Thursday, 7 January 2016

Kedarnath and associated features.

The river Mandakini origins from Kedarnath valley. Mandakini river is the result of three streams coming down from a large glacier behind Kedarnath temple and fourth stream coming down from the mountain just on the opposite side. These four streams merge to become the Mandakini river. The Mandakini river ends at Rudraprayag where it merges with Alaknanda.

Kedar valley consists of many meadows, treks, kunds and beautiful places. All the places have different interesting stories of origin and other associated incidents. The kunds of kedar valley also carry great importance in religious context. The important ones are Udak kund, Ret kund and Hans kund.

The other important feature of Kedar valley is the existence of Bhaironathji. The temple of Bhaironathji is about half kilometer from the main temple of Kedarnath. The temple of Bhaironathji is worshipped on the opening and the closing days of Kedarnath temple. According to the religious belief, Bhaironathji protects Kedarnath temple during winter season when the seat is changed to Ukhimath.


Adiguru Sankracharya had passed away and left his mortal body at Kedarnath. The Samadhi of Adiguru is located at the back of the main temple. Adiguru is a well known figure in the Indian history. He is known for his efforts to revive Hiduism. The Indian subcontinent in the medieval period had been influenced by Buddism. The effort to spread Buddhism had started by King Ashoka and was continued by many other Kings. By 8th century when Adiguru had born, Buhhism had become a prominent religion in India and many people had started practicing the religion. It was Adiguru Sankracharya, who stated the teachings about the greatness of Hiduism. Adiguru established four Maths and four Dhams in the four corners of India. At the age of 32 years, Adiguru passed away at Kedarnath leaving his immortal teachings and the great pilgrimages of Hindu religion.

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