier that lies at an altitude of 4421 mts. The first stopover for the Char Dham Yatra, the Yamunotri temple constructed by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal on the left bank of Yamuna is perched atop a flank of Bandar Poonch Peak (3615 m). Though the temple attracts a large numbers devotees from May to October, but as the approach to Yamunotri is very difficult, pilgrims do not visit the source and offer pooja at the temple dedicated to the goddess. The hot water springs where the devotes prepare rice and potatoes to be offered at the shrine, by dipping them in these hot water springs, tied in muslin cloth is an important attraction so is the Divya Shila , which is a huge rock pillar that is venerated before entering the Yamunotri Temple. The temple and the place opens every year on the auspicious day of the akshya-tritya, which generally falls during the last week of April, or the first week of May. The temple always closes on the sacred day of Diwali mid- Oct. - 1st week of Nov., with a brief ceremony.
Attractions at Yamunotri:
• Surya Kund: There are a number of thermal springs in the vicinity of the temple which flows into numerous pools. The most important of these is Surya Kund is known for its very high temperature of 190° F. Pilgrim cook rice & potatoes here to offer to deity in the temple.
• Divya Shila: Near Surya Kund there is a slab of stone known as Dibya Shila or the slab of divine light. This slab is worshipped before puja is offered to Yamuna.
• Jankichatti: The last halting point en route Yamunotri, Jankichatti is the place where all pilgrims have to return for the night halt, the same day because of the extremely limited accommodation options available at Yamunotri. The thermal springs here offer a spectacular sight and a refreshing bath for the pilgrims. Surroundings the place are lush valley with a profusion of confirms, rhododenrons, cacti & several species of Himalayan shrubs and one can enjoy panoramic view of the fabled snow-clad Yamunotri peaks.
• Hanumanchatti: The confluence of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers, from where the trek to Dodi Tal (3,307 mts) starts. The last motor head on way to Yamunotri, the trek from Hanumanchatti starts with a gentle climb and the 7 km trek through Phoolchatti & Jankichatti is most enjoyable as the path trails its way through wooded hills & meadows shaded with beautiful green, while the fragrance of the Himalayn trees & shrubs permeate the cool mountain etc.
• Lakhamandal: A large village on the banks of Yamuna, Lakhamandal is often associated with the Lakshagriha that is described in the Mahabhrata. Inhibited by the Jaunsaris tribes, who are known to practice polygamy and polyandry, Lakhamandal has many temple ruins which suggest that the village must have been an important temple town in the past.
