Gaurikund Guide
Gaurikund: The Gateway to Kedarnath Guide
Gaurikund, located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, is the last motorable point and the traditional starting point for the trek to the revered Kedarnath Temple. This small town, situated at an altitude of approximately 6,500 feet, is named after Goddess Parvati (Gauri), and holds immense religious significance for Hindu pilgrims. The town is a bustling hub of activity during the pilgrimage season, offering basic amenities and serving as a crucial base camp for the challenging trek ahead. Gaurikund's history is deeply intertwined with the legend of Goddess Parvati's penance to win Lord Shiva as her consort. According to Hindu mythology, Parvati performed rigorous austerities at this very spot to appease Lord Shiva. The hot springs in Gaurikund are believed to have been created by Parvati's divine powers. The ancient Gauri Temple, dedicated to the Goddess, stands as a testament to this legend and attracts devotees seeking blessings before embarking on their journey to Kedarnath. The primary activity in Gaurikund is preparing for the trek to Kedarnath. Pilgrims often take a dip in the hot springs, believed to possess medicinal properties, before commencing their journey. Visiting the Gauri Temple to seek blessings is also a common practice. While Gaurikund itself doesn't boast a unique culinary tradition, you can find simple, vegetarian meals at the local dhabas. These eateries offer essential sustenance for the trek, serving dishes like dal, roti, sabzi, and tea.
Transportation
Gaurikund is accessible by road. Buses and taxis are available from major cities in Uttarakhand like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. From Rishikesh, you can take a bus directly to Gaurikund. Shared taxis are also a common mode of transport. Private taxis can be hired as well. From Gaurikund, the trek to Kedarnath begins.