Budha Kedarnath Temple is located in the Uttarakhand district of Tehri Garhwal. It is well-known for its stunning landscape and architectural splendour. The shivling located here is the largest in all of north India. Budha Kedar Temple is a sacred site for Hindus in India. It is entirely devoted to Lord Shiva.

Budha Kedar is a place of profound spiritual significance nestled among the majestic Himalayas. This peaceful and serene location is not only a treat for nature lovers, but it is also a place where spiritual seekers can connect with their inner selves and experience divine peace.

Story Behind Budha Kedarnath Temple

During the Mahabharata period, when the Pandavas were looking for Lord Shiva after the battle of Kurukshetra, they came across sage Balkhily at Bhrigu Parvat. The sage advised them to go to the confluence and meet the old man meditating there.

When the Pandavas arrived, the old man vanished and was replaced by a Shivling. To atone for their sins, the Pandavas embraced the Shivling, as advised by the sage. This Shivling is the largest in Northern India, and it bears the imprints of the Pandavas.

History related to Temple

By touching the body of this linga on the occasion of Swarg Rohini, the Pandavas were absolved of the sin of killing the clan. Since ancient times, the idols of five Pandavas, including Draupadi, have been present in this rock-form linga. Sri Guru Kalapir Shiva Shakti contains Aakash Shakti, Patala Shakti, Bhushakti, and Linga in the form of old Trishuls. This ‘fifth pilgrimage’ between Yamnotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath is mentioned in Skandapuran’s verse Kedarkhand.

Architecture of Temple

Budha Kedar Temple is located at the confluence of the rivers Bal Ganga and Dharam Ganga, approximately 59 kilometres by motorable distance from New Tehri. Tarpana is said to have been offered here by the legendary Duryodhana of the Mahabharata.

Budha Kedar temple is located in Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal district, which is known for its beautiful landscape and the temple. It is also known as the Fifth Dham, following Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. The trek is about 1 km long and begins at the rusty-looking long iron bridge on the Boodha Kedar road.

The trail is well-maintained and runs between the confluence of the Bal Ganga and Dharam Ganga rivers. The entire confluence landscape is breathtaking. The roaring of the rivers will soothe your soul. Standing on the pedestrian flyover bridge, you can take in the breathtaking beauty of the location.

Facts about Budha Kedarnath Temple

• Buda Kedar Trek is a pilgrimage site dedicated to “Lord Shiva” in the Tehri Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.
• Budha Kedar Temple holds an important place for Hindus in India. It is completely dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Budha Kedar is surrounded by enchanting natural beauty. Lush green landscapes, pristine rivers and lofty mountains create an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity.
• The name ‘Budha Kedar’ itself has a deep spiritual meaning. ‘Budha’ refers to a sage or wise man, and ‘Kedar’ is associated with Lord Shiva.
• Budha Kedar is the place where Lord Shiva appeared to the Pandavas in the form of an old man.
• The serene atmosphere of Budha Kedar makes it an ideal place for meditation and introspection.
• The peaceful ambience and spiritual vibrations make it a haven for seekers of all backgrounds.
• Pilgrims primarily visit this site during Shivratri and is also a favourite destination for trek lovers.

Famous Festivals In Temple

Millions of people visit this temple every year to celebrate all of the festivals that are held here. Some major festivals held here are

• Durga Puja. (Winter) – Devotees celebrate Navaratri at this temple in the month of Ashwin (Sep-Oct).
• Navaratri. (Summer) – They celebrate other Navaratri in the fortnight of the Chaitra (March-April). Every nine days they worship Navadurga (nine Durgas).
• Shravan Month – This month is considered the holiest month for lord Shiva devotees.
• MahaShivratri – Mahashivratri, “The Great Night of Shiva” is the most significant event in the Indian Hindu calendar.

How To reach Budha Kedarnath Temple

By Air: The nearest airport to reach the Budha Kedar temple is Joly Grant. You can take local transport or a taxi or cab to reach your destination of the temple.

By Railway: Rishikesh is the closest railway station to the Budha Kedar temple. To get to your destination, you can take taxis or cabs. Shared taxis or even local transportation buses may be available.

By Roadways: Budha Kedar is approximately 85 kilometres from the district headquarters in New Tehri. From New Tehri to Budha Kedar, there is a direct bus service. You can also travel to your destination in small vehicles from Ghansali. You can also get there from Dhauntari and Uttarkashi.