Gaurikund

Gaurikund becomes a major hotspot for the pilgrims during the annual Char Dham Yatra. Being the last motorable point, it serves as the base camp for the Kedarnath Yatra. Located around 247 km from Dehradun in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag District, Gaurikund is named after Goddess Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva, who is also revered as Gauri. Dedicated to her, a temple called the Gaurikund Temple is also located nearby. According to folklore, it is the same place where Gauri performed intense penance and Lord Shiva admitted his love for Parvati.

Gaurikund- A Spiritual Gateway to Kedarnath

Situated on the bank of the Mandakini River, Gaurikund marks the starting point of the 16 km-long Kedarnath trek. However, before starting the trek, pilgrims usually take a holy bath in the Gaurkind Hot Water Spring. After bathing in the sacred Kund, pilgrims commence their pious yatra. The trek can be undertaken either on foot or by availing porter or mule services. Pilgrims can book such services from the official booking counters in Gaurikund.

Gaurikund Temple

Besides the Kedarnath starting point, Gaurikund is also renowned for the 'Gaurikund Temple', which is dedicated to the consort of Lord Shiva. The temple is peacefully located near the Mandakini River, whose gentle sound can be easily heard from the temple. Pilgrims embarking on the Kedarnath Yatra often visit the temple to offer their prayers.

History

The history of Gaurikund revolves around many folk tales. According to Hindu scriptures, it is the site where Goddess Parvati performed intense penance to win Lord Shiva's heart. It is believed that Lord Shiva admitted her love for Parvati and proposed to her. After accepting Shiva's proposal, they both married at the nearby temple known as 'Triyuginarayan Temple.' Today, this temple is popular among youths, which is being developed by the government as a destination wedding.
 

Another folklore suggests that Gaurikund is the place where Lord Shiva beheaded Lord Ganesha's head, as he failed to recognise Shiva and was not allowed to enter the bathing kund.

Location and Accessibility

Gaurikund is the base camp of the Kedarnath Temple Trek, which is located in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag District. It is around 207 km from Rishikesh and can be reached using a bus or shared taxi from Rishikesh, Haridwar and Dehradun.

Accommodation

Gaurikund is generally known as the base camp of the Kedarnath Trek, offers a variety of lodging options. Stays can be booked online (subject to availability) or upon arrival. Here are some options that can be booked for an overnight stay: -

• Hotel Rudraksh
• Deepak Lodge
• Purohit Hotel
• Hotel Gayatri
• GMVN Gaurikund
• Devlok Hotel
• Hotel Sunil Lodge
• Hotel Shiv Bhumi
• Anoop Hotel
• New Shri Ram Hotel

Important Tips for Travellers

• Pilgrims must book their accommodation in advance.
• During peak season, accommodations are available at higher prices.
• Mule, pony and porter can be booked at the official counters.
• ATMs, medical shops, and public toilets are available at Gaurikund.
• Tea stalls and restaurants are available near the main market.
• Avoid visiting during the monsoon, as heavy rains may cause issues.
• Essential items such as raincoats, umbrellas, and water bottles are easily available here.

Nearby Attraction

Gaurikund is surrounded by some popular tourist attractions, which can also be explored during the yatra; some of them are: -

• Gaurikund Temple.
• Hot Water Spring.
• Triyuginarayan Temple.
• Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi.
• Bhairvnath Temple.
• Kedarnath Temple.
• Rudra Meditation Cave.