India is home to numerous sacred sites, but Kedarnath stands out for its spiritual energy and significance. Nestled at an elevation of 3,584 meters above sea level, Kedarnath Temple is situated alongside the Mandakini River and is recognized as one of the important pilgrimage hubs in Northern India. Part of the Char Dham and Panch Kedar pilgrimage routes, Kedarnath is also one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracting millions of pilgrims each year. The trek to reach the temple is difficult, presenting considerable challenges due to the tough terrain and harsh weather conditions, even for seasoned travelers. However, now, to facilitate better access to the Kedarnath Temple in Rudraprayag district, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways plans to construct a 7-kilometer tunnel.
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This initiative aims to improve safety and reliability along the pilgrimage route, particularly during inclement weather. Once completed, the tunnel will provide two routes to the shrine, with one anticipated to remain open throughout the year. The project is expected to take four to five years, pending necessary approvals.
This Tunnel Will Reduce The Trek To Kedarnath To Just 5 Kilometre
At present, the trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Dham spans 16 kilometers, passing through Rambada and Lincholi. It begins with a 9-kilometer hike to Rambada, followed by 2 kilometers to Lincholi, culminating in a 5-kilometer ascent to the temple. The new tunnel will start from Chaumasi village and conclude at Lincholi, reducing the walking distance to just 5 kilometers.
The tunnel will be constructed at an altitude of approximately 6,562 feet, easing the physical demands on devotees and enhancing emergency access during inclement weather.
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Preliminary surveys and designs for the tunnel have already been completed, and experts have reported stable geological conditions along the proposed route, confirming its feasibility. Stay tuned for more updates!
What To Know About Kedarnath Dham
The Kedarnath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, was built in the 8th century A.D. by Adi Shankaracharya, a revered spiritual leader, next to an older temple constructed by the Pandavas. Known for its impressive architecture made from large, carefully cut grey stone slabs, the temple features a Garbha Griha for worship and a Mandap for gatherings. The conical rock inside symbolizes Lord Shiva in his Sadashiva form. Accessibility includes flights to Jolly Grant Airport, trains to Rishikesh, and well-connected roads for easy travel to Gaurikund.
