Panch Kedars
The 'Panch' or five Kedar lie in the
valley between the rivers Bhagirathi and Alaknanda. According to legends, after
the battle of Mahabharta, the Pandavas repented the killings of their cousins
Kauravas and came here seeking forgiveness from Lord Shiva. But, Shiva eluded
them and took refuge at Kedarnath in the form of a bull. When Pandavas sighted
him, he submerged into the ground leaving behind his hump, which is worshipped
at the shrine of Kedarnath. His arms are believed to have appeared at Tungnath,
his face at Rudranath, navel at Madmaheshwar, his matted hairs and head at
Kalpeshwar. These five most sacred Shiva temples of Garhwal came to be known as
the 'Panch Kedars'.
Tourist Acctration in Panch Kedars
- Son Prayag
- Rudra Prayag
Son Prayag (20 kms.)
The sacred confluence of river
Basuki and Mandakani lies on the main Kedarnath route, about 5 kms. from
Gaurikund. Trijuginarayan, 12 kms. from Son Prayag is said to be the site of
Lord Shiva and Parvati's marriage.
Rudra Prayag (86 kms.)
The pilgrim site on the confluence
of river Alaknanda and Mandakini is named after Rudra, an aspect of Lord Shiva.
According to a legend Lord Shiva appeared here as 'Rudra' to bless Narad Muni.
An ancient shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of 'Rudra'.
Rudraprayag is of immense significance for the pilgrims of Chardham Yatra, as
it is the junction for visiting Badrinath and Kedarnath Dham.
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